Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Social Sciences

Exploring new frontiers.

Students learning in the Science facilities at the UNSW Kensington campus

Discover solutions to the world’s biggest social, environmental, political and economic challenges. This double degree will prepare you for a career with real-world impact.

Faculty

Faculty of Science

Award

Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours), Bachelor of Social Sciences

Commencing Terms

Term 1, Term 2, Term 3

Duration (Full Time)

5 Year(s)

Overview

Join the forefront of scientific innovation and societal change. This double degree offers a broad and flexible education, which you can tailor to your interests and career goals.

From earth science to psychology, mathematics to biotech, our advanced-level science degree will prepare you for a wide range of careers. No matter which specialisation you choose, you’ll gain in-demand transferable skills that can be applied to almost any industry.

The social sciences explore a broad range of political, international, social, environmental and economic challenges. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills you need to inform public debate and shape the policies that affect society.

With expertise across two disciplines, this double degree will broaden your skillset and expand your career possibilities.

Key Features

Flexibility and variety
In the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours), we offer 26 majors across the physical, natural and human sciences. In the Bachelor of Social Sciences, you can choose from 16 specialisations in areas such as business, policy, environment, sociology, media and international studies. This double degree provides you with the flexibility to explore a range of study areas to find the path that’s right for you.

Practical experience, here and overseas
We offer a range of internship opportunities (including the SCIF3199 Science Work Placement course) and international exchange opportunities with our industry partners. Through real-world work experiences, you'll gain skills in communication, analysis, ethical decision-making and teamwork.

Supervised research project
Your honours year is an integral part of the degree. It involves a supervised research project and, in some cases, advanced coursework. You’ll conduct original scientific investigations and analysis while developing your critical and integrative thinking.

Why study this degree at UNSW?

Flexibility to design your own degree
Strong focus on international studies
Practical, work-integrated courses
Diverse and inclusive community
Connect with alumni worldwide
Seven science subjects ranked in the global top 50*
Learn in world-class laboratories, clinics and simulators

*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022

Program Code

3924

CRICOS Code

110671A

Campus

Kensington

UAC Code

429380

Total Units of Credit (UOC)

240

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Entry requirements

2022 Lowest Selection Rank

2022 A levels

2022 IB Diploma

2022 Lowest ATAR

The 2022 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2022.

The 2022 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subject. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.

The 2022 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2022. It is to be used as a guide only.

The 2022 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.

To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.

We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.

See more

Assumed knowledge

Mathematics Advanced or Mathematics Extension 1 (depending on chosen area of study) plus one or more of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Physics.

Adjustment Factors

We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.

HSC Plus
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.

Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.

Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.

Admission pathways

Your ATAR is not the only measure of your potential to succeed, which is why we offer a range of pathways into university. Explore your options below and get in touch with our future student advisors to discuss your path to UNSW.

Gateway Admission Pathway
This scheme is open to students in Years 11 and 12 who attend Gateway schools. It significantly adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred UNSW degree and provides you with an early conditional offer to UNSW.

Entry programs for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
We offer entry programs for Indigenous Australians, including the Indigenous Preparatory Programs and the Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS). The entry pathway program you apply for will depend on the degree you want to study.

Progression requirements

Entry into the Honours program in Science is subject to academic performance and progression requirements. Students may exit the Advanced Science (Honours) program with a B Science award if they are unsuccessful in applying for entry into Honours.

English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.

If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.

International direct entry

I studied in:

We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please contact us for more information.

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

Admission pathways

If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College. UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence. 

Progression requirements

English language requirements

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

Check the specific English language requirements for this program

Select from the options below

Which applies to you?

What will I study?

You must complete 240 Units of Credit (UOC), including 144 UOC for the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) and 96 UOC for the Bachelor of Social Sciences. Students undertaking a double degree do not take general education or free elective courses.

Your double degree includes the following components:

Advanced science major
Advanced science core course (SCIF1131)
Advanced science elective courses*
Advanced science honours year
Social sciences major
Social sciences core courses

Study areas

Study the physical conditions and physical processes within the ocean such as waves, currents and tides, its interaction with the atmosphere and its role in climate. You’ll gain an understanding of the mathematical equations that describe fluid flow and how these are used in the context of the ocean. This major also explores ocean measurement and the numerical modelling of processes at various scales.

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This major explores the laws of nature that govern the behaviour of the universe, from the smallest sub-atomic particles to the universe itself. It applies these laws to the solution of practical and theoretical problems and to the development of new technologies.

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Study the structures of the human body. This major covers:

gross anatomy (form, arrangement and function of the bones, joints, muscles and internal organs)

histology (microscopic structure of tissues and cells)

embryology (development of the embryo and fetus from conception to birth)

neuroanatomy (organisation and functions of the brain and spinal cord)

biological anthropology (applying biological principles to the study of humans and non-human primates).

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Develop technologies for analysing and interpreting genetic information. You’ll learn how to design and implement software for activities such as identifying cancer genes. This major covers the foundational disciplines of bioinformatics: biology, computing algorithms and mathematics and statistics.

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Study the science of life. Biologists explore how living organisms function, grow, evolve and relate to one another and the environment in which they live. Your study will cover:

animal behaviour, morphology and physiology

plant morphology and physiology

cell biology, evolutionary studies and genetics

marine biology.

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Explore the various biological processes used to make products and perform services. Biotechnology is used for:

the production of food

industrial chemicals

the development of improved crops and livestock for farming

environmental clean-up

forensics

the production of pharmaceuticals.

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Study the world from the ground up - from the sub-atomic, atomic and molecular to the spectacular. This major is designed for students who wish to specialise in the chemical sciences.

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Explore the science of the Earth's climate. This major has an emphasis on understanding the dynamic processes within the atmosphere and oceans. This understanding has applications in climate and weather research, forecasting and environmental and resource management.

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Gain a broad introduction to the science of the Earth's climate system. You’ll gain an understanding of the fundamentals of atmospheric science, oceanography and chemistry. You’ll also have the option of focusing your studies in areas such as climate and vegetation, hydrology, biology, biogeochemistry or environmental and resource management.

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Explore the science of nature and the evolution of our planet. This major covers everything from the structure of natural crystals and formation of fossils to the powerful forces that drive earthquakes and volcanoes.

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Explore how various organisms including mammals, invertebrates, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, plants and microbes interact with one another and with their environment.

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In humans and all other species, genes influence every characteristic, from appearance to behaviour to disease. This major offers a general introduction to the discipline before delving into more specialised areas including molecular genetics, human genetics, plant and microbial molecular biology and conservation biology.

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Study the Earth’s landscapes, peoples, places and environments. This major explores how natural and built environments function and change over time. Discover how these environments enhance or constrain human activity.

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This major provides in-depth study of immunology, pathology and microbiology. It’ll prepare you to unlock better treatments and prevention strategies for immune-related illnesses. This major is particularly beneficial for students who want to pursue a career in the health sciences.

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Explore all aspects of the marine environment, from biology to geology and the many sciences in between. This major can be studied with an emphasis on biology, earth sciences, climatology or oceanography.

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Everything we use is made of materials, yet only a handful of these materials occur naturally. The rest have been microscopically engineered originally by nature, but increasingly by materials scientists and engineers. This major is the foundation for creating high-performance components and devices from metals, ceramics, polymers and composites for use in society.

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Mathematics underpins all corners of science and technology and is a vibrant and fascinating field of study. Mathematics specialisations can be broadly categorised into the following:

Pure mathematics is the study of concepts that transcend specific applications.

Applied mathematics develops models to make sense of scientific phenomena, solve technical/industrial problems and for use in the social, economic and natural sciences.

Statistics can also be studied within a mathematics major or as a stand-alone major.

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Study the smallest forms of life: bacteria, viruses, archaea, fungi and protozoa. These fascinating organisms cause disease in humans, animals and plants and spoil our food. On the positive side, they also turn the biological wheels on Earth and are responsible for the sustainability of life.

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Explore molecular structures, the processes of cellular life and their roles in the function, reproduction and development of living organisms. Cell biology studies the basic unit of life, the cell, including:

cell anatomy

cell division

cell processes such as cell respiration and cell death.

Molecular biology is a marriage of biochemistry, microbiology and cell biology.

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Study the biological and behavioural aspects of the nervous system. The nervous system includes the:

central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)

peripheral nervous system (nerves in limbs, muscles and organs).

This major is based on the neuroscience courses offered by the School of Psychology and UNSW’s Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology Departments.

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Examine how and why diseases develop, what happens to our bodies when we’re ill and the effects of diseases. Pathology involves the study of diseases, such as infections and cancers, at the genetic, molecular, cellular and organ levels.

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Explore the effect that drugs have on living tissues and the normal body functions of humans and animals. This major looks at the efficacy of drugs, the ability of the body to metabolise them and the toxicology/side effects of drugs.

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This major is all about what makes human bodies work. Explore how the organs function, how humans grow and develop, how humans sustain bodily functions and what happens to these processes during disease and ageing.

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Study human behaviour and mental processes. Psychology is a broad field that includes:

brain-behaviour relationships

the processes of perceiving, learning, memory and thinking

the assessment of abilities and attitudes

the origins of personality and emotional states

the nature and effects of social interactions with other people.

This major is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) and satisfies the minimum requirement for provisional registration. It acts as the first step in the six-year pathway to becoming a registered psychologist.

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This major provides comprehensive training in:

probability and stochastic processes

statistical inference and modelling

modern statistical computing methods.

Third year electives allow you to further develop your statistical capabilities according to your own interests.

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Study the sensory processes that underlie vision and vision-related technologies. This major covers:

optics

anatomy and functioning of the eye

eye disorders

clinical optometry

ocular therapy

sensation and perception

psychophysics

research design/methods.

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Economics is a constantly changing field that informed and adapts to the world around us. To solve some of our greatest global challenges, you need a sound understanding of what motivates people, businesses, and governments. Study the analytical tools and gain critical thinking skills that help shape societies, raise living standards, and promote economic growth. Learn more about studying economics at UNSW.

Want to make a change to climate change? One of the greatest questions of our times is how to meet environmental challenges head-on. From species extinction and GMOs to climate change and nuclear power – immerse yourself in the social, cultural, and political factors shaping human relations with the natural world. Learn more about environmental humanities.

The relationship between people, societies, and the environment underpins the greatest global challenges of our time. As a human geographer, you will explore how physical, social, cultural, economic, and political factors shape places and people. Together, we will discover how we can plan for a better future by combining classroom study with hands-on experience in the field. Learn more about geographical studies.

Why are some countries developing so quickly while others seem left behind? Global development looks at the impact of change across social, political, and economic environments. Explore issues from urbanisation to widening disparity, environmental threats, and the dominance of communication technologies. Learn the many ways we can create practical and positive change at local, national, and global levels. Learn more about studying global development at UNSW.

What makes human resource management so rewarding? A company is only as good as its people, and human resource management provides the foundation for ongoing success. Develop effective and responsible management skills in various workforce issues – performance, change, health and safety, and beyond. Build the people skills that set you up for success in a diverse and rewarding career. Learn more about human resource management at UNSW.

Diverse peoples, cultures, and societies form Australia’s First Nations. This program begins with exploring traditional and current Indigenous knowledge and philosophy, and how popular media and cultural institutions portray Indigenous identities. Without straying from Australia’s imperial origin, you’ll examine the role of public policy in shaping communities and peoples’ resistance, activism, and political organisation. You’ll critically analyse past and current policies to understand how they are made, what factors influence their development, and their impact on society. Learn more about Indigenous studies at UNSW.

How does innovation impact and transform businesses and society at large? It drives productivity, competitive advantage, differentiation, growth, profitability, and sustainability. Understand and meet these challenges with strong leadership skills that help shape the future of organisations worldwide. Learn how to lead with confidence, discover new opportunities, turn insights into action, and design business strategies that create, capture, and deliver value. Learn more about innovation, strategy and entrepreneurship at UNSW.

The world has never been more connected thanks to globalisation and technology changing how we engage and do business. Make the most of this evolution by becoming a professional globetrotter with borderless boardrooms at your fingertips. Change how the world does business as you make the most of your strong foundation in business, commerce, and economics. Learn more about studying international business at UNSW.

Migration, the climate crisis, and new ideas are shaping the world and challenging international organisations like never before. What do these developments mean for society? Learn to think creatively about governing solutions for significant challenges - from adapting to global economic changes to managing refugee intakes, human rights, security, and environmental crises. 

You'll also be able to learn another language and study overseas with one of our 300 global partner institutions. Learn more about international studies at UNSW.

From design, branding, advertising, and communication; to digital marketing and analytics – marketing is a future-focused area of study, with strategic thinking and innovation at its core. Learn how data helps businesses stand out, understand customer behaviour, provide different experiences, and meet customer needs. You'll have opportunities to apply your new knowledge in real-world professional and creative environments. Learn more about marketing at UNSW.

The new media landscape is vast and complex, spanning social, mobile, on-demand, and rapidly evolving platforms. Throughout your studies, you'll learn about media's social, political, and cultural dynamics and its impact on technology and everyday life. You'll also discover the complex relationships between local and global media and the role of diverse audiences in media processes. Learn more about media, culture & technology at UNSW.

Lead differently and make an impact with a degree focused on complex governments and global politics. Discover how to think critically about the challenges facing our world today. Unpack complicated international issues and create meaningful solutions. Understand the forces driving political developments, so you can recognise future opportunities to make real and positive change. Learn more about studying politics and international relations at UNSW.

What makes life meaningful? Why do we disagree, and why do we care? What brings about social change? Answers to these questions differ depending on who you ask, but finding new insights is crucial to navigating reality's conflicts and challenges. Join Australia's oldest sociology department and discover insights from diverse cultures and the lived human experience. Learn more about studying sociology and anthropology at UNSW.

Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)

Anatomy

Biology

Chemistry

Climate science

Geology

Immunology

Marine science

Mathematics

Molecular biology

Palaeosciences

Pathology

Pharmacology

Physical geography

Physics

Physiology

Psychology

Statistics

Vision science

Once you complete a bachelor’s degree, you’ll be eligible to apply for further study at a postgraduate level. If you’d like further information about this degree and its learning outcomes have a look at our student handbook.

Go to Handbook

Future careers

Our education provides the optimal balance of theoretical and hands-on learning to prepare you for tomorrow’s workforce. You’ll develop transferable skills that can be applied to almost any industry. You’ll gain a strong foundation in logical, analytical and critical thinking, as well as skills in teamwork and communication.

A double degree expands your career possibilities as you’ll have expertise across two (or more) fields. Both degrees offer a wide variety of majors and specialisations, which allow you to tailor your education to your career goals.

Psychologist

Pilot

Environmental scientist

Data scientist

Materials scientist

Clinical coder

Biotechnologist

Teacher

Neuroscientist

Genetic counsellor

Mathematician

Medical technician

Biologist

Food scientist

Laboratory technician
Campaign manager

Advocate

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade official

International business consultant

Local government official

Non-government organisation official

Policy analyst

Political adviser

Political journalist

Project officer

Program manager

Research consultant

Research officer

Tourism and trade adviser

United Nations official

How to apply

Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

Visit the Apply section of the UAC website and you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.

On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the UAC website for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.

Ready to start your application?

Apply now

For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.

Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.

*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. Read more.

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Fees & Scholarships

2023 Indicative First Year Full Fee

$8,035*

Commonwealth Supported Place multiple Student Contribution Bands may apply for this double degree. See single degrees for the applicable fee bands.*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the University and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only other fees and charges are not included.

2023 Indicative First Year Fee

$47,080*

2023 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree

$250,100*

*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).

Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.

Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.

Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.

Scholarships

At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.