Science and the Environment
The career-ready placement requirements for students in our science and environmental studies programs are as follows:
| Program | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Biotechnology | Complete 10 weeks of placement through the course BTEC3251 Biotechnology Placement. |
| Bachelor of Climate Science and Adaptation, Bachelor of Coastal and Marine Science, Bachelor of Development Studies, and Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management | Complete 140 placement hours through the course ENVS3008 Work Integrated Learning in the Environmental and Development Sectors. |
| Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition | Complete 140 placement hours through the course FSHN3500 Professional Practice. |
| Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science (Advanced) | Complete 140 placement hours through the course SCIE3002 WIL for the Sciences. |
| Postgraduate programs | N/A |
If you commenced one of the above programs prior to 2023, placements may not be compulsory within your program. However, if you have elective space in your program, you may be eligible to enrol in a placement course. Refer to your program handbook and Program Planner for more information or contact Program Advice.
Additional information about the placement requirements for the above programs can be found on the College of Engineering, Science and Environment’s Professional Experience website.
Within BTEC3251, ENVS3008, FSHN3500 and SCIE3002, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a real-world environment by completing a supervised placement. This hands-on experience not only enhances your practical skills but also boosts your employability, expands your professional network, and provides valuable industry insights and mentorship.
Placement sourcing varies across these courses. For example, within BTEC3251, the University negotiates placement opportunities with organisations in the region for which you can be considered. The Course Coordinator will advise how these opportunities are allocated and what you need to do to be considered.
Within ENVS3008 and FSHN3500, placements are student-sourced and you are encouraged to tailor your placement to fit your career plans and interests. Begin looking for opportunities a few months before you plan to start your placement, as finding a host can take time. The Careers Service can help you with finding and applying for placement opportunities. Once you’ve found a placement host, you’ll need to confirm with the Course Coordinator that the experience is suitable before proceeding.
You may be able to complete your placement overseas. Check out the opportunities available for your program below.
The Professional Experience Unit (PEU) for the College of Engineering, Science and Environment can provide advice and support regarding Sonia Online, the placement management system, as well as processes and documentation requirements.
Email: CESE-PEU@newcastle.edu.au
Phone: (02) 4921 7302
Location: W357, Callaghan Campus (interactive campus map)
Face-to-face and virtual appointments with the PEU are available at both Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses. For more information, visit theirwebsite.
If you need to source your own placement, the Careers Service can support you with finding opportunities. Visit Sourcing your experience for more information.
If you have additional questions about your placement, you are encouraged to seek advice from your Course Coordinator. You can find their contact details on the relevant course Canvas site.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.