Program Overview

If you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for the UC course you’re aiming for, UC College’s diplomas –  also known as higher education diplomas – will provide you with an introduction to your chosen study area. They act as an alternative entry pathway for admission to UC undergraduate courses and prepare you for university study.

Diploma of Science
Our Diploma of Science is an inspiring introduction to all areas of science. You will develop knowledge and skills that equip you with confidence in the laboratory and prepare you for further science study. 

Study a Diploma of Science at UC and you will:

• Gain a broad understanding of all areas of science
• Learn the practical skills and knowledge needed for laboratory careers
• Develop independent study skills
• Build your communication skills, and
• Cover biology, chemistry, physical science, mathematics and English communication. 

On successful completion of the Diploma of Science, you’ll gain 12 credit points/four units (half a year) of advanced standing into the second semester of the first year of one of the following Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science) at the University of Canberra.

Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science)
From climate change, habitat loss and pollution, environments around the world are facing extreme challenges. Explore these important issues along with other socio-scientific challenges, with UC’s Bachelor of Environmental Science. Immerse yourself in the world of environmental science using the latest lab and field tools, and emerge with an applied, solutions-focused perspective.

The Specialist Major in Environmental Science builds upon the Core Major in Science to give you skills to identify, conceptualise and analyse a diverse environmental futures. You’ll be introduced to major environmental challenges and be inspired to innovate solutions using cutting-edge approaches. 

The inclusion of a breadth component allows you to explore and expand your learning across a range of disciplines. Scenario-based study and work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities ensure you graduate career-ready, equipped to solve a range of theoretical and contemporary real-world problems in local and global contexts.

Study a Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science) at UC and you will 

• Exhibit a breadth of scientific knowledge and technical skills, with specialist depth in environmental science.
• Develop critical thinking and data analysis skills to solve a range of complex problems in local and global contexts.
• Select and apply appropriate practical, conceptual and/or theoretical techniques or scientific tools to conduct scientific investigations relevant to a range of disciplines, with particular specialisation in environmental science.
• Demonstrate the ability to collect scientific data individually or collaboratively, within legal, ethical and social frameworks, with key laboratory and field-based competencies.
• Evaluate current and emerging ethical and cultural issues that arise in contemporary science and exhibit cross-cultural competence and social responsibility.
• Critically analyse, synthesise and integrate scientific knowledge, literature, data, or arguments for effective communication to a range of audiences.

Work-integrated learning
Get practical experience with inbuilt professional practice units. Complete internships with leading organisations like CSIRO, ACT Parks and Wildlife, Questacon and more.

Access unique opportunities to work on real-world research projects. The University of Canberra’s own Institute for Applied Ecology is renowned for delivering high-quality, globally significant research with practical solutions to real-world environmental problems.