Biology

Biological Science is offered by the School of Life and Environmental Sciences in the Faculty of Science. Units of study in this major are available at standard and advanced level.

Program structure and content

At the University of Sydney, there are several ways to study biology. Most students complete a major in biology as part of their Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree, providing great flexibility. Biology is the study of life – playing a crucial role in our everyday existence. Advances in new technologies, such as recombinant DNA and genomics have made this varied discipline more exciting than ever. We research and teach the processes of life from complete organismal functioning, through to the organisation of cells into tissues and organs, and cellular and molecular interactions.

At the University of Sydney you have an opportunity to study a multitude of organisms ranging from bacteria to fungi, plants and animals. Biology is an immensely complex and extremely important area of science. By studying the Biological Sciences as taught within the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, or its units of study, you can discover the intricate mechanisms that interact to create the wonders of life.

First year planning for a Biology major

Essential: 12 credit points of Junior BIOL or 6 credit points of Junior BIOL and 6 credit points of MBLG1001/1901/1991 are needed to enrol in Intermediate units of study in Biology. For MBLG2072/2972, MBLG1001/1901/1991 and 6 credit points of Junior CHEM is required.
Recommended: Concepts in Biology BIOL1001/1911/1991, Living Systems BIOL1002/1902/1992 and MBLG1001/1901/1991. Students who have not completed HSC or equivalent Biology are strongly recommended to take the Biology Bridging Course in February.

Requirements for a major

For a major in Biology, the minimum requirement is 24 credit points from senior BIOL units of study listed in this subject area.

Honours

A single Honours program in Biology accommodates students who have completed 24 credit points of Senior Biology units and have a minimum WAM of 65. Information about qualifications for entry into Honours is available from the school office (Level 5, Carslaw F07) or on the School of Life and Environmental Sciences website. During the Honours year the principles established in the first three years of the undergraduate award course are further developed, and students are introduced to a wider field of biology and biological techniques. Students may elect to specialise in any of the aspects of biology that are studied in the school. Projects jointly supervised by staff in other schools or departments within the University may also be considered.

Honours contact

Associate Professor Nate Lo
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T +61 2 9036 7649

Administration contact and further information

W sydney.edu.au/science/biology/about_us/contact-and-find-us.shtml
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T +61 02 9351 4262
Address:
School Office
Level 5, Carslaw Building F07
University of Sydney
NSW 2006