About the Course

Course Description:

Aims & Objectives:

• develop in students a mastery of the basic scientific principles underlying biochemistry and psychology
• develop a thorough understanding of methods and strategies in biochemistry and psychology, and competence in their application, so that students are able to comprehend and analyse problems and obtain satisfactory solutions that, where appropriate, show originality and resourcefulness
• develop students' communication skills for clear verbal, written and graphic presentation
• give students an appropriate introduction to the role of the professional scientist in the community and to explore the social effects of scientific decisions; these studies are aimed at developing moral, social, aesthetic, environmental and ethical concepts essential to a satisfying personal philosophy and a sound professional attitude
• prepare students for the changing workplace and the changing social context of science by developing their life-long learning skills and flexibilty of mind

Course Structure:

• Design: Process and Strategy Electives Plus sequence
• Effective Communication
• Enterprising Marketing
• Establishing and Running a Business
• Information Orientation and Knowledge Management  
• Language Practice and Culture
• Multimedia: Web Development
• The Networked Economy
• Undergraduate Research Skills

Electives Plus sequences are available in all Swinburne degree programs subject to timetabling constraints, with the exception of double degree programs, specialist double major degrees, and where entry has been approved with advanced standing.

Units of Study:

Course Features

Industry-Based Learning:

Industry-Based Learning is an optional program in which students are placed in paid, supervised employment relevant to their studies as part of their degree. Industry-Based Learning gives students practical experience to add to their academic studies, and is a proven advantage in the graduate job market. All Industry-Based Learning placements are subject to availability of places. For further information visit: http://www.swinburne.edu.au/spl/ibl/  

The optional year of Industry-Based Learning in Australia is currently not available to international students. However international students may be able to participate in IBL in another country, subject to the approval of the relevant Swinburne IBL Manager and appropriate immigration approval.

Education Abroad:

Swinburne offers International Exchange Programs as well as other Education Abroad Programs to help internationalise your degree. International Exchange is an academic program allowing you to study at a Swinburne Partner Institution for one or two semesters during your degree. Swinburne's Partner Institutions offer many relevant subjects as well as a secure base to explore a different culture. Your studies whilst on exchange can be credited towards your Swinburne degree, provided they are relevant and approved by Swinburne. For further information visit the Swinburne Abroad website.

Employment Outcomes

Career Opportunities:

This course equips graduates for careers in medical and biomolecular research, neurological research, community health services, clinics and institutions involved in clincial psychology, sports psychology and the assessment and management of persons with neurological problems. You may continue higher degrees in either the biochemistry or psychology fields.

Professional recognition:

• Australian Biotechnology Association
• The Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Australian Society for Microbiology

Graduate Attributes:

• capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
• able to operate effectively and ethically in work and community situations
• adaptable and manage change
• aware of environments in which they will be contributing
• entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace, or community

How To Apply

Entry Requirements:

Successful completion of an appropriate Victorian Year 12 or its equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification.

2009 VCE Prerequisites: Units 3 & 4 - a study score of at least 20 in English (any), and a study score of at least 20 in one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Psychology and in one of Mathematics (any).

All Non-Year 12 students (NONY12) should refer to the VTAC website at: http://www.vtac.edu.au  for further infomation.

ENTER:

2008 Round 1 Clearly-In ENTER: 76.15 (CSP)

Credit Transfer:

Applicants with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of the course may be granted 'credit' and/or entry to the course with 'advanced standing'. University policies apply and applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. For further information refer to 'Swinburne Pathways: Credit Transfer Guide' at: http://pandoraplus.swin.edu.au/credit/

Recognition of Prior Learning:

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process where a student may be granted credit or partial credit towards a qualification in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training.

Further details for students considering TAFE courses: http://www.tafe.swin.edu.au/admin/docs/RPL.htm

Further details for students considering Higher Education courses: http://www.swin.edu.au/corporate/registrar/ppd/files/stuinf.htm

Course Fees:

Swinburne offers domestic undergraduate studentsCommonwealth Supported Places (CSP). Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens or holders of an Australian permanent resident visa are classified as domestic students. All other students are considered international students.

HELP

The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) is a suite of income contingent loans for Australian citizens and holders of Australian permanent humanitarian visas. HELP consists of:

• HECS-HELP (previously HECS) – is available to eligible Commonwealth supported students. It provides students with a loan to cover their student contribution amount. Students are eligible for a 20% discount if they choose to pay all, or at least $500, of their student contribution up-front.
• FEE-HELP (previously PELS) – is available to eligible fee paying undergraduate and postgraduate students. It provides students with a loan to cover their tuition fees (lifetime maximum $81,600 from 1 January 2008). The FEE-HELP limit is indexed on 1 January each year.
• OS-HELP – is available to eligible Commonwealth supported students, who wish to study overseas, with a loan to cover expenses such as accommodation and travel.

Note: New Zealand citizens and holders of other Australian permanent resident visas do not have access to HELP loans. These students must pay their student contributions or tuition fees up front without a discount.

For further information on your support and study options visit the 'Going to Uni' website at: http://www.goingtouni.gov.au

Scholarships:

For information about scholarships at Swinburne visit: http://www.swin.edu.au/scholarships

Application Procedure:

Applications must be made through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC).

VTAC code: 34241 (CSP), 34243 (Int. Fee)

For further information, visit the VTAC website at: http://www.vtac.edu.au

Find Out More

Further information: