Study science with us

Studying science at the University of Newcastle is an opportunity to follow your passion and effect the change you want to see in the world. With a broad range of specialties and flexible study options, the Faculty of Science offers a first-rate learning experience that sees our graduates equipped to pursue a fulfilling career in any number of fields.

View all study options

High achievers

Take a look at some of our degrees on offer for those who excel in the sciences.

Bachelor of Science (Advanced)

Study a Bachelor of Science (Advanced) with us for a degree that will teach you to hypothesise, research and experiment. Learn more about our science majors and courses now.

Learn more

Bachelor of Mathematics (Advanced)

When you study a Bachelor of Mathematics (Advanced) degree you will learn to complete mathematical work in statistics, algebra, equations and more. Learn more about this degree and our maths courses now.

Learn more

Bachelor of Psychological Science (Advanced)

When you study Psychological Science at The University of Newcastle, you’ll learn about what motivates human behaviour. Learn more about this degree now.

Learn more

Careers in science

What can you do and where can you go with a Faculty of Science degree? Really, the answer is anywhere!

We’ve built career pathways into our degree, so we can assist you in getting to where you want to go. Learn more about the 10 types of science careers as by the UK Science Council.

Meet our alumni Read our alumni success stories

Hear from some of our current students

Video: Meet Amanda and Hayden, current Bachelor of Science students

Video: Meet Pat, Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management student

Scholarships

The University of Newcastle offers scholarships ranging in value from hundreds of dollars through to tens of thousands of dollars per year. Scholarships can help you with all kinds of costs including textbooks, fees, accommodation and living expenses.

While many consider academic performance, we also award scholarships for travel, sport, specific degrees, and to Indigenous students. Many also offer the opportunity to meet with the donor and undertake internships and vacation work.

Many scholarships are funded specifically for Faculty of Science students, so check back regularly to view new scholarship opportunities.

Faculty of Science Scholarships

Ma and Morley Scholarship Program

Study options

All degrees
Biodiversity and conservation
Biology
Biotechnology
Chemistry
Climate science
Coastal and marine science
Data science and statistics
Development studies
Environmental management
Exercise and sports science
Food science and human nutrition
Geology
Human and physical geography
Hydrology and water resource management
Mathematics
Physics
Psychology
STEM
Sustainability
Combined degrees

All degrees

Biodiversity and conservation

If you want to ensure the different species and organisms that inhabit our environment are protected for years to come, then Biodiversity and Conservation is for you. Biodiversity and Conservation students examine the impact of developments upon Australian biota and ecosystems, the management of natural systems and wildlife, and factors affecting the distribution and abundance of species.

Degrees

Biology

Studying Biology you will learn about living organisms, their life cycles and adaptations. You will use the latest tools and techniques with exposure to the discipline of biological science’s strong research focus, both in and out of the laboratory. At the University we have specialists in Animal Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Microbiology and Plant Biology.

Career examples

Animal Biologist
Biochemist
Biologist
Plant Scientist

Degrees

Biotechnology

Biotechnology harnesses the natural biochemical and genetic processes of living organisms for our own use. The products of biotechnology are all around us and impact on our daily lives more and more as we learn to make living cells perform useful and specific tasks in a predictable and controlled way. Biotechnology is used to modify human health and the human environment and is currently used in genetic engineering; health and pharmaceuticals; plant and animal agriculture; food production; fuels; and waste management. Your study will see you learn about human and animal diseases, climate change, fuel alternatives and food security.

Career examples

Biochemist
Forensic Biologist
Geneticist
Reproductive Medicine / IVF Specialist

Degrees

Chemistry

Almost everything you touch in the modern world will have a chemist’s input. Chemistry students study the manipulation of atoms and molecules for real-world applications and it plays a key role in virtually all sciences. Through studying chemistry, students help solve problems and shape the world we live in. Chemistry graduates are involved with developing new drugs, new computing devices and better energy storage materials. Specialisations are available in Chemistry of Advanced Materials, Environmental and Analytical Chemistry, and Medicinal and Organic Chemistry.

Career examples

Environmental Chemist
Forensic Chemist
Geochemist
Pharmaceutical Scientist

Degrees

Climate science

Climate scientists address the impact of and response to climate change. As a transdisciplinary problem, expertise and knowledge from many different fields are being applied to solve the climate challenges we are facing. By studying Climate Science, you will use critical and lateral thinking to examine data, find creative ideas for mitigating impact, and explore how human perspectives can influence the progress made combating this crisis.

Degrees

Coastal and marine science

Australia has some of the most unique and diverse coastlines and marine ecosystems in the world. When you study Coastal and Marine Science, you will learn about the interaction between humans and marine ecosystems within the approximately 16.1 million square kilometres of coastal shallows and ocean floor for which Australia is responsible. This specialisation produces graduates prepared for a range of challenges including the conservation of resources, control of pollution and management of species in these areas.

Degrees

Data science and statistics

Data science and statistics is about describing, summarising and modelling the world around us. You’ll study statistical methodology and learn how historical data generated by real-world systems can forecast the future of these systems in industries like statistics, economics and finance, science, engineering, and quantitative social sciences.

Degrees

Learn more About statistics courses

Development studies

Development Studies is a transdisciplinary branch of science that explores issues involving urban and regional development, poverty, water security, systemic inequalities and environmental sustainability. Students explore the political and social factors that either enhance or limit development, and work on creating solutions that focus on improving living conditions for those who need it most.

Degrees

Environmental management

Studying Environmental Management will empower you with the knowledge required to play a role in solving environmental problems. You will develop specialised management skills and the ability to determine environmental impact assessments against legislation and policy.

Degrees

Exercise and sports science

Exercise Science explores the complex nature of human movement and how the body reacts to acute and chronic physical activity pursuits such as general fitness regimes, recreational activities and elite sports. With the increase of health problems due to lifestyle and inactivity and the high profile of elite sport, there is an increasing need for specialists with an understanding of the relationship between exercise and health.

Career examples

Biomechanist
Exercise Physiologist
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Sports Scientist

Degrees

Food science and human nutrition

Food Science and Human Nutrition (FSHN) is the study of the physical, biological, and chemical makeup of food and its impacts on the human body. It includes natural changes that occur in foods, the concepts underlying food processing, quality management and development, food choices and health impacts. FSHN degrees draw from many disciplines such as biology, chemistry, consumer science, and biochemistry to help you learn about the science of food from production to the consumer. Your study covers a wide range of topics, which prepare you for leading roles as a food and nutrition professional and give you a competitive edge in the job market. FSHN graduates can work in different areas in the food industry, do Honours or higher research degrees in food science.

Career examples

Flavourist
Food Chemist
Food Technologist
Research Scientist

Degrees

Geology

Geological knowledge and understanding underpins our capacity to ensure a sustainable supply and responsible use of the world’s natural resources. Through practical fieldwork, you’ll build a detailed understanding of the Earth’s rocks and minerals, environmental mapping and the use of natural resources, preparing you to work across the energy, resources and environmental sectors.

Degrees

Human and physical geography

Geography is a diverse discipline that explains the relationships between people and places in the world we live in. When you study Physical Geography, you will investigate earth and water, coastal environments, globalisation and climate change. As a human geographer, you will explore issues involving development, poverty, inequality and environmental sustainability. Together this discipline leads to new ideas and solutions to some of our most complex societal issues.

Career examples

Development Compliance Officer
Demographer
Environmental Geographer
Transport Geographer

Degrees

Hydrology and water resource management

There is no future on our planet without water. Water security, hydrology (the study of the movement, distribution and quality of water) and water resource management are at the heart of the preservation of life on Earth. Our Faculty leads a multidisciplinary approach to address these issues, with our Earth scientists, Environmental Sciences and Geographers working individually and collectively to find solutions to protecting our water sources.

Degrees

Mathematics

Mathematics is the science and study of number, quantity, and space, either as abstract concepts as pure mathematics, or applied to other disciplines such as physics and engineering. When you study mathematics in the Faculty of Science, you will learn how mathematics underpins most technological advances that we rely on every day.

Career examples

Data Scientist
Logistics Officer
Mathematical Modeller
Investment Banker

Degrees

Physics

Physics is one of the oldest natural sciences, dedicated to the study of how the universe works. Majors in this branch are concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy. Students will learn how physics explains the fundamental mechanisms of the other sciences, underpins the technologies that are the focus of engineering, and opens up new areas of research.

Career examples

Nanotechnologist
Astrophysicist
Space Scientist
Optical Physicist

Degrees

Psychology

The study of Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour. It is exciting and will help you understand yourself and others. The knowledge you gain in a Psychology degree will open your mind, make you more competitive in the job-market, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. It will help you understand why people behave the way that they do and will help save the planet by understanding the link between consumption, identity and fostering environmentally sustainable behaviours. You will participate in and help drive cutting-edge research; everything from autonomous vehicles to the impact of trauma on people, to understanding how the brain works. Research and career opportunities are as broad as your imagination.

Career examples

Clinical Psychologist
Market Researcher
Neuroscientist
Human Resources Consultant

Degrees

STEM

The world’s most complex issues, such as climate change, natural resource management, and food and water security, need to be addressed by those with transdisciplinary skills. By studying STEM, you will learn skills in creative and innovative thinking, ethical and sustainable practice, and communication – becoming a more-than-disciplinary practitioner.

Degrees

Sustainability

Sustainability studies focuses on how to balance using and conserving natural resources. You will learn about how humans use and manage natural resources and environments, and assess the impact of implementing sustainable practices upon communities as well as natural environments.

Career examples

Biodiversity Conservation Officer
Environmental Officer
Sustainability Educator
National Park Ranger

Degrees

Combined degrees

Interested in more than one area or want to keep your employment options flexible? Studying a combined degree gives you two qualifications at once, allowing you to graduate in less time than completing them separately. You may also gain a competitive edge in the employment market as employers are increasingly looking for staff with diverse skillsets.

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.

Faculty of Science

Study science with us

High achievers

Bachelor of Science (Advanced)

Bachelor of Mathematics (Advanced)

Bachelor of Psychological Science (Advanced)

Careers in science

Hear from some of our current students

Scholarships

Study options

All degrees

Biodiversity and conservation

Degrees

Biology

Career examples

Degrees

Biotechnology

Career examples

Degrees

Chemistry

Career examples

Degrees

Climate science

Degrees

Coastal and marine science

Degrees

Data science and statistics

Degrees

Development studies

Degrees

Environmental management

Degrees

Exercise and sports science

Career examples

Degrees

Food science and human nutrition

Career examples

Degrees

Geology

Degrees

Human and physical geography

Career examples

Degrees

Hydrology and water resource management

Degrees

Mathematics

Career examples

Degrees

Physics

Career examples

Degrees

Psychology

Career examples

Degrees

STEM

Degrees

Sustainability

Career examples

Degrees

Combined degrees

Assistant Dean Teaching and Learning, Andrew Kepert

Teaching and Learning Unit

Enquiries

Faculty of Science