Diploma in Science
Explore the secrets of the world around us.
What is a Diploma?
A Diploma is a 12-month course that gives you the foundational skills and knowledge in a specific stream. A Diploma in Science will take you straight into the Second Year of your Bachelor of Science at UNSW.
It is a great option for you as an international student if you need a bit more support but don't want to add extra time to your degree. If you have just missed out on direct entry into your preferred bachelor's degree, or hold qualifications that are not recognised by UNSW Sydney, this could also be the program for you.
Intake
November 2024
Duration
12 months
Weekly class time
Approximately 20-25 hours
Progression
Second Year, Bachelor of Science at UNSW Sydney
Delivery mode
On-campus
CRICOS Code
095862A
Your journey with a Diploma Program
- Overview
- Progress to UNSW Sydney
- Program structure
- Entry requirements
- Key dates
- Fees and scholarships
Who is this program for?
The Diploma Program has been designed specifically for international students. Our Diplomas make it easy to adjust to university, with:
- smaller classes and at least 20% extra teaching time
- additional English and academic support
- course material equivalent to First Year courses within the UNSW Sydney degree, and
- access to the same facilities and resources as undergraduate students.
With an innovative First Year equivalent curriculum, you will gain a solid background in natural sciences, programming and introductory engineering courses. You will also get to design, develop and build your first prototype in your first engineering design course. This will give you a taster of what it is like for engineers in the real world.
Why study science at UNSW Sydney?
A UNSW science degree unlocks a world of career opportunities. From oceanography to neuroscience, biotech to quantum physics, you will gain the flexibility to explore different disciplines to find the field that sparks your passion. Create innovative solutions to the world’s biggest challenges and be equipped with transferable skills that can be applied to a wide range of industries.
UNSW provides world-class education and a career-focused student experience. You will belong to a connected student community with opportunities to expand your network socially and professionally, as well as full access to UNSW’s world-class libraries, labs, clubs and societies.
You will explore new ideas and diverse perspectives within a vibrant student community, through a wide choice of majors available in your Bachelor of Science.
Career opportunities
- Environmental Scientist
- Epidemiologist
- Geophysicist
- Hospital Technician
- Marine Biologist
- Medical Doctor
- Medical Lab Scientist
- Nutritionist
- Pharmacist
- Science Educator
- Scientist
- Veterinary Scientist
Your future at UNSW
Once you successfully complete a Diploma (and meet the entry requirements), you will be guaranteed entry into Second Year at UNSW Sydney. UNSW is one of Australia's leading research and teaching universities, ranked in the top 20 worldwide. Boasting a career-focused education, vibrant community and flexibility in study options, UNSW will help you discover the best version of yourself.
Want to know more about specific progression requirements for your chosen UNSW Sydney bachelor’s degree?
The Diploma in Science is designed to provide you with a pathway straight into Second Year of a Bachelor of Science where you will have the option to choose a degree major from the following:
Bachelor of Science majors
- Anatomy
- Biology and Biodiversity*
- Chemistry
- Food Science*
- Genetics
- Marine and Coastal*
- Materials Science
- Mathematics
- Microbiology
- Molecular & Cell Biology
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Physical Oceanography
- Physics
- Physiology
- Statistics
Note: Diploma in Science students must achieve a Satisfactory Grade (equivalent to IELTS 6.5) for the Communication and Academic Literacy course and a minimum pass for all other courses to progress to Second Year of the relevant degree program at UNSW. If you wish to study a major not on this list, you may be eligible to receive credit for courses that are common.
* Specific courses are required in Second Year, which may increase program duration.
Top 20
Worldwide
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
Most
Employable Graduates
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
Leading
Innovation
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
Program structure
Diploma students learn the fundamentals required for their future studies in courses that are equivalent to First Year undergraduate courses at UNSW Sydney.
All discipline-specific Diploma courses are equivalent to First Year undergraduate courses, but you get the added benefit of extra support to equip you with the academic and English skills you need to succeed. All so you have a strong basis for your journey into Second Year at UNSW Sydney, where you will choose your major.
For more information on each major you can study when you get to UNSW, see below.
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What is anatomy?
Anatomy is the study of the structure of the human body. It focuses on how our body parts interact to create our capacity to move, feel and think. Anatomy examines the macroscopic and microscopic structure of the body. This includes the anatomy of the developing body and evolutionary or comparative anatomy including biological anthropology.
Anatomy Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Anatomy subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
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What is biology?
Biology is the study of life and living organisms. These areas include botany, ecology, marine biology and zoology. Botany looks at all aspects of plants and their relation to the environment. Ecologists study the distribution and abundance of organisms as well as the structure and function of ecosystems. Marine biology is about life in the ocean, estuaries and other coastal environments. Zoology looks at the structure, behaviour, habits, genetics, distribution, evolution and classification of animals.
Biology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Biology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is chemistry?
Chemistry looks at the world around us, to assess the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of materials. Chemists develop cutting edge technologies to deliver solutions to societal challenges such as energy generation and storage, to service a growing population and demand; develop new drugs to aid society, and engage in many other beneficial research and development projects.
Chemistry Diploma subjects
View an example of the courses you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Chemistry subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is food science?
Food science is the discipline that applies science to all aspects involving food. This includes the production, handling, processing, preserving, and nutritional analysis of food. You will gain an understanding of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, the chemical components of food. This relatively new discipline is driven to a large degree by market demands of easy-to-prepare foods, which are safe to consume yet maintain their nutritional value.
Food science Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Food science subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B (Elective)
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells & Genes
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences (Elective)
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology (Elective)
- Mathematics 1A
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What is genetics?
Genetics is the study of genes, the blueprint of life, which are fundamental to all living organisms. Genes influence every characteristic of an organism, such as its appearance, behaviour, and susceptibility to disease. Genes can be influenced by the environment, affecting the development and maintenance of whole organisms. The combination of molecular and more traditional genetics has allowed us to solve problems in applications ranging from molecular genetics to human disease, plant breeding, microbiology and conservation biology.
Genetics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Genetics subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is marine & coastal science?
Marine & coastal science offers a unique opportunity to study across both physical and biological aspects of the marine environment. Biologists, geologists and oceanographers strive to learn more about the oceans so we can both use and protect this valuable resource. Marine biologists work with geologists who study the topography of the ocean floor, sediments and marine resources; with physical oceanographers who study the waves, currents and tides; or with chemists who study the chemical composition of seawater, including the concentrations of pollutants and nutrients.
Marine & coastal science Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Marine & coastal science subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is materials science?
Material science is the study of the properties and associated uses of materials including metals, ceramics, plastics, composites, nanomaterials and biomaterials. Material scientists develop high performance materials, engineer new applications, develop and customise innovative processing techniques, predict and analyse the performance of materials, and manage commercial material production. As a material scientist you can pursue a career in mining, hospitals, regulatory bodies, research institutions, tertiary education, medical device manufacturing and the biotechnology industry.
Materials science Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Materials science subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is mathematics?
Mathematics provides the fundamental understanding of nature, technology and commerce. Data and factual information can be interpreted using the techniques and theory of statistics. Graduates are highly sought after for employment in a diverse range of professions in areas including the sciences, finance, insurance, computing, and environmental modelling.
Mathematics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Mathematics subjects
Option one
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Option two
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is microbiology?
Microbiology is the study of the smallest organisms and their impacts. Micro-organisms are the oldest known and most diverse forms of life that we know about. They are beneficial in areas such as baking, brewing, the manufacture of dairy foods and pharmaceuticals. On the other hand, some forms of micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and archaea may cause disease and spoil our food.
Microbiology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Microbiology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is molecular & cell biology?
Molecular & cell biology marries biochemistry, genomics, and cell biology providing a new approach for the study of living organisms. Molecular biology represents a fundamental component of biological and medical science and has increasingly important roles to play in many aspects of modern medicine, genetics, evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, biotechnology and genomics.
Molecular & cell biology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Molecular & cell biology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is pathology?
Pathology is the study of diseases such as infections and cancers, and their processes, such as inflammation, at the genetic, molecular, cellular and organ levels. Pathologists examine the origins of diseases and their importance in the diagnosis of these diseases. You will become familiar with examining both macroscopic specimens and the microscopic differences between normal and abnormal cells, tissues and organs.
Pathology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Pathology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is pharmacology?
Pharmacology examines the interaction between drugs and living systems, particularly molecular interactions of drugs at the organ, tissue and cellular level. The study of pharmacology plays an increasingly important part in medicine as well as being of central importance in the education of pharmacists, toxicologists and veterinarians. A career as a pharmacologist could take you into the pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries in the areas of research, testing, administration and management of drugs.
Pharmacology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Pharmacology subjects
- Pharmacology courses
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Pharmacology courses
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What is physical oceanography?
Physical oceanography involves an understanding of the mathematical equations that describe fluid flow, and how these are used in the context of the oceans. It is essential to understanding climate change and global warming. You will gain an understanding of what controls coastal ocean currents, water-mass formation, upwelling, storm surges and large-scale ocean flow. You will also learn about the dynamics of a range of ocean processes, including waves, tides, beach currents and the El-Nino/Southern Oscillation. A background in oceanography can be applied to disciplines such as climatology, the dynamics of marine populations and the dynamic structure of marine and coastal habitats.
Physical oceanography Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Physical oceanography subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is physics?
Physics is the most basic and fundamental science and the laws of physics govern the behaviour of the universe. The study of physics looks at the nature and properties of matter and energy. You will be challenged to develop critical thinking skills, an ability to pose challenging questions, and solve problems. Physicists’ strong analytical and problem solving skills, coupled with their strong mathematical skills makes them useful in many industries such as communications, computing, electronics, finance and biomedical technology.
Physics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Physics subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is physiology?
Physiology examines how our body, organs, tissues and cells work as part of an integrated system. It describes the fundamental properties of living systems. Physiology is one of the major foundations of medicine and underpins biomedical study and research. Graduates are employed in various medical and health-related settings including hospitals as exercise physiologists, in rehabilitation, in sports institutes, government organisations, health administration and biomedical research.
Physiology Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Physiology subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Genes and Cells
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary & Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
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What is statistics?
Statistics is the process of posing questions and seeking answers by collecting and analysing suitable data. A career in statistics can take you into various fields including agriculture, medical research, industrial research, forensic science, market research, environmental science and quality assurance. This mode of inquiry also features prominently in the decision-making processes of both commerce and government through methods such as census.
Statistics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Science below.
Statistics subjects
Option One
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Higher Physics 1A or Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B or Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Option Two
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules & Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds & Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Applied Biomolecular Sciences
- Evolutionary and Functional Biology
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Mathematics 1A
Entry requirements
The Diploma Program is designed specifically for international students as a potential pathway to study at UNSW Sydney - before you start a Diploma, you must meet the required English language proficiency and specific academic entry requirements.
For more information on entry requirements, view the Diploma and UEEC entry requirements - requirements provided should be considered as a guide only and are subject to change.
In addition to academic and English requirements, some Diploma Programs require specific subject minimum grade requirements and assumed knowledge depending on your intended program.
Diploma in Science
Minimum grade requirement – Mathematics
Assumed knowledge – Relevant Sciences
If you don’t meet the academic entry requirements for a Diploma Program, you can complete a Foundation Studies program first.
If you need help meeting the English language requirements, you could complete the University English Entry Course (UEEC) before starting your Diploma Program.
Academic calendars
The academic calendar consists of important dates throughout your study period such as Orientation, census dates, study weeks, exam weeks and breaks for your program or course of study.
| Applications open | Last day to apply | Last day to accept | Orientation / Start date | Census / Last day to arrive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26th September 2024 | 24th October 2024 | 28th October 2024 | 25th November 2024 | 2nd December 2024 |
Diploma fees
2024 tuition fees
A$43,440
| Course | 2024 Indicative Fees Per Course ($AUD) | Courses to complete |
|---|---|---|
| Science | $5,430 | 7 |
| Communications and Academic Literacy (CAL) | $5,430 | 1 |
Communications and Academic Literacy (CAL) must be completed as part of each Diploma Program.
For additional information on our fees and other non-tuition fees, please see the Fees page.
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The program tuition fee that is quoted on your Letter of Offer is indicative and takes into account a range of factors such as:
- The calendar year in which you undertake your study in the course. For example, you may have commenced your Diploma in 2025, however you may undertake courses in 2026.
- Studying elective courses outside of your main program area. For example you may be enrolled in the Diploma in Business however you may have undertaken an elective unit from the Diploma in Media and Communication.
- Potential course variations to your Diploma studies.
Fees are reviewed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed, so it’s important to remember that indicative tuition fees shown above are not guaranteed. Any update to fees is effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are for tuition only – other fees and charges are not included.
When you enrol into new courses in your subsequent study terms at UNSW College, a fee statement will be generated in myUNSW indicating the precise tuition fee amount that you will need to pay.
Scholarships
If you start a Diploma in 2024 or 2025, you may be eligible to receive a scholarship for the duration of your studies.
Ready to apply?
If you’re ready to start your Diploma application, you can apply directly to UNSW.
At UNSW College, every application we receive is carefully considered. When you are ready to start your application, click the button below.
Need help?
If you need help or have questions about the application process, read our guide on How to Apply.
Or you can get advice from one of our certified agents who can help you through the process. Find an agent near you.
Why study with UNSW College?
Your path to a global top 20 university
Successfully complete a Diploma Program and progress directly to Second Year of a Bachelor of Science at UNSW Sydney.
Support as you learn
The Diploma Program is designed for international students like you, so you can develop English language and study skills to take the next step with confidence.
Directly connected to UNSW
The program is accredited by UNSW Sydney and provides full access to UNSW’s world class libraries, clubs and societies.
"The Diploma Program has helped me by implementing the bases of knowledge needed to progress further with our studies. Furthermore, it gave me more information that helped me decide which major I want to take in university and what path I want to take in the future."
UNSW Diploma Policies
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Diploma & Foundation Studies
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