Challenge and develop your critical thinking and analytical skills in this elite four-year program, and prepare yourself for a rewarding career in science research and industry. The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) is a specialised program that provides high-achieving future leaders the opportunity to pursue their scientific passion and gain extensive research experience under the guidance of prominent research scientists and thought leaders. Throughout your program you’ll work alongside researchers and collaborate with your peers on cutting-edge research projects to challenge your problem-solving capabilities and develop your research, analytical and communications skills. In first year, a broad range of advanced courses will enhance your interdisciplinary scientific knowledge and practical skills. You’ll then develop your scientific expertise and technical skills through a core specialisation. Choose from 24 specialist fields from across science and mathematics. You’ll have the option to complement your specialisation with a major or minor across a broad range of scientific fields, with a choice of 24 majors and 32 minors. Alternatively, diversify your skill set by choosing from 46 minors in other study areas, including languages, communication, design and economics. Your final year will be dedicated to an independent research project in your chosen specialisation. In some cases this may also be combined with advanced coursework to enhance your expertise. You'll graduate with a respected honours qualification, with advanced knowledge and skills that will set you apart in a competitive job market, prove your leadership potential and provide a pathway into future research and learning. Microbiology Microbiology is at the forefront of protection against infectious diseases. In this major, you'll study the diversity of microorganisms, the immune system, microbial virulence, disease states and the ways in which organisms respond to infection. You'll learn how vaccines protect animals and humans from infectious diseases, and discover the latest advances in vaccine development from lecturers who are globally recognised experts. Focusing on the key areas of immunology, virology, parasitology, environmental microbiology, microbial biotechnology and microbial genomics, you'll study bacterial, fungal and viral infections and apply your knowledge in weekly laboratory practicals. You'll confidently use the specialist biomedical and molecular techniques required to diagnose and characterise infectious microbes and to develop new diagnostics. Problem-based scenarios will enhance your analytical, research and communication skills. This major can lead to challenging and rewarding career opportunities within universities and biotechnology companies, and medical and veterinary institutes, along with roles in forensics, biosecurity and quarantine. Alternatively, kickstart your career in research by progressing into a research-based honours degree. Career possibilities Our programs prepare you for your first job and beyond. Depending on which major you choose, here are some of the careers you could be on your way to: Biochemist Embryologist Palaeo-environmental scientist Biodiversity project officer Exploration technician Biomedical engineer Wildlife management officer Mine geologist Quantitative researcher Materials scientist