Bachelor of Science
at University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland.
A foundational science degree with majors in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, geology, computing or earth sciences. Most providers permit two majors plus a research project in third year.
ATAR cutoff history
Published cutoff data for the University of the Sunshine Coast Bachelor of Science. We never invent figures; entries marked "not published" mean the university or admissions centre has not released a verified cutoff for that intake.
| Intake year | ATAR cutoff | Admissions centre |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ATAR cutoff not published | QTAC |
| 2023 | ATAR cutoff not published | QTAC |
| 2022 | ATAR cutoff not published | QTAC |
No verified cutoffs are available. Confirm the latest figure on the official QTAC cutoff release.
Prerequisite Year 12 subjects
Brush up on each prerequisite with our state-syllabus explainers and dot points.
What you will study
First year is a broad scientific foundation: you take introductory subjects across at least two science disciplines (biology, chemistry, mathematics, environmental science, earth science) plus a science-communication or skills subject. UniSC's coastal setting means strong offerings in environmental, marine and ecological science, with field work starting early. Second year you specialise into majors such as environmental science, ecology, biology, chemistry, earth science or mathematics. Subjects become more rigorous, with weekly lab work and field trips to coastal, marine and hinterland sites that make the Sunshine Coast a natural living laboratory. Third year features advanced major subjects, a research-methods capstone or research project and electives. Strong students take an Honours year, the recommended pathway to research masters and PhDs and to roles with government science and environmental agencies. Field and project work through the degree builds practical skills employers want.
Example first-year subjects
- Biology of Cells and Organisms
- Foundations of Chemistry
- Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Mathematics for Scientists
- Earth and Marine Systems
- Scientific Skills and Communication
How you will be assessed
- Final exams worth 50 to 70 per cent in core science subjects
- Weekly lab reports and practical write-ups
- Field-work reports and data-collection projects
- Problem sets in mathematics and chemistry
- Research-methods capstone or project
- Mid-semester tests
Career outcomes
- Graduates work as laboratory scientists, environmental analysts and data scientists across industry and government.
- Many continue into Honours and PhD study, leading to research roles at CSIRO, universities and biotech firms.
- Common pathways include secondary teaching, science communication and graduate medicine programmes.
Typical first jobs
- Environmental scientist or officer with a council or consultancy
- Field ecologist or marine-science research assistant
- Laboratory technician in food, water or environmental testing
- Government scientist or environmental compliance officer
- Data or research assistant at a university or institute
- Science communicator or education officer
- Pathway into Master of Teaching (Secondary Science)
Graduate starting salary
$60,000 - $70,000 per year
Source: https://www.qilt.edu.au/surveys/graduate-outcomes-survey-(gos). Last reviewed 2026-05-24.
After graduation
Honours is the standard pathway for research, government science and environmental-agency roles. Postgraduate options include masters in environmental management, data science, public health and the Master of Teaching (Secondary) for science teaching, plus research masters and PhD pathways. Many graduates also enter graduate-entry health degrees or move into industry roles in environmental consulting, resources and laboratories across Queensland.
Is this the right degree for you?
You probably thrive here if
- Students who liked biology, chemistry, maths or environmental science at school
- Curious thinkers willing to delay specialisation until end of first year
- People who enjoy field work and the outdoors as much as the lab
- Patient problem-solvers and careful record-keepers
- Students considering research, environmental careers or science teaching
It is probably not for you if
- Students wanting a clear single-job outcome at graduation
- Those who dislike maths, lab work or final exams
- People who prefer humanities essay-driven study
- Students unwilling to consider Honours when targeting research roles
Sources
Course details are summarised by ExamExplained, not copied from the university. Confirm course content and ATAR cutoffs on the University of the Sunshine Coast handbook and on QTAC before applying. Page generated at https://examexplained.com.au/uni/usc/bachelor-of-science.