Biotechnology
Why study Biotechnology?
Biotechnology is the use or manipulation of living organisms to perform certain beneficial tasks. It is a rapidly growing area of science and central to industries including medicine, diagnostics, agriculture, environmental protection, food technology and renewable resources technology.
Career opportunities
Graduates are prepared for work in government agencies, private industry research, environmental science laboratories, agriculture and resources, waste management and medicine.
Courses
Local students
NB: The ATARs published here are Clearly In ATAR Rank as a quick guide, based on the most recent intake, and can change from year to year. Additional information on the 2017 intake is now available at the ATAR Wizard.
2018
Bachelor of Biological Sciences
- Duration :
- 3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
- Campus/ATAR*:
- Albury-Wodonga N/A
- Melbourne 55.2
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- This degree prepares you to help find the solutions to big issues like protecting native forests, managing endangered species, discovering new medical cures or securing food for the future.
In the first year of this degree, you'll explore the basics of animal, plant and microbial biology through the lenses of cell biology, genetics, evolution, biodiversity and ecology. In second and third year, you can specialise through a choice of disciplines including botany, microbiology, zoology, biochemistry or genetics.
You'll get plenty of hands-on experience in our labs or on field trips to diverse habitats across Victoria. You'll be exposed to cutting edge biological research via world-class research institutes (the La Trobe Institute of Molecular Science and Centre for AgriBiosciences) and you'll have access to the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary on our Melbourne Campus.
During your field excursions you'll learn techniques to survey animal and plant biodiversity. During lab classes you'll gain the skills to conduct scientific experiments and develop and present your own work.
Along with practical and theoretical classes, we'll help you prepare for the workplace through opportunities for paid work experience. - Career opportunities
- Our graduates have found work in zoos and other nature parks and aquariums, local and state government organisations (research, management and education roles), and research institutes. You can also go on to postgraduate studies in biological research, medicine or veterinary science.
- Prerequisite
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available. - Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
- Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal Statement online for other information to be considered during the selection process e.g. details on work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may also be asked to complete the STAT Multiple Choice.
- Subject bonus
- A study score of 20 in Health and Human Development, IT Applications, Software Development, any Mathematics, Physical Education or any Science equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
- Costs
- Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat (about A$30) and a dissecting kit (about A$40). Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for fieldtrips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
- Additional information
- Year 1 of biochemistry, botany, ecology, genetics, microbiology, molecular biology and zoology can be undertaken at Albury-Wodonga and then students transfer to the Melbourne campus to complete years 2 and 3.
- How to apply
- Apply through VTAC or UAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.
If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.
To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045. - See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Science
- Duration :
- 3 years full-time, or part-time equivalent.
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
- Campus/ATAR*:
- Bendigo 50.05
- Melbourne 60
- Albury-Wodonga N/A
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- A La Trobe Bachelor of Science degree gives you the skills and knowledge to contribute to some of today's biggest challenges, like protecting endangered animals or developing new ways to treat disease.
This is one of our most flexible degrees with up to 14 majors to choose from including biochemistry, biomedical science, botany, chemistry, environmental geoscience, genetics, mathematics, microbiology, molecular biology, nanotechnology, pharmaceutical chemistry, physics, statistics, and zoology. You will study a range of subjects to give you a foundation in science and related disciplines. Then you will either select two science specialties or combine your science major with studies from another discipline, like business.
Throughout your course, you'll have access to purpose-built facilities including the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. You'll also have opportunities for work placements with organisations like the Department of Environment and Primary Industries and other businesses conducting research in biochemistry, chemistry and genetics.
Through our partnerships with education providers all over the world, you'll also have the opportunity to study abroad and gain knowledge of alternative scientific processes and practices.
You can apply to study this course at Bendigo or Melbourne Campus through our Hallmark Scholars Program. - Career opportunities
- Once you graduate, you'll be ready to take up positions in areas as diverse as government, defence, research, astronomy, meteorology, business, journalism and management.
- Prerequisite
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; and a study score of at least 20 in any Mathematics.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available. - Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
- Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal Statement online for other information to be considered during the selection process e.g. details on work experience or reasons for applying. Selection may also be based on GPA or STAT Multiple Choice.
- Subject bonus
- A study score of 25 in Maths: Specialist Mathematics or any Science equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
- Costs
- Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for fieldtrips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
- How to apply
- Apply through VTAC or UAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.
If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.
To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045 - See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
ATAR Wizard
Want to know more?
Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.
Fees and scholarships
Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.
There is also a wide range of scholarships available for local students.
International students
2018
Bachelor of Biological Sciences (006171K)
- Duration :
- 3 years
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
- Annual Tuition Fee (A$) :
- 34 600
- Campus
- Melbourne
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- This degree prepares you to help find the solutions to big issues like protecting native forests, managing endangered species, discovering new medical cures or securing food for the future.
In the first year of this degree, you'll explore the basics of animal, plant and microbial biology through the lenses of cell biology, genetics, evolution, biodiversity and ecology. In second and third year, you can specialise through a choice of disciplines including botany, microbiology, zoology, biochemistry or genetics.
You'll get plenty of hands-on experience in our labs or on field trips to diverse habitats across Victoria. You'll be exposed to cutting edge biological research via world-class research institutes (the La Trobe Institute of Molecular Science and Centre for AgriBiosciences) and you'll have access to the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary on our Melbourne Campus.
During your field excursions you'll learn techniques to survey animal and plant biodiversity. During lab classes you'll gain the skills to conduct scientific experiments and develop and present your own work.
Along with practical and theoretical classes, we'll help you prepare for the workplace through opportunities for paid work experience. - English Language Requirements
- IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;
TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;
TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;
Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;
English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.
Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;
or approved international equivalent. - Subject prerequisite
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
- Additional costs
- Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat (about A$30) and a dissecting kit (about A$40). Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for fieldtrips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
- Additional information
- Mid-year entry is only available to students with advanced standing for the subject Chemistry Foundations.
- How to apply
- Apply now or ask us a question if you need more help. You can also call us on +61 3 9627 4805.
- See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Science (022039C)
- Duration :
- 3 years
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
- Annual Tuition Fee (A$) :
- 34 600
- Campus
- Bendigo, Melbourne
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- A La Trobe Bachelor of Science degree gives you the skills and knowledge to contribute to some of today's biggest challenges, like protecting endangered animals or developing new ways to treat disease.
This is one of our most flexible degrees with up to 14 majors to choose from including biochemistry, biomedical science, botany, chemistry, environmental geoscience, genetics, mathematics, microbiology, molecular biology, nanotechnology, pharmaceutical chemistry, physics, statistics, and zoology. You will study a range of subjects to give you a foundation in science and related disciplines. Then you will either select two science specialties or combine your science major with studies from another discipline, like business.
Throughout your course, you'll have access to purpose-built facilities including the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. You'll also have opportunities for work placements with organisations like the Department of Environment and Primary Industries and other businesses conducting research in biochemistry, chemistry and genetics.
Through our partnerships with education providers all over the world, you'll also have the opportunity to study abroad and gain knowledge of alternative scientific processes and practices.
You can apply to study this course at Bendigo or Melbourne Campus through our Hallmark Scholars Program. - English Language Requirements
- IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;
TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;
TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;
Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;
English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.
Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;
or approved international equivalent. - Subject prerequisite
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in English other than EAL; a study score of at least 20 in any Mathematics.
- Additional costs
- Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for fieldtrips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
- Additional information
- Mid-year entry is only available to students with advanced standing for the subject Chemistry Foundations.
- Career opportunities
- The extent of climate change, the best medicines to treat cancer, the most effective ways to protect endangered animals and many other challenges all require answers from science. The Bachelor of Science gives you a broad, internationally recognised grounding to take up roles in government, defence, research, astronomy, meteorology, business, journalism, health care, teaching or management.
Those with strong skills in mathematics, statistics, quantitative analysis and problem-solving are highly sought after in various areas, including banking, engineering, financial administration, insurance, and research and development. There is also a current shortage of qualified chemists and of science teachers, particularly in physical and mathematical sciences. - How to apply
- Apply now or ask us a question if you need more help. You can also call us on +61 3 9627 4805.
Do you have an excellent academic record? If you're a full-fee paying student, you may be eligible for a La Trobe College Excellence Scholarship and receive up to a 25% reduction on your course fees. - See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
How to apply?
Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.
Fees and scholarships
Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.
There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.
Related study options
Mr Daniel Rice,
Bachelor of Biological Sciences"The people are nice, there is a good environment, and a great mix of students."
Your study experience
Alternative pathways
Alternative pathways include TAFE; transferring from another degree or campus at La Trobe; transferring from another university where you are enrolled in a related degree, provided you meet the entry requirements; or enrol in a degree through our special mature age entry scheme or via single subject enrolment. See undergraduate pathways or information for international students.
Biotechnology placements
Work Integrated Learning programs allows students to undertake placements in a wide variety of settings. Learn more.
Overseas study opportunities
As a La Trobe student, you can broaden your horizons by studying overseas with one of our global exchange partners. We have partnerships with more than 100 universities in over 30 countries throughout Asia, Europe and North and South America.
About the academic staff
You'll get to meet a large number of staff during your studies, from tutors through to lecturers and supervisors. View all staff in the College of Science, Health and Engineering.