Bachelor of Science (Degree with Honours)
Course 754-AA (2008)
Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008. Search for this in the current handbook Search for this in the current handbook
| Year and Campus: | 2008 |
|---|---|
| Fees Information: | Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date |
| Level: | Undergraduate |
Coordinator
-Contact
Faculty of ScienceOld Geology Building
The University of Melbourne VIC 3010
Australia
Tel: +61 3 8344 6404
Fax: +61 3 8344 5803
Web: www.science.unimelb.edu.au
| Course Overview: |
Honours is an extremely valuable year of study. It comprises advanced 400-level coursework and an individual research project designed to extend students' knowledge and skills. In particular, the honours programs offered by the Faculty of Science aim to enable students to define and solve problems relating to their speciality and to conduct research in the field. Honours graduates possess the skills and qualifications needed to progress to a higher degree (eg. Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy), or to enter the science and technology industries. The Faculty of Science offers Bachelor of Science (Degree with Honours) programs in a number of departments located on the Parkville campus. These departments include:
Additional Bachelor of Science (Degree with Honours) programs in biological and biomedical disciplines are available within the following teaching departments of the University:
Some combined and interdepartmental programs are also available. The Bachelor of Information Systems (Degree with Honours) is also available (please refer to the separate entry for this course). |
|---|---|
| Objectives: |
Honours is a "fourth-year" program which gives you the opportunity to draw together your previous science or technology studies and focus your knowledge, skills and intellect on an exciting piece of original research. Honours programs are comprised of two components:
Investing the additional year at University required to complete Honours gives you the opportunity to draw together your early years of study and add significant value to your resume. Honours is very different from earlier undergraduate years, allowing and requiring a greater degree of independence and flexibility that will help develop the maturity and skills for transition to employment in a range of occupations and industries or a research higher degree.
|
| Course Structure & Available Subjects: |
The Bachelor of Science (Degree with Honours) program involves the completion of one or more advanced coursework subjects and a research project subject. The relative weighting of these subjects varies between departments. Each advanced coursework subject may entail 400-level lectures and tutorials, journal clubs, literature reviews, oral presentations, and other departmental activities. In some departments students enrol in a number of advanced coursework subjects. The research project subject comprises a research project completed under the guidance of an academic who specialises in your area of interest. Students' academic transcripts will record a separate result for each advanced coursework subject they undertake as part of the BSc (Honours) course, and the research project subject. Refer to the departmental entries below for more information. Separate entries are available for the Bachelor of Information Systems (Degree with Honours) and the Bachelor of Science (Honours) course in Psychology. Honours usually involves one year of full-time study between February and November. Some departments offer a two-year part-time honours program and some offer mid-year commencement. Further details are provided in the departmental entries that follow. Course Requirements To qualify for the BSc (Honours) degree students must:
Some departments have hurdle requirements that must also be met. Students are not allowed to repeat an honours subject/component for which they have received a mark of less than 50 percent. |
| Subject Options: |
Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology Anatomy and cell biology honours program Overview Students undertake a research project supervised by a member of staff. Project topics are available from the departmental office on Level 7 or on the web site at http://www.anatomy.unimelb.edu.au/researchprojects/bschonours.html Students consult directly with supervisors to ensure suitability of project. Laboratory-based research is the main component of the honours program, culminating in the submission of a thesis and laboratory notebooks detailing experiments. This program offers the opportunity to acquire modern technical and theoretical skills. Students attend research seminars, journal clubs and orally defend their thesis. Admission requirements Other than satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the anatomy and cell biology honours program must have an appropriate background for the project they apply for. The supervisor will advise whether a student's academic background is suitable. Honours coordinator Dr Gary Hime Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the anatomy and cell biology honours program must also attend lectures, workshops and seminars. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework Students attend lectures, and workshops in a wide range of biomedical areas such as animal welfare, library resources, experimental design and statistical analysis, writing skills and seminar preparation; and seminars in biomedical research. Students will be assessed by a literature review (20 percent), a journal article review (20 percent), statistics assignments (20 percent) and an oral defence of the thesis (40 percent). Research project Students considering enrolling for the honours program in anatomy and cell biology should discuss their plans with a senior member of staff in the area of their special interest, or with the coordinator. Most of the subject is spent conducting an original, supervised research project. Students will give a talk on the aims and methods of the research project during the year. Assessment will consist of a written report (thesis) submitted at the end of the program (100 percent). Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Dr Gary Hime (Honours Co-ordinator) Tel: +61 3 8344 5796 Associate Professor Colin Anderson (Academic Co-ordinator) Tel: +61 3 8344 5807 Kim Williams (Student Administrator) Tel. +61 3 8344 5791 Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology offers the following honours programs: * biochemistry and molecular biology honours program (described below); * combined biochemistry and chemistry (biochemistry coursework) honours program [described under Combined biochemistry and chemistry (biochemistry coursework) honours program]; * combined chemistry and biochemistry (chemistry) honours program [described under School of Chemistry]. Biochemistry and molecular biology honours program Overview By the end of the honours program in biochemistry and molecular biology the student should have: * acquired the ability to define research problems in biochemistry and to propose and test appropriate hypotheses; * developed the ability to think critically and independently and evaluate and analyse experimental biochemical data; * developed skills in the use of modern equipment and techniques currently used in biochemistry and molecular biology; and * developed the ability to present the research results both orally and in written form. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the biochemistry and molecular biology honours program need to have completed a minimum of 25 points of 300-level subjects in biochemistry and molecular biology. Provision is made for a limited number of exceptions to this entry requirement. Honours coordinator Professor Malcolm McConville Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There may be a limited mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows: * Biochemistry Research Project subject = 75 percent * Biochemistry Advanced Coursework subject = 25 percent Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject accounts for 25 percent of the total assessment. It comprises four subjects of six lectures each. Assessment of these may be by assignment, oral presentation or open-book examination. The aim is to encourage a detailed and critical examination of recent advances in selected fields of biochemical and molecular biology research. Research project The research project subject accounts for 75 percent of the total assessment. It comprises a research report (65 percent) and presentation of a seminar (10 percent). Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Professor Malcolm McConville Tel: +61 3 8344 2342 Irene Kourmanelis Tel: +61 3 8344 5918 Combined biochemistry and chemistry (biochemistry coursework) honours program Overview This honours program in biochemistry and chemistry is designed to: * increase the student's knowledge and understanding of biochemical and chemical science; * develop the process and practice of biochemical and chemical research; * develop individual investigative skills, critical thought and the ability to evaluate information and to analyse experimental data; * promote the acquisition of experimental or theoretical skills in areas currently relevant to one of the research groups in the School of Chemistry or Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; * develop the ability to present research results both orally and in the written form; and * ensure that students receive essential training in laboratory safety procedures Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the chemistry and biochemistry honours program will normally need to have specialised in either biochemistry and molecular biology (300-level subjects) or chemistry (300-level subjects). Applicants who have specialised in chemistry will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The qualifications of Science students who do not formally have a chemistry major, BBiomedSc students, and applicants from other courses and institutions will be considered by the School of Chemistry Honours coordinator. Selection into the combined honours program must be endorsed by both departments. Honours coordinators Professor Malcolm McConville (biochemistry and molecular biology) Professor Richard O'Hair (chemistry) Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program runs either from February to November or July to June. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the combined chemistry and biochemistry honours program must pass a 'Safety in the Laboratory' course. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows: * Biochemistry/Chemistry Research Project subject = 75 percent * Biochemistry Advanced Coursework subject = 25 percent Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject accounts for 25 percent of the total assessment. It comprises four subjects of six lectures each. Assessment of these may be by assignment, oral presentation or open-book examination. The aim is to encourage a detailed and critical examination of recent advances in selected fields of biochemical and molecular biology research. Research project This subject comprises an original research project, supervised by one academic staff member from each of the Schools of Biochemistry and Chemistry. The research project continues throughout the year. The research project subject accounts for 75 percent of the total assessment. It comprises a research report (65 percent) and presentation of a seminar (10 percent). Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Professor Malcolm McConville Tel: +61 3 8344 2342 Miss Vicki Burley (School of Chemistry) Tel: +61 3 8344 6495 Department of BotanyBotany honours program Overview The honours program in botany involves:
Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the botany honours program need to complete 50 or more points of 300-level botany, or equivalent in a related field (eg. plant biochemistry, plant genetics or environmental sciences). The Head of Department may waive the prerequisites or stipulate additional requirements. Honours coordinator Assoc. Prof. Rick Wetherbee Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program runs either from February to November or July to May. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the botany honours program must participate in other training courses as directed by the department. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject accounts for 25 percent of the total assessment based on three components:
Research project The research project subject comprises:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: School of Botany Tel: +61 3 8344 5049 Assoc. Prof. Rick Wetherbee richardw@unimelb.edu.au Tel: +61 3 8344 8931 School of ChemistryThe School of Chemistry offers the following honours programs:
Chemistry honours program Overview The honours program in chemistry is designed to:
Generic skills The honours programs in chemistry will provide students with the opportunity to establish/develop the following generic skills:
Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the chemistry honours program should typically have a major in chemistry. Applications from Science students who do not formally have a chemistry major, BBiomedSc students, and applicants from other courses and institutions will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Honours coordinator. Honours coordinator Professor Richard O'Hair Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. Enrolment in the program is possible between either February and November or July and June. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in this combined chemistry and biochemistry honours program must:
Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. Their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework Students select five lecture subjects. Each of these subjects will be examined by formal written examination; examination and assignment; or assignment alone, and may be examined during or at the end of Semester 1. All five lecture subjects are of equal value, each one contributing up to one-fifth of the total marks available for the advanced coursework subject. Research project The research project subject involves the completion of:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Miss Vicki Burley Te: +61 3 8344 6495 Combined chemistry and biochemistry (chemistry coursework) honours program. Overview This honours program in chemistry and biochemistry is designed to:
Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the combined chemistry and biochemistry honours program should typically have a major in chemistry. Applications from Science students who do not formally have a chemistry major, BBiomedSc students, and applicants from other courses and institutions will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Honours coordinator. Selection into the combined honours program must be endorsed by both departments. Honours coordinators Professor Richard O'Hair (chemistry) Professor Malcolm McConville (biochemistry and molecular biology) Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program runs either from February to November or July to June. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in this combined chemistry and biochemistry honours program must obtain a pass in the 'Safety in the Laboratory' course. Students who fail this course will have to complete an additional study program and be reassessed. A pass in the 'Safety in the Laboratory' course is required before students begin their research and advanced coursework. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects must be taken concurrently. Their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework Students select five lecture subjects. Each of these subjects will be examined by formal written examination; examination and assignment; or assignment alone, and may be examined during or at the end of Semester 1. All five lecture subjects are of equal value, each one contributing up to one-fifth of the total marks available for the advanced coursework subject. Research project This subject comprises an original research project, supervised by one academic staff member from each of the School of Chemistry and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The research project continues throughout the year. The research project subject involves the completion of:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Professor Malcolm McConville Tel: +61 3 8344 2342 Miss Vicki Burley (School of Chemistry) Te: +61 3 8344 6495 Combined chemistry and pharmacology honours program Overview This honours program in pharmacology and chemistry is designed to:
Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in the combined pharmacology and chemistry honours program should typically have a major in chemistry. Applications from Science students who do not formally have a chemistry major, BBiomedSc students, and applicants from other courses and institutions will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Honours coordinator. Selection into the combined honours program must be endorsed by both departments. Honours coordinators Professor Richard O'Hair (chemistry) Dr Tony Hughes (pharmacology) Duration and commencement of the course This particular honours program can only be taken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and normally finishes in November. Mid-year commencement (July to June) will be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to approval by the heads of both departments. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in this combined chemistry and pharmacology honours program must attend and satisfactorily complete the 'Safety in the Laboratory' and 'Animal Ethics' courses, as well as any other preliminary requirements stipulated by either the School of Chemistry or the Department of Pharmacology. Students who do not reach the required standard will be required to complete an additional study program and reassessment. A pass in 'Safety in the Laboratory' course is required before any student can commence the research project and advanced lecture course. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects must be taken concurrently. Their relative weights are as follows:
Advanced coursework Students are required to complete five lecture modules comprising two core pharmacology lecture modules, two chemistry lecture modules and a further pharmacology or chemistry module. In all cases, students will be required to undertake the two core modules Advanced Pharmacology and Advanced Methodology and Molecular Pharmacology. Each module will be examined by a formal written examination at the end of Semester 1, or by assignment. All five modules are of equal value, each one contributing one-fifth of the total marks available for the advanced coursework subject. Research project This subject comprises an original research project, supervised by two staff members, one from each of the School of Chemistry and the Department of Pharmacology. The research project continues throughout the year. The research project subject involves completion of:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Miss Vicki Burley (School of Chemistry) Tel: +61 3 8344 6495 Dr Tony Hughes Tel: +61 3 8344 8604 Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences (Barwon Health)Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences (Barwon Health) honours program Overview The honours program in the Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences (Barwon Health) involves advanced coursework and a research project. The course aims to provide advanced training in biomedical research in an active multidisciplinary research environment. Skills will be obtained in experimental design, modern laboratory techniques, data analysis and interpretation. Particular attention will also be given to the development of written and presentation skills. Additional key objectives are to complete a research project under the guidance of a nominated supervisor and completion of advanced coursework which will relate to theoretical and technical aspects of the project's research field. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the honours program in the Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences need to have completed 300-level science subjects relevant to biomedical research (eg. anatomy, biochemistry and molecular biology, biostatistics, genetics, microbiology and immunology, pathology, pharmacology, physiology, psychology, zoology). Honours coordinator Dr Seetal Dodd Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. Assessment Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative ratings are as follows:
For information about the weighting of components of assessment within the research project and the advanced coursework, please contact the department. Research project An original research project will be carried out, supervised by an expert in the field of biomedical research. A minor thesis documenting the research will be submitted for examination by three independent internal experts. Two department seminars will be presented: one as an introduction to the project and the other as a summary of project outcomes associated with the thesis presentation. Internal assessment will be conducted by senior researchers. Advanced coursework This component of the program comprises:
Components of advanced coursework will be assessed by written examination. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Dr Seetal Dodd Tel: +61 3 5226 7666 Email: seetald@barwonhealth.org.au Department of Computer Science and Software EngineeringThe Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering offers the following honours programs:
The computer science program is described below. Computer science honours programOverview The honours program in computer science is designed to:
Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the computer science honours program must:
Applications will also be evaluated with regard to prerequisites for 400-level subjects, strength in areas related to research interests in the department, and overall academic strength. While 50 points of 300-level study in computer science is the minimum for entry to BSc (Honours), students should note that the 400-level honours subjects offered by the department have individual prerequisites that may not be satisfied by some combinations of 50 points of 300-level subjects. Students wishing to retain a wide range of options at the 400-level are advised to select at least four of: 433-303 Artificial Intelligence; 433-330 Theory of Computation; 433-341 Software Engineering Process and Practice; 433-351 Database Systems; 433-361 Programming Language Implementation; and 433-380 Graphics and Computation. Study of mathematics or statistics at the second-year level is strongly recommended. Students from other institutions and other backgrounds should contact the honours coordinator to determine their eligibility for entry to the BSc (Honours) course. Honours coordinator Dr Adrian Pearce Duration and commencement of course The BSc (Honours) program in computer science can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, commencing in late February each year. The program requires one year of full-time study, or two years of part-time study. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the computer science BSc (Honours) program must pass 100 points of approved subjects, including the Computer Science Research Project, and must have a weighted average mark of at least 65 percent. Students enrolled in the computer science honours program are also expected to have a satisfactory level of attendance at departmental seminars. Students will be advised of hurdle requirements for the individual coursework subjects at the commencement of each subject. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and five advanced coursework subjects. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
The final honours grade is the weighted average mark over the 100 points included in these two components. Advanced coursework The advanced coursework component in the BSc (Honours) requires completion of five 12.5 point subjects, chosen from the following list: 400-level computer science subjects (subjects without a semester indicator are not offered in 2008)
Students may enrol in one 300-level subject and up to two 600-level subjects in computer science as part of their advanced coursework component, with the permission of the Honours coordinator. For details of these subjects, please refer to the individual subject descriptions in this Course and Subject Handbook, contact the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, or visit the departmental web site at http://www.csse.unimelb.edu.au Students should note that in any given year the department may choose not to offer one or more of the pool of 400- and 600-level subjects. Students are advised to make contact with the department late in the previous year to determine if particular subjects will be available. Students are reminded that to be awarded the BSc (Honours) they must complete 100 points of approved subjects including an honours research project, and must achieve a weighted average over those subjects of at least 65 percent. Research project In addition to the advanced coursework, students must complete a total of 37.5 points of enrolment in the Computer Science Research Project subject. The Computer Science Research Project subject comprises a research report of up to 40 pages (20 000 words) and an oral presentation not exceeding 30 minutes. Students are required to obtain a mark of at least 65 percent in this subject. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Dr Adrian Pearce Tel: +61 3 8344 1399 Email: adrianrp@unimelb.edu.au School of Dental ScienceOral biology honours program Overview We offer research within a multidisciplinary environment. Hence we welcome students from a variety of backgrounds including chemistry, biochemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, genetics and anatomy. The research component offers students the opportunity to use state-of-the-art techniques in protein chemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, immunobiology, mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy, molecular modelling, skeletal biology, histomorphometry, aging of the skeleton and image analysis. Web site: http://www.dent.unimelb.edu.au/dsweb/postgrad_programs/honours.html. Admission requirements Students must satisfy the Faculty of Science entry requirements. Information about the departmental entry requirements can be obtained from the department. Honours coordinators Dr Laila Huq (academic) Ms Kim Hanson (administrative) Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can be undertaken on a full-time basis only. The program commences in February and finishes in November. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours degree Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Research project Students conduct an original research project supervised by a member of staff in one of the four research units within the School of Dental Science. Current areas of major research activity with the school include the molecular biology of oral diseases and microbial pathogens, the cell biology and development of oral tissues, dental epidemiology, and the evaluation and development of novel dental restorative materials. Students prepare a report (thesis) at the end of the period not exceeding 10,000 words Advanced coursework Students undertake:
Students must complete the following requirements:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Dr Laila Huq Tel: +61 3 9341 0821 Email: l.huq@dent.unimelb.edu.au Ms Kim Hanson Tel: +61 3 9341 1507 Email: khanson@unimelb.edu.au School of Earth SciencesEarth sciences honours program Overview The honours program in earth sciences is designed to prepare students for industry employment and for further research. Emphasis is placed on individual research and professional presentation of results. The program includes at least twenty days of advanced coursework, a literature review of your chosen research field and a written and oral report about your research project. The honours program offered by the School of Earth Sciences allows specialisation in the following areas: geology; atmosphere and ocean sciences; and environmental earth sciences. The departmental entry requirements for these areas differ (see the admission requirements section that follows for details). Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering honours programs in earth sciences disciplines must have achieved the following:
Honours coordinator Dr Kevin Walsh Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. A mid-year intake is dependent on availability of supervisors and would generally begin in July-August and finish in March-April. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the earth sciences honours program must also attend information sessions, special lectures and relevant presentations in the school's seminar program. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject comprises twenty days of specialist short courses chosen to complement the student's area of research. These advanced courses are chosen from the Victorian Institute of Earth and Planetary Science joint curriculum taught by the University of Melbourne and Monash University. Thirty courses are usually offered, ranging from two days to one week in duration. Research project The research project subject comprises a scientific research report, a literature review and an oral presentation. Students will devote considerable attention to the writing and presentation of the research. Clear identification of objectives, evaluation of the methodologies adopted and critical appraisal of the results obtained form important aspects of the report. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Dr Kevin Walsh Tel: +61 3 8344 6523 Email: kevin.walsh@unimelb.edu.au
Genetics honours program Overview Students enrolled in the honours program in the Department of Genetics complete a research project and advanced coursework. The program allows students to acquire skills in analysing and evaluating data, and communicating scientific information in both written and oral presentations. Research projects cover a broad range of research from molecular to population and evolutionary genetics in micro-organisms, insects, plants and animals. The research project aims to develop a range of experimental and technical skills, a capacity to set goals and to design and plan experiments. Apart from the help and guidance from their supervisor(s) each student also has a committee which regularly meets with them and provides additional help and expertise. This committee is responsible for assessment of the research project subject. The advanced coursework comprises an essay reviewing the literature related to the research area, sets of lectures in various areas of genetics, journal clubs where published papers are analysed and discussed, and written exercises. The course provides students with skills and knowledge for original research and enhanced written and oral communication skills. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, BSc or BSc combined degree students wishing to enter the genetics honours program need to complete at least 50 points of 300-level genetics subjects, including 652-304 Genetic Analysis. However in special circumstances, particularly where relevant 300-level practical subjects in other biological disciplines have been completed, these requirements may be waived by the Head of Department. BBiomedSc students wishing to enter the genetics honours program need to have completed 652-214 Principles of Genetics, 652-216 Molecular & General Genetics Practical and at least 25 points of 300-level genetics subjects. Honours coordinator Professor Jim Camakaris Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program is normally undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
For information about the weighting of the components of assessment within the research project subject and within the advanced coursework subject, please contact the Department of Genetics at the start of the honours program. Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject comprises a critical appraisal of the literature relevant to the research project (up to 3000 words) and written exercises based on the lecture topics. Research project The research project subject comprises a research report of 40 pages (excluding figures, tables and appendices), and an assessment of research performance. There is also a research talk which is not assessed. Further information If you require further information about this honours program see http://www.genetics.unimelb.edu.au/Honours/ or contact: Professor Jim Camakaris Tel: +61 3 8344 5138 Email: j.camakaris@unimelb.edu.au Ms Poppy Gatsios Tel: +61 3 8344 6246Overview For many students honours is the most exciting and valuable year at university. Working with individual supervision and following up their special interests enables students to develop their research and writing techniques and apply the knowledge gained in earlier years of undergraduate study to the solution of real problems. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the geography honours program need to:
Students who have completed a specialisation in environmental science may also be eligible for entry to the geography honours program. Honours coordinator Assoc. Prof. Mark Wang Duration and commencement of course Honours in geography and environmental studies is undertaken on a full-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered subject to the approval of the school. Part-time study of honours is only permitted under exceptional circumstances, subject to the approval of the head of school. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the geography honours program must:
Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework
Research project The research project subject comprises original research on a problem selected in consultation with a supervisor and the head of the department, and involves regular meetings with the supervisor. Further information Tel: 8344 0807 Email: myw@unimelb.edu.au
History and Philosophy of Science honours program. Overview Honours study in history and philosophy of science provides training at an advanced level in various aspects of the discipline, and prepares students with requisite background to proceed to postgraduate research. Admission requirements
Honours coordinator Kristian Camilleri Duration and commencement of course Assessment Students must satisfy the honours degree Course requirements. Components of assessment Students undertaking Honours in HPS must complete the following:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework component requires completion of five 12.5 point honours/postgraduate subjects, chosen in consultation with the HPS Honours coordinator. Thesis The HPS Thesis subject requires completion of a 12,000-word thesis on an approved topic, carried out under the supervision of a member of the department. Students meet regularly with their supervisor over two consecutive semesters. The thesis is due at the end of the second semester of enrolment. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact:
Department of Mathematics and Statistics The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers the following honours programs:
Information about these programs is provided below. After completing honours, graduates wishing to pursue a non-academic career will have the advantage of the experience of project work and directed research not usually provided by a pass degree. Many employers view an honours degree as the minimal professional qualification. Students interested in further academic work will be well placed for entry into postgraduate programs at the University of Melbourne or other world-class institutions. Mathematics and statistics honours program Overview The honours program in mathematics and statistics is designed to train graduates in advanced mathematics and statistics topics and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research. The program involves completion of an advanced coursework subject and a research project subject. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the mathematics and statistics honours program need to have attained an H3 or better in at least four 300-level mathematics/statistics subjects. Students who do not meet these requirements, but who have achieved very good results in other areas, may be considered for entry to honours on the recommendation of the head of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. Prospective honours students should refer to the suggested 300-level specialisation subjects below for guidance in selecting their 300-level mathematics/statistics subjects. It is strongly recommended that more than four 300-level mathematics/statistics subjects are taken, since the number of options available at the 400-level would be restricted if only four 300-level mathematics/statistics subjects had been completed. If only four 300-level mathematics/statistics subjects are taken, the subject 620-351 Number Theory should not be included and at most one of 620-352 Graph Theory and 620-381 Computational Mathematics should be included. To retain the widest possible choice of honours options, students are recommended to include the following subjects in second year: 620-221 Real and Complex Analysis or 620-252 Analysis, 620-231 Vector Analysis or 620-233 Vector Analysis (Advanced), and at least two of 620-201 Probability, 620-202 Statistics, 620-222 Linear and Abstract Algebra, 620-232 Mathematical Methods, 620-234 Mathematical Methods (Advanced), 620-261 Introduction to Operations Research. Suggested 300-level specialisation subjects The following is a list of suggested 300-level subjects to be taken in order to do honours in one or more research streams in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. Algebra: To do honours in algebra, a student is required to do 620-321 and should normally have done 620-322. (Students missing one or both of these courses but interested in taking a course in the algebra stream should discuss possibilities with the appropriate lecturer well before the start of semester.) It is also recommended that students do 620-311, 620-312 and 620-351. Analysis: To do honours in analysis, a student is required to do 620-311 and 620-312. Discrete Mathematics: To do honours in discrete mathematics and combinatorics, usually a student is required to do 620-221 or 620-252, 620-352 and 620-353. It is suggested that 620-301, 620-321, and 620-351 make good supplementary subjects. Geometry and Topology: To do honours in geometry and topology, a student is required to do 620-322 and normally should have done 620-311 and 620-321. Students without these units should talk to the appropriate lecturers in the Honours courses. Mathematical Physics and Statistical Mechanics: To do honours in mathematical physics and statistical mechanics, usually a student is required to do 620-221 or 620-252 and 620-331. The subject 620-332 is also highly recommended. Methods and Modeling: To do honours in methods and modeling, usually a student is required to do 620-331 and 620-342. It is suggested that 620-332 and 620-381 make good supplementary subjects. Probability and Stochastic Processes: To do honours in probability and stochastic processes, usually a student is required to do 620-301 and 620-302. It is also recommended that students do 620-312, 620-361 and 620-371. Operations Research: To do honours in operations research, usually a student is required to do 620-361 and 620-362. It is also recommended that students do 620-301, 620-352 and 620-381. Statistics: To do honours in statistics, usually a student is required to do 620-301, 620-371 and 620-372. It is also recommended that students do 620-302 and 620-374. Honours coordinators Associate Professor Felisa Vázquez-Abad Dr Sanming Zhou Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours degree Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework All mathematics and statistics honours students must complete six of the modules listed in the Mathematics and Statistics Honours Guide (honours advanced coursework modules). The Honours Guide is updated every year and is available from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics Office. Each honours module is one semester in length and comprises 24 contact hours (usually two lectures per week), some or all of which may consist of seminars, guided reading or project work. Full-time students usually undertake four honours advanced coursework modules in the first semester and two subjects in the second semester. The advanced coursework modules are clustered in nine streams: algebra, analysis, discrete mathematics, geometry and topology, mathematical physics and statistical mechanics, methods and modeling, probability and stochastic processes, operations research, statistics. Usually each stream offers three modules, two of which will usually be available in Semester 1 and one in Semester 2. Students usually take at least two modules from two different streams, one of which will normally be in the same stream as that of the research project. For all modules, up to 40 pages of written assignments and up to three hours of written and/or oral examinations are required. Any student may, with permission, study and be assessed in more than six modules. In determining the final grade, only the best six honours advanced coursework modules will be considered. Students wishing to take advantage of the intensive summer courses/modules run by the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI) may replace one honours advanced coursework module with either one full length course/module (20 days contact in total) or two short courses/modules (10 days contact in total). Only one honours advanced coursework module may be substituted in this way. Research project Honours students are required to conduct research under the supervision of their supervisors. A list of the research interests of the department is outlined in the departmental research report available from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics office. Intending honours students should approach individual staff members to discuss possible research projects. Any difficulties in reaching decisions about research topics should be discussed with the honours coordinator. Preliminary reading should commence in the first month of the program, with the bulk of the project being completed in the second half of the program. Assessment of the research project will consider: clarity and exposition; mathematical accuracy; mathematical insight displayed; coverage of the field and references, and may be complemented by one or more of the following: description of the application and/or business context; mathematical modelling; presentation and analysis of numerical results. Honours students will be required to give two seminars before their results are finalized, including one presentation towards the end of the program. Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the department and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. It is therefore expected that students will attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact the honours coordinators: Department of Mathematics and Statistics Tel: +61 3 8344 5550 Applied statistics honours program Overview The honours program in applied statistics is designed to train graduates in applications of statistical methods, with supporting studies in theoretical statistics and stochastic processes. The program also aims to:
The applied statistics honours program is more accessible than the honours program in mathematics and statistics to students who have a restricted mathematics background, but have some experience at 200-level or 300-level in economics and commerce, biological sciences, or social sciences. The program involves completion of an advanced coursework subject and a research project subject. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, entry usually requires an H3 or better in at least four third-year subjects offered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. These subjects must include 620-371 Linear Models and 620-372 Applied Statistical Inference. Students who do not meet the requirements, but who have achieved very good results in other areas, may be considered for entry on the recommendation of the coordinator and the head of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. Suggested 300-level specialisation subjects Applied Statistics: To do honours in applied statistics, usually a student is required to do 620-371, 620-372 and 620-374. Honours coordinator Associate Professor Felisa Vázquez-Abad Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, and a mid-year intake is offered. The program can be undertaken either between February and November or July and June. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours degree Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework Students select six of the subjects offered through the Key Centre for Statistical Sciences (KCSS) at La Trobe University, Monash University, RMIT and the University of Melbourne. Each subject comprises a total of 24 hours of lectures, presented in one 2-hour session per week, during either Semester 1 or 2. The subjects are detailed in the KCSS booklet available from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics office. Subject selection requires departmental approval. In some cases, approval may be given to substitute subjects of comparable standard from other areas such as mathematics and statistics, economics and computer science. The assessment of the advanced coursework subject entails assignments (up to 50 pages) and a two-hour written exam for each of the seven KCSS subjects. Examinations are held at the end of each semester. All KCSS subjects are of equal weight. Research project This subject comprises a research project completed under the supervision of a staff member in an area of statistics approved by the subject coordinator. Students are expected to submit a detailed outline of their research project by the end of their first semester of honours level study. The assessment comprises:
Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the department and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact the honours coordinator: Department of Mathematics and Statistics Tel: +61 3 8344 5550 Combined mathematics and statistics/physics honours program Overview This honours program is available only in consultation with the honours coordinators of both mathematics/statistics and physics. It is designed to train graduates in advanced mathematics/statistics and physics topics, and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research. The program involves completion of an advanced coursework subject and a research project subject. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students should plan a course of study that is approved by both the mathematics/statistics and physics honours coordinators. An H3 average will be required in the subjects that are prerequisites for the honours level subjects the student plans to study. Selection into the combined honours program must be endorsed by both departments. Honours coordinators Dr Sanming Zhou (mathematics and statistics) Associate Professor Chris Chantler (physics) Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis commencing at the start of semester 1. Subject to the approval of both departments, an applicant who is able to devise an appropriate course plan in conjunction with both departments may be considered for mid-year entry. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students enrolled in honours need to obtain a minimum of 65 percent for both the research project subject and the advanced coursework subject. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework Students should establish with the honours coordinators the relative weighting of each piece of mathematics/statistics or physics work that is required for this subject. Research project The research project is marked by two examiners appointed by the coordinators. Assessment of the research project will consider: clarity and exposition; mathematical accuracy; mathematical insight displayed; coverage of the field and references, and may be complemented by one or more of the following: description of the application and/or business context; mathematical modelling; presentation and analysis of numerical results. Students are expected to submit a detailed outline of their research project by the end of their first semester of honours study. They are also required to give two seminars before their results are finalised, including one presentation towards the end of the program. Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the departments and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact the honours coordinators: Department of Mathematics and Statistics Tel: +61 3 8344 5550 Combined mathematics and statistics/computer science honours program Overview This honours program is available only in consultation with the honours coordinators of both mathematics/statistics and computer science. It is designed to train graduates in advanced mathematics/statistics and computer science topics, and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in research. The program involves completion of an advanced coursework subject and a research project subject. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students should plan a course of study that is approved by both the mathematics/statistics and computer science honours coordinators and have completed the prerequisite subjects with at least an H3 average. Selection into the combined honours program must be endorsed by both departments. Honours coordinators Dr Sanming Zhou (mathematics and statistics) Dr Adrian Pearce (computer science) Duration of course and commencement of course This particular honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis commencing at the start of semester 1. Subject to the approval of both departments, an applicant who is able to devise an appropriate course plan in conjunction with both departments may be considered for mid-year entry. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours degree Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework Students should establish, with the honours coordinators, the relative weighting of each piece of mathematics and statistics or computer science work that is required for this subject. Research project The research project is marked by two examiners appointed by the coordinators. Assessment of the research project will consider: clarity and exposition; mathematical accuracy; mathematical insight displayed; coverage of the field and references, and may be complemented by one or more of the following: description of the application and/or business context; mathematical modelling; presentation and analysis of numerical results. Students are expected to submit a detailed outline of their research project by the end of their first semester of honours level study. They are also required to give two seminars before their results are finalised, including one presentation towards the end of the program. Honours students should consider themselves a part of the research strength of the departments and view departmental seminars as a method of broadening their knowledge. They are therefore expected to attend all research seminars in the broad area of their chosen field. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact the honours coordinators: Department of Mathematics and Statistics Tel: +61 3 8344 5550 Department of Medical Biology (The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute)Department of Medical Biology honours program Overview The Department of Medical Biology honours program is designed to:
Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the medical biology honours program need to obtain high H2A grades or better in 300-level science subjects relevant to medical research. Honours coordinator Professor Doug Hilton Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the medical biology honours program must:
Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject comprises:
Research project The research project subject comprises:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Mr Frank Draffen, (Academic Administration) Tel: +61 3 9345 2555 Email: draffen@wehi.edu.au Professor Doug Hilton Email: hilton@wehi.edu.au
Department of Medicine (Austin Health/Northern Health) Department of Medicine (Austin Health/Northern Health) honours program Overview This honours program in the Department of Medicine (Austin Health/Northern Health) is designed to:
Admission requirements Students need to satisfy the Faculty of Science entry requirements. Honours coordinators Dr Rachel Davey (academic) Ms Joan Lambiase (administrative) Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Research project This subject aims to provide opportunities for students to gain an understanding in, and extend the practice of biomedical research. Students are required to complete a research project under the guidance of a supervisor. Students are required to produce a written thesis, and give an oral seminar presentation that discusses planning of experiments, the methods used and analysis of results obtained during the course of the research project. Assessment consists of a written thesis, a departmental seminar presentation and a supervisor/coordinator report. Advanced coursework This subject aims to extend the student's education and intellectual development in a field of biomedical science not pertaining to the subject of their research project. Students are required to attend Departmental 'Research In Progress' Seminars and participate in a Continuing Education program that consists of a series of lectures and workshops that cover a wide range of topics. Assessment consists of a literature review in the area of the project under study, a written assignment based on a nominated advanced area of biomedical research and an abstract and poster presentation describing the findings of the research project. For information about the weighting of components of assessment within the research project subject and the advanced coursework subject, please contact the department. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Ms Joan Lambiase Tel: +61 3 9496 3598 Email: lambiase@unimelb.edu.au Dr Rachel Davey Tel: +61 3 9496 5507 Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital)Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital) honours program Overview The honours program in the Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital) involves advanced coursework and a research project. The advanced coursework subject consists of a lecture/seminar series held during March, April and May, which aims to give a broad exposure to the various approaches and methods used to address questions of biomedical importance. The research project subject requires students to undertake an original supervised project aimed at gaining first-hand experience in designing, executing and presenting original biomedical research. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital) honours program need to have completed 300-level science subjects relevant to biomedical research (eg. anatomy, biochemistry and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology and immunology, pathology, pharmacology, physiology, zoology). Honours coordinator Professor Gary Anderson (academic) Mrs Heather Saunders (administrative) Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Hospital) honours program must also give an oral critique of two journal articles and two presentations about the research project at research group meetings, and submit a literature review on the research project by the end of July. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject is assessed by a three-hour short answer examination based upon the lecture series. This examination is held in June. Research project The research project subject comprises the following:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Professor Gary Anderson Tel: +61 3 8344 8602 Mrs Heather Saunders Tel: +61 3 8344 5479 Department of Medicine (St Vincent's Hospital)Department of Medicine (St Vincent's Hospital) honours program Overview The honours program in the Department of Medicine (St Vincent's Hospital) involves advanced coursework and a research project. The course aims to provide advanced training in biomedical research in an active multidisciplinary research environment. Skills will be obtained in experimental design, modern laboratory techniques, data analysis and interpretation. Particular attention will also be given to the development of written and presentation skills. Additional key objectives are to complete a research project under the guidance of a nominated supervisor and completion of advanced coursework which will relate to theoretical and technical aspects of the project's research field. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the Department of Medicine (St Vincent's Hospital) honours program need to have completed 300-level science subjects relevant to biomedical research (eg. anatomy, biochemistry and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology and immunology, pathology, pharmacology, physiology, zoology). Honours coordinators Associate Professor Darren Kelly Dr Sue Rogers Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
For information about the weighting of components of assessment within the research project subject and the advanced coursework subject, please contact the department. Research project An original research project will be carried out supervised by an expert in the field of biomedical research. A minor thesis documenting the research will be submitted for examination by two independent internal experts. Assessment will consist of:
Advanced coursework Assessment will consist of:
Further information If you require information about this honours program please contact: Associate Professor Darren Kelly / Dr Sue Rogers Tel: +61 3 9288 3206 Email: enquiries@medstv.unimelb.edu.au Or visit the Department's Honours website: http://www.medstv.unimelb.edu.au/Prospective/Honours/
Department of Microbiology and Immunology Microbiology and immunology honours program Overview The Department of Microbiology and Immunology honours program aims to:
The advanced coursework topics are chosen to acquaint students with a broad range of microbiology and immunology topics to supplement the in-depth experience of a specialised field which they will gain from their research project. As far as possible the subject areas bridge across disciplines so that all students are on an equal footing. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, applicants for the microbiology and immunology honours program should ideally have completed a significant component of microbiology and/or immunology at the 300 level. Equivalent studies in biochemistry and molecular biology, genetics and/or pathology may be acceptable for those undertaking research in areas such as biotechnology, molecular genetics or immunology respectively. Honours coordinators Dr Mike Dyall-Smith Dr Odilia Wijburg Dr Stephen Turner Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in late February and finishes in November. Mid-year intake will be considered under some circumstances, commencing in August and finishing in May the following year. In this case the coursework component will be completed in Semester 1 of the year following commencement. By arrangement with supervisors, students may start laboratory work in early February. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours degree Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
(Both an oral and written presentation of the research work will be required and assessed.) Information about these subjects is available from the department. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Department of Microbiology and Immunology Tel: +61 3 8344 5679 Dr Mike Dyall-Smith Email: mlds@unimelb.edu.au Email: odilia@unimelb.edu.au Dr Stephen Turner sjturn@unimelb.edu.au or see the departmental web site at: http://www.microbiol.unimelb.edu.au/student/hons/ Department of Optometry and Vision SciencesVision sciences honours program Overview The honours program offered by the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences involves advanced coursework and a research project. Students are encouraged to develop the ability to define and solve problems and to learn how to conduct research in vision sciences or optics. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students must have a major study in at least one of biochemistry, mathematics, neuroscience, physiology, pharmacology, physics, psychology, vision sciences or zoology. Majors in other areas from related disciplines will be considered. Honours coordinator Dr Larry Abel Duration and commencement of course This honours program is normally only available on a full-time basis. Students may commence:
Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the vision sciences honours program are required to attend and participate in departmental seminars, including the Vision Science Seminar Series and Journal Club. A 15-minute oral presentation at two honours mini-symposia during the course is also a hurdle requirement. Components of assessment The Honours program comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects, and their relative weightings in the 100-point course, are as follows:
Research project Under the supervision of an academic staff member, students conduct research and prepare a report in the form of a thesis not exceeding 15,000 words. A list of the research interests of the Department is available in the document, Research Areas in Optometry and Vision Sciences, from the Department Office or on the Department's website (http://www.optometry.unimelb.edu.au/research/labs.html). Potential Honours students should approach the Honours Coordinator or specific academic staff in the areas of research interest to discuss possible research projects. Further guidelines for thesis formatting, etc., are provided in the Department's Honours manual distributed at the commencement of the course. The thesis is normally due for submission in the first week of November (for students who commenced at the beginning of the year), or in the first week of May (for students who commenced mid-year). The student's supervisor will provide a mark (7.5% of the total Honours mark) that reflects the student's performance in the laboratory. The examiners will normally include the Honours Coordinator and one other member of the Department's academic staff, and they will provide a mark for the thesis (60% of the total Honours mark). The thesis examiners will also assess a student's oral presentation made after the thesis has been submitted (7.5% of the total Honours mark). Advanced coursework Students are required to undertake the compulsory Advanced Research Methods subject plus one other elective module (each component contributes 12.5% to the total Honours mark):
Plus an elective subject:
If a student is unable to choose a subject from the Department, the student's supervisor will assist the studetn to choose a coursework subject at 300-level or above from other departments at the University of Melbourne. However if a student is still unable to choose a subject from the departments, the following option may be taken.
Further information Information about departmental research areas is available on the Department's website (http://www.optometry.unimelb.edu.au/research/labs.html). If you require further information about this honours program please contact: The Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences Office Tel: +61 3 8344 7012 Email: optom-info@unimelb.edu.au Dr Larry Abel Honours Coordinator Tel: +61 3 8344 7007 Email: label@unimelb.edu.au Department of OtolaryngologyHearing sciences honours program Overview The honours program in otolaryngology aims to provide students with the skills required to carry out research related to the function of the auditory system. In achieving this objective, students should develop abilities to critically analyse research literature, formulate research plans based on hypotheses and statistical requirements, present and defend research results and write a coherent research thesis. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students should have completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant area including, but not restricted to, anatomy, biochemistry, genetics, histology, physiology, psychology, physics or mathematics. Honours coordinator Associate Professor Gary Rance Duration and commencement of course The honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, which commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the otolaryngology honours program are required to attend weekly departmental seminars. Components of assessment Honours comprises an advanced coursework subject and a research project subject. The relative weightings of these subjects are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject comprises two subjects: Research Methods in Communication Science, which will be examined by written examination and oral presentation; and Introduction to Hearing Science which will be examined by written examination. The latter subject will have components chosen to be relevant to the student's research project area, and may include anatomy and physiology, perception of sound and speech, acoustics or other relevent topics (25 percent). Research project The research project subject comprises completion of a supervised research project, for which an oral presentation of the aims and methods is to be given during the year and an oral presentation to the department on the results of this project to be given near the completion of the project (12.5 percent). A written report (thesis) is required at the completion of the project (62.5 percent). Further information If further information is required about this honours program please contact: Associate Professor Gary Rance Tel: +61 3 9929 8745 Email: grance@unimelb.edu.au Department of PaediatricsDepartment of Paediatrics honours program Overview The honours program in the Department of Paediatrics focuses on the molecular biology of human development and disease. The program, which consists of advanced lectures and supervised scientific biomedical research, is designed to:
Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the paediatrics honours program need to have successfully completed at least 50 points at 300-level science subjects relevant to biomedical or biological research chosen from biochemistry and molecular biology, genetics or microbiology and immunology. Acceptance is subject to availability of suitable topics and supervisors, and placement is competitive. Students should discuss their interests with the honours coordinator. Honours coordinator A/Prof Amanda Fosang Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements In addition to the honours degree Course requirements, students enrolled in the paediatrics honours program must:
Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject comprises advanced lectures and seminars on recent concepts and techniques in the molecular biology of human growth, development and disease. Students will be assessed by the following methods:
Research project The research project subject comprises completion of an original, supervised research project and the submission of a literature review (up to 1500 words) relating to the research project. Students will be assessed by the following methods:
Further information If you require further information about the honours program please contact: A/Prof Amanda Fosang Tel: +61 3 8341-6466 Email: amanda.fosang@mcri.edu.au Pathology honours program Overview The honours program offered by the Department of Pathology is designed to provide an environment where students can learn the theoretical and practical aspects of undertaking research about a wide range of disease processes at the cellular and molecular level. The department has a major emphasis in the investigation of neurological disorders including Alzheimer's disease, liver disease, disordered growth and immunopathology. The department is also affiliated with research institutions including the Austin Research Institute, Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, St Vincent's Hospital and Royal Children's Hospital. Bachelor of Science honours projects administered through the department are offered at these locations. A wide range of research projects are offered in the areas of regulation of inflammatory processes; immunology; transplantation; and cellular and genetic strategies for control and detection of neoplasia. Research projects and the advanced coursework offered in pathology enable students to:
Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the pathology honours program need to have completed at least 50 points of 300-level pathology subjects, or at least 50 points of 300-level biomedical science subjects. Honours coordinators Dr John R Underwood (coordinator) Dr Margaret Ayers (deputy coordinator) Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. A limited mid-year intake will be considered, commencing in July and finishing in May the following year. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours degree Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject includes two three-hour data assessment examinations. These examinations are designed to assess the capacity of students to interpret previously unseen research data which is based on information provided in the undergraduate pathology course, lectures delivered during the honours year, and data published in high quality scientific journals. Research project The research project subject includes the completion of a novel research project under the supervision of academic or research staff within, or affiliated with, the Department of Pathology. An introductory seminar outlining the project hypothesis, aims and methods to be used is presented early in the year. A critical review of literature relevant to the research project (3000-5000 words) is to be submitted mid-year. The honours report based on work undertaken in this project is prepared as a thesis and submitted in early November. A defence-of-thesis seminar is to be delivered to the department after submission of the thesis. The research project subject assessment comprises the following:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Dr John R Underwood Tel: +61 3 8344 4292 Dr Margaret Ayers Tel: +61 3 8344 5876
The Department of Pharmacology offers the following honours programs:
Pharmacology honours program Overview Admission requirements Honours coordinator Duration of course and commencement of course Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject comprises 29 hours of examinable lectures and 33 hours of tutorials in pharmacology in the first half of the year. There is one theory project (20 percent), a manuscript evaluation (10 percent) and a review writing exercise (7.5 percent). Total: 37.5 percent. Research project The research project comprises two research seminars (12.5 percent) and a written thesis of maximum 6000 words excluding figures, tables and references (50 percent). Total: 62.5 percent. Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: The School of Physics offers the following honours programs:
The physics program is described below. Physics honours program Overview The honours program in physics is designed to: Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the physics honours program must have completed the four core 300-level physics subjects: Note that undertaking the third means of satisfying the entry requirements is recommended for only those students with a strong background and genuine interest in mathematics. All students are urged to consult the School of Physics for advice regarding their 300-level course plans. Students entering honours in any of the above ways may apply to join any of the research groups within the School of Physics. Honours coordinator Associate Professor Chris Chantler Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Students must satisfy the honours degree Course requirements. Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Research project Advanced coursework Students need to complete six advanced coursework subjects. These must include the two subjects: Quantum Mechanics A and Quantum Mechanics B. The four other subjects may be selected from electives offered by the School and subjects from other disciplines (eg. mathematics and statistics) which are approved by the Head of the School of Physics. Elective subjects taught by the School cover topics in: Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Physiology honours program Overview The honours program in the Department of Physiology is designed to: • encourage ethical attitudes to: Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students must have a Faculty Honours Score of at least 70, or an equivalent level of studies. Honours coordinators Dr Glenn McConell and Prof Mark Hargreaves Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements; Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows: Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject comprises the following: Research project The assessed items for the research project subject include: Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Professor Mark Hargreaves Movement science honours program Overview Admission requirements Honours coordinator Professor Kim Bennell Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in March and concludes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Estimated total time commitment A minimum of 48 hours per week. Most students will spend more than the minimum time on their project in their commitment to perform at the highest possible standard in the Honours year. Assessment Components of assessment Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Research project A research project will be conducted under the supervision of research staff at the School of Physiotherapy. Students will undertake structured and independent learning appropriate to the project and will learn written and oral methods of research dissemination. Advanced coursework Structured and independent learning aiming to extend student's education in the fields of health, exercise, sports medicine, neuroscience or rehabilitation research and to enhance critical analysis skills. This subject will cover basic concepts of research methodology, design, and statistical analysis used in research. It will also comprise advanced learning in relation to specific relevant topics. Students will be required to locate and utilise information available in the scientific and medical literature. As part of this subject, students will attend (i) a 10-15 hour SPSS module to develop skills in using a statistical analysis computer package, (ii) an endnote workshop, (iii) weekly journal club and research seminars (iv) a tutorial program (approximately 10 x 1 hr sessions). Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Department of Psychiatry (Austin Health) Department of Psychiatry (Austin Health) honours program Overview Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the psychiatry honours program need to obtain a high H2A grade or better in 300-level science subjects relevant to medical research. Subjects from the following departments are deemed suitable: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Chemistry, Physiology and Psychology. Contact one of the honours coordinators for further guidance. Honours coordinators Associate Professor Trevor Norman Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Assessment Hurdle assessment requirements Components of assessment
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject comprises the following:
Research project The assessed items for the research project subject include:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Department of Surgery (Austin Health/Northern Health) honours program Overview Admission requirements Honours coordinators Professor Christopher Christophi Duration and commencement of course This particular honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis. The program commences in March and concludes in November. There is no mid-year intake. Estimated total time commitment A minimum of 45 hours per week. Most students will spend more than the minimum time on their project in their commitment to perform at the highest possible standard in the Honours year. Assessment Components of assessement Honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework
Research project The honours program aims to provide opportunities for students to gain an understanding in and extend the practice of biomedical research. Students are expected to complete a written thesis and give an oral presentation, discussing planning of experiments, methods used and analysis of results obtained during the Honours year. Formal assessment is as follows:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Zoology honours program Overview Discovery stream The honours program in the discovery stream in the Department of Zoology is designed to:
The program comprises a major, original, supervised research project, and a series of lectures and workshops covering design of experiments in biology, statistical analysis of biological data. It emphasises the development of organisational skills, particularly in scientific writing and oral presentation. Links stream The honours program in the links stream in the Department of Zoology is designed to:
The program comprises a minor project linked to, co-supervised by, or designed to be of practical value to industry, a government agency or other user of biological information and technology, workshops on handling and evaluating biological data sets, a series of lectures and workshops covering design of experiments in biology, and a statistical analysis of biological data. It emphasises oral and written communication across the boundaries between the biological sciences and other spheres of activity such as business or government and the ability to operate in group and team environments and to meet deadlines. Admission requirements In addition to satisfying the Faculty of Science entry requirements, students interested in entering the zoology honours program need to complete at least 50 points of 300-level zoology, or relevant 300-level subjects in other biological disciplines. BBiomedSc or environmental science students wishing to enter the zoology honours streams need to complete at least 25 points of 300-level zoology subjects in addition to BBiomedSc or environmental science core 300-level subjects and other 300-level subjects selected according to the regulations for their bachelors degree. In special circumstances, the Head of Department may waive these prerequisites. Admission is also subject to the availability of suitable topics and supervisors, and placement is competitive. Honours coordinators Dr Steve Swearer Dr Laura Parry Duration and commencement of course Subject to the availability of projects, both streams of the honours program in the Department of Zoology can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. Assessment: Discovery stream Hurdle assessment requirements Students enrolled in honours need to obtain a minimum of 65% in the research project subject and advanced coursework subject of their course. Components of assessment The discovery stream of honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject entails the following work.
Requirements that contribute to assessment:
Research project The research project subject entails the work noted below.
Requirements that contribute to assessment:
Assessment: Links stream Hurdle assessment requirements Students enrolled in honours need to obtain a minimum of 65 percent in the research project subject and advanced coursework subject of their course. Components of assessment The links stream of honours comprises a research project subject and an advanced coursework subject. These subjects with their relative weightings are as follows:
Advanced coursework The advanced coursework subject entails the following work.
Reseach project The research project subject entails the following work. Hurdle requirements that must be completed satistfactorily but do not contribute directly to the assessment include: Requirements that contribute to assessment:
Further information If you require further information about this honours program please contact: Dr Steve Swearer Tel: +61 3 8344 6253 Email: s.swearer@unimelb.edu.au Dr Laura Parry Tel: +61 3 8344 5341 Email: ljparry@unimelb.edu.au
|
| Entry Requirements: | To be eligible to enter honours you must satisfy both the Faculty of Science entry requirements and the requirements of the department offering the honours program you wish to undertake. If you are interested in applying for an honours program it is critical to consider these requirements when planning your undergraduate course. Faculty of Science entry requirements There are two faculty entry requirements which must be satisfied: 1. Admission to the BSc (Honours) requires completion of the BSc, BBiomedSc, BASc or equivalent qualification recognised by the Faculty of Science. The only exception to this is for those applicants currently enrolled in a BSc combined course at the University of Melbourne. These applicants need to have completed at least 300 course points, within which the science requirements of their combined course need to have been satisfied. 2. Graduates of the University of Melbourne must normally have a Science Honours Score of at least 65 percent, see Faculty Honours Score. Applicants who have completed their degree at other institutions must demonstrate that they have achieved an average of 65 percent for the third year information systems subjects, or related subjects, they have studied. Faculty Honours Score To determine students' eligibility for admission to the honours programs of the Faculty of Science the faculty calculates a Science Honours Score (SHS) which is calculated as follows: 1. For graduates of the BSc single degree or the BBiomedSc, their SHS is the weighted average mark of their best 87.5 points of science study at 300-level. 2. For graduates of a BSc combined course or the BASc, or students who are still enrolled in a BSc combined course and have completed at least 300 points within which the requirements of the BSc have been satisfied, their SHS is the weighted average mark of completed science subjects at 300-level, or their best 87.5 points of science study at 300-level, whichever is greater. For students and graduates of the BASc and BA/BSc courses, History and Philosophy of Science subjects and Geography subjects must count towards the Arts component of their combined degree and therefore they are not considered in calculating their SHS. Departmental Requirements Departments usually require the completion of certain 300-level subjects, and/or a minimum number of 300-level points from a particular department, to be eligible for entry into their honours program. These requirements are specified in the departmental entries. |
| Core Participation Requirements: | It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study and reasonable steps will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their active and safe participation in a subject are encouraged to discuss this with the relevant subject coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit. |
| Further Study: | Graduates who successfully complete a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree with the required average of 75% (H2A) are eligible to apply for admission to a M.Phil. - Science or PhD - Science. |
| Graduate Attributes: | - |
| Links to further information: | http://www..science.unimelb.edu.au/honours/ |
| Notes: |
Applicants for most departments' programs apply direct to the relevant department. Application forms are available from http://www.science.unimelb.edu.au/honours/ Please contact the relevant department/s for the application closing dates. Applicants for Honours in Psychology must apply on-line: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/admissions/ Local applicants will be advised by the Faculty of Science Office of the outcome of their application for BSc (Honours). International applicants will be advised by the International Admissions Office of the outcome of their application. Additional information about honours programs is available on the Faculty of Science website at the URL: http://www.science.unimelb.edu.au/honours/ Please contact the honours coordinator in the department/s of your choice for further information. Note that departments generally hold an honours information session in September or October each year. Contact the honours coordinators for further details regarding the times and venues of these sessions. |
Download PDF version.