Science

monash.edu/science
Undergraduate
Courses 2015
AUSTRALIA CHINA INDIA ITALY MALAYSIA SOUTH AFRICA
Your future
Be a part of
improving
the world
around you
Our researchers are investigating the impacts of invasive species on biodiversity
on South Georgia Island in the sub-Antarctic. In partnership with leading Australian
universities, this work is delivering the science that is essential for evidence-based
conservation of Antarctica and its surrounding islands.
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For centuries its
curiosity which
has led us to
understanding
the world we
live in, and the
universe beyond.
Without science we would not understand the
world around us; we would have no knowledge
of the universe and our technological advances
would be limited.
In the twenty-first century we face new challenges.
Longer life expectancy and a booming population
mean we need to discover new and smarter ways
to live. New knowledge about humanitys impact
on the planet means we need to find ways to
reduce our impact now and discover new ways
of living to negate future impact.
There is still so much to be discovered and understood.
You are our future. Through your science training
you can be part of improving the world around
you. This doesnt mean you need to be locked
away in a lab. You could be out in the field
searching for fossils in Antarctica; you could be
behind a desk influencing government policy on
waterway management; you could be working on
manufacturing the bionic eye; or you could be in
a lab developing a groundbreaking new vaccine.
The possibilities are limitless.
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As a Monash
Science
graduate, you
leave university
not just with a
highly desirable
qualification,
but also with a
range of skills
and experiences
that can be used
across every
area of your life.
With the diverse education programs, huge range of exciting
study areas, quality of teaching and research, and amazing
facilities on offer at Monash, you will be prepared to discover
where you can make your mark in the world.
Your science journey begins here.
Why choose Science
at Monash?
5
Open the door to a world
of possibilities
Monash science graduates are using their degrees in business,
government, or the law. They work in industries like health, food
and agriculture, mining and construction, and in education, journalism
and finance. Their choices, interests and roles are wide, varied and
often unique.
With a science degree from Monash University, you will have the
mindset and skills to open doors. Your science knowledge, analytical
mind and practical and research skills are a unique and valuable
combination employers want. We believe this contributes to Monash
graduates being the most employable in Australia.*
Science
knowledge
An
analytical
mind
Practical
and
research
skills
*According to a New York Times employability survey
Answer the
big questions
Science is fundamental to every aspect of human existence and holds
the key to solving humanitys most complex, perplexing questions.
Advances in science have enabled us to find the cure for diseases,
understand climate change and explore the universe.
Solutions to the greatest challenges of our timefrom managing
natural resources, to feeding the world, to curing cancer
are heavily dependent on science research.
Your studies in science will equip you to join the quest for the
solutions so many organisations are working on.
Discover whats
right for you
Science at Monash is all about discovery, freedom and the flexibility
to choose your own path. You can choose your major right away or
explore a wide range of majors before you choose the area that
inspires you.
Explore and
experience
University life isnt only about study. Monash science offers you the
chance to complete internships and work placements, experience
different cultures by studying abroad, to volunteer and to become a
student leader and ambassador. We help you to challenge yourself
and expand your horizons because we think that is what university
life is about.
Science at Monash is
all about discovery,
freedom and the
flexibility to choose
your own path
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Learn from leaders
in their fields
As a Monash science student, you learn from some of the
top researchers in the world. They share their groundbreaking
research in their teaching, so you get the most up-to-date
knowledge, insights and skills.
Access innovative teaching
and facilities
Your academic work is interspersed with field trips, laboratory work
and research experiences.
Our new facilitieswhich include a centre for green chemistry,
student learning spaces and a specialised physics and astronomy
innovative teaching facilityprovide the perfect environment for
creative problem-solving, effective communication, teamwork
and adaptability. These attributes are highly valued by employers
across a range of industries.
Broaden
your skills
You can combine science with another passion and graduate with a
double degree. This gives you a diverse set of skills and expertise.
Monash student Leonardo Guida examining the effects shark capture has on
their reproduction and population growth.
This image is from a research expedition to Antarctica led by Associate Professor Jeffrey Stilwell, with science student Kevin Chen,
to collect cretaceous and palaeogenic rock samples.
7
Our students get out of the classroom and into the field (Geosciences field trip, Broken Hill, Victoria).
8
Explore and
experience
Joseph Gulay, Bachelor of Science /
Bachelor of Engineering student
I am a member of Engineers Without Borders, the Japanese
Animation club and the Harry Potter club, Monash Muggles.
Im also on the committee for the Physics, Astro and Maths
Society, as well as participating in the kickboxing club in my
first year.
The fact that there are so many clubs and societies shows
that there are so many opportunities. There are so many to
choose from, I ended up coming to Orientation week and
signing up for everything.
My advice to new students is to try everything.
Meet as many people as you can and just get involved,
just jump on every opportunity you get.
Innovative
teaching
Dr Lincoln Turner, Physicist and Monash Research Fellow
While physicist Lincoln Turner might be tinkering in optical,
molecular and atomic physics, his first-year students are
challenged with a problem:
We give the students a truly remarkable, green, metallic-shelled
scarab beetle, and we ask them to work out whats going on with
the polarising effect on its green wings. Why is it evolutionary?
Polarising optics is very tricky to teach. Using the beetle, theres
certainly not much in the way of old-fashioned plotting of graphs
and equations in this approachbut its a lot of fun.
Broaden
your skills
Lucinda Mullins, Bachelor of Science /
Bachelor of Law student
Science was always what I was interested in as a child. When I
was little I thought science meant people working in a lab, and
that really excited me, although science is actually so much more
than that.
My father is originally a plant geneticist so I grew up with parents
interested in science, reading science magazines and giving me
bug catchers for my birthday instead of dolls.
It was the ability to combine science and law that drew me
to study at Monash. Now, having done law and science, I am
interested in scientific patenting or combining science with
communications or journalism.
The great thing about science that I have realised since coming
to Monash is how broad it is you can be science communicator,
you can do business, you can just consult for people; there are
so many different types of science.
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I chose Monash mainly for the
flexibility of the course. Science at
Monash allowed me to try a lot of
different subjects that I didnt even
know existed before coming here.
Thomas Burns, Bachelor of Science
(Honours) student
Ive done a range of subjects including geography, development
biology, physics, chemistry and zoology. Ive tried all kind of
things, and I decided to settle on physiology. Finding my passion
was a bit of trial and error throughout the duration of my degree.
Because of these experiences, I can be confident with my
choice in the end, because at the start I wasnt sure what was
more interesting to me.
10
The study abroad opportunities
were a big part of the reason
I decided to come to Monash.
I always wanted to go to Africa
and Monash made it so easy
having a campus there.
Oliver Moraes,
Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Arts student
I went on an inter-campus exchange to Monash University in South
Africa and I got involved with a project aimed at sourcing books for
children at a local primary school in Zandspruit, Johannesburg.
Another Monash student and I organised a range of fundraising
activities; we organised and ran everything ourselves and it was very
rewarding knowing we were making a difference. When the library
opened it was just so amazing to see all those kids at their school with
resources that none of them have ever had. For a lot of people, books
dont mean much, but over there they mean so much.
My work in South Africa really inspired me.
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A Monash University research team is halting the spread of Dengue
fever by infecting mosquitos with bacteria called Wolbachia,
after finding that Wolbachia-infected mosquitos cannot carry,
and therefore spread, the Dengue virus.
Monash Dean of Science, Professor Scott ONeill, heads up an
international scientific team who are waging war on Dengue fever,
a viral disease spread by mosquitoes in tropical regions that infects
around 50 to 100 million people a year.
ONeill and his colleagues infect the mosquitos with Wolbachia by
puncturing mosquito embryos about the size of a poppy seed
with a hair-thin needle containing the bacteria.
Once released into the wild, the Wolbachia mosquitoes
breed with other mosquitoes and pass the Wolbachia on to
subsequent generations.
Field trials in Cairns have showed promising results, with no Dengue
transmission in field trial sites.
Wolbachia-based strategies represent a practical environmentally
sensitive approach to Dengue suppression with the potential for
area-wide implementation at low cost.
The Wolbachia method also has potential to be used on other insect
transmitted diseases, including Chikungunya and yellow fever as well
as parasites that cause malaria.
The Eliminate Dengue research program is developing a natural
approach to control the spread of Dengue.
A Monash
University
research team
is halting the
spread of
Dengue fever
The Green Chemical Futures building,
which will be complete at the end of 2014.
Student spaces in PACE.
The facilities
you learn in
When youre
building a better
world, you start
from the
inside out
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Green Chemical Futures
The global shift to green and sustainable energy begins here at
Monash. The Green Chemical Futures facility aims to unify teaching,
research and industry in one location.
The building facilitates new teaching and learning approaches where
students have the opportunity to collaborate with peers, academics
and industry professionals. You utilise the latest educational equipment
and resources including lecture spaces, sophisticated laboratories and
research facilities as well as interactive spaces specifically designed
for engagement with other students and industry professionals.
The building itself aims to reduce the environmental footprint of the industry
by utilising environmentally-sound materials and supporting energy
conservation through the molecular structure of the building exterior.
Physics and Astronomy Collaborative-
learning Environment (PACE)
As part of Monashs dedication to continually improve the learning
environment of students, we have developed a new way of
teaching Physics and Astronomy called the Physics and Astronomy
Collaborative-learning Environment (PACE).
PACE will help to teach students methods of creative problem-solving,
effective communication, teamwork and adaptabilityinvaluable
attributes that are highly desirable by todays employers across a
range of industries.
Through PACE, Monash is creating a community of learners who
will graduate with the ability to apply the knowledge they have
learned within, as well as outside the classroom in creative and
meaningful ways.
For more information go to: monashscienceprecinct.blogspot.com.au
A lab space in the new Green Chemical Futures building.
Science at Monash has undergone an exciting transformation,
with new science facilities opening throughout 2014. We are
proud to welcome students to the new, environmentally friendly
buildings at the Clayton campus.
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Dedicated spaces for
collaborative learning
The new science student learning lounge
is a purpose-built, informal physical space
where the social and academic aspects
of university life harmoniously collide to
create a place for science students to
call their own.
The space is a social environment with
comfortable furniture, open areas, eating
facilities and learning zones suitable for
groups, or individuals.
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Our graduates are found all over the world. The possibilities are limitless.
Where studying Science
at Monash can take you
Monash University science graduates are sought after for their ability:
to think critically
to work as part of a team
to approach problems analytically
to communicate effectively.
As a science graduate you can choose:
a career that uses your scientific discipline knowledge and skills
a career in which a scientific mind and practical science skills are
highly valued
a career in which understanding science is a strong advantage.
This diversity of opportunity enables you to adapt your career as
your interests and experiences develop.
Our graduates have taken their science training to build
successful careers.
As members of a
rapidly-evolving
global community,
science graduates
are in high demand
by a range of
employers
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Science for
positive change
Mia Cobb, Graduate, Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Co-founder of the Australian Working Dog Alliance,
current PhD student
Mia Cobb graduated from Monash, majoring in Zoology and
Psychology in 2000 and has found her niche as the co-founder of
the Australian Working Dog Alliance. As one of five directors, she is
working to improve regulation in an industry that considers a 50-70
per cent fail rate as normal. This means more than half of all dogs
earmarked for a life of service to humans are considered not good
enough. What happens to these dogs next depends on their industry.
When I finished my Science degree in zoology and animal
behaviour, I knew animal behaviour and welfare were my areas of
interest. After I finished studying, I travelled for a year, and then came
back and I ended up working at the RSPCA as an animal attendant.
That wasnt a job that my education had set me up to do, but I
found it enlightening and challenging in ways that I hadnt expected.
I worked in the admissions department where all the animals came
in, and we also had to euthanise animals that were not suitable for
re-homing. It was an emotionally taxing environment.
Mia is in the process of finishing her PhD in animal behaviour.
She aims to improve the effectiveness of working dog training
programs, which will reduce the number of working and
service dogs being euthanised or re-homed.
Science and mission
planning for the RAAF
Flight Lieutenant Bryce Robinson, Graduate,
Bachelor of Science Air Combat Officer, RAAF,
Radar surveillance expert
Bryces life changed after he spoke to a defence force representative
at a Monash Jobs Fair and discovered that an air force job would also
allow him to use the skills hed acquired during his science degree.
He has served two tours in Afghanistan and his science
background has proved itself particularly useful in mission
planning, which Bryce likens to the planning of psychology
experiments. Scientific experiment planners factor in the
possibility of the unexpected. Critical thinking and the ability
to analyse data, both acquired during a science degree,
are also vital during the post-mission debriefing process.
Later, working as an instructor at the RAAF School of Air Warfare
at Sale, Victoria, Bryce found his psychology and physiology
studies helped him assess student mission planners. He was
better able to analyse the degree to which stress, as opposed
to lack of knowledge, might be affecting their performance.
Crisis management in
telecommunications, China
Jacob Rothfield, Graduate, Bachelor of Science /
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Emergency
Performance Manager, Ericsson
Jacob fell in love with science at the age of 11, when he
started reading his way through his grandmothers cache
of New Scientist magazines. Now, at age 28, he is a global
crisis manager for the telecommunications giant, Ericsson.
Jacob has worked for Ericsson in India, China, Thailand
and Mexico. Currently based in Beijing and Melbourne,
Jacob is helping to offshore his former role as a manager of
telecommunications engineers by teaching the next generation
of managers from countries such as India and China.
When he started working at Ericsson, Jacob had twelve weeks
to learn all the new information he was going to need as a
troubleshooting telecommunications engineer. It built upon
the physics, maths and engineering I had learned at university.
But my study habits and my ability to learn, both developed
through studying the sciences, were key in being able to
get up to speed with this technical stuff in three months.
Mia Cobb, Co-founder of the Australian Working Dog Alliance.
Our successful
science graduates
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AGRICULTURAL RESEARCHER
MATHEMATICAL MODELLER
ECOLOGIST
HORTICULTURALIST
PATENT ATTORNEY
STOCK MARKET ANALYST
POLICY ADVISER
MEDICAL PHYSICIST
MEDICAL TECHNICIAN
CLINICAL TECHNOLOGIST
PARK RANGER
JOURNALIST
WILDLIFE MANAGER
BUSINESS ANALYST
ENTOMOLOGIST
NEUROSCIENTIST
DRUG DEVELOPMENT CHEMIST
DIETICIAN
WINEMAKER
ZOOLOGIST
BOTANIST
PHYSIOLOGIST
TEACHER
FORENSIC SCIENTIST
ANIMAL TECHNICIAN
STATISTICIAN
GEOLOGIST
FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST
ECOTOURISM OPERATOR
EMBRYOLOGIST
BIOTECHNOLOGIST
PROGRAMMER
UNIVERSITY LECTURER
LAND USE PLANNER
IMMUNOLOGIST
BIOCHEMIST
ASTROPHYSICIST
GOVERNMENT ADVISER
TOXICOLOGIST
MEDICAL GENETICIST
HYDROGEOLOGIST
WATER CHEMIST
MARINE BIOLOGIST
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SCIENTIST
ASTRONOMER AND ASTROPHYSICIST
PALAEONTOLOGIST
MUSEUM SCIENTIST
VOLCANOLOGIST
OCEANOGRAPHER
NUCLEAR PHYSICIST
GEOCHEMIST
The career path you take
is up to you. There are
hundreds of careers
you can choose from...
plus many more that
dont even exist yet.
Daunting? Maybe a little.
Exciting? Without a doubt.
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Business services
Accounting, banking, finance and insurance
Management and consulting services
Personnel and recruitment
Education
Higher education and vocational training
Primary and secondary education
Government
Defence and intelligence agencies
Federal, state and local government departments
Public order and safety services
Health, medical and pharmaceutical
Allied health services
Hospitals, pathology and diagnostic imaging services
Pharmaceutical and medicinal product manufacturing
Sports and physical recreation activities
Information and communications technology
Computer systems design and technology innovations
Telecommunications
Manufacturing
Agriculture, food and beverage production
Building and construction
Engineering consulting, design and production
Gas, oil and mining
Natural resources and energy
Roads and transport.
Source: Graduate Careers Australia for students who graduate with a
science-related major
What industries are employing
science graduates?
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Monash is
QS TOP
UNIVERSITY RANKINGS
CONSISTENTLY RANKED AS HAVING
ONE OF THE BEST
GEOSCIENCES DEPARTMENTS
IN AUSTRALIA IN
INTERNATIONAL BENCHMARKING
HOME TO ONE OF
ONLY THREE
STAND-ALONE
GEOSCIENCES
DEPARTMENTS IN AUSTRALIA
RANKED IN THE TOP 4
IN AUSTRALIA FOR
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
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ONE OF THE TOP 4
RANKED HIGHLY
IN THE
TOP 100
OF
WORLD
UNIVERSITIES
ONE OF THE
TOP TWO
MATHEMATI CAL
SCIENCES
DEPARTMENTS IN AUSTRALIA
THE BEST UNIVERSITY IN AUSTRALIA
FOR CHEMISTRY
IN AUSTRALIA FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL
SCIENCES
The Academic Ranking of World Universities (2012)
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At Monash, we let you choose
how you study.
We offer a range of courses that provide different professional outcomes.
Well be there to guide you through all the possibilities, so you can
graduate with an internationally recognised qualification that can take
you anywhere.
Take advantage of our global perspective, exceptional facilities,
world class teachers and industry-based learning.
FLEXIBILITY
AND
CHOICE
Range of majors
A comprehensive course is flexible and evolves as your interests
develop in particular directions.
You can start with units from a range of study areas and through
your choices progressively focus on one or two majors and minors.
Monash guides you through this process so you graduate with
a degree that combines breadth and depth of expertise relevant
to your interests and aspirations.
TWO
COURSES
STUDIED
CONCURRENTLY
Double degree course
A double degree course lets you gain skills in two different areas
of interest such as arts and law or science and engineering.
This lets you tailor your qualification to fit your diverse interests
and talents and doubles your options when you graduate.
Double degree courses can take up to two years less than if you
took the two courses one after the other. This is because the
electives from each degree course count towards the other.
You will graduate with two distinct degrees.
If youd like to discuss
your options call us on
1800 MONASH (666274) or
email future@monash.edu
and let us help you make
your choice.
A guide to choice
SCIENCE 21
Your areas of interest
Science is a broad discipline. So, to help you
discover what area of science is right for you,
we have grouped our many majors under the
following broad areas of science.
Biological and life sciences
Biomedical and behavioural sciences
Earth and environmental sciences
Mathematical and computational sciences
Physical and chemical sciences
A wide range of majors
Within these broad science areas, we offer a range of
majors you can choose to focus on within a Monash
University science degree. Find out more about these
majors in the following pages.
Science degrees
you can choose
Bachelor of Science
Bachelor of Science Advanced
Research (Honours)
Bachelor of Science Advanced
Global Challenges (Honours)
Science at Monash is
all about choice
Astrophysics
Atmospheric science
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Computational science
Developmental biology
Ecology and conservation
biology
Environmental science
Financial and insurance
mathematics
Genetics
Geographical science
Geosciences
Human pathology
Immunology
Materials science
Mathematics
(pure and applied)
Mathematical statistics
Microbiology
Pharmacology
Physics
Physiology
Plant sciences
Psychology
Zoology
BIOLOGICAL AND LIFE SCIENCES 22
Biological and
life sciences
Studies in the biological and life sciences focus on
understanding life around us. It covers the study
of life and living organisms, including structure,
function, growth, evolution, distribution, and
taxonomy and the interaction with the environment.
BIOLOGICAL AND LIFE SCIENCES 23
Majors you
can explore
Plant sciences
Plant sciences is the study of plants their diversity and structure,
and how they function. It involves studying plants living on land,
in the sea and in freshwater environments, from the scale of
genes and molecules to ecology.
Ecology and conservation biology
Ecology and conservation biology is the study of interactions between
plants, animals and the environment. It is concerned with the delicate
balance between organisms and the ecosystems in which they live.
Genetics
Genetics is the study of genes their structure, function, transmission
and evolution. It lies at the centre of biology because the same genetic
principles apply to microbes, plants, animals and humans.
Zoology
Zoology is the study of animals and their varied solutions to
the challenges of life. It includes understanding their diversity,
structure, and how they function. Animals are everywhere
and so zoology includes all environments and scales of life,
from genes to ecosystems.
Careers

What graduates do
Graduates of biological and life sciences advance and apply their
scientific knowledge of plants, animals and their environment through
observation and experimental investigation: collecting and identifying
plants and animals from terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems; designing
and carrying out experiments in the laboratory and in the field;
analysing and evaluating data; investigating physiological processes
in plants and animals, and working in molecular biology laboratories
isolating and cloning genes.
Roles

agricultural researcher

animal technician

biotechnology
product developer

botanist/plant scientist

clinical scientist

cytogenetist

ecologist

environmental consultant

environmental
biologist

conservation biologist

environmental health promoter

entomologist

evolution and adaptation biologist

fauna
assessment officer

geneticist

horticulturist

hospital scientist

laboratory research technician

marine/freshwater biologist

medical biologist

microbiologist

museum curator

park ranger

patent officer

pest controller

plant propagator

research scientist

science journalist

science teacher

soil scientist

university
lecturer

wildlife manager

winemaker

zoologist
Adaptive
teaching
Dr Gerry Rayner, Senior lecturer in Ecology
Dr Gerry Rayner works in the School of Biological Sciences as
a senior lecturer in ecology, investigating indigenous fauna and
flora. But hes interested in another type of growth as wellthat
of Monash science students, and how innovation and effective
teaching can enhance their learning and skills development.
We are constantly evaluating the way we teach here at Monash,
developing peer-assisted learning, communication techniques
and other innovative approaches.
The talented staff are keen to adapt to changing student needs.
Our scientists are quite simply
leaders in their fields. They might be
astronomers or biologists working
on climate change or Antarctica.
These people are actually here,
lecturing to the students and they
are keen to develop their teaching
and mentoring skills.
The first year units in biological sciences have been refined to
offer modern teaching techniques where teams of students will
go out and collect meaningful data for community-based groups
like ClimateWatchperhaps observing seasonal variationslike
the early dropping of leaves or a change in birds nesting times.
BIOMEDICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL SCIENCES 24
Biomedical
and behavioural
sciences
Studies in the biomedical and behavioural sciences
focus on understanding how the human body
works. Areas of study range from understanding
the cellular to the level of a whole organism, and
focus on exploring form, function and disease.
BIOMEDICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL SCIENCES 25
Majors you
can explore
Biochemistry
Biochemistry deals with the chemical components and genetic
material of living cells in order to understand the molecular events
that underpin all biological processes. These processes are
important in human and animal biology, medicine, agriculture,
forensic science and biotechnology.
Molecular biology is the study of phenomena occurring inside
cells, particularly the chemical structure and expression of
genetic information. It emphasises the role of genetic information
in controlling the wide variety of functions in all forms of life.
It provides the basis for DNA technology that underpins
biotechnology and the human genome project.
Developmental biology
Developmental biology covers such topics as classical embryology,
body structure and design, molecular mechanisms of development,
organogenesis, causes of birth defects, stem cell biology,
regenerative biology and medicine, and tissue engineering.
Immunology
Immunology is the study of mechanisms in the vertebrate
body primarily responsible for the defence against infectious
micro-organisms. Knowledge of immune cells and molecules
leads to vaccine development and also therapy of immune
disorders such as allergy, autoimmunity and transplant rejection.
Microbiology
Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, how they work,
what they do, how they cause disease, and how they can be
harnessed for human benefit.
Physiology
Physiology is the science of life itself the study of how the living
organism functions in health and disease. From nerves to muscles,
from brains to hormones, physiology is concerned with the
integrated function of the whole body.
Psychology
Psychology covers many behavioural phenomena including memory,
thinking, problem solving, learning, skills acquisition, language,
seeing, hearing, decision making, social interactions and emotions.
It also examines the practical and ethical applications of
psychological research.
Human pathology
Human pathology is the study of pathologic processes with
particular reference to cell death, inflammation, disorders of
immunity and neoplasia.
Pharmacology
Pharmacology is the science of drugs, their discovery, uses and
effects. The drugs studied in pharmacology units include those
that are used in the prevention or treatment of illness and those
that are (often illicitly) taken for recreational purposes.
Careers

What graduates do
Biomedical and behavioural scientists work in research and diagnostic
laboratories in medical-related areas, testing various aspects of human
function to help diagnose disease, working as medical practitioner in
health-related areas, or selling and promoting products and materials
related to the health sciences.
Psychology graduates may conduct research, teach, counsel
or provide therapy, perform testing to help diagnose and treat
neurological, behavioural and psychological illness or disorder.
A psychology major could lead to a career in consulting or improving
communication skills, personnel selection and job satisfaction.
Roles

analytical laboratory technician

biochemist

biotechnology sales
and marketing manager

clinical trials coordinator

cytologist

dietician/nutritionist

embryologist (IVF)

forensic scientist
or psychologist

immunologist

laboratory biotechnologist

laboratory scientist

medical researcher

medical technician

microbiologist

molecular biologist and virologist

neuroscientist

occupational health and safety officer

patent and trademark

attorney

pharmaceutical and product manufacturer

pharmaceutical
representative

pharmacologist

physiologist

process
biotechnologist

public health and health promoter

research and
development scientist

science journalist

university lecturer

clinical
psychologist*

counselling psychologist*

educational psychologist*

human resource manager

sports psychologist*
* Requires an accredited professional qualification.
Inspecting the embryos of E. Rowelli.
EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
Earth and
environmental
sciences
Studies in the earth and environmental sciences
focus on understanding the physical properties of
the earth and the scientific relationship between
living organisms and the natural, rural, industrial
and urban environments.
It also involves understanding how physical,
economic, political and technological changes
impact decision making and the environment.
26
EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES 27
Majors you
can explore
Atmospheric science
Atmospheric science deals with the structure and evolution of
the atmosphere, and includes the problems of forecasting the
day-to-day weather, the climate and the role of both in environmental
issues. Modern scientific and computing techniques are employed
to approach some of the fundamental problems facing our society.
Environmental science
Environmental science provides an integrated, quantitative, and
interdisciplinary approach to the study of the interactions among
physical, chemical, and biological components of the environment.
It spans a wide range of science disciplines and may also be
concerned with social and ethical issues and environmental policy,
management and law.
Geographical science
Geographical science is concerned with the relationships between
people and the natural environment. It employs a variety of spatial
and temporal techniques to understand landscapes, or components
of them, and forms a basis for their rational management.
Geosciences
Geoscience is a multidisciplinary science that seeks to
understand the evolution, composition, function and future
of the Earth and other terrestrial planets. Specialities include
geology, environmental geoscience, geochemistry, geophysics,
volcanology and palaeontology.
Careers

What graduates do
With knowledge of the Earths composition and resources,
graduates are often found exploring for new mineral, oil and gas
resources, managing environmental issues such as salinity and
climate change and monitoring and predicting hazards such as
earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes.
Roles

atmospheric scientist

eco-tourism operator

environmental
geoscientist

environmental scientist

geochemist (analytical
laboratories)

geologist (mineral/petroleum exploration)

geological
survey scientist

geophysicist

geotechnical engineer

government
adviser (environmental policy and management)

hydro geologist

land care project manager

land use planner

marine biologist

marine geoscientist

metallurgist

museum scientist

natural
resource manager

palaeontologist

park ranger

research geologist

research geophysicist

resource assessment analyst

volcanologist

waste management consultant/ environmental toxicologist

More than
rocks
Dr Andy Tomkins, Lecturer in Geosciences
My students often look up to the stars and then way down
into the earths molten core for the secrets of our universe.
I am energised watching first
year students gradually awaken
to the excitement of geoscience on field
trips around Victoria. They discover
the way rocks have formed and
learn about western Victorias
recently active volcanoes.
In third year geoscience, we go meteor-hunting on the Nullarbor
Plain or to Broken Hill to analyse a bunch of ancient hills eroding
away with complex geology within. Back in the lab, we open the
meteors to reveal the secrets of the solar system.
Oliver Moraes, Bachelor of Science/
Bachelor of Arts student
I started doing science because I wanted to do physiotherapy,
but studying geology has totally changed me. Since starting my
degree I have discovered my interest in natural disasters and it
has really driven my direction. My dream in the future is to work
in disaster management and find a way to combine my love of
science with my passion for helping people.
Dr Andy Tomkins
MATHEMATICAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCIENCES 28
Mathematical and
computational
sciences
Studies in the mathematical and computational
sciences provide a framework for understanding
why science is important and is a basic tool for
how science is done.
Mathematical and computational sciences go beyond
the theoretical and enable modelling of alternative
futures, as well as providing insights into the
differences between certainty and probability.
MATHEMATICAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCIENCES 29
Majors you
can explore
Mathematics (pure and applied)
Pure mathematics is the heart and soul of mathematics. Its theories
and constructions are the basis for applied mathematics to solve
the most concrete problems. Areas include number theory, algebra,
geometry, analysis, topology and combinatorics.
Applied mathematicians are involved with the application of
techniques and models to the solution of problems from many
branches of modern science, engineering, information technology
and commerce.
Computational science
Computational analysis and visualisation are the basis to cope with
the vast amounts of data that modern science and engineering
must process. Computers allow us to perform virtual experiments
that are too dangerous, too costly, or plainly impossible to conduct
in reality. The computational science major complements computer
science with foundational studies in another field of science and
with specialised topics in scientific computation.
Financial and insurance mathematics
Financial and insurance mathematicians investigates the application
of specific knowledge of mathematics and statistical methods to
assess risk in the insurance and financial industries.
Mathematical statistics
Statistics is concerned with the collection, analysis, interpretation
and presentation of large amounts of numerical data. It is valuable
for science as it converts data into useful information.
Careers

What graduates do
Mathematical science graduates develop and utilise mathematical
and numerical models in many scenarios, including meteorology,
fluid dynamics, astrophysics, financial mathematics, bioinformatics
and environmental modelling.
Together with other studies such as computer science, economics
and accounting, mathematics and statistics provide excellent
training for a career in banking, finance, insurance and business
management in general.
Roles

astrophysicist

atmospheric scientist

biostatistician/data analyst

business analyst

computational mathematician

computer
software developer

data mining analyst

environmental resource
modeller

financial consultant

investment/business analyst

market statistician

mathematical modeller

mathematics teacher

meteorologist

oceanographer

programmer

quantitative analyst

statistician
The beauty of
mathematics
Dr Norman Do, Lecturer in Mathematical Sciences
As a pure mathematician, Norman Do likes to wander around
with a pad and pen. He doesnt need much else. He explores,
indulging his sense of curiosity, finding shapes and patterns.
If you keep your eyes open, you see patterns everywhere,
Norman says. Once you start playing with mathematical
patterns, you suddenly need to work out the formulas
behind them.
At Monash I am paid to think in
a dynamic and youthful environment.
My ideas often intersect with
physics so I am delighted that I am
surrounded by physicists who want to
collaborate. Its creative and vibrant;
I can really sense the energy.
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL SCIENCES

Studies in the physical and chemical sciences inform
our knowledge of the universe.
Areas of study focus on understanding fundamental
scientific processes and laws governing properties
of matter and energy or of compounds and materials,
and their reactions and transformations.
Physical and
chemical sciences
30
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL SCIENCES 31
Majors you
can explore
Astrophysics
Astrophysics is the application of known physical laws to the study
of the objects that make up the universe planets and stars, comets,
pulsars and quasars, black holes and galaxies.
Chemistry
Chemistry is the study of substances: their makeup, structure
and composition; how they behave; how they may be measured,
harnessed and transformed for useful applications in the worlds
of materials, medicine, technology and the environment.
Materials science
Materials science looks at different types of materials (metals, polymers,
ceramics, glasses and composites) and the fundamental structural
reasons for the astounding range of properties displayed.
Physics
Physics is concerned with the nature and properties of matter
and energy. Students explore diverse topics ranging from cosmology
to nanotechnology to subatomic particles. Specialist areas include
astrophysics and materials science.
All about
discovery
Dr Rico Tabor, Researcher and lecturer in
Physical Chemistry
Rico Tabor is a researcher and lecturer of physical chemistry
who is introducing a new curriculum to first-year students
with the odd unexpected result.
We have demonstrations in the lecture theatre, not just
in the lab. We do chemical reactions and blow things up.
Weve been lucky so far with just one minor unintended
explosion that didnt cause too much of a problem... he jokes.
My favourite experiment is the creation of liquid oxygen.
We condense it out of the air and make this amazing cool,
blue liquid. Its about minus 150 degrees and if you put a
magnet near it, you can push it around.
I love discovery. I can go into a lab and know that I am
the first human being on earth to try an experiment.
Theres the possibility Ill uncover something amazing
and that Im incrementally closer to a major discovery.
Careers

What graduates do
Physics graduates are typically found working with lasers, medical
imaging and nanotechnology in a range of contexts, including
electronics, communications, aeronautics, minerals exploration,
space science and education.
They help develop advanced materials for computers and robots,
and create mathematical models to understand weather, oceans,
earthquakes, pollution, economics and the cosmos.
You will also find physicists monitoring the quality of materials and
products, developing technology to prevent the forgery of banknotes,
providing internet security methods and working with law firms to
protect new inventions.
Chemists test and research substances for applications in medicine,
new materials, biotechnology and nanotechnology. Chemists help
develop solutions to complex problems related to the environment,
energy resources, and waste and pollution management.
Roles

accelerator physicist

acoustics scientist

applied physicist

astronomer and astrophysicist

atmospheric physicist

biophysicist

electron microscopist

energy consultant

forensic physicist

industrial physicist

instrumentation physicist

materials scientist

medical physicist

nuclear physicist

optical physicist

patent
attorney

physics teacher

synchrotron scientist

telecommunications
and optical systems specialist

university lecturer

agrochemicals
chemist

biomedical chemist/analytical chemist

biotechnologist

biotechnology sales and marketing manager

drug development chemist

environmental/water chemist

explosives chemist

food technologist

forensic scientist

hospital or medical laboratory technician

industrial
chemist

instrument specialist

molecular design chemist

occupational
health and safety officer

occupational hygienist

paint chemist

pharmaceutical and product manufacturer

pharmaceutical representative

polymer chemist/materials scientist

process control specialist

quality
controller

research chemist

risk management consultant

science
journalist

teacher

toxicologist

waste and resources management

consultant

water quality and management consultant

winemaker
SCIENCE 32
Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science is an internationally
recognised qualification that you can tailor
to suit your interests and talents. You can
choose your major from day one. Or, if youre
uncertain about which area of science you
like best, you can explore our many available
majors and choose what interests you from
your second year.
The skills you develop
As a Monash science student, as well as
getting a solid background in your study
area of choice, you will also hone your
ability to think critically and analytically, to
communicate effectively, to solve problems
and to work as part of a team.
These are the skills employers want and they
are your springboard to a range of careers
and to further learning and research.
Majors/
Double Degrees
What you study
Our courses are carefully constructed to allow
you to choose your specialisation based on
your interests and your career goals.
In your first year, you complete units in
science areas together with a maths and
statistics unit. This combination lays a solid
foundation for all science studies.
In your second and third years, you gain
in-depth knowledge in one or two science
areas of your choice and undertake a
scientific practice and communication unit.
One of the key benefits of this course is the
ability to structure it around your own skills
and interests.
Throughout the course you can focus entirely
on science or you can pursue complementary
interests outside science using the free
elective component of the degree.
Structure
Structure
Range of majors
Duration
Duration
3 years full time
6 years part time
Location
Campus
Clayton
ATAR
2014 ATAR
83.60
Location
Career
options
Career options
Science graduates are involved in research
and technological development; in addressing
the worlds urgent environmental, climate and
sustainability challenges; in contributing to the
improvement of social health and wellbeing;
in supporting industry and financial services;
in policy-making and in teaching.
Find out more
monash.edu/coursefinder/faculty/sci
CRICOS 017092G
Bachelor of Science Advanced
Research (Honours)
This course is designed for students who
have a keen interest in pursuing a pathway
that focuses on scientific research. It offers an
advanced level honours qualification, and is
perfect if you plan on pursuing further study
beyond your undergraduate degree.
This four-year degree will extend and
challenge your thinking.
The skills you develop
Your career prospects are excellent with
enhanced communication, research, analysis,
problem solving, data handling, presentation
and laboratory skills, as well as a solid body
of research through the completion of your
research thesis.
Majors/
Double Degrees
What you study
In the first three years you complete two
science majors, or an extended major, and
develop research skills. In the final year,
you complete a research project.
You will take part in ground-breaking research
that prepares you to transition smoothly into
postgraduate research or study, or to gain
employment with a research focus.
Location
Career
options
Career options
As well as being ready for one of the many
careers open to you based on your chosen
specialisation, you will be perfectly equipped
to embark on a satisfying and challenging
science research career, or to pursue further
science-related study.
Science graduates with honours are highly
sought-after in a range of scientific and
non-scientific fields, in traditional and
emerging areas.
Find out more
monash.edu/coursefinder/faculty/sci
CRICOS 079670J
Structure
Structure
Range of majors
Duration
Duration
4 years full time
8 years part time
Location
Campus
Clayton
ATAR
2014 ATAR
95.15
Degrees
SCIENCE 33
Bachelor of Science Advanced
Global Challenges (Honours)
This unique course is designed for science
students who are passionate about effecting
change, transforming ideas into reality
and making a difference in an increasingly
complex world.
This course has been designed to
create future leaders who will translate
their knowledge into action, discovery
and innovation.
The skills you develop
The course is designed to ensure
you graduate with strong science
skills complemented by a range of
real-world experiences and a supportive
mentor network.
In addition to studying the scientific discipline
of your choice, you receive high-level training
in leadership, persuasive communication,
entrepreneurship, policy, ethics and corporate
social responsibility.
Majors/
Double Degrees
What you study
You will have all the opportunities available
to a science honours graduate, plus
many more.
During your course you will immerse
yourself in two internships, at least one of
which will be an international placement.
The summit of your experiences will be a
year-long project. You will work with your
peers and in partnership with an external
organisation to tackle an issue of real global
significance. Mentored by external leaders,
you will work in small teams to develop
innovations and solutions to approach
the issue from scientific, policy, social and
business perspectives.
Location
Career
options
Career options
You will be equipped with the skills to
use science to address complex global
challenges, to lead and inspire others and to
convert your ideas, potential and ambition
into tangible solutions.
You will graduate equipped with a rich and
diverse set of skills, a strong peer and mentor
network, and the passion and confidence to
pursue a meaningful, exciting career.
You may find yourself working in a
consultancy, businesses, government, or
not-for-profit organisation.
Structure
Structure
Range of majors
Duration
Duration
4 years full time
Location
Campus
Clayton
ATAR
2014 ATAR
90.00
Find out more
All applicants must complete a pre-interview
task and be available to attend an interview,
if selected.
monash.edu/coursefinder/faculty/sci
CRICOS 079581K
Guiding our future
change-makers
Dr Rowan Brookes, Coordinator Bachelor of
Science Advanced Global Challenges (Honours)
Theres so much optimism in
science with people showing a hunger
for creativity and discovery.
Students who choose the Bachelor of Science Advanced
Global Challenges (Honours) will be taking their love of science
coupled with a drive to create action and positively influence
the world around into diverse career paths. We believe our
graduates will shape our futures in many ways.
Its very exciting to be part of the reinvigoration and reinvention
of the higher education sector.
SCIENCE
Research in science at Monash has allowed us to see super-resolution
fluorescence images of actin filaments in a HeLa cell. Actin is part of the
cellular skeleton and is involved in many of the functions of healthy cells
such as mobility and cell division.
This image shows previously unseen detail below the diffraction limit of
light by detecting fluorescence from individual dye molecules attached
to the actin.
34
Entry requirements
ATAR VCE IB
Subject Score Subject Score SL Score HL
Bachelor of Science
83.60 English (EAL) or 30 English or 4 3
English other than EAL 25 English B 5 4
One of biology, chemistry, mathematical methods,
physics, geography, psychology or specialist
mathematics
25 One of any biology, chemistry, physics geography,
psychology, mathematics or further mathematics SL
Successful
completion
Bachelor of Science Advanced Research (Honours)
95.15 English (EAL) or 35 English or 5 4
English other than EAL 30 English B 6 5
Mathematical methods 30 Mathematics 5 4
Two of biology, chemistry, geography, physics or
specialist mathematics
30 Two of biology, chemistry, geography, physics or
further mathematics SL
5 4
Bachelor of Science Advanced Global Challenges (Honours)
90.00 English (EAL) or 35 English or 5 4
English other than EAL 30 English B 6 5
One of biology, chemistry, environmental science,
geography, mathematical methods, physics,
psychology or specialist mathematics
30 Mathematics, biology, chemistry, geography,
physics, or further mathematics
5 4
Other information: All applicants to the Bachelor of Science Advanced Global Challenges (Honours) must complete a pre-interview task and be
available to attend an interview, if required.
Mind-bending
quantum physics
Dr Lincoln Turner, Physicist and
Monash Research fellow
Whether hes describing the polarisation of the green scarab
beetles wings or the possibility of a smart phone scanning
our bodies for illness, he explores the idea with just enough
detail for it to seem tangible. Lincoln Turner makes his subject
come alive.
Monash Physics offers a world of possibility and Lincoln is up
for it, driving innovative teaching while pushing students to
find solutions to real-life problems in an industry-like setting.
Lecturers set a task and demand fast, smart thinking. Students are
grouped into teams, plan their attack and then develop a solution.
Lincoln has a ferocious appetite for physics, passionately
describing his research interests. His experiments using
ultra cold physics involve temperatures less than a millionth
of a degree above absolute zero. Matter behaves in a
really interesting way at these temperatures. It is rich and
full of possibilities with a fascinating degree of quantum
weirdness and mind-bending quantum physics.
SCIENCE 35
Double degrees
Many degrees offered by the Faculty of Science can be studied as part of
a double degree. A double degree means you graduate with a qualification
in two disciplines instead of one, in less time than it would take to complete
two separate single degrees. Double degrees are highly valued by employers
and provide a strong foundation of transferrable knowledge and skills.
Double degrees available with a Bachelor of Science
Faculty for second degree Second degrees available
Arts Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Arts (Global)
Bachelor of Journalism
Business and Economics Bachelor of Commerce
Education Bachelor of Education (Honours)
Engineering Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering (Honours)
Bachelor of Engineering
Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours)
Information Technology Bachelor of Computer Science
Law Bachelor of Laws
Medicine, Nursing and Health sciences Bachelor of Biomedical Science
For more information go to: monash.edu/study/coursefinder/course/
Double degree,
not double the work
David Macindoe, Bachelor of Science /
Bachelor of Arts student
I really wanted to do a double degree in arts and science, and Monash
was the best place to do that. A double degree enables me to delve
into areas beyond science, including French and American history.
Studying science has become more like a way of thinking and
questioningto find the truth using scientific methods.

Joseph Gulay, Bachelor of Science /
Bachelor of Engineering student
I chose Monash primarily because of the double degree. I knew I was good
at the sciences and maths, so I was advised to look into engineering too.
In particular, I really like biochemistry since there are a lot of really cool
discoveries happening. Science is about exploration, seeing if a concept
or theory works or not. If it doesnt, then try something else, but if it
does, then it can be really amazing.
Joseph Gulay
THE SKILLS YOU ACQUIRE
The skills you acquire
Science
knowledge
The key thing you walk away with when you study science at Monash
is a deep understanding of science and a strong body of knowledge.
At Monash, you also learn how to apply that knowledge so you are
career ready. Your understanding will encompass the nature, practice
and application of science.
With your choice of study area, you will have an advanced level
of understanding in at least one specialised area of contemporary
science, so you can focus on your career goals.
An analytical
mind
The world is data rich, and having the right tools to navigate and
synthesise that data is critical to good scientific practice. Science will
allow you to expand your knowledge through evaluating arguments and
synthesising ideas, and will help you apply discipline knowledge and
critical thinking to analyse challenges and to develop effective solutions.
As scientists we take pride in the power to apply knowledge and
critical thinking to analyse challenges and to develop effective solutions.
This is the way of thinking that lies at the core of Monash science
teaching. We help you join the challenge to solve real world problems
by developing your skills in inquiry and critical thinking.
Practical
skills
Communication
In science at Monash, we know a key to your success is
the ability to write professionally, to make effective oral and
visual presentations, and to communicate scientific ideas
and results to non-scientific audiences.
Teamwork
Great work is usually the product of a team effort. To work with a
team is to have the capacity to evaluate your own performance;
to plan and carry out tasks, and to work collaboratively and
effectively with others. These skills are key to your employability
and your work satisfaction. That is why your Monash science
course focuses on developing your skills in these areas.
IT literacy
As a scientist in any area, you will want to use a range of sources
to find, evaluate and use information. At Monash, we make sure
you are ready to access the IT solutions that make managing
scientific information more effective.
36
STUDENT AND ALUMNI PERSPECTIVES
Roysul Islam
Bachelor of Environmental Science (Honours) student
When I was an international student, I heard a lot about Monash.
Its part of the Group of Eight, and I was always interested in
going into research, so I chose a research-based university.
I wanted to get as much experience in research and
industry-based work as possible before beginning honours.
I completed three separate summer research projects with a
non-government organisation, a government department and
internally at Monash University.
I undertook fieldwork with a researcher from Melbourne water, who
was surveying mangrove forest in Western Port Bay in Melbourne.
I am now working with the Melbourne Museum geosciences
department as well as in the School of Biological Sciences
studying whale diversity.
Tessa Charles
Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Engineering, PhD
Im doing my PhD in accelerator physics and looking at electron
sources. Part of the reason I chose to do research here is the fact
that your supervisors shape your experience, so I chose Monash
based on the work that Id be able to do here and the researchers
that Id be working directly with.
Within a Monash undergraduate degree you get quite a breadth
of information which gives you a bigger appreciation of the big
picture and how everything slots in together.
You are exposed to lecturers who have so much depth in their
own research and it is inspiring to see how passionate they
are about their own work, and so you can kind of develop that
curiosity too, to get into research yourself.
To me, science is all about creativity. Its a creative pursuit to
uncover some of the truths of nature.
Andrew Chiu
Graduate, Bachelor of Science /
Bachelor of Engineering Analyst, Deloitte
A lot of people dont understand what analytics can do for
them. I analyse data for clients and advise them on how they
can improve their business using that information.
Science definitely taught me how to
think critically and then how to be able
to summarise information in a way thats
understandable by other people.
Amali Cooray
Bachelor of Arts (Global) / Bachelor of Science student
Amali Cooray describes herself as a student with many interests
spanning different areas of study, including biology and humanities.
Doing an Arts(Global)/Science double degree has allowed me to
pursue both fields of interest and extend my abilities in both areas,
she said.
With a keen interest in literature and creative writing, Amali has
taken full advantage of the opportunities to express her creativity
that Monash offers.
Winning the Cosmos magazine sponsored prize for best scientific
literature review, she attributes the encouragement and capability
Monash has offered in the development of her writing abilities
Student and
alumni perspectives
37
THE EXPERIENCES YOU CAN ADD 38
Getting
involved
Lucinda Mullins, Bachelor of Science /
Bachelor of Laws student
In first year I didnt do a huge amount because I was nervous and new,
but I realised if you dont get involved you miss a lot of great opportunities.
I found that the social side of Monash, as well as the opportunity to
become a student leader, made the transition from high school to university
life much easier.
I love the opportunities Monash gives you. I belong to lots of clubs
and societies and it opens you up to new ideas, new people and
new adventures.
Work
opportunities
Thomas Burns, Bachelor of Science (Honours) student
I tutored high school students part-time while studying science, a job I
secured through the Monash Career Gateway, a career resource exclusive
to staff and students.
The Monash Career Gateway is an excellent resource for students. And you
can find plenty of other job opportunities if tutoring is not your thing.
I think you end up with a lot of different experiences here at Monash, and for
me, these are experiences I know I will keep for the rest of my life.
The experiences
you can add
Monash University offers an enormous range of extra-curricular activities
designed to help build your skill set and portfolio of experience. We also
offer leadership opportunities specifically for science single and double
degree students.
Science Future Leaders Program
The Faculty of Science Future Leaders Program has been developed to
identify and cultivate the science leaders of the future.
Over the course of a year, you participate in activities to develop your
leadership skills including a residential program, a series of leadership
seminars and workshops, and the opportunity to practice leadership within
the university, your chosen profession, and/or the wider community.
For more information go to:
monash.edu/science/current/future-leaders-program
Science Student Ambassador Program
The Science Student Ambassadors Program creates opportunities
for science students to develop professional and personal skills;
to network with fellow students and to actively engage as a
member of the Faculty of Science community.
Science Student Ambassadors represent the Faculty of Science at
a variety of events including Open Day, information evenings and
school visits. They also represent the faculty through social media
management and marketing activities.
For more information go to:
monash.edu.au/science/current/science-student-ambassadors
Peer Mentoring Program
In the Peer Mentoring Program, we pair newly-enrolled first-year
undergraduate students with students in their second- (or higher) year
of university to assist the first-year students settle into university life.
The student mentors act as guides, helping to answer questions
and advise first-year students.
The program helps new students and gives the second-year students
a valuable experience in mentoring.
Lucinda Mullins
Postgraduate
options
POSTGRADUATE OPTIONS 39
Honours
Honours is a widely-recognised and highly-regarded qualification.
It is likely to lead to enhanced career opportunities. It is also a
stepping stone to postgraduate research studies.
The prestigious Science Honours Program is a fourth year of
undergraduate study, comprising a mix of advanced theory, professional
training for a scientific career and a project leading to a thesis.
Students have the opportunity to undertake exciting research work
with a supervisor who provides individual guidance and one-on-one
academic mentoring.
For more information go to: monash.edu/science/future/courses/honours
Master of Science
A Master of Science represents a significant contribution to knowledge
and demonstrates your capacity to carry out independent research.
The Master of Science program in the Faculty of Science may be
undertaken in the principal areas of research offered by the faculty,
including: biological sciences, chemistry, geosciences, mathematical
sciences, atmospheric sciences and physics.
For more information go to: monash.edu/study/coursefinder/course/2700
Postgraduate research
You can further your studies at Monash by undertaking a postgraduate
research course.
Through supervised research, you will be a member of a dynamic
community of scholars and contribute to the advancement of
knowledge within your specialist area.
Monash Science offers a broad range of research projects, so you can
find the path that best suits your intellectual and vocational passions.
For more information go to:
monash.edu/science/future/postgraduate-research
Postgraduate
options
MONASH COLLEGE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 40
Monash University
Foundation Year
The Monash University Foundation Year is the preferred academic
pathway into Science.
The program is designed to provide international students with the
skills and knowledge required to succeed at Monash University.
After successful completion of the Foundation Year program and
achieving the required marks, you will have a guaranteed place in
the first year of your chosen Science degree.
For more information on the Monash University Foundation Year
go to: monashcollege.edu.au/foundation-year
English language
pathways
The Monash University English Language Centre is the
preferred English pathway into Monash University.
If you do not meet the English language requirement for
direct entry into your Science course you may receive a
conditional offer for one of our two programs:
Monash English
Bridging (MEB)
This program is ideal for students who have narrowly
missed the English language requirement for direct entry.
After successful completion of the 10 or 15 week program,
you will move directly into your chosen Monash course
without the need for an additional IELTS test.
Note: MEB is not accepted for entry into all degrees.
Those who are ineligible should consider Monash English.
Monash
English (ME)
This program is designed for students who require additional
English language development to enter into either the Monash
English Bridging or University courses. Course duration
depends on your current English language proficiency and your
preferred destination course. Intakes for Monash English occur
every five weeks.
Monash
College for
international
students
There are many pathways in to Monash Science.
For more information on English language pathways go to:
monashcollege.edu.au/english
HOW TO APPLY 41
How to
apply
Australians, New Zealanders and
permanent residents of Australia
or holders of Australian
permanent humanitarian visas
Apply through VTAC: vtac.edu.au
For mid-year entry, apply directly to Monash:
monash.edu/admissions/apply/online.html
Scholarships: monash.edu/scholarships
Fees
Commonwealth Supported Places
reduced course fees for eligible applicants, and HECS-HELP:
monash.edu.au/enrolments/loans/commonwealth-supported-place.html
FEE-HELP Loan options for eligible applicants:
monash.edu.au/enrolments/loans/domestic-full-fee.html
International
students
Go to: monash.edu/study/international
Apply directly to Monash Universitys International Recruitment Services:
monash.edu/study/international/apply/undergraduate
Fees
Fees for each course can be found at: monash.edu/coursefinder
FAQS 42
FAQs
What majors can I do within
a science degree?
What support services
are available?
Who can I talk to about my
particular interests?
Monash Science offers a wide range of
science majors to choose from. That
means if you know what you want to
focus on, you can specialise from day
one. But if youre still weighing up your
options, you can take time to explore
what is on offer by studying a range of
units and decide later. View our list of
majors on page 21 or visit monash.edu/
pubs/handbooks/undergrad/sci-aos-
clayton.html for more information.
Services available include employment
and career development, counselling
personal and academic, study skills,
financial assistance, health services,
spirituality, equity opportunity, disability
support, childcare and more.
Visit monash.edu/study/life/services.
html for more information.
See the Contact Us page of this
guide, or contact Monash Connect
on 1800 666 274 or
monash.edu/connect
Is there on-campus
accommodation available?
What further study options
are available after I finish my
undergraduate degree?
Can I transfer to Monash
after studying at
another institution?
Yes. For more information on
accommodation please visit
mrs.monash.edu
Monash offers multiple further study
options, including Honours, Master and
PhD programs. For more information,
see monash.edu/science/future
Yes. Many of our students come to
Monash after studying at another
university. Students who have
completed units of study at another
tertiary institution are also able to
apply for credit for prior learning.
What do Bachelor of Science
students typically study in
first year?
Can I study an area of
science if I did not do it at
VCE (Year 12)?
Where can I get further
information about course
pre-requisites, academic
entrance requirements and
ATAR scores?
In first year students are required to
complete at least six of their eight units
in science.
Throughout your course the science
faculty provides individual guidance
about what units you should complete
to achieve your career goals.
Yes. At Monash we offer a range of
level-one units in the fundamental
sciences (Physics, Chemistry,
Mathematics) that provide the
foundation to go on to further study for
students who did not complete Year 12
studies in these areas.
See page 34 of this guide or take a
look at Coursefinder for comprehensive
information on all this and more
monash.edu/study/coursefinder/faculty/sci/
Can I study my course
part time?
Do I have to study units
outside of science?
This option is available for many courses.
You can choose to enrol in one, two, three
or four units in each semester. If you study
part-time, keep in mind that you must still
complete a single degree within eight years
and a double degree within ten years.
See page 32 of this guide for information
on which courses you can study part time.
We do not require you to study units outside of science, but if you want to there
are options available. The decision is yours and depends on the course you study.
If you want to focus solely on science, you can, or you may choose to diversify
your course by studying subjects from other faculties.
If you want to start thinking about what studies you may do at each year level,
or what it would be like to study science at Monash, have a look at the current
student webpage for science students monash.edu/science/current.
STAY IN TOUCH
Stay in
touch For a comprehensive list of our courses,
entry requirements, pathways and
admissions information, please go to:
monash.edu/coursefinder/faculty/sci
You can also
Visit our website monash.edu/science
Domestic students
Phone us +61 3 9905 4604
Email us sci-enquiries@monash.edu
International students
Phone us +61 3 9903 4788
Email us study@monash.edu
Or, come and see us
Open Day
Open Day gives you the chance to talk to academic staff,
meet students and tour the faculty and campus.
Date Clayton campus:
Sunday, 3 August 2014
Time 10.00am 4.00pm
For more information, go to: monash.edu/openday
Find out more
Course advice
monash.edu/science/current/undergraduate/help
Administrative support
monash.edu/connect
Choosing a course entry requirements
monash.edu/coursefinder/faculty/sci
Course credits
monash.edu/admissions/credit
Scholarships
monash.edu/scholarships
On campus services
fsd.monash.edu
Faculty contacts
monash.edu/science/about/contact
43
Science
Undergraduate Courses 2015
Future student enquiries
Australian citizens, permanent residents,
and New Zealand citizens
Tel: 1800 MONASH (666 274)
Email: future@monash.edu
monash.edu/study/contact
International students
Australia freecall tel: 1800 181 838
Tel: +61 3 9903 4788 (outside Australia)
Email: study@monash.edu
Monash online
monash.edu/science
Course finder
monash.edu/coursefinder
International students
monash.edu/study/international
Scholarships
monash.edu/scholarships
Off-campus learning
monash.edu/offcampus
Monash on YouTube
youtube.com/monashunivideo
The information in this brochure was correct
at the time of publication (March 2014).
Monash University reserves the right to
alter this information should the need arise.
You should always check with the relevant
Facultyoffcewhenconsideringacourse.
CRICOS provider: Monash University 00008C
Monash College 01857J
Discover
more
A wide range of majors
Astrophysics
Atmospheric science
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Computational science
Developmental biology
Ecology and conservation biology
Environmental science
Financial and insurance mathematics
Genetics
Geographical science
Geosciences
Human pathology
Immunology
Materials science
Mathematics (pure and applied)
Mathematical statistics
Microbiology
Pharmacology
Physics
Physiology
Plant sciences
Psychology
Zoology
Our courses
Bachelor of Science
Bachelor of Science Advanced
Global Challenges (Honours)
Bachelor of Science Advanced
Research (Honours)