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Bachelor of Science (Physical Sciences)

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Summary
Bachelor of Science Major Physical Sciences (BSCI)
OP/Rank
15/68
Study Mode
  • External
Start
  • Semester 1 (February)
  • Semester 2 (July)
  • Semester 3 (November)
Number of Units
  • 24 units
Duration
  • 3 year/s or part-time equivalent
Campus
  • -
The Physical Sciences major is available via external study only. Therefore, this major is not available to international students who wish to study on-campus. This program is currently being re-accredited and is as a consequence likely to undergo some changes.
View USQ Handbook
Program Information Set

A flexible degree program in physics & astronomy

Like to learn more about the universe? Physics reveals the natural laws at work in our everyday world and across the cosmos, and teaches us the fundamental principles underpinning modern science and technology. The Bachelor of Science (Physical Sciences) is designed for those seeking broad and durable scientific knowledge and skills. Course offerings range from general physics to astronomy, climatology, medical physics and various electives. Those studying astronomy also have the opportunity to experience hands-on and remote-control astronomical observations using modern telescopes.

If you would like to pursue a career in science, technology or education, study with us. Graduates of this degree will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to help prepare them for work as a scientist, with a wide range of career options including education, astronomy, climatology, research and science outreach, and with potential employers including government, university, or industry. The degree also provides a basis for postgraduate studies in physics and related fields.

Courses to be studied Units
Core courses 4
plus 1 x first 8-unit major
 8
plus 1 x second 8-unit major plus 4 x approved courses
or 12 x approved courses
 12
Total 24
Refer to the USQ Handbook for courses to be studied and recommended enrolment patterns.

How much will it cost?

Approximate annual costs1 for your first year of study (8 units) in this program are:

Study Mode Cost
Commonwealth supported AUD 9527
Domestic full fee paying AUD 22400

Loan to help you pay your fees

You may not have to pay your course (subject) fees upfront. HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP allows you to defer your fees until your income reaches a certain level.

You may also be eligible to receive financial support from Centrelink.

Scholarships and financial assistance

You may be able to apply for scholarships to help with your study costs.

1 These are indicative annual fees for 2020 and costs will vary depending on the actual courses selected during your study. Fees may also vary from year to year as they are reviewed annually.

15/68
OP/Rank
This is the 2019 adjusted OP / Rank for this program.

The lowest OP/unadjusted Rank* to which an offer was made is 17/62. OP/Ranks based upon all offers made in Semester 1, 2019.

Entry requirements for Semester 3, 2019

  • Subject pre-requisites: English (4, SA) and Mathematics B (4, SA) or equivalent
  • Assumed knowledge: Mathematics A (4, SA) or equivalent
  • Recommended prior study: one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Science or equivalent.  

Entry requirements for Semester 1, 2020

  • Subject pre-requisite: Mathematics B (4, SA) or equivalent.

To study this degree we also assume you have sound knowledge in:

  • English
  • Mathematics A

We assume that your knowledge is equivalent to four semesters at high school level (Years 11 and 12) with sound achievement (4, SA). Find out more about assumed knowledge.

In addition, it is also recommended that you have studied one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Science or equivalent. 

English Language Requirements

You are required to satisfy the applicable English language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Admission pathways

A number of other pathways are also available if you haven't been able to study previously or don't meet the requirements for entry into your program of interest.

*Further admission information

An adjusted Selection Rank is the result of combining additional ranks through special entry schemes for admission.

Special entry schemes for admissions may help you get into the program of your choice by increasing your Selection Rank, through the allocation of additional ranks in certain circumstances.

An adjusted Selection Rank is the result of combining additional ranks with a student's OP/Selection Rank. An unadjusted Selection Rank is the student's Selection Rank without any rank adjustments.

USQ is committed to greater admissions transparency. Learn more about the education and work experience, as well as average OP/Ranks for this programs' student cohort for Semester 1, 2019.

We can help

How to apply

  • Apply via QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre) if you:
    1. have never studied with USQ before, or
    2. are a Year 12 student, or
    3. want to transfer to USQ from another university.

Please note down the QTAC codes below to complete your application.

  • Alternatively, you may be able to apply directly to USQ if you:
    1. are a current or previous USQ student returning to study with complete or incomplete qualifications (excluding Head Start students), or
    2. have recently graduated from TAFE.

QTAC codes

Mode Codes
External 906125

Closing dates

Applying directly to USQ:

  • Semester 1, 2020 - applications close Friday 6 March, with semester 1 commencing on Monday 24 February 2020.
  • Semester 2, 2020 - applications close Friday 17 July (QTAC) and 24 July (direct), with semester 2 commencing on Monday 13 July 2020.
  • Semester 3, 2020 - applications close Friday 20 November, with semester 3 commencing on Monday 16 November 2020.

If you are applying via QTAC, you will need to check the QTAC closing dates.

Recognition of prior learning or work experience

You may be eligible for recognition of prior learning if you have previously studied or have relevant work experience. This will help to reduce the number of courses that you need to study to finish your program.

Other options for you

Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Physics)
Graduate Certificate of Science