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Course guide: Bachelor of Science

Everything you need to know about studying in the Bachelor of Science (BSc). We recommend bookmarking this page and referring back to it often.

Getting started in the BSc

Congratulations on receiving your offer to study the Bachelor of Science! We know that you have lots of questions about your studies and we want to ensure that you have a smooth transition to university life.

If you haven't already, make sure you accept your offer to confirm your place here, sign up to Orientation and other important events and check out the useful resources below to help you in your first week of study.

Getting started at Melbourne BSc Orientation

Planning your course

It's important to understand the structure and rules of the Bachelor of Science, so that you can be sure you're choosing the right subjects and majors to achieve your academic goals. More information on course planning in general is available on the Current students website.

First year subject sets

The Bachelor of Science covers a lot of ground, so we have split it into nine subject sets. Depending on which ones you choose subjects from, you'll be able to keep a range of different majors open as you head into second year.

Explore first year subject sets

University of Melbourne Handbook

The University of Melbourne Handbook is the official source of course and subject information – you'll consult it every year to learn about subject prerequisites, assessment, contact hours and timetable details.

Search all subjects in the Handbook

My Course Planner

My Course Planner can help you to plan your subjects for different majors, minors and specialisations in a number of undergraduate and graduate courses.

Use My Course Planner now

More subject planning information

Breadth in the BSc

As a Bachelor of Science student, you will take at least four non-science subjects as part of your degree. We call these subjects "breadth" and you can choose from hundreds of subjects on offer. Learn more about breadth

Subjects with special requirements and restrictions

Some subjects require vaccinations and special equipment like lab equipment and PPE, while others have limited capacity – some of them are available on a "first come, first served" basis, while others have selection criteria.

Undergraduate research projects

Undertaking a research project is a fantastic way to develop practical scientific skills. It will also provide valuable experience to students considering honours, masters or a PhD in Science. Explore research project subjects

Need more help deciding on subjects? Think careers!

Browse Careers in science to see what career paths interest you and what majors and subjects will get you there.

More course planning information

  • Need help planning your course?

    If you're having any trouble, get in touch with Stop 1 for a course planning appointment or to access the full range of student services. You're welcome to call, visit or chat online.

  • Enrolment requirements

    It's important to maintain your enrolment at all times throughout your course to keep the University informed about your study intentions. Find out how.

  • Bachelor of Science Majors Information Series

    With more than 40 majors and a huge range of science, biomedicine, mathematics, engineering and IT subjects, how do you choose what to study? This event series will help!

  • Enrich your studies

    Overseas study, internships and exciting industry projects are just some of the ways you can enrich your time studying with us. Find out more.

Studying and student life

We have a number of resources to support you in your studies, alongside plenty of opportunities to get involved in university life and enrich your degree.

The Learning Management System

The Learning Management System (LMS) is where you access subjects, watch lectures and submit assignments. Log in to the LMS

My.unimelb

My.unimelb is where you can access your student email, calendar and personal and enrolment details. Visit My.unimelb

Stop 1 and student services

We offer one of the most comprehensive student support networks in Australia, including health and welfare, careers and employability and administrative and learning support services and resources. Stop 1 can connect you with the full range of student services to support your success, either online or in-person.

Student services directory Contact Stop 1

Supporting your study

Peer mentoring

To help you settle in, meet new people and learn more about everything the University has to offer, you will be matched with a peer mentor and a group of first-year peers from your course who you will meet throughout the first few weeks of your first semester.

Melbourne Peer Mentoring Program

Academic mentoring

In your second semester, you will be matched with an academic mentor, who you will meet with four times throughout your studies. Your mentor will be an experienced member of the Faculty’s teaching team and will take an active interest in your wellbeing, progress and success throughout your degree.

Academic mentoring at Melbourne

More information about student life

  • Student life

    Find out how to make your time at university the best it can be – learn about volunteering, student clubs and societies and more.

  • Build your academic skills

    Studying at university requires you to think, write and demonstrate your knowledge in new and challenging ways – but there are many services available to help you do it.

  • Awards, prizes and scholarships

    We are committed to recognising and supporting the academic achievement of students – and inspiring them to excel and make an impact in the world – with some of the most generous awards, prizes and scholarships in Australia.

  • Employability in Science

    Discover the careers your studies will open up, increase your employability and access additional study options and programs.

Support and contacts for students

Find contact information for a range of teams, support channels and student services from across the Faculty and the University.

Contact options for students