A Bachelor of Science (BSc) is about understanding and improving the natural world through observation, experimentation, modelling, and calculation.
As a BSc student, you’ll investigate the big issues confronting our planet including climate change, human health and diseases, the global water crisis, food security, environmental protection, and much more. A BSc will expose you to new ideas and technologies, develop your research skills, and help you make a real contribution to the challenges facing our world.
How do I plan my degree?
Typical degree structure for Bachelor of Science
Students should allow for more than one potential major subject. Students should check the 100-level requirements for their potential majors as some majors require more than two 100-level courses, or enrolment in a complementary subject such as Mathematics.
Each small block represents a 15-point course. However, some courses may be 30 points (or more).
For full course requirements, see the Regulations for the Bachelor of Science.
The Bachelor of Science requires a minimum total of 360 points:
- a compulsory 15-point Science course
- a minimum of 255 points of Science courses
- the remaining 90 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.
The degree takes 3 years of full-time study, or can be studied part-time for up to 10 years.
For study planning help, contact the UC Liaison Office | Te Rōpū Takawaenga o UC (new students) or a College of Science | Te Rāngai Pūtaiao Student Advisor (advancing students).
Majors and minors
Students have the option of completing either:
- a major
- a major and a minor
- two majors (a double major)
Each major has specific course requirements, but all consist of a minimum 165 points, with at least 45 points at 200-level and at least 60 points at 300-level.
BSc students may also choose to complete a minor subject in their degree. A minor consists of a minimum of 75 points, including at least 45 points above 100-level, in a single subject chosen from the Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Sport Coaching, or in Youth and Community Leadership.
Double degrees
Many students combine the study of a BSc with another degree, such as a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce, or Bachelor of Laws.
Find out more information about Double degrees.
Conjoint degrees
Students can study the Conjoint Bachelor of Product Design and Science, the Conjoint Bachelor of Commerce and Science, or the Conjoint Bachelor of Arts and Science, which requires 60 points less than a double degree and will be completed in four years in an intensive format.
For example, students may want to study the Chemical Formulation Design BProdDesign major with the Biochemistry BSc major, or the Management BCom major with the Psychology BSc major.
Contact a Student Advisor from each relevant College or School for course planning advice.