Science/Science Education
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Science Education
Length
4.5 years full-time (4 years in an accelerated program), or up to 9 years part-time.
Campuses
Melbourne
Course description
The importance of preparing graduates, with strong foundations in both science and education studies, for teaching mathematics and science in secondary schools was acknowledged by federal funding to establish an innovative science/science education double degree.
This program features full science studies in first year, combined education and science studies in second and third year, and education studies (including two teaching methods) in the fourth year. Two science disciplines are studied to third year level. Since these must include one of the âin-demandâ disciplines of physics, chemistry, information technology and mathematics (which may include statistics), graduates of this degree are highly employable. School-based activities take place across three years, beginning in the second year with a mentoring program.
La Trobe is one of the fastest-growing science research organisations in Australia, with work currently underway to build AgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience a $288 million public private partnership with the Victorian government and La Trobe University, and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) at the Melbourne campus. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe science students.
Course structure
Students study either chemistry, mathematics, physics or information technology (IT) as a major or minor through to third year, and combine these studies with another area of science (also to third year) to broaden teaching options.
Fourth-year studies include a research project in science or mathematics education.
Contact hours
Between 22 and 28 hours a week (average) in first year, depending on subject selection
Subject details
Major areas of study
Science, mathematics, statistics, chemistry, physics, computer science, education
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
VTAC; UAC
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-undergraduatesSome scholarships may be available for this degree. Prospective applicants should contact the Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering Faculty office for information .
Additional costs (AUD)
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips may also be incurred, such as food, travel and accommodation.
Middle Band
Successful completion of Chemistry, Physics, or Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points. Consideration is also given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
Selection
(ATARs current for 2011)
Melbourne: ATAR 77.25
Bendigo: ATAR n/a
Albury-Wodonga: ATAR n/a
Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 75 or above will receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs will be considered through normal selection processes.
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.
UAC applicants may need to complete the La Trobe Alternative Category form, available at: www.latrobe.edu.au/studadmin/aw/downloads/Altentry.pdf
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 35 in English (ESL) or 25 in any other English; and either Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics.
NSW HSC: Band 3 in English (any) and Band 3 in Mathematical Methods or Band 2 in Specialist Mathematics.
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
Additional information
Students must provide a certified copy of a valid Working with Children card prior to undertaking teaching placements in schools.
Career opportunities
The course addresses the shortage of science teachers in secondary schools, specifically in mathematics, chemistry, physics and IT, in Australia and overseas. Graduates may also find opportunities in the adult education sector, community organisations, as private tutors and in consultancies.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for teacher registration in Victoria, and recognised under Commonwealth Mutual Recognition legislation for registration in other jurisdictions in Australia and New Zealand. Depending on their chosen majors, they may also be eligible for accreditation with relevant scientific professional associations.