Bachelor of Science (Earth and Environmental Systems)

Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes.

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Use complexity thinking and critical analysis in relation to scientific methods of inquiry.
2. Respond creatively to complex intellectual, professional, practical and societal challenges in the Anthropocene.
3. Apply professional judgement based on ethical behaviour, academic integrity, professional standards, regulatory frameworks, and respect for principles of social justice to support adaptability.
4. Select and apply appropriate practical and theoretical scientific methods, techniques and tools to collect and accurately record data through systematic inquiry.
5. Demonstrate broad and well-developed knowledge of the theory and application of scientific principles, system knowledge and associated practices
6. Synthesise, critically evaluate, and interpret scientific data and other information to draw rigorous conclusions and solve problems with intellectual independence
7. Reflect on the role of self in the context of learning, professional development and ethical practice in science.
8. Effectively communicate science and practice in a systems approach using a variety of modes to engage with a range of audiences.
9. Work collaboratively, responsibly and safely as part of a team.
10. Incorporate diverse cultural perspectives and Indigenous ways of knowing to inform understandings of complex and interconnected physical, social and economic systems.

The Bachelor of Science prepares students for employment or further study in the sciences, developing graduates who can apply science in the context of broader systems to address complex intellectual, professional, practical and societal challenges in the Anthropocene.

Career opportunities are diverse, including natural resource management in local council, state Commonwealth Government or not-for-profit organisations, consulting, as an industry adviser or practitioner, research technician, quality control/quality assurance officer, data analyst or science communicator.

Specialisations allow students to develop expertise in an area of practice such as Marine, Forest, Earth and Environmental Science or Regenerative Agriculture and may have more specific career outcomes.

Graduate outcomes for specialisations might include:

Earth and Environmental Systems

Career opportunities exist in public and private sectors, national park and protected area management, environmental protection, waste management, environmental impact assessment and monitoring, environmental education and interpretation, ecotourism, land/river/coast care programs; and in environmental science research.

Professional recognition

Graduates may be eligible for membership of professional associations such as the Institute of Foresters of Australia, depending on the specialisation or major studied.

Secondary education

ATAR: 60 or equivalent.

If you're a current Year 12 student you can register for our STAR Early Offer program and may be eligible to receive an early offer based on your School Principal's recommendation. STAR Early Offers must be undertaken in Session 1.

English Proficiency Requirements

English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows:

Overall: 6.0

• Listening: minimum 5.5
• Reading: minimum 5.5
• Speaking: minimum 5.5
• Writing: minimum 5.5

Practicum placement

Within their study program, students will have the option for an internship placement at career-relevant workplaces. 

Applicants or students that can provide supporting documents to verify they already know, understand and can perform the learning outcomes for one or more units within a Southern Cross course, are eligible to have their prior learning assessed for credit by submitting an application for Advanced Standing.

The Bachelor of Science at Southern Cross University is a flexible degree that allows you to incorporate a wide range of subjects with career-focused science specialisations. 

You can focus on an area of professional practice by choosing a specialisation in Earth and Environmental Systems, Marine Systems, Forestry Systems or Regenerative Agriculture. These specialisations are identified on your graduating testamur. Alternatively, you can choose a major from Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Environmental Solutions or a shared major from disciplines across the University.

You can effectively design your own science degree. All students study seven core units that provide a strong foundation in science, including field and laboratory experimentation and analytical techniques, as well as socio-ecological systems, management and critical thinking. Core skills and knowledge are reinforced and expanded across the three-year program, finishing with capstone research projects in Impactful Science and Practice. 

The Bachelor of Science is characterised by a high level of practical and field experience in all years, making use of our easy access to a variety of subtropical terrestrial, coastal and marine ecosystems. 

Recommended Study Pattern

TBA

Award Requirements

To be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Science, students must complete the equivalent of 24 units (288 credit points), comprising:

• 1 specialisation in Earth and Environmental Systems or Marine Systems or Forestry Systems or Regenerative Agriculture or a double specialisation in Earth and Environmental Systems and Marine Systems; (288 credit points) or
•  6 core units (72 credit points), and 1 science major (96 credit points), and 10 equivalent elective units (120 credit points); or
•  6 core units (72 credit points), 2 science majors (192 credit points), and equivalent 2 elective unit/s (24 credit points); or
•  6 core units (72 credit points), 1 science major (96 credit points), 1 shared major (96 credit points), and equivalent 2 elective unit/s (24 credit points).