To be read in conjunction with the requirements for the Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science (Science Policy and Communication) is a 108-unit program comprising coursework offered by the Science21(via the School of the Environment) in collaboration with the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

Admission requirements

The minimum requirements for consideration for entry to all undergraduate courses are specified in detail in the University Entry Requirements.

There are no formal prerequisites for the specialisation in Science Policy and Communication but knowledge of any one Science Area recognised by the SACE Board (particularly Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Biology) to SACE Stage 2, would be an advantage.

Course aims

The course has been designed to produce graduates with:

  • an awareness of the theory and practice of science policy and communication
    within science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) environments and within organisations and institutions that develop public or private business policy.
  • an ability to contribute to the development of scientifically sound, ethical and culturally
    sensitive solutions to complex problems for the economic and social benefit of society.
  • an ability to work effectively within team environments and improve their practice through critical reflection and learning.

Learning outcomes 

On successful completion of the course component, graduates should be able to:

  • transfer and apply core scientific concepts to propose solutions in policy environments
  • work in ways that are informed by knowledge of the legislative, regulative, commercial, scientific and social environment
  • synthesise information and communicate effectively, succinctly and sensitively with scientists, public and private sector professionals and the wider global community
  • apply judgement and initiative to propose and prioritise work strategies in consultation with co-workers to achieve timely completion of a project
  • work in a multidisciplinary team and incorporate the views of all stakeholders including Indigenous groups
  • use self-awareness and consultation to understand their role within a group and how they can best contribute to the group
  • articulate a conscious understanding of their own values and demonstrate respect for the values of others and the ability to view an ethical dilemma from multiple view points
  • inform society of impending developments and engage in a constructive debate
  • incorporate understanding and awareness of Indigenous and other communities'' religious beliefs and culture into policy and communication practice.

Program of study

To qualify for the Bachelor of Science (Science Policy and Communication), a student must complete 108 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the following program of study.

No more than 45 units of First Year level topics may be included in the 108 units for the degree.

Specialisation – Science Policy and Communication - Year 1 topics

36 units comprising:

SPOC1701  The Nature of Science I (4.5 units)
SPOC1702  The Science of Communicating Science (4.5 units)

Plus either:

MATH1701  Mathematics Fundamentals A (4.5 units)
OR
MATH1121  Mathematics 1A (4.5units)

Plus required first year topics from any one of the following Science Majors, noting that the Major chosen at first year must be followed at second and third year:

Plus elective topics from across the University where entry requirements are met to take the total to 36 units.

Specialisation - Science Policy and Communication - Year 2 topics

36 units comprising:

SPOC2701  The Nature of Science II (4.5 units)
SPOC2702  Science and Influence (4.5 units)

Plus 18 units of required second year topics from the Science Major chosen at first year:

Plus 9 units of elective topics from across the University where entry requirements are met.

Specialisation - Science Policy and Communication - Year 3 topics

36 units comprising:

SPOC3701  Science and Decisions (4.5 units)

Plus one of:

SPOC3702  Science Narratives (4.5 units)
SPOC3711  Science Policy in Industry (4.5 units)
SPOC3712  Engaging and Influencing Non-Scientists (4.5 units)

Plus 18 units of required third year topics from the Science Major chosen at first year:

Plus 9 units of elective topics from across the University where entry requirements are met.