Bachelor of
Science (Honours)

Take your science degree to the next level with a one-year Honours program focused on real-world research and discovery.

Key information.

Duration
1 years full-time

Delivery mode

In person (Bedford Park)

Annual fees

$9,537

About these fees.

Key information.

CRICOS Code
011329F

Duration
1 years full-time

Delivery mode

In person (Bedford Park)

Annual fees

$43,500

About these fees.

What you'll study.

Whether you’re applying through the Pathway to Honours program, continuing your Flinders science degree, or joining from another university, you'll step into a research-intensive environment where ideas become experiments and theory meets practice. You’ll focus on your chosen scientific discipline- biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, or another specialisation - and gain advanced training in research design, analysis and communication.

With close supervision and mentorship, you’ll learn to design, conduct and report an original research project that reflects your growing independence as a scientist.

Program structure and expectations.

Your Honours year is built around a major research thesis, complemented by coursework in advanced methodologies, ethics and data interpretation.

You’ll be part of an active research team, contributing to projects that have real-world impact - from renewable energy to molecular biology, palaeontology to forensic chemistry.

Independent Research Thesis

Undertake a substantial research project and produce a publishable-quality thesis

Advanced Research Methods

Learn experimental design, data analysis and research communication techniques used by professional scientists

Seminars and Peer Review

Present your work to academic staff and students, developing confidence and clarity in scientific communication.

Professional Development

Refine your critical thinking, project management and collaboration skills.

View course handbook

Science Research Areas.

Choose a specialisation and work with experienced researchers at the forefront of scientific discovery.

Biological Sciences

Investigate genetics, molecular biology and ecology to understand life at every scale.

Environmental Sciences

Explore climate systems, coasts and oceans, sustainability and ecosystem resilience.

Forensic and Analytical Science

Apply advanced chemistry and physics to solve complex real-world problems.

Physics

Study the fundamental principles that govern matter, energy and the universe.

Chemistry

Create and analyse chemical systems that shape technology, medicine and materials.

Palaeontology

Discover the stories written in stone and reconstruct life from deep time.

Immersive research and learning environment.

At Flinders, you’ll learn by doing. Work in modern labs and field stations equipped with cutting-edge technology - from electron microscopes and spectroscopy suites to environmental monitoring systems.

Join researchers at the Flinders Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology, the Nature Education and Research Facililty (NERF), or the PC2 Greenhouses, where innovation happens every day.

See our award winning Nature Education and Research Facility (NERF), a space where we can control the humidity, temperature, light and environment of the animals that you will help research.

Learn more about NERF

Your career and future pathways.

An Honours degree sets you apart. It signals independence, innovation and a deep understanding of scientific investigation.

Whether you plan to move into research, policy, education or industry, this qualification opens doors to diverse roles across Australia’s growing science and technology sectors.

Potential occupations

You could be a

Expected salary
$100,000^*

Conduct fieldwork and data analysis to protect and understand marine ecosystems. A common pathway for Honours graduates in marine biology or oceanography.

Expected salary
$95,000^*

Lead or contribute to groundbreaking research projects in biotechnology, ecology, chemistry or physics.

Expected salary
$110,000^*

Manage advanced laboratory operations across university, government or industry settings. Oversee compliance, safety and staff while supporting world-class research programs.

Expected salary
$105,000^*

Develop new materials, medicines or energy solutions using biological systems. Many Honours graduates move into biotech R&D or medical research institutions.

Potential occupations

You could be a

Expected salary
$100,000^*

Conduct fieldwork and data analysis to protect and understand marine ecosystems. A common pathway for Honours graduates in marine biology or oceanography.

Expected salary
$95,000^*

Lead or contribute to groundbreaking research projects in biotechnology, ecology, chemistry or physics.

Expected salary
$110,000^*

Manage advanced laboratory operations across university, government or industry settings. Oversee compliance, safety and staff while supporting world-class research programs.

Expected salary
$105,000^*

Develop new materials, medicines or energy solutions using biological systems. Many Honours graduates move into biotech R&D or medical research institutions.

Pathway to a PhD

Your Honours degree is the ideal launchpad for a PhD or research career. The skills you gain in independent project work, scientific reasoning and communication form the foundation of success in higher degree research.

Explore PhD opportunities

Researcher Spotlight.

See how our students have turned their passion into impactful research and successful careers.

Emma Kuhn

Lecturer in Environmental Health, Flinders

Shane Rix

Biomedical Technology Scientist at Lastek

Dr Alyce Martin

Researcher influencing global gut serotonin fields

Try as many activities/projects as you can manage - you will soon discover what you like and enjoy.

The scientific approach is all about measuring outcomes in a bid to improve and especially to positively affect the lives of other people.

My research journey at Flinders opened amazing doors into international collaboration and new discoveries.

Try as many activities/projects as you can manage - you will soon discover what you like and enjoy.

The scientific approach is all about measuring outcomes in a bid to improve and especially to positively affect the lives of other people.

My research journey at Flinders opened amazing doors into international collaboration and new discoveries.

Application and support hub.

Everything you need to apply and find support on your journey.

How to apply

Check eligibility

Ensure you have a GPA of 5.0 or above in your bachelor's degree.

Contact coordinator

Contact the Honours coordinator to discuss your project and arrange supervision.

Complete the Honours Project Proposal form with your Honours supervisor.

Honours Project Proposal Form

Submit application

Submit your application directly to Flinders University through the online application system.

Download Application Guide

Apply now

Application dates

Applications for 2026
Now open.

Commencement
Semester 1, 2026.

Find a research coordinator.

HDR supervisors are academic staff who are registered to support HDR students through their candidature.

Find a supervisor

Scholarships and fees

Explore scholarships and financial assistance options.

Find a scholarship

HECS-HELP

Frequently asked questions

Can I do my honours part-time?

Yes, you can - with permission! Many students balance Honours with work or other commitments. Just chat with your Honours coordinator first — they’ll help you work out a study plan that fits your schedule.

Can I study online?

Because it’s research-intensive and involves lab or fieldwork, Honours is taught on campus. But you’ll have plenty of flexibility when it comes to your project design and supervision meetings.

What's the main difference between an honours and master's degree?

An honours degree is an intensive, one-year research program focused on a single, large project, making it an ideal pathway to a PhD. A master's degree is typically longer, involves more coursework, and can be research or coursework-focused.

Do I need to find a supervisor before I apply?

Yes — your supervisor is a key part of your Honours journey. We recommend reaching out early to academics whose research areas interest you. Your coordinator can also help you connect with potential supervisors.

I didn’t do my undergraduate degree at Flinders - can I still apply?

Definitely! We welcome students from other universities. As long as your previous study aligns with the discipline you’d like to continue in, you can apply directly for the Flinders Honours +1 program.

What if I’m not sure which research area suits me?

That’s completely normal. During the application process, you’ll have the chance to discuss your interests with academic staff and explore available research projects before you commit.