Courses, Subjects and Qualifications

Courses, Subjects and Qualifications

Courses



Year 2011 2012


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). Science graduates are employed in research, business, industry, education, environmental science, health, and central and local government organisations.

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

Subjects and endorsements

Major subjects

*The University periodically reviews its offerings. Please refer to the College of Science for the latest information on these programmes.

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.

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 more details refer to the relevant subject page above.

Preparatory courses

For some subjects, Science Headstart preparatory courses are available and strongly recommended for those who need to brush up on their skills.

Degree structure

The Bachelor of Science degree requires a minimum total of 360 points. 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 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

Bachelor of Science with Honours

The BSc(Hons) is an accelerated 12-month full-time postgraduate degree for academically able students. Students are admitted to the BSc(Hons) programme following the completion of a Bachelor of Science degree with very good grades.

Pre-BSc(Hons)

Students who have been granted direct entry to 200-level courses on the basis of high achievement in NCEA Level 3 and Scholarship (or equivalent) results may complete a BSc(Hons) after a total of three years study: two years undergraduate (Pre-BSc(Hons)) and the 12-month 400-level honours programme. Students who are approved for direct entry to 200-level courses (Pre-BSc(Hons)) transfer from an incomplete BSc and graduate with a BSc(Hons) only.

Endorsements

Students may choose to complete an endorsed BSc, completing a specialisation in Biosecurity, Biotechnology, Ecology or Environmental Science.

Biosecurity

To receive an endorsement in Biosecurity you must major in Biological Sciences and complete the 360 points for the BSc degree. Of the 360 points, you will complete a selection of compulsory courses, and some optional courses to follow either a molecular/genetics or ecological/applied pathway.

Biotechnology

To receive an endorsement in Biotechnology you must major in Biological Sciences and complete the 360 points for the BSc degree. You will follow either an environmental biotechnology pathway or a plant biotechnology pathway.

Ecology

To receive an endorsement in Ecology you must major in Biological Sciences and complete the 360 points for the BSc degree. Of the 360 points, you will complete a selection of compulsory courses, and some optional courses.

Environmental Science

To receive an endorsement in Environmental Science you must major in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Geography or Geology and complete the 360 points for the BSc degree. Of the 360 points, you must complete the core courses (60 points) and the required courses for your major.

More information on endorsements

For full details on endorsements, including schedules and a list of required and recommended courses, see the Regulations for the Bachelor of Science (University Regulations website) or contact the Student Advisor, College of Science.

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

We have a wide range of options for postgraduate study with excellent research facilities including specialised research centres such as Gateway Antarctica.

Many BSc graduates, especially those contemplating a research career, go on to advanced study before seeking employment. Students are advised to check the Enrolment Handbook for information on incorporating the prerequisite requirements for advanced courses into their BSc programme. Students may also consult the Student Advisor, College of Science.

Postgraduate and graduate qualifications include:

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).