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Bachelor of Biological Sciences or
Bachelor of Biological Sciences (Advanced)

Biology as an area of study involves unraveling the mysteries of life in all its forms. It includes the study of the structure, functioning, diversity and ecology of cells, organisms, populations and ecosystems. It is an important area of basic science, as well as making significant contributions to many applied aspects such as agriculture, biotechnology, conservation, ecology, horticulture and medical science.

Specialist course - Bachelor of Biological Sciences

This course is designed to be flexible, allowing a specialisation in major areas of biology or the combination of biology subjects with other areas of science.

Specialised streams of study are available in

• Biochemistry
• Botany
• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Ecology and Conservation
• Genetics
• Human Biology
• Microbiology
• Zoology

What will you study?

In first year you follow a broad introduction to these key areas of biology. A strong foundation is provided through studies in

• Animal diversity
• Organisation and function of cells
• Genetics and evolution
• Plant science
• Chemistry
• Elective units from elsewhere in the university

In second year you commence your specialisations. These are chosen from the list of "specialised streams" (see above) and you can include electives from elsewhere within the Faculty or from other areas of study within the University. In this way courses can be tailored to suit your interests.

There is a strong hands-on emphasis in teaching and learning, with laboratory classes, field trips, and the use of our Melbourne on-campus Wildlife Sanctuary, greenhouses and Animal House, and for students at the Albury-Wodonga campus, access to the Murray-Darling Basin located adjacent to the campus.

For high achievers - Bachelor of Biological Science (Advanced)

This course has been designed specifically for students intending to proceed to a career in biological research and development in universities, and government or private commercial research institutions. This course has a limited number of places available, and students work with a postgraduate student mentor. Each year, a portion of the laboratory program of each student will be undertaken within the research laboratories, working under the supervision of a staff research group. This provides you with the opportunity to gain experience in leading-edge scientific research, working as a member of a research team, working in a project management environment, and developing research-based communication and presentation skills. You will have access to the Faculty's Scholarship program, Industry Cadetship Program, and Peer Mentoring program and will also participate in the seminar program, given by visiting international researchers. You must achieve an ENTER score of at least 90 (or equivalent) to be considered for this course.

Students who are performing well in the Bachelor of Biological Sciences (normally achieving an average grade of 80% or more in a year) will be eligible to transfer to this Advanced science degree.

Double degree options

This three year course can be combined with another three year course within the Faculty as part of the Science Double Degree Program.

Why study in the biological sciences at La Trobe University?

Our researchers have a long and outstanding research reputation ranging across all the above areas of biology, and this research informs our undergraduate teaching through curriculum development and research seminars and presentations. Students work directly with our top researchers throughout their courses, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

At our Melbourne campus we have the added advantages of the Melbourne Wildlife Sanctuary living laboratory, agricultural reserves, zoological enclosures, and the Animal House all located on the campus. At Albury-Wodonga the Murray-Darling Basin is located adjacent to our campus - literally a huge living laboratory on the campus doorstep. Staff have designed undergraduate and postgraduate research programs to take advantage of these.

We also incorporate an exciting range of field trips into our course, which are held in areas ranging from Queensland to Kangaroo Island, alpine regions, and desert areas. A separate brochure on our field trips is available by contacting the Faculty. In addition, the course structure allows students to incorporate subjects from other areas of the university, developing wider skills and interests.

This study area is supported by our involvement with many research centres, including the $20 million Victorian Agribiosciences Centre (VABC), located on the La Trobe University Research and Development Park, and from 2012, by the newly announced world-class $230 million Biosciences Research Centre, due for completion in late 2011. These research facilities will provide postgraduate students with additional opportunities to work with world-leading scientists on research of international importance.

Where will it take you?

A degree in biological science provides graduates with a wide range of career options depending upon their interests, and the specialist subjects chosen throughout the course. Some of the professional careers our graduates have followed include bacteriology, biochemistry research, biotechnology, conservation, entomological research, forensic science, genetics research and counseling, immunology, molecular biology research, marine biology, plant biotechnology, and zoology. The opportunities are extensive, and also include allied areas such as scientific business management, science teaching and science communication.

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