About the Bachelor of Biological Sciences
Turn your passion for biology into a diverse career. La Trobe's Bachelor of Biological Sciences gives you a strong scientific grounding plus the flexibility to specialise in an area that interests you.
Start with the basics. Build foundational skills in biology, chemistry, ecology and biodiversity, and explore the impacts of infection, epidemics and pandemics.
This degree is all about getting your hands dirty. You'll start practical classes from your first year – both in our on-campus labs and facilities, and out in the field. Get a glimpse into your professional future in science with industry-led workshops and seminars, as well as opportunities for work placements.
Customise your course with a major of your choice. Select from a range of areas, including biochemistry, botany, ecology, genetics, human physiological sciences, microbiology or zoology. This degree also gives you the option to take a double major or choose an additional minor.
All the way through your degree, you'll be building fundamental skills in experimental design, analysis, data interpretation and reporting. At the same time, you'll develop your expertise in problem-solving, teamwork, written and verbal communication and data presentation – skills that will serve you throughout whatever career you pursue.
You'll learn:
Animal, plant and microbial biology
Understand the fundamentals of biology as well as the structure and function of living organisms, their life processes and diversity.
Data analysis and communication
Explore experimental design issues and statistics to analyse data from experiments. Learn to effectively present information and data to different audiences.
Foundations of chemistry
Understand atomic and molecular structures, chemical reactions and organic and physical chemistry and apply these principles to further study and employment.
International entry requirements
Nepal: 65%
Subject prerequisites
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
English language requirement
6.0 IELTS (Academic) with no individual band less than 6.0.
Bachelor of Biological Sciences intended learning outcomes
Develop scientific written reports related to a specialist area in biological science that communicate professionally to peers and lay communities.
Critically evaluate evidence from scientific and other sources to formulate advice in a specialist area in biological science.
Generate solutions to complex problems in biological sciences with purposeful questions and application of scientific ideas, evidence and local information.
Solve real world scientific and technical problems in a specialist area of biological sciences appropriate scientific methods.
Work effectively in teams through collaboration and communication to complete professional projects and tasks.
Critically apply understanding of the ethical issues in the work of biological scientists.
Apply understanding of a specialist area in biological science to address local, national and global problems
Bachelor of Biological Sciences career opportunities
La Trobe graduates have found work in lab and field-based settings, including private industry, research institutes, and local and state government organisations.
Possible roles include:
Biological scientist
Examine plants, animals and microbes to better understand their natural biological processes and impact on the environment.
Microbiologist
Investigate the growth, structure development and other characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi. Undertake laboratory analysis and monitor microbial cultures, samples and new drugs.
Environmental consultant
Provide expert assessment and advisory services to clients on matters related to the management of environmental issues.
Estimated course fees for international students
Estimated fees per year (2025):
A$39 000 per 120 credit points.
Note: 120 credit points represents full-time study for one year.
International scholarships
Destination Australia – an Australian Government initiative
The Destination Australia scheme supports new international students to study in regional Australia and offers students a high-quality learning experience. For eligible applicants, these scholarships are worth up to A$15 000 per annum for up to four years.