Biology
Explore the science of life
Biology is the study of life and living organisms, how they function and evolve. The School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences (BEES) offers expertise in animal behaviour, botany, evolutionary biology, marine biology and zoology. BEES also has a wealth of experience in the interaction between biology and the environment, and this is considered in more detail under ecology below. Studying biology routinely involves fieldwork in a wide range of environments.
- Animal behaviour explores fascinating topics including how animals communicate, find a mate and cooperate or conflict with other individuals.
- Botany explores plant diversity and function, and the importance of plants to natural environments and human wellbeing.
- Marine biology is about life in the ocean, estuaries and other coastal environments.
- Evolutionary biology explores the fundamental processes that explain life on Earth, from its origins to how plants, animals and human societies function today.
- Zoology looks at the structure, behaviour, habits, genetics, distribution, evolution and classification of animals.
From Antarctica to the tropics, a biology degree allows you to work almost anywhere in the world.
UNSW biology graduates work across a diverse range of areas including nature conservation, natural resource management, agriculture, animal care, aquaculture, teaching and research in the public and private sector. Some jobs are exclusively lab-based whereas others include fieldwork and travel. You could pursue a career as a field biologist, conservation scientist, biosecurity officer, environmental consultant, science communicator, science policy advisor, research scientist or educator.
Environmental study areas
If you're passionate about the environment, studying science is a great way to have a meaningful impact through almost all disciplines. In addition to biology, you might be interested in studying climate science, Earth science, ecology, environmental management, geography, marine & coastal science or physical oceanography.
Our programs
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You can study biology in the following undergraduate degrees:
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Gain research experience and enhance your career prospects with an honours degree. You'll have the opportunity to devise your own thesis/research project and conduct an original investigation to complete your project. Throughout your study, you'll be guided by staff who are passionate about research and the development of new researchers. An honours degree also provides a pathway into further study, such as a Masters by Research or PhD. You can take honours as a standalone degree or as part of an embedded honours program.
Embedded honours program
Standalone honours program
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You can study biology in the following postgraduate research degrees: