Overview
The application of science to real-world problems is increasingly multidisciplinary in nature. In many areas of scientific endeavour, no one science discipline is sufficient to deliver advances and innovation. This is reflected in multidisciplinary fields such as astronomy, biochemistry, bioinformatics, environmental science, forensic science and nanotechnology.
In this course, you will learn to apply scientific principles and concepts to real-world problems that are multidisciplinary in nature.
You’ll also learn the communication, creative, entrepreneurial and cultural-awareness skills that are important in collaborative careers across industry and government.
You’ll have a choice of studying one of four majors: Computational Sciences, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Engineering Science or Physical Sciences.
Computational Sciences
In this major, you will study various aspects of modern computing. You'll learn fundamental programming and Linux skills, and further explore computational disciplines such as data science, mathematics and programming.
Earth and Environmental Sciences
Earth scientists are essential to resources and environmental industries and use sophisticated techniques for the analysis of earth and planetary materials. Environmental scientists apply their expertise in physical and biological sciences to generate innovative and sustainable solutions to environmental issues.
In this major, you will study Earth dynamics and its relationships with environmental science. You'll gain the skill sets for careers involved in monitoring the impacts of industrial, urban, mining and agricultural development; measuring and analysing pollutants; and developing conservation and management plans.
Engineering Science
This major explores the role of an engineer and teaches you the fundamental principles of various engineering fields, giving you a pathway to your preferred engineering career. Once you have completed your course, you’ll have the theoretical knowledge and practical, problem-solving skills to devise solutions for complex engineering challenges in society.
Physical Sciences
In this major you'll study fundamental aspects of physics, astronomy, chemistry and mathematics; and how these are drawn together to tackle emerging scientific challenges.
Physics and astronomy use the four known forces to explain relationships among the smallest through to the largest structures, while chemistry explores the properties and behaviour of matter.
All of these fields are underpinned by mathematics as a framework for explaining observations and predicting outcomes.
Multidisciplinary Science as a pathway
If you haven't studied science before or you don't meet the prerequisites for our Science and STEM majors, Multidisciplinary Science can give you a pathway into a range of courses – including Computing, Engineering, Actuarial Science and Surveying.
Alternatively, after you graduate you may choose to study for an honours degree in Science or Engineering or a master degree in Education.
What you'll learn
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding across more than one field of study that is typically at a level that, whilst supported by advanced textbooks, includes some aspects that will be informed by knowledge of the forefront of the fields of study.
- apply their knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates a professional approach to their work or vocation, and have competencies typically demonstrated through devising and sustaining arguments (to both specialist and non-specialist audiences) and solving problems across their fields of study.
- understand the constructs of the scientific method and apply these principles in representative exercises using digital technologies.
- gather and interpret relevant data (usually within and across their fields of study) to inform judgements that include reflection on relevant social, scientific or ethical issues, including being aware of the diversity of international perspectives associated with the sciences, and how these impact upon the practice of science.
- understand and appreciate cultural diversity and how it impacts on the practice of science.
- display a high standard of professional behaviour, including effective time management, both independently and as a team member.
