Bachelor of Science

On successful completion you will be able to

1. Demonstrate broad and coherent in-depth knowledge and skills from a scientific discipline.
2. Evaluate science as a social endeavour, one that influences and is influenced by different ways of knowing, including Indigenous knowledge and cultural perspectives.
3. Apply scientific principles, theory and practice, technical skills and quantitative and/or qualitative methods to independently research, analyse, and creatively solve complex problems.
4. Employ scientific knowledge, tools, and skills in practical real-world contexts.
5. Gather and process data systematically and draw evidence-based conclusions, while recognising the limitations and underlying assumptions of the approaches used.
6. Work collaboratively with peers and stakeholders on industry- and research-related projects by integrating scientific knowledge and skills into practice.
7. Communicate scientific concepts, results and information, and the role and value of science in benefiting society, in diverse modes to a range of audiences.
8. Identify ethical and sustainability issues and adhere to professional ethical standards when undertaking scientific work, taking into account potential impacts on society, the environment and the planet.
9. Demonstrate professional skills and attributes, including career literacy, personal accountability, independent and self-directed learning, and critical reflection.

In an era where the influence of science has reached new heights, we invite you to embark on an educational journey with our Bachelor of Science (OUA), a dynamic and comprehensive degree that empowers you to shape your scientific destiny. Serving as your gateway to understanding and navigating the complexities of today's scientific landscape, this course allows you to explore the myriad possibilities within the sciences, charting a course tailored to your career aspirations. You will immerse yourself in an in-depth study of biology, acquiring the knowledge and skills essential for making a meaningful impact on the world today and tomorrow.

Complementing this specialised focus, our course places a premium on foundational units designed to enhance transferable skills highly sought after by employers. In a rapidly evolving global scenario, where science plays a pivotal role in addressing pressing issues, this degree prepares you for both scientific excellence and the practical challenges of working in the field. You will delve into core units that intricately weave Indigenous knowledge and sustainability considerations, providing a holistic perspective that goes beyond the conventional boundaries of scientific exploration.  

As a scientist in today's world, quantitative and qualitative skills are non-negotiable. Our curriculum ensures mastery in understanding, analysing, and communicating complex data. But this foundational stream isn't just theoretical: it integrates real-world learning activities that culminate in a unit where you engage in work-integrated learning activities in collaboration with industry organisations, gaining practical experience that sets you apart in the competitive scientific landscape.

The Bachelor of Science (OUA) is a transformative experience. By seamlessly blending specialised discipline education with a broader skill set, this course provides a world-class science education. Step into the future of science, where innovation meets education, and be prepared to actively shape the world of science.

Please note: Some subjects in this degree require you to attend laboratory sessions in Sydney.

Recommended study pattern

Students are required to complete 24 subjects (240 credit points).

Core zone - 160 credit points comprised of:

• Major - 80 credit points
• Essential Subjects - 80 credit points

Flexible zone - 80 credit points

You can enrol in any OUA subject for which you meet the requisites.

Major

Biology major: - 80 credit points

• BIOX1310 Organisms to Ecosystems
• BIOX1110 Genes to Organisms
• BIOX2430 Plants
• BIOX2350 Animals
• BIOX2110 Genetics
• BIOX2310 Diversity of Life
• BIOX3110 Evolutionary and Conservatory Genetics
• BIOX3130 Ecology and Evolution of Emerging Infectious Diseases
• BIOX3320 Animal Behaviour (to be offered in 2026)

Essential subjects -80 credit points

• STAX1170 Introductory Statistics
• FOSX1025 Scientific Computing
• BIOX1210 Human Biology
• BIOX2610 Biological Data Analysis
• BIOX3120 Human Genetics and Evolutionary Medicine
• FOSX1000 Becoming a Scientist
• FOSX2000 The Science Practitioner (to be offered in 2026)
• FOSX3000 Making Science Work for You and Society :Capstone

Award requirements

To be awarded the degree, students must complete the following minimum requirements.

Minimum number of subjects for the degree = 24

Degrees are usually made up of core subjects and electives. Some degrees include a choice of majors, so you can focus your studies on a specialisation.

This list is a general overview. Download the full Degree Guide for more information.

• Core Zone: Essential Subjects

• Core Zone: Major in Biology

Applications are due the Friday two weeks prior to the close of enrolment date for the study session you are applying for.

Please Note: Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) and HECS are not available for this degree. However, subject to your eligibility, other HELP loans may be available.

Once you have been admitted into your degree, you must enrol in at least one subject in the study term immediately following admission, and you must remain enrolled past the census date. If not, your admission will lapse and you will need to re-apply for the degree again. Deferment is not available for OUA students.

Visit Studying a degree through OUA for further information.

Please note that students who have an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion under Macquarie University's Academic Progression Policy will not be permitted to register in Macquarie University degrees offered through OUA. Students with an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion who have enrolled in units through OUA will be withdrawn.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $30,555

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.

Learn more about Macquarie University.

Explore Macquarie courses.

QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

11

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

10

• 4 OUA undergraduate subjects at pass level from any OUA provider, OR
• 2 OUA undergraduate subjects at credit grade level from any OUA provider

A competitive ATAR of 75 or equivalent OP of 12.

The required standard of English for this program is:

Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall with minimum 6.0 in each band, or equivalent.

All applicants to coursework programs at Macquarie University are required to provide evidence of proficiency in English. 

For more information on accepted equivalents, please see English Language Requirements.

If you have completed prior study at Diploma level or higher, you may be eligible for credit towards your Bachelor at Macquarie which can reduce the duration of your program.

For more information see our Recognition of Prior Learning page or submit an enquiry.

Due to the specialist nature of this degree, you will be required to attend Macquarie University in Sydney to complete practical and laboratory classes.

These subjects require 4-6 days of on-campus attendance. The classes are typically offered in 2-day blocks.

The following subjects have on-campus laboratory and/or practical classes:

• BIOX1310 Organisms to Ecosystems
• CHEX1001 Foundations in Chemistry
• BIOX2210 Life Processes
• BIOX2310 Diversity of Life
• BIOX3130 Ecology and Evolution of Emerging Infectious Diseases
• BIOX3510 Vertebrate Biology and Behaviour
• BIOX1110 Genes to Organisms

The following units require in person field work:

BIOX2430 Plants

BIOX2350 Animals

BIOX3320 Animal Behaviour

On-campus Classes

All classes are based at Macquarie University, North Ryde Campus, Sydney, NSW.

2025 On-campus Schedule to be confirmed.

Travel and Accommodation

• Map of North Ryde Campus

Financial Support

• Please note that you may also be eligible for a travel subsidy from OUA.