Bachelor of Science

Bachelor of Science

UNDERGRADUATE

Enjoy flexibility with a degree that allows you to pursue a range of science specialisations while gaining practical real-world experience.

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Student type:
Mode of study:
On campus and blended learning
Entry score:

Various*

Duration:
Full-time 3 years
Fees:

Commonwealth supported places

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Mode of study:
On campus and blended learning
Entry score:

Various*

Duration:
Full-time 3 years
Fees:

AU$37,440 (2023 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
The Bachelor of Science (BP229) has been replaced with the NEW Bachelor of Science (BP350). Visit BP350 for more information and to apply.

Overview

The Bachelor of Science is a highly flexible degree that allows you to choose your specialisation.

The first year provides a transformative learning experience, in which you will learn and explore core science concepts across physical, life, data and mathematical science disciplines and develop and strengthen key scientific and transferable skills that will underpin your future studies and careers.

Currently, you can choose a major in biological sciences, applied chemistry or physics, or else choose to major in general science (applied sciences), which offers more flexibility in its curriculum. 

No matter which path you choose, practical experiences are a fundamental part of your studies, and you will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world projects and problems. You will study in state-of-the-art facilities using industry-standard tools and equiopment, ensuring you are job-ready when you graduate.

Why study science at RMIT?

Choose your specialisation

RMIT’s applied science degrees give you the freedom to shape your own path and a chance to explore a range of scientific disciplines.

Immersive learning

A focus on experiential learning means you will consolidate your skills and knowledge through field trips and excursions.

Specialist facilities

Studying with leading researchers in state-of-the-art facilities means the skills you gain can take you anywhere in the world.

Details

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At RMIT you will go beyond the classroom and apply what you’ve learned to real-life problems.

You will gain hands-on experience working in teams during field studies and excursions.

Your final year includes a science project that may be linked to industry or involve community groups, allowing you to put your skills into action and make an impact before you graduate.

You will also undertake a final year science project during your studies.

You will have the opportunity to work on research projects and practical activities, often undertaken in collaboration with industry.

The final year project will also give you the opportunity to develop an independent research project which can involve an industry partner.

Global work, exchange and study experiences

RMIT offers a range of opportunities for our students to study abroad through global work, exchange and study experiences with over 165 partner universities worldwide.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

View the learning outcomes for each stream:

The degree offers a variety of learning experiences, including laboratory and practical work, working in the field, formal lectures, and working with industry on self-directed projects.

Year 1

You will gain a solid foundation across the sciences to help you choose your specialty or your major field of study.

Your first year will provide you with a transformative learning experience, where you’ll learn and explore core science concepts across physical, life, data and mathematical science disciplines. You’ll also develop and strengthen key scientific and transferable skills that will underpin your future studies and careers.

You will be introduced to topics like the scientific method of investigation, individual and group work, communication skills and awareness, and the importance of safety in the scientific workplace.

Year 2

As well as focusing on your specialty, you'll expand your science knowledge and skills through our future technology skills courses continued from the first year. These will enhance your specialty and broaden your overall studies.

Year 3

You'll delve deeper into your specialist area and engage in work-integrated learning courses, such as "The Professional Scientist", a research project. Depending on your chosen speciality, you may also have the opportunity to undertake work experience with industry partners.

Opportunities for further study

An honours year is available in any of the major study areas of applied sciences, applied chemistry, biological sciences and physics. Further studies must be applied for separately.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Bachelor of Science
Program code: BP229
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry)
City Campus
3 years full time
BP229APCH
074349C
Location
City Campus
Duration
3 years full time
Plan code
BP229APCH
CRICOS
074349C
View plan
Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry)
City Campus
3 years full time
BP229APCH
074349C
Location
City Campus
Duration
3 years full time
Plan code
BP229APCH
CRICOS
074349C
View plan
Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences)
City Campus
Three years full time
BP229BISC
074352G
Location
City Campus
Duration
Three years full time
Plan code
BP229BISC
CRICOS
074352G
View plan
Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences)
City Campus
Three years full time
BP229BISC
074352G
Location
City Campus
Duration
Three years full time
Plan code
BP229BISC
CRICOS
074352G
View plan
Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences)
City Campus
Three years full time
BP229P7
056444J
Location
City Campus
Duration
Three years full time
Plan code
BP229P7
CRICOS
056444J
View plan
Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences)
City Campus
Three years full time
BP229P7
056444J
Location
City Campus
Duration
Three years full time
Plan code
BP229P7
CRICOS
056444J
View plan
Bachelor of Science (Physics)
City Campus
3 years Full Time
BP229PHYS
074351J
Location
City Campus
Duration
3 years Full Time
Plan code
BP229PHYS
CRICOS
074351J
View plan
Bachelor of Science (Physics)
City Campus
3 years Full Time
BP229PHYS
074351J
Location
City Campus
Duration
3 years Full Time
Plan code
BP229PHYS
CRICOS
074351J
View plan

Please note: From 2023, the Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry) (BP229APCH) and Bachelor of Science (Physics) (BP229PHYS) plans are no longer available.

The Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) (BP229P7) and Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) (BP229BISC) plans are only available to current RMIT students articulating from an approved pathway program.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

VTAC Code

If you are eligible to apply via VTAC, copy and paste the below code into VTAC search.

  • Plan BP229APCH - 3200310683
  • Plan BP229BISC - 3200310673
  • Plan BP229P7 - 3200333013
  • Plan BP229PHYS - 3200310663

Please ensure that you have checked the admissions requirements and apply page before applying.

Career

Scientists use observation and analytical skills to research the world around us. They have strong problem-solving skills that are used to identify solutions to complex problems and communicate their findings to others.

With this broad range of transferable proficiencies and technical skills, RMIT graduates are in demand.

You may choose to enter the commercial sector, pursue a career in teaching, or opt to continue your academic career.

Your journey in science could lead you to become a biologist, a materials chemist, or a medical physicist, just to name a few career options.

Depending on your area of study and your interests, you could end up working in:

  • analytical laboratories
  • medical and research laboratories
  • renewable energy organisations
  • chemical processing plants
  • educational institutions
  • government organisations
  • not-for-profit organisations
  • environmental consultancies.

Organisations our graduates are now working with include the Australian Defence Science and Technology Group, and the Victorian Fisheries Authority.

Job Outlook estimates that the most common salary for a scientist in Australia is between $65,000 to $75,000.

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The Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry) is accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI), and the Bachelor of Science (Physics) is accredited by the Australian Institute of Physics (AIP). On completion of the degree, you may be eligible for membership of one or more of the following professional organisations:

As a student, you may be eligible for student membership of a number of professional membership associations including:

  • Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
  • Australian Science Communicators
  • Australian Water Association
  • Nutrition Australia
  • Royal Australian Chemical Institute
  • Australian Institute of Physics.

Admissions

Please note: From 2023, the Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry) (BP229APCH) and Bachelor of Science (Physics) (BP229PHYS) plans are no longer available.

The Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) (BP229P7) and Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) (BP229BISC) plans are only available to current RMIT students articulating from an approved pathway program.

All other applicants should refer to the Bachelor Science (BP350).

Admissions information for the Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) (BP229P7) and Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) (BP229BISC) plans are listed below.

Selection criteria by applicant type

Please select the highest level of education you have or will be completing in order to find out the selection criteria that applies to you, in addition to meeting the above entry requirements.

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Applicants whose highest level of education is recent secondary education are not eligible to apply for this program. They should instead refer to the Bachelor of Science (BP350).

Graduates of the RMIT Diploma of Laboratory Technology (C5388) are guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) (BP229P7) and will receive credit for 8 courses (96 credit points).

Graduates of the RMIT Diploma of Laboratory Technology (C5388) are guaranteed entry into Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) (BP229BISC) and will receive credit for 8 courses (96 credit points).

Graduates of the RMIT Associate Degree in Applied Sciences (AD012) are guaranteed entry into Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) (BP229BISC) and will receive credit for 12 courses (144 credit points).

All other applicants should instead refer to the Bachelor of Science (BP350).

Graduates of the RMIT Diploma of Laboratory Technology (C5388) are guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) (BP229P7) and will receive credit for 8 courses (96 credit points).

Graduates of the RMIT Diploma of Laboratory Technology (C5388) are guaranteed entry into Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) (BP229BISC) and will receive credit for 8 courses (96 credit points).

Graduates of the RMIT Associate Degree in Applied Sciences (AD012) are guaranteed entry into Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) (BP229BISC) and will receive credit for 12 courses (144 credit points).

All other applicants should instead refer to the Bachelor of Science (BP350).

Applicants whose highest level of education is work and life experience are not eligible to apply for this program. They should instead refer to the Bachelor Science (BP350).

Non-academic abilities you’ll need to complete this program

The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.

The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.

If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.

By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:

  • understand more about the program
  • determine if you may need support during your studies
  • make an informed decision about whether the program is suitable for you

If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.

To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service

The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.

Additional information

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View the ATAR profile and selection rank from students offered a place into this program wholly or partly on the basis of ATAR in the most relevant recent intake period.

The student profile provides insight into the likely peer group for this program.

*ATAR refers to the lowest selection rank to which an offer was made (including consideration of any adjustments) for current and recent Year 12 applicants.

RMIT is committed to providing transparency to the admissions process. In line with this commitment, we provide you with information that will help in making informed choices about your undergraduate study options. Find out more about admission to RMIT.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

The lowest selection rank plus any adjustment factors to receive an offer for semester 1 2022 for each stream are as follows:

  • Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry) (BP229APCH) ATAR 71.70*
  • Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) (BP229P7) ATAR 70.85*
  • Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) (BP229BISC) ATAR 69.80*
  • Bachelor of Science (Physics) (BP229PHYS) ATAR 66.70*

*ATAR refers to the lowest selection rank to which an offer was made (including consideration of any adjustments).

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 or an equivalent senior secondary school qualification with a minimum average of 65% (see calculator below).

Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.

Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted.

Entry score calculator
Minimum Score Required

Don’t meet the requirements?

Higher Mathematics; or Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Units 3 and 4 in Mathematical Methods (CAS) or Specialist Mathematics, with a study score of at least 20.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.

Pathways

Animated character in front of RMIT pixel, with a flying degree above their head

Understanding pathways

Undertaking a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree can help you meet the entry requirements for your preferred course. These qualifications often provide credit, reducing the duration of your bachelor degree.

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Even though there are no formal pathways into this course, there are often other ways you can gain entry.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

When you successfully complete this degree, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Honours or Postgraduate degree.

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You are guaranteed entry to the Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) with two semesters of credit (equivalent to 96 credit points) when you successfully complete the Diploma of Laboratory Technology.

Alternatively, you may be eligible for entry to other RMIT vocational study or undergraduate programs.

Coming from a partner institution?

RMIT has pathway arrangements with many partner institutions around the world.

If your institution has a pathway arrangement with RMIT you may be able to receive credit and reduce the time it will take to complete your preferred RMIT program.

Find out if your institution has a pathway arrangement with RMIT

If you have qualifications from an institution that is not an RMIT partner, credit into your RMIT program will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

When you successfully complete this program, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Honours or Postgraduate degree.

Fees

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2023 indicative fees

In 2023, the annual student contribution amount (tuition fee) you will pay for a standard year of full-time study is between AU$4,124 to AU$15,142*.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$326 maximum fee for 2023.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

You may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which can be used to defer payment of up to the full amount of your student contribution fees. You may also be eligible to apply to defer payment of your SSAF through the SA-HELP loan scheme.

Learn more about fees for undergraduate study.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

New government eligibility rules in 2022 - low completion rates

From 2022, there are new government rules about eligibility for higher education student funding as part of the Australian Government’s Job-ready Graduates legislation. If you're starting a program in or after 2022 and are enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or have a HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP loan, these changes affect you. For details, please see Low completion rate and government funding.

If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government.

Your share of the fee (student contribution) is set on an annual basis by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual enrolled courses, not the overall program.

How much can I expect to pay for my Commonwealth supported place?

The Australian Government has introduced changes to university funding and student contribution fees under its Job-ready Graduates Package. 

The fees in the table below apply to students who commence their program in 2023. Fees for continuing students are available at fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Each course (subject) falls into a band. The band determines the student contribution amount for the course.

Amounts listed in the table below are based on a standard, full-time study load (96 credit points per year) with all courses in the same band. A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load or for enrolment in courses (subjects) from a combination of bands.

You can learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees for units from different bands at Fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Maximum student contribution amount for Commonwealth supported places in 2023 for commencing students

Student contribution band by course (subject)

Maximum annual student contribution amount (per EFTSL) in 2023
Education, Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Nursing, Indigenous and Foreign Languages, Agriculture $4,124 per standard year
$515 per standard (12 credit point) course
Allied Health, Other Health, Built Environment, Computing, Visual and Performing Arts, Professional Pathway Psychology, Professional Pathway Social Work, Engineering, Surveying, Environmental Studies, Science, Pathology $8,301 per standard year
$1,037 per standard (12 credit point) course
Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science $11,800 per standard year
$1,475 per standard (12 credit point) course
Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Communications, Society and Culture $15,142 per standard year
$1,892 per standard (12 credit point) course

Student Learning Entitlement

On 1 January 2022, the Government implemented the Student Learning Entitlement (SLE).

  • The SLE allows students 7 years of full-time subsidised study in Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP).
  • Your total SLE amount will be reduced in accordance with your overall study load in a CSP. 
  • Once you have utilised all your SLE, you can not longer study in a CSP.

For more information about SLE, visit Study Assist.

HECS-HELP Loans

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the HECS-HELP loan scheme, which allows eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) to defer payment of up to the full amount of their student contribution.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2023 is $326. 

For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.

Women in Finance and Economics Scholarship

For women commencing studies in accountancy, economics, finance or financial planning; worth up to $5,000 paid as a contribution towards tuition fees.

Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship

For students commencing a technology-related degree; worth $5,000.

STEM Women in Computing Technologies Scholarship

For students who identify as a woman commencing a Bachelor in computer science, data science, information technology or software engineering; worth $5,000 per year.

RMIT Tech Ignite Scholarship

For commencing computer science, data science, information technology or software engineering students from diverse backgrounds; worth up to $60,000.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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The annual tuition fee for 2023 is AU$37,440.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2023 commencement is AU$112,320.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

This qualification has been superseded.

Local applicants visit BP350 Bachelor of Science for full details and to apply.

If you are a local student please select 'switch to local' below to view the full course information.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information