Courses, Subjects and Qualifications

Courses, Subjects and Qualifications

Courses


Year 2013

Subjects

Qualifications

Bachelor of Science BSc

Introduction

The Bachelor of Science is a three-year degree that allows you to study a wide range of subjects, while specialising in one or two areas (your major or majors). As a graduate, you can work in research, business, industry, education, environmental science, health, and central and local government organisations both nationally and internationally.

Features of the BSc at UC

  • Flexible, broad-based three-year degree
  • Wide range of subject choices
  • Wide range of career opportunities, both nationally and internationally
  • Students' learning benefits from cutting-edge research undertaken by UC staff
  • Staff exchange programmes ensure we are benchmarked against the best in the world
  • Unique network of field stations from Kaikoura to Antarctica to Nigeria
  • Only university in New Zealand to offer Astronomy at all levels
  • Lecturers engaged in world-leading projects with international funding
  • Many different postgraduate study options

Recommended preparation

Entry to a Bachelor of Science degree is open to all students with University Entrance. Most Science subjects can be started at first-year university level without previous study. However, to gain entry into advanced first-year Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics courses you will need to have a strong background at NCEA Level 3 in mathematics with calculus (for Physics and Mathematics), physics and/or chemistry.

If you do not have this background, you will need to take introductory courses in these subjects and it could take you longer to complete a major in that subject (though you may be able to complete a summer course to catch up). For some subjects, Science Headstart preparatory courses are available and strongly recommended for those who need to brush up on their skills. For more details refer to the relevant subject page above.

Degree structure

The BSc degree requires a minimum total of 360 points made up as follows:

  • At least 255 points must be from Science courses,
  • The remaining 105 points can be from either Science courses or courses from other degrees.

At least 225 points must be from courses above 100-level, with at least 90 points at 300-level, at least 60 of which must be in a single Science subject (unless specified otherwise) – this is your major. For a double major you must complete 60 points at 300-level in each of two Science subjects.

When choosing your first-year courses you should include courses that allow you to advance to 200-level in at least two, preferably three, subjects.

For the full degree requirements see the Regulations for the Bachelor of Science (University Regulations website).

BSc degree structure diagram

Subjects and endorsements

Major subjects

Endorsements

Other subjects

The following subjects are not available as majors but have a course (or courses) that counts as a Science course towards the Bachelor of Science degree.

Double degrees

Many students combine the study of a Science degree with studies in other degrees such as Arts, Commerce, Engineering or Law. With careful planning it is normally possible to complete a double degree in five years (up to 120 points may be shared between both degrees). Students considering a double degree should seek advice from the College of Science Student Advisor.

Further study

Postgraduate and graduate qualifications include:

*Subject to UNZ CUAP approval due August 2013.

Career opportunities

For further career information, please go to www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/subjects/index.shtml

Contact

For more information email info@canterbury.ac.nz or freephone in NZ 0800 VARSITY (827 748).

For assistance with planning your programme of study contact a College of Science Student Advisor (advancing students) or the Liaison Office (new students) or visit the Liaison Office’s course planning page (new students).