Key facts

Domestic students course information.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a bachelor or postgraduate qualification, or overseas equivalent in a relevant discipline.

Entry is based on a bachelor or postgraduate qualification, or overseas equivalent in a relevant discipline. English language requirements must also be met.

View full entry requirements
Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Number of Units (Subjects)
  • 8 units (48 credit points)
View course structure
Fees
  • Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply)
  • Full Fee
  • International
View more fees information
CRICOS code
  • 000452E
Start Dates and Campus
Trimester 1 – February 2024Trimester 2 – June 2024Trimester 3 – October 2024
OnlineOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered
OnlineOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered

Course information

Download course brochure
UNE student in white lab coat performs an experiment

Whether you want to upgrade your expertise or pivot to another scientific speciality, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science allows you to hone your skills and future fit your career. Flexibly delivered, and with a wide range of majors in diverse scientific disciplines to choose from, you can tailor the course to your strengths and interests. Add value to your role and ensure you can adapt and thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.

Why study the Graduate Diploma in Science with UNE?

Position yourself at the forefront of change and innovation by extending your skills, and complement your existing science-based skills with the knowledge needed to change direction to another scientific discipline with UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science. Our flexibly-delivered course is designed to allow you to balance study with your existing commitments, and can be completed part-time or full-time, with options to study on campus or online.

What makes our course different?

With a wide range of majors to choose from, including classical science fields as well as emerging disciplines, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science combines strong foundational knowledge with the latest practical techniques. You have the freedom to choose your direction, whether you are planning to upskill or pivot to a new field. The course also provides you with opportunities to:

  • Tailor your degree to your needs and choose your specialisation, including biomedical science, medicinal chemistry, health, physical sciences, mathematics and chemistry. Upskill in a clinical role with a major in Neuroscience, to understand more about the relationship between the brain and human behaviour. Or be ready to innovate with advanced knowledge of machine learning algorithms and bioinformatics with our Computational Data Science major.
  • Hone your applied research skills, by completing the optional research thesis unit. This unit gives you the opportunity to complete a small research project, supervised by staff who produce world-class research, and present a thesis comprising a literature review and the results of the research project. In some instances, this project can be completed in your current workplace.
  • Study flexibly. Whether you wish to study part-time over a number of years, or complete your graduate diploma full-time in one year, our online study options allow you to complete the course at the time and place that best suits your needs. By choosing UNE, you are choosing an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning in the sciences.
  • Refine and consolidate your practical skills. On-campus intensives (mandatory for some online units) with hands-on practical sessions emphasise your development of applied skills, to ensure that you can translate your theoretical knowledge into real-world professional practice.

At UNE, our small class sizes set us apart, giving you the opportunity to interact directly with friendly academic staff and your peers. Our collaborative, innovative learning environment supports your success. That's why our our students award UNE the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide, year after year.

Study online

Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.

Study on campus

Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.

* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.

Entry requirements

Select the option that best describes you.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

This course is offered under four admission rules.

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant disciplineAND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Bachelor with Honours qualification (AQF Level 8 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule C: You have completed a Master qualification (AQF Level 9 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule C. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule D: You have completed a Doctorate qualification (AQF Level 10 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule D. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Botany
  • Chemistry
  • Computational Science
  • Genetics
  • Geology
  • Mathematics
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Neuroscience (may include Science, Medicine, Psychology, Nursing, Social Work, Education,  Counselling)
  • Physics
  • Physiology
  • Statistics
  • Zoology

† The minimum knowledge requirements for each major are detailed in the Additional Admission Requirements section below. When it is not clear from your academic background, you can include a cover letter in your application detailing how you have met the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Additional Admission Requirements

To be eligible to study a major in this course you must meet the minimum knowledge requirements for that major. For example, if you would like to study the Biochemistry major, you must have previously completed 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry. Please see below a list of majors in this course (bolded), and the minimum knowledge requirements you must meet in order to be eligible:

  • Applied Statistics – 1 unit of Statistics and 1 unit of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Biochemistry – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Biomedical Science – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Botany - 2 units of biology or botany
  • Chemistry – 2 units of Chemistry
  • Computational Data Science – 1 unit of Statistics, 1 unit of calculus-based Mathematics and 2 units of programming-focused Computer Science.
  • Genetics – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Mathematics – 2 units of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Medicinal Chemistry – 3 units of Chemistry, or 2 units of Chemistry and 1 unit of Biochemistry or Pharmaceutical Science
  • Neuroscience – 2 units of chemistry or biology plus 2 units at 200 level or above from Neuroscience (see relevant disciplines)
  • Physical Sciences – 2 units of Physics, 2 units of Chemistry, and 2 units of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Quantitative Ecology – 2 units of Statistics or Mathematics, and 2 units of any Natural, Physical or Social Science
  • Zoology – 2 units of Biology

Please note: Students wishing to complete the course on a full-time basis are strongly encouraged to have greater than the minimum assumed knowledge and to begin their study in first trimester.

Inherent Requirements

You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

This course is offered under four admission rules.

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant disciplineAND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Bachelor with Honours qualification (AQF Level 8 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule C: You have completed a Master qualification (AQF Level 9 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule C. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule D: You have completed a Doctorate qualification (AQF Level 10 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule D. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Botany
  • Chemistry
  • Computational Science
  • Genetics
  • Geology
  • Mathematics
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Neuroscience (may include Science, Medicine, Psychology, Nursing, Social Work, Education, Health, Counselling)
  • Physics
  • Physiology
  • Statistics
  • Zoology

† The minimum knowledge requirements for each major are detailed in the Additional Admission Requirements section below. When it is not clear from your academic background, you can include a cover letter in your application detailing how you have met the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Additional Admission Requirements

To be eligible to study a major in this course you must meet the minimum knowledge requirements for that major. For example, if you would like to study the Biochemistry major, you must have previously completed 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry. Please see below a list of majors in this course (bolded), and the minimum knowledge requirements you must meet in order to be eligible:

  • Applied Statistics – 1 unit of Statistics and 1 unit of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Biochemistry – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Biomedical Science – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Botany - 2 units of biology or botany
  • Chemistry – 2 units of Chemistry
  • Computational Data Science – 1 unit of Statistics, 1 unit of calculus-based Mathematics and 2 units of programming-focused Computer Science.
  • Genetics – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Mathematics – 2 units of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Medicinal Chemistry – 3 units of Chemistry, or 2 units of Chemistry and 1 unit of Biochemistry or Pharmaceutical Science
  • Neuroscience – 2 units of chemistry or biology plus 2 units at 200 level or above from Neuroscience (see relevant disciplines)
  • Physical Sciences – 2 units of Physics, 2 units of Chemistry, and 2 units of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Quantitative Ecology – 2 units of Statistics or Mathematics, and 2 units of any Natural, Physical or Social Science
  • Zoology – 2 units of Biology

Please note: Students wishing to complete the course on a full-time basis are strongly encouraged to have greater than the minimum assumed knowledge and to begin their study in first trimester.

Inherent Requirements

You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.

Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

  • A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.
  • When it is not clear from your academic background, you can include a cover letter in your application detailing how you have met the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.
  • Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
  • Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

  • If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 24 credit points of Advanced Standing. This may include up to 6 credit points of Advanced Standing based on relevant professional experience.
  • If you are admitted under Rules B, C, or D, you can apply for up to 24 credit points of Advanced Standing.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:

  • SCI499 Graduate Diploma in Science Thesis
  • SCI501 Special Topics in Science A
  • SCI502 Special Topics in Science B

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

This course is offered under four admission rules.

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant disciplineAND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Bachelor with Honours qualification (AQF Level 8 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule C: You have completed a Master qualification (AQF Level 9 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis you will be eligible for admission under Rule C. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule D: You have completed a Doctorate qualification (AQF Level 10 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline* AND you meet the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.†
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule D. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Botany
  • Chemistry
  • Computational Science
  • Genetics
  • Geology
  • Mathematics
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Neuroscience (may include Science, Medicine, Psychology, Nursing, Social Work, Education,  Counselling)
  • Physics
  • Physiology
  • Statistics
  • Zoology

† The minimum knowledge requirements for each major are detailed in the Additional Admission Requirements section below. When it is not clear from your academic background, you can include a cover letter in your application detailing how you have met the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Additional Admission Requirements

To be eligible to study a major in this course you must meet the minimum knowledge requirements for that major. For example, if you would like to study the Biochemistry major, you must have previously completed 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry. Please see below a list of majors in this course (bolded), and the minimum knowledge requirements you must meet in order to be eligible:

  • Applied Statistics – 1 unit of Statistics and 1 unit of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Biochemistry – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Biomedical Science – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Botany - 2 units of biology or botany
  • Chemistry – 2 units of Chemistry
  • Computational Data Science – 1 unit of Statistics, 1 unit of calculus-based Mathematics and 2 units of programming-focused Computer Science.
  • Genetics – 2 units of Biology and 2 units of Chemistry
  • Mathematics – 2 units of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Medicinal Chemistry – 3 units of Chemistry, or 2 units of Chemistry and 1 unit of Biochemistry or Pharmaceutical Science
  • Neuroscience – 2 units of chemistry or biology plus 2 units at 200 level or above from Neuroscience (see relevant disciplines)
  • Physical Sciences – 2 units of Physics, 2 units of Chemistry, and 2 units of calculus-based Mathematics
  • Quantitative Ecology – 2 units of Statistics or Mathematics, and 2 units of any Natural, Physical or Social Science
  • Zoology – 2 units of Biology

Please note: Students wishing to complete the course on a full-time basis are strongly encouraged to have greater than the minimum assumed knowledge and to begin their study in first trimester.

Inherent Requirements

You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

  • A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.
  • When it is not clear from your academic background, you can include a cover letter in your application detailing how you have met the minimum knowledge requirements for your preferred major.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

  • If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 24 credit points of Advanced Standing. This may include up to 6 credit points of Advanced Standing based on relevant professional experience.
  • If you are admitted under Rules B, C, or D, you can apply for up to 24 credit points of Advanced Standing.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:

  • SCI499 Graduate Diploma in Science Thesis
  • SCI501 Special Topics in Science A
  • SCI502 Special Topics in Science B

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

Course structure

To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 48 credit points with not more than 12 credit points at 100-level and at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from one of the Approved Majors.

48 credit points

Complete ONE Approved Major
Candidates who are transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units
Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Candidates who are transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at a lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units:
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Candidates transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units:
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Candidates who are transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units.
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units
Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Candidates transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units:
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Candidates transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above and not more than 12 credit points at 100-level from the following units:
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units
Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.
Complete 0-24 credit points with not more than 12 credit points at 100-level from the following units: Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.
Candidates transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above, ERS581 can only be completed once, from the following units:
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units
Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit

Candidates are transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units The following units are repeatable units as they offer multiple topics MATH501, MATH502, MATH503 and MATH504
Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.
Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units

12 credit points

Complete the following units
Complete 12-30 credit points from the following units
Complete 6-24 credit points from the following units
Students who are transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

Students who are transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units
Complete 24-42 credit points from the following units
Complete 6-24 credit points from the following units Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.
Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units:
Complete 18-30 credit points from the following units
Complete 6-30 credit points from the following units
Complete 0-12 credit points from the following units

Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit

Candidates who are transitioning from a different discipline background should complete 12 credit points at the lower level (where available) from Group 2 before enrolling in Group 1 units. Complete 48 credit points with at least 30 credit points at 400-level or above from the following units
Complete 24-48 credit points from the following units
Complete 0-24 credit points from the following units: Note: When a unit is offered at multiple levels you can only choose ONE unit.

See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.

Fees and scholarships

How much will it cost?

Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:

Fee typeCost
Full Fee
$35,560*
International
$36,226*
Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply)
$7,475*
Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time$351
*The costs will depend on the units you choose to study as the cost of individual units vary. “Estimated fees” are provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking a study load of 48 credit points in the first year of this course. For courses that require less than 48 credit points the fees indicated are based on the total credit points required for completion of that course. For more information, please see fees and costs.

*Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.

What are the course fee payment options?

Full Fee places are mostly in postgraduate coursework degrees. In a full fee place you pay the tuition fee set for your course, however you may be eligible for a FEE-HELP Loan to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

If you are enrolled in a Full Fee place and there is a direct connection between your work and your study, you may be able to claim your tuition fees as a tax deduction.

A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.

If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.

UNE scholarship applications are free and confidential. You may apply for more than one scholarship.

Scholarships

UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.

The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2024. View detailed Bursary information.

UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.

Your career

Career outcomes

Career opportunities in science are diverse, and by upgrading your skills or complementing your knowledge with a new speciality you will be able to consider positions in a range of sectors including industry, government, teaching and research.

Some examples include roles in:

  • biomedical science
  • biosecurity
  • pharmaceutical laboratories
  • industrial and forensic chemistry
  • statistics and data science.
Other career information

As well as enhancing your professional development and adding value to your role, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science can be a gateway to opportunities for advanced study. If you achieve an overall grade point average of 5 or more in your Graduate Diploma, you may be eligible to apply for advanced standing (credit) for units already completed and fast track completion of UNE's coursework Master of Scientific Studies.

Course outcomes

To have an understanding that: - Science encompasses both a body of knowledge and a reliable process of discovery. It is founded upon the recognition of fundamental laws that make nature systematic and reproducible. - Scientists observe, measure, classify and perform experiments upon the natural world. They employ scientific methods to test hypotheses and use empirical evidence to support or refute their hypotheses. The natural variability, or uncertainty, inherent in the natural world means that scientific conclusions are reliable but contestable: they may be revised or modified as new evidence emerges. Scientists are curious about the natural world and are creative in formulating hypotheses and in designing approaches to problem solving. - Mathematics is used in science to model real-world systems and scientific data are often analysed using statistical methods. - Science operates within a paradigm of peer review and replication that provides a collective responsibility for the reliability of scientific knowledge. Scientists have a responsibility to communicate the outcomes of their work accurately and without bias to their peers and to society. - Science is embedded within a context that reflects both the history of scientific endeavor and the culture of present society. Scientists generate and build knowledge, develop technologies, investigate and solve problems.
  1. demonstrate through their own study and practise, advanced knowledge of science in their chosen discipline;
  2. demonstrate through their own practise, specialist technical competencies in the field, laboratory and professional workplace related to science; and advanced knowledge of theoretical concepts applicable to their chosen discipline;
  3. conduct investigations to critically analyse and evaluate complex ideas, and apply established theories to identify solutions to complex problems relating to their discipline;
  4. be effective communicators of science by communicating scientific knowledge and concepts, and transferring complex knowledge and scientific ideas to a variety of audiences using a range of written and oral communication modes; and
  5. be responsible and accountable for their own learning and scientific work by demonstrating initiative and high level independent judgement in a range of functions in their scientific discipline, operating with a high level of personal autonomy and responsibility for all aspects of the work or function of others, and planning and executing independent research while complying with regulatory frameworks and practising professional ethics relevant to their discipline area.
Knowledge of a Discipline

Graduates will understand scientific practice and have advanced knowledge in a discipline of science. They will be able to articulate aspects of the place and importance of science in the local and global community.

Communication Skills

Students demonstrate communication skills to demonstrate an understanding of theoretical concepts; and transfer complex knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences, including, where applicable, the possession of these skills in languages other than English.

Problem Solving

Graduates will be able to investigate and solve problems by using recognised methods of science and appropriate practical techniques and tools.

Information Literacy

Students demonstrate the capacity to critically evaluate the sources, values and validity of information; and think critically and to generate and evaluate complex ideas. Specialised technical skills to initiate, plan, implement and evaluate broad functions within varied specialised technical and/or creative contexts.

Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility

Graduates will be able to take social responsibility by recognising the relevant ethical frameworks within which science is practised and show a capacity for working responsibly and safely in both individual and team environments.

Lifelong Learning

Graduates will be able to take personal responsibility for lifelong learning by demonstrating a capacity for self-directed learning.

Independence and Collaboration

Graduates will have the ability to function effectively as members of teams or individually.

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.

We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*

*The Good Universities Guide

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.

As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.

To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.

Studying on Campus

Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.

Find out more about studying on campus

Stay connected

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Why study with us?

UNE PhD and Bachelor of Science (Hons) graduate Dr Matthew Hilliar smiles in white lab coat

The access you have to academics is a major benefit to studying at UNE.

Dr Matthew Hilliar, graduate, PhD and Bachelor of Science (Hons)

Why study with us?

UNE graduate poses on campus with camera

Studying at UNE was an amazing experience for me not only because of education but also because of the multicultural environment, the academic staff and resources and the international services.

Shyama Prashad Chakma, UNE graduate

How to apply

Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are an
you can apply at any time. Apply now and we'll get you started in the next possible intake.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances
Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are applying as a
, the application process may be a little different depending on who you are and what you want to study.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances

Important Dates

Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.

If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.

IntakeApplication Closing DateTrimester Start Date
Trimester 116 February 202426 February 2024
Trimester 214 June 202424 June 2024

Important Notice for Prospective Students

For accurate, up-to-date details on entry requirements, course structure, and other essential information, please consult the UNE Student Handbook before applying or enrolling. The Handbook provides comprehensive guidance to assist in your decision-making process. We apologise for any inconvenience.