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

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

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 advising

In your second semester, you will be matched with an academic adviser, who you will meet with four times throughout your studies. Your adviser 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 Advising at Melbourne

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