About the Course

Course Description:

This program provides an opportunity for selected students, who have achieved a high standard in the major area of study, to continue their undergraduate studies to an Honours level. The Honours course is a recognised point of entry into postgraduate research studies, with many previous Honours graduates, who have obtained higher degrees, being highly sought after. Students concentrate on their chosen area, gaining a better understanding of the academic discipline that they study and research techniques specific to that discipline. The requirement to complete a substantial original piece of research for their thesis ensures that Honours graduates develop their abilities to conceptualise problems, devise research strategies and execute individual research work under the supervision of a member of staff with expertise in the area. Students develop their own project ideas, are involved in negotiating project directions with a range of internal and external supervisors and research organisations, and develop project management skills based on previous and current course content, with mentoring and facilitation from project supervisors. These projects ensure all students develop strong awareness and understanding of ethical and social issues associated with research. 

The course's strong emphasis on original research prepares students for areas of professional employment in which conceptual, organisational and practical skills are in demand. Graduates have been employed in a variety of relevant areas including research in universities and research institutes within the private and public sectors, nationally and internationally.

Aims & Objectives:

• to prepare students for professional practice in their chosen area
• to provide students with research and analytical skills associated with high quality research
• to prepare students for the changing workplace and the changing societal context of science by developing their life-long learning skills and flexibility in thought
• to develop students' communication skills so that they can present their ideas clearly by verbal, written and graphic means
• to provide students with experience in preparing scientific information for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals; and
• to prepare students for a career in research

Course Structure:

The Honours course is based on a student workload model of 100 credit points for a full-time academic year. One credit point is deemed equivalent to one hour of student work per week for one semester whether in contact with staff or in private study. The typical student’s average weekly workload during semester is therefore expected to be 50 hours.

Total student contact hours (lectures, classes, tutorials, laboratory and field sessions) will vary during academic semesters due to the alternative coursework subject loads. The intensity of the research programs will vary, requiring different hours, but the minimum expected contact hours is 24 hours/week.

This program involves two academic semesters of study for one year.

Units of Study:

Semester 1
HAY453 Advanced Quantitative Methods  (12.5 credit points)
HET707 Neuroscience Methods (12.5 credit points)
HET803 Honours Project 1 (25 credit points)

Semester 2
(37.5 credit points)
Choose one of:
HET704 Neurophilosophy (12.5 credit points)
HET738 Neuropsychology Methods (12.5 credit points)

Course Features

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 while on exchange can be credited towards your Swinburne degree, provided they are relevant and approved by Swinburne. For further information visit the Education Abroad website or telephone the Education Abroad Office on (03) 9214 4816

Employment Outcomes

Career Opportunities:

The course's strong emphasis on original research prepares students for areas of professional employment in which conceptual, organisational and practical skills are in demand. Graduates have been employed in neurophysiological areas of hospitals and in research areas of universities and research institutes within the private and public sectors.

How To Apply

Entry Requirements:

Entry to this course is available to academically prepared students. These students must have completed all the requirements of an undergraduate (pass) degree such as in Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences / Electrical Engineering double degree, or Psychology/ Psychophysiology, from Swinburne University of Technology or equivalent. A minimum of a credit average in the final year subjects is required.

Credit Transfer:

Applicants with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this 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. All applications for subject exemptions should be submitted on the appropriate form at the time of enrolment.

Recognition of Prior Learning:

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the process by which your prior work history, life experience and previous study are measured against the course you are undertaking. Applicants will be considered on their individual merits in accordance with Swinburne policies.

Application Procedure:

Contact us to obtain a direct application form.

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Further information: