Bachelor of Science (Extended)

Course structure

This is a 3.5 year course, comprising 28 subjects (350 points). Most students study eight subjects each year.

Your first year is what sets the Bachelor of Science (Extended) apart, and provides a smooth, supported transition into tertiary study. You’ll study mathematics, project-based and career-focused foundational subjects in small classes with your Bachelor of Science (Extended) cohort, combined with your chosen science discipline alongside other first year students. This structured pathway is designed to help you explore your interests and build skills for success throughout your degree.

Once you have successfully completed first year, you have the option to continue with your Bachelor of Science, transfer to another University of Melbourne degree, or exit with a Diploma in Science¹.

From your second year, you will move to a standard Bachelor of Science course structure. From this point on, you can choose subjects that align with your interests and career goals.

Your major

Your major is the specialisation that you'll focus on in your degree. Choose from over 40 majors across all areas of science, so you can tailor your degree to your interests.

In most cases you'll be able to try a few different study areas before deciding on your major in third year.

Your breadth studies

As part of your degree, you’ll complete breadth subjects, which give you the chance to explore fields outside of science.

What you choose is up to you. Some students use breadth to explore creative interests or fields they’ve always been curious about – for example music or anthropology. Others use breadth to improve their career prospects by studying a language, communication or business.

Many students discover new passions through breadth and some even change their career plans!

Read more about breadth

About the Diploma in Science

If you choose to exit after your first year, you'll graduate with a Diploma in Science. The diploma is designed to enable employment or further study in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. You will develop theoretical knowledge and technical skills and build key transferable skills such as communication and critical thinking in preparation for your next step.

¹The Diploma in Science is an early exit award only. It is available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science (Extended) degree from January 2025.