Science/Nanotechnology
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Bachelor of Science (Hons) and Master of Nanotechnology
Length
5.5 years full time (5 years in an accelerated program), or up to 10 years part time
Campuses
Melbourne
Course description
This course is La Trobe University's flagship nanotechnology program for high achievers. It blends a diverse Honours-level science program incorporating core studies in physics, chemistry, biochemistry, biology and mathematics with a Master's-level qualification in nanotechnology.
Nanotechnology focuses on understanding, creating and controlling events on the scale of nanometres (millionths of a millimetre), where physics, chemistry, biology and engineering intersect.
Students take specialist nanotechnology subjects from first year, and complete a Master's research project. After graduating, they are immediately eligible (subject to academic merit) for entry into a PhD program.
Course structure
The course provides specialised studies in nanotechnology at all year levels, including nanochemistry, imaging and materials characterisation, scanning probe microscopies, synchrotron science and technology, sensors and devices, nanomaterials and fabrication, and opportunities for a major undergraduate nanotechnology research project.
Students can undertake specialist streams in nanostructured materials and bionanotechnology. In addition, all students participate in our unique Issues in Nanotechnology seminar program, featuring presentations and workshops led by experts from science, industry, business and government.
In the later years, students join a research group and use resources at La Trobe and other leading facilities to tackle current questions in nanotechnology.
Contact hours
25 hours a week (average) in first year
Subject details
Major areas of study
Nanotechnology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology, science
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
VTAC
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Scholarships
Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/future-undergraduatesMiddle Band
Completion of Physics and Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points.
Selection
EATAR 90.45 (2011)
Non-Year 12 selection Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. They may also be asked to complete a maths test.
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in any other English, 25 in Chemistry and Mathematical Methods, and 20 in either Specialist Mathematics or Physics; or equivalent.
Semester starts
Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Industry experience
The following types of industry experience are available in this course.
- Workplace experience for academic credit
Career opportunities
Graduates are likely to find extensive career opportunities in emerging nanotechnology industries in Australia and overseas.
They may also find employment in many other fields, including advanced materials, semiconductor and microelectronic technologies, advanced medical diagnostics, mineral processing, aerospace and defence industries, chemicals and polymer manufacture, surface coating technologies, and government and private sector research laboratories.
A cross-disciplinary background also facilitates many opportunities in areas where the traditional sciences intersect. High-achieving students may enrol in a PhD program at La Trobe or elsewhere.
Professional recognition
Depending on their chosen electives, graduates may be eligible for accreditation with the Australian Institute of Physics and the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.