Key details
Duration
Intake
Locations
Entry requirements
View full entry requirementsCredit points required
240Course code
Overview
The Bachelor of Science will allow you to explore your curiosity and passion for knowledge within your chosen scientific field.
Your study options are flexible and diverse with a focus on professional experience in various sciences including biologist, ecologist, spatial scientist, chemist, or in other science fields.
You will combine academic studies with practical learning in distinctive environments and communities of northern Australia, and their associated challenges in environmental management.
You will strengthen your problem-solving, logical and critical thinking skills, apply an understanding of scientific and technological factors, and consider issues from various cultural, economic and other societal perspectives throughout your studies helping you to approach tasks informed and confident.
You will be able to demonstrate and apply an understanding of their chosen areas of science, including concepts, theories and principles to practise in real situations.
Career opportunities
Graduating from this may lead you to career opportunities in the industry, government, private companies, non-government organisations (NGO) and the community sector as a biologist, ecologist, spatial scientist, chemist, consultant, laboratory assistant, project manager or advisor.
Practical experience
Work-integrated learning unit SID300 Professional Practice in Science is available in all majors as a specialist elective. It includes 120 contract hours (14 days) of work-based placement.
Credit transfers and advanced standing
Pathways
Pathways for VET to Higher Education
Credit transfer arrangements are available to students commencing a bachelor degree at Charles Darwin University with completed Certificate IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree qualifications in the same field or discipline, subject to meeting criteria. Students who hold completed qualifications should refer to the additional information provided about Advanced Standing and Credit Transfer and Pathways using the links below:
Pathways for Higher Education to Higher Education
For information about credit transfer available to students with complete or incomplete study at this or other Institutions refer to Pathways for Higher Education to Higher Education
Credit transfer
For further information on credit transfer and how to apply visit ASK CDU
Credit transfers and advanced standing
Credit transfer
For further information on credit transfer and how to apply visit ASK CDU
Fees
Commonwealth supported places
Commonwealth Supported places are available in this course to students who meet one of the following residency requirements:
(a) be an Australian citizen, who will complete some of your course of study while resident in Australia; or
(b) a New Zealand citizen; or an Australian permanent visa holder; or an eligible former permanent humanitarian visa holder; who studies the entire course while living in Australia.
Further information about fees and charges can be found at Fees and Payments.
International tuition fees
The annual tuition fee for full time study in 2025 is AUD $34,592.00. This equates to $ $4,324.00 per 10 credit point unit (0.125 EFTSL).
These fees are subject to increases annually, effective at the start of each calendar year.
You can find a list of International fees and payments you can expect to pay as part of your studies in Australia.
CDU offers a number of scholarships to international students to assist with the cost of study.
Why study Science, Environmental Science and Management at CDU?
If you're interested in finding solutions to our planet's environmental issues, there's never been a better time to study science, environmental science and management at CDU. You'll be prepared to apply the academic theories and principles you learn in class to real-world problems in a diverse range of careers.
- #3 in Australia for agriculture and environmental studies starting salary (GUG 2024)
- Five-star Australian university for graduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024)
- Choose to study online, on campus, part-time or full-time as it suits you
Why study science, environmental science & management at CDU?
If you're interested in finding solutions to our planet's environmental issues, there's never been a better time to study science, environmental science and management at CDU. You'll be prepared to apply the academic theories and principles you learn in class to real-world problems in a diverse range of careers.
- Five-star Australian university for undergraduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024)
- #3 in Australia for agriculture and environmental studies starting salary (GUG 2024)
Why study Science, Environmental Science and Management at CDU?
If you're interested in finding solutions to our planet's environmental issues, there's never been a better time to study science, environmental science and management at CDU. You'll be prepared to apply the academic theories and principles you learn in class to real-world problems in a diverse range of careers.
- #3 in Australia for agriculture and environmental studies starting salary (GUG 2024)
- Five-star Australian university for graduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024)
- Choose to study online, on campus, part-time or full-time as it suits you
Why study science, environmental science & management at CDU?
If you're interested in finding solutions to our planet's environmental issues, there's never been a better time to study science, environmental science and management at CDU. You'll be prepared to apply the academic theories and principles you learn in class to real-world problems in a diverse range of careers.
- Five-star Australian university for undergraduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024)
- #3 in Australia for agriculture and environmental studies starting salary (GUG 2024)
What will I study?
This course consists of common units, science specialist elective and elective units as described in the course outline.
Course structure
Students may complete customised selection or specialisations selected from disciplines such as Ecology, Landscape Restoration and Geographical Information Science.
This courses is structured to ensure fundamental science foundations are then supported by advanced units appropriate to the discipline area. Professional practice experiences are a feature of the course.
Please note that external students are required to attend on-campus intensive teaching blocks depending on the units studied.
A candidate must successfully complete units totalling 240 credit points (cp) as detailed below. All units are valued at 10 credit points unless otherwise indicated.
| Unit type | Credit Points | Specific requirements |
| Common Units (1 unit) | 10cp | Common units totalling 10 credit points from the below: CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology OR |
| Core Unit (4 units) | 40cp | Compulsory Core unit totalling 40 credit points as detailed below. ENV101 Earth Systems |
| Specialist Electives (11-14 units) | 110-140cp | Specialist Elective units totalling 110 - 140 credit points from one of the majors, minors or customised selection below: Complete ALL of the following: PLUS Complete 40 credit points from the following: Complete ALL of the following: PLUS Complete 20 credit points from the following: Complete ALL of the following: PLUS Complete 20 credit points from the following: Complete ALL of the following: PLUS Complete 20 credit points from the following: PLUS Complete 20 credit points from the following: NOTE: No major will be listed on the student testamur at completion of the course Complete ALL of the following: PLUS Complete 20 credit points from the following: PLUS Complete 70 credit points consisting of the following: |
| General Electives (5-8 units) | 50-80cp | Elective units totalling 50-80 credit points from the following: When selecting elective units, ensure the overall course requirements of a maximum of 100 credit points at 100 level and a minimum of 60 credit points at 300 level are met. Students undertaking the Ecology major must complete 70 credit points of electives. Suggested units include: Please check pre-requisite and assumed knowledge for all selected units. |
| 240cp | Total Credit Points |
Course Rules (unless otherwise indicated in the above course structure) (240cp)
- A maximum of 100 credit points may be taken from 100 level units.
- A minimum of 60 credit points must be taken from 300 level units or above.
- See the Higher Education Course Rules (Award Requirements) in the Units and Courses Policy.
If course commenced prior to 2023:
No more than 20 credit points shall be counted with a grade of "PC" in a Bachelor AQF Level 7 course award and no more than 10 credit points at "PC" may be received at the highest level of the program of learning.
COURSE CHANGES AND TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS - 2024
From 2024 the course structure for the Bachelor of Science has changed as follows:
- Core units have decreased from 6 units (60cp) to 4 units (40cp)
- Increase in specialist elective unit requirements by 2 units (20cp)
- Ecology is now 12 units (120cp)
- Geographical Information Science is now 11 units (110cp)
- Landscape Restoration is now 14 units (140cp)
- Chemistry Minor is now 11 units (110cp)
- Customised Selection is now 11 units (110cp)
- LAL100 Language, Literacy Sustainability has replaced CUC100 Academic Literacies through Exploring Sustainability from 2024. Students that have already completed CUC100 do not need to complete LAL100,
Study plan
STUDENTS COMMENCING IN SEMESTER 1
The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student enrolling in a full-time study load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.
When designing an individual study plan:
- maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
- check the prerequisite and assumed knowledge for each unit as some units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level.
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
ECOLOGY
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A | SE | ENV204 Ecosystems Evolution and Biodiversity | SE |
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | SCH102 Organic and Inorganic Chemistry | SE |
Year 2 | |||
| ENV201 Introductory Ecology | SE | ENV206 Environmental Physiology | SE |
| Elective | SE/E | ENV209 Fauna and Flora Survey and Monitoring | SE |
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
| Elective | E | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) | SE/E |
Year 3 | |||
| ENV302 Organisms and Environmental Change OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE | ENV315 Desert Field Ecology OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV317 Natural Resources and Indigenous Livelihoods OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV303 Ecological Restoration and Conservation OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | HIT137 Software Now | SE |
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | Elective | E |
Year 2 | |||
| HIT164 Computing Fundamentals | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| HIT234 Database Concepts | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| ENV208 Geographic Information Systems | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| ENV202 Introductory Remote Sensing or Elective | SE/E | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
Year 3 | |||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENV306 Environmental Monitoring and Modelling | SE |
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
LANDSCAPE RESTORATION
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | ENG151 Statics | SE |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A | SE | ENV206 Environmental Physiology | SE |
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | IAS144 Indigenous Land and Resources | SE |
Year 2 | |||
| ENV201 Introductory Ecology | SE | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) | SE |
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENG267 Hydraulics and Soil Mechanics | SE |
| ENV208 Geographic Information Systems and Spatial Thinking | SE | ENV209 Fauna and Flora Survey and Monitoring | SE |
| ENV202 Introductory Remote Sensing or Elective | SE/E | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
Year 3 | |||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV306 Environmental Monitoring and Modelling OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| ENV313 Hydrology and Catchment Processes | SE | ENV303 Ecological Restoration and Conservation | SE |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E |
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
CHEMISTRY MINOR
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | SCH102 Organic and Inorganic Chemistry | SE |
Year 2 | |||
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) | SE |
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENV323 Environmental Microbiology | SE |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 3 | |||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| SCH305 Advanced Concepts in Chemistry | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
CUSTOMISED SELECTION
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| ENV102 Diversity of Life | CO | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 2 | |||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV323 Environmental Microbiology OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 3 | |||
| ENV313 Catchment Processes and Hydrology OR Elective | SE/E | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| SCH305 Advanced Concepts in Chemistry OR Elective | SE/E | ENV315 Desert Field Ecology OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ENV317 Natural Resources and Indigenous Livelihoods OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
_____________________________________
STUDENTS COMMENCING IN SEMESTER 2
The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student enrolling in a full-time study load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.
When designing an individual study plan:
- maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
- check the prerequisite and assumed knowledge for each unit as some units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level.
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
ECOLOGY
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| ENV204 Ecosystems Evolution and Biodiversity | SE | ||
| Elective | E | ||
Year 2 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ENV206 Environmental Physiology | SE |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | ENV209 Fauna and Flora Survey and Monitoring | SE |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 3 | |||
| ENV201 Introductory Ecology | SE | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV315 Desert Field Ecology OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENV317 Natural Resources and Indigenous Livelihoods OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | E | ENV303 Ecological Restoration and Conservation OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 4 | |||
| ENV302 Organisms and Environmental Change OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| HIT137 Software Now | SE | ||
| Elective OR Specialist Elective | E/SE | ||
Year 2 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
Year 3 | |||
| HIT164 Computing Fundamentals | SE | ENV306 Environmental Monitoring and Modelling | SE |
| HIT234 Database Concepts | SE | ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data | SE/E |
| ENV208 Geographic Information Systems | SE | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| ENV202 Introductory Remote Sensing or Elective | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 4 | |||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
LANDSCAPE RESTORATION
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| ENG151 Statics | SE | ||
| ENV206 Environmental Physiology | SE | ||
| IAS144 Indigenous Land and Resources | SE | ||
Year 2 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) | SE |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | ENG267 Hydraulics and Soil Mechanics | SE |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A | SE | ENV209 Fauna and Flora Survey and Monitoring | SE |
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
Year 3 | |||
| ENV201 Introductory Ecology | SE | ENV306 Environmental Monitoring and Modelling OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENV303 Ecological Restoration and Conservation | SE |
| ENV208 Geographic Information Systems and Spatial Thinking | SE | ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| ENV202 Introductory Remote Sensing or Elective | SE/E | SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 4 | |||
| Specialist Elective OR SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| ENV313 Hydrology and Catchment Processes | SE | ||
| Elective | E | ||
| Elective | E | ||
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
CHEMISTRY MINOR
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
Year 2 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) | SE |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) | SE | ENV323 Environmental Microbiology | SE |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | SCH102 Organic and Inorganic Chemistry | SE |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 3 | |||
| ENV102 Diversity of Life | CO | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 4 | |||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE | ||
| SCH305 Advanced Concepts in Chemistry | SE | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
CUSTOMISED SELECTION
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | ||
Year 1 | |||
| ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
Year 2 | |||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO |
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| ENV102 Diversity of Life | CO | ENV317 Natural Resources and Indigenous Livelihoods OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 3 | |||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENV323 Environmental Microbiology OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV315 Desert Field Ecology OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data OR Specialist Elective OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E |
Year 4 | |||
| ENV313 Catchment Processes and Hydrology OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| SCH305 Advanced Concepts in Chemistry OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
____________________________________________
STUDENTS COMMENCING IN SUMMER SEMESTER
The Recommended Study Plan provided below is suitable for a student enrolling in a full-time study load. Students entering this course with advanced standing, or wishing to vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons should use the table as a guide to create an individual study plan.
When designing an individual study plan:
- maintain the basic order in which units are to be attempted; and
- check the prerequisite and assumed knowledge for each unit as some units assume you have completed foundation unit/s in the unit area at a lower level.
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
ECOLOGY
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Summer Semester | |||
Year 1 | |||||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ||||
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | ||||
Year 2 | |||||
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV204 Ecosystems Evolution and Biodiversity | SE | ||
| Elective | E | SCH102 Organic and Inorganic Chemistry | SE | ||
Year 3 | |||||
| ENV201 Introductory Ecology | SE | ENV206 Environmental Physiology | SE | ||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENV209 Fauna and Flora Survey and Monitoring | SE | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO | ||
| Elective | E | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) | SE | ||
Year 4 | |||||
| ENV302 Organisms and Environmental Change OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia (INT-6) OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE | ||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ENV315 Desert Field Ecology (INT-6) OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| ENV317 Natural Resources and Indigenous Livelihoods OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||||
| ENV303 Ecological Restoration and Conservation OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||||
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Summer Semester | |||
Year 1 | |||||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ||||
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | ||||
Year 2 | |||||
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | HIT137 Software Now | SE | ||
| Elective | E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
Year 3 | |||||
| HIT164 Computing Fundamentals | SE | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO | ||
| HIT234 Database Concepts | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| ENV208 Geographic Information Systems | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| ENV202 Introductory Remote Sensing or Elective | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
Year 4 | |||||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENV306 Environmental Monitoring and Modelling | SE | ||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
LANDSCAPE RESTORATION
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Summer Semester | |||
Year 1 | |||||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ||||
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | ||||
Year 2 | |||||
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | ENG151 Statics | SE | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV206 Environmental Physiology | SE | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | IAS144 Indigenous Land and Resources | SE | ||
Year 3 | |||||
| ENV201 Introductory Ecology | SE | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) | SE | ||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENG267 Hydraulics and Soil Mechanics | SE | ||
| ENV208 Geographic Information Systems and Spatial Thinking | SE | ENV209 Fauna and Flora Survey and Monitoring | SE | ||
| ENV202 Introductory Remote Sensing or Elective | SE/E | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO | ||
Year 4 | |||||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ENV306 Environmental Monitoring and Modelling OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| ENV313 Hydrology and Catchment Processes | SE | ENV303 Ecological Restoration and Conservation | SE | ||
| ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||||
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
CHEMISTRY MINOR
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Summer Semester | |||
Year 1 | |||||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ||||
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | ||||
Year 2 | |||||
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | SCH102 Organic and Inorganic Chemistry | CO | ||
Year 3 | |||||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | ENV210 Aquatic Ecosystems Chemistry (unit title change 2022) | SE | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV323 Environmental Microbiology | SE | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
Year 4 | |||||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| SCH305 Advanced Concepts in Chemistry | SE | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||||
| Legend: | CU = Common Unit | CO = Core Unit | SE = Specialist Elective | E = General Elective |
CUSTOMISED SELECTION
Full-Time Study Plan
Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Summer Semester | |||
Year 1 | |||||
| LAL100 Language, Literacy and Sustainability (replaces CUC100) OR CUC106 Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology | CU | ||||
| SMA101 Mathematics 1A OR SMA104 Mathematical Concepts OR Elective | SE | ||||
Year 2 | |||||
| SCH101 Chemical Concepts (intensive) OR SCH104 Introductory Chemistry A | SE | ENV101 Earth Systems | CO | ||
| ENV102 The Diversity of Life | CO | SPH141 Concepts of Physics OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||||
Year 3 | |||||
| IAS325 Cognition and Philosophy of Science | CO | SBI209 Design and Analysis of Biological Studies | CO | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ENV323 Environmental Microbiology OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
Year 4 | |||||
| ENV313 Catchment Processes and Hydrology OR Elective | SE/E | ENV316 Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics: Field Studies in Northern Australia (INT-6) OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| SCH305 Advanced Concepts in Chemistry OR Elective | SE/E | ENV315 Desert Field Ecology (INT-6) OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| SID300 Professional Practice in Science OR Elective | SE/E | ENV317 Natural Resources and Indigenous Livelihoods OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||
| ENV318 Analysing and Synthesising Spatial Data OR Specialist Elective OR Specialist Elective OR Elective | SE/E | ||||
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
Admission requirements are met by one of the following:
- Successful completion of the Northern Territory Certificate of Education and Training (or equivalent) and the awarding of an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) of at least 60*.
- Successful completion of a national qualification at Certificate III level or higher.
- Successful completion of at least 0.5 year of full-time study (or equivalent) of a higher education degree/diploma.
- Overseas secondary or tertiary qualifications considered equivalent to the above Australian qualifications.
- Attainment of a STAT Multiple Choice score of 140.
- Successful completion of the Tertiary Enabling Program, the Preparation for Tertiary Success courses, or other recognised tertiary preparation course.
- Submission of an acceptable personal competencies statement and/or employment experience.
- Defence members with service of 1 year or more at the following ranks (or higher) meet the academic entry requirement for this course:
- Navy: Seaman, Able Seaman, Leading Seaman
- Air Force: Aircraftmen/Aircraftwoman, Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman, Corporal
- Army: Private, Lance Corporal, Corporal
- Current School Leaver Pathways:
- Best of 3 Year 12 subject grades
- School recommendation program
* After any applicable adjustment factors have been applied.
International entry pathway
International applicants who have completed the CDU Foundation Studies Program and achieved a minimum mark of 65% in the Foundation English units A and B are eligible to apply.
Essential requirements
English language requirements
DOMESTIC STUDENTS
To gain entry into Charles Darwin University, all Higher Education applicants must satisfy the University's English Language Proficiency Requirements for their chosen course of study. From 2025 all applicants will be required to supply evidence of this at the time of application.
The minimum English language requirement for this course can be met by evidencing of one of the following:
| Year 12 | Successful completion of Year 12 within Australia, or an equivalent qualification from an approved country where English is the official language (refer to our approved standard and extended lists included below). |
| 0.5 FTE Higher Education Study | Successful completion of at least 0.5FTE of higher education study from Australia or an approved country where English is the official language (refer to our approved standard and extended lists included below). If studies were completed from a country on the extended list, they must have been completed within the past five (5) years. |
| CDU Enabling Course | Successful completion of a Charles Darwin University enabling program of at least 0.5FTE (40 credit points). |
| TAFE Qualification | Successful completion of a recognised TAFE qualification at a Certificate III level or higher from Australia. |
| AHPRA Registration | Current AHPRA registration as a Division 1 or Division 2 nurse. Registration must be current at the time of course commencement. |
| English Test^ | Completion of an approved English test within two years of commencement, meeting the minimum scores outlined in the table below. |
^ Minimum Requirements for English Tests:
| Postgraduate requirements | Undergraduate requirements | |
| CDU ELICOS - English for Academic Purposes | Successful completion of EAP004 | Successful completion of EAP003 |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic test | Overall minimum: 6.5 No band below: 6.0 | Overall minimum: 6.0 No band below 6.0 |
| Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) | Overall minimum: 176 No skill below: 169 | Overall minimum: 169 No skill below 169 |
| Pearson Tests of English (PTE) Academic | Overall minimum: 58 No score below 50 | Overall minimum: 50 No score below: 50 |
| Test of English as a Foreign language | Overall minimum: 79 Minimum writing score: 21 | Overall minimum: 60 Minimum writing score: 21 |
IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted, allowing candidates to retake a single skill within 60 days of sitting their initial test. One Skill Retake results are valid for two years from the date of the first test (not from the date of the Retake test) to the date of commencement at CDU.
CDU accepts combined results from two test sittings of IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, or TOEFL, taken within a six-month period, if:
- Both tests were under the same testing system; and
- The overall score in both tests meets the overall minimum; and
- The applicant achieved the section minimum for each section in at least one test.
Recognised English-speaking countries:
| Standard List | Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States of America. |
| Extended List | Bermuda, Botswana, Cayman Islands, Ethiopia, Fiji, Kenya, Malawi, Malta, Mauritius, Seychelles, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Vanuatu, Zimbabwe. |
For further details on the English requirements for CDU courses, please refer to the CDU English Language Proficiency Policy.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
To gain entry into Charles Darwin University, all Higher Education applicants must satisfy the University's English Language Proficiency Requirements for their chosen course of study.
The minimum English language requirement for this course is met by either undertaking previous education from an English-speaking country or undertaking one of the following English language tests and obtaining the minimum requirements listed below.
| CDU English for Academic Purposes 3 (ZEAP30) | Successful completion of EAP003 English for Academic Purposes 3 |
| IELTS Academic Module (including One Skill Retake) | A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 6.0. |
| Cambridge Advanced English (CAE) | A minimum overall score of 169, with no skill below 169. |
| Common European Framework Certificate of English Proficiency | A minimum overall grade of B2. |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic module | A minimum overall score of 50 with no score lower than 50. |
| TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT) | A minimum overall score of 60 and a minimum writing score of 21. |
* All tests are valid for two years from the date of the test to the date of commencement at CDU, unless otherwise specified.
* Where applicable, international applicants must also satisfy the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) English language requirements for student visa applications.
Do you have a question regarding English requirements at CDU? Please email: international@cdu.edu.au.
ATAR profile
The following table represents the ATAR and selection rank profile for applicants offered a place on the basis of their ATAR in semester 1, 2024
| ATAR based offers only | ATAR (excluding adjustment factors) | Selection Rank (ATAR plus any adjustment factors) |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest rank to receive an offer | 62.75 | 63.00 |
| Median rank to receive an offer | 67.80 | 76.70 |
| Highest rank to receive an offer | 92.90 | 99.65 |
Notes
"<5" indicates less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made.
I chose CDU because it has an excellent science course, with lots of opportunities for practical experience in the field. I love the small classes, community feel and the interaction with lecturers that you don't get at larger universities.
Brittany
CDU student
I am very proud that I am now an environmental expert who can work anywhere on this planet. There is nothing that can be done on the development of any projects without environmental experts. So, it is a very promising career.
Cassian
CDU student
I chose CDU because it has an excellent science course, with lots of opportunities for practical experience in the field. I love the small classes, community feel and the interaction with lecturers that you don't get at larger universities.
Brittany
CDU student
I am very proud that I am now an environmental expert who can work anywhere on this planet. There is nothing that can be done on the development of any projects without environmental experts. So, it is a very promising career.
Cassian
CDU student
Course details
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the University in accordance with the Higher Education Standards.
Australian qualification framework
This course is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.
Student profile
The table below gives an indication of the likely peer cohort for new students in this course. It provides data on students that commenced this course and passed the census date in Semester 1, 2024.
| Applicant background (Semester one intake 2024) | No. of Students | % of all Students |
|---|---|---|
| A. Higher education study (includes a bridging or enabling course) | 8 | .0 |
| B. Vocational education and training (VET) study | <5 | N/P |
| C. Work and life experience (Admitted on the basis of previous achievement not in the other three categories) | <5 | N/P |
D. Recent secondary education
(regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors such as equity or subject bonus points) | 7 | .0 |
(e.g. portfolio, audition, extra offer conditional on minimum ATAR) | <5 | N/P |
(e.g. special consideration, audition alone, schools recommendation scheme with no minimum ATAR requirement) | <5 | N/P |
| International students | <5 | N/P |
| All students | 15 | .0 |
Notes
"<5" - the number of students is less than 5
N/A - Students not accepted in this category
N/P - Not published: the number is hidden to prevent calculation of numbers in cells with less than 5 students.
Additional information
Contact details
For further information about the course, enrolment procedures, closing dates and other administrative issues please contact Student Central on:
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
Learn more about environmental management
Vamshidhar is from India and studied a Master of Environmental Management at CDU. Hear more about his experience of studying, living, working and playing in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
Learn more about environmental management
Vamshidhar is from India and studied a Master of Environmental Management at CDU. Hear more about his experience of studying, living, working and playing in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.
How to apply
There are many ways to apply to CDU. The method you use depends on your course type, where you live and whether you are a new or returning student to CDU.
Remember to apply early for your best chance at securing an offer to study with us.
SATAC
SATAC is the application channel for residents of NT, ACT, SA, WA, QLD, VIC, NSW or TAS.
MyNextCourse
Direct applications are available to students who have completed a CDU or BIITE course at a Certificate III level or higher. Most CDU and BIITE enabling programs are also accepted through this process.
International applications
Applications must be submitted online through our application portal, Studylink. You'll need a valid email address to create your online account. Once you have started your application, you will be able to save it and resume it later. There is no application fee when you apply online.
You may be able to lodge a direct application; however, there may be restrictions on your geographic location. If you cannot submit a direct application via the application portal, please apply through one of our registered agents.
Apply through StudyLink or through an Agent.
International applicants currently studying year 12 in Australia should apply via SATAC.
If you do not meet any of the criteria above please visit Pathways to study to view the options available to you.
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