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Undergraduate Handbook 2009 - Faculty of Science Areas of Study

Science areas of study and sequences - Clayton

A broad range of science units and sequences are offered at the Clayton campus for the Bachelor of Science and related courses, taught by the faculties of Science, Arts, Information Technology, and Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences. Within the requirements of their course, students can construct a program of study to meet their individual needs and interests.

The entry for each science area of study includes the science units that are offered and the detailed requirements for the minor and major sequences*. Some recommendations are provided on particular choices of units. It is important that students plan their course by consulting these requirements and recommendations at every stage of their enrolment. Students should also consult individual unit entries for details of prerequisites, prohibitions and scheduling. Note that some sequences require the completion of additional prerequisite units beyond those that comprise the sequence. These additional units must be taken as elective units within the total credit points required for the degree.

Some entries for a science area of study may refer students to an associated area of study; in these instances the reference is to the relevant area of study for the same campus.

Occasional reference is made to desirable or prerequisite studies in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) - those students who did not study the VCE should seek advice about unit choice for students with qualifications other than the VCE.

    * If specific units must be studied, in each science area of study they are referred to by the full unit code and title in the first instance and by their code only thereafter. Where units can be chosen from a group of related units, these are referred to by the three-letter prefix common to all of the units in that group (eg ASP - astrophysics units).

Science major or minor sequences are offered at the Clayton campus in the following areas of study:

Earth sciences

Life sciences

Mathematical and computational sciences

Physical sciences

Other science units

Astronomy and astrophysics - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Professor Paul Cally (School of Mathematical Sciences), Dr Michael Brown (School of Physics)

The discipline

Studies in astronomy and astrophysics are available to students commencing at level one. The first-level units provide a descriptive overview of the universe, our place in it, and prospects for the developments of extra-terrestrial life. These units are particularly recommended for those interested in the philosophy or history of science, understanding the necessary precursors to the development of life, or amateur astronomy.

It is also possible for students to commence their astrophysics studies at second or third level, as the first and second-level ASP units are not prerequisites for entry into the following levels. The second-level astronomy units are aimed at students who have completed at least first-level physics and mathematics, and their purpose is to introduce astronomy from a more practical and quantitative perspective. They will therefore provide a useful contextual background to prospective physicists in general and to future astronomers and astrophysicists in particular.

Astrophysics is the application of known physical laws to the study of the objects that make up the universe - planets and stars, comets, pulsars and quasars, black holes and galaxies. The third and fourth-level astrophysics units will provide education in modern astrophysics, and are primarily aimed at those intending a professional career in astronomy or astrophysics. However, because modern astrophysics draws heavily on physics, mathematics, computation and numerical analysis, these units also provide excellent training in modern science and problem solving.

The astronomy and astrophysics program is presented jointly by the School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Physics, in collaboration with the Mt Stromlo and Siding Springs Observatories.

Units offered

Level one

  • ASP1010 Earth to cosmos - introductory astronomy
  • ASP1022 Life and the universe

Level two

Level three

Sequence requirements

Astronomy and astrophysics

Minor sequence in astronomy and astrophysics (24 points):

The level two units have the additional prerequisites of six points of level-one physics and MTH1030 (Techniques for modelling) or equivalent

Astrophysics

Major sequence in astrophysics (48 points):

The core unit ASP2062 has the additional prerequisite of six points of level-one physics, and ASP3012 has the additional prerequisite of MTH2032 (Differential equations with modelling). Level-two physics units are highly recommended.

The unit ASP3222 has additional prerequisites of PHS2011 (Physics: quantum concepts and technologies) and PHS2022 (Physics for communications and measurement), and the unit ASP3231 has prerequisites of ASP2011 or PHS2011 or PHS2022.

Recommendations

Level one

The two first-level astronomy units ASP1010 and ASP1022 are descriptive and introductory and are accessible to students with no prerequisites.

Students considering a minor sequence in astronomy should complete at least six points of first-year physics and MTH1030 or equivalent.

Students considering taking a major sequence in astrophysics should complete PHS1011 (Physics) and PHS1022 (Physics) and at least 12 points of mathematics units at level one, normally MTH1020 (Analysis of change) and MTH1030 or equivalent. Students may also find it advantageous to include some chemistry, computer science or geosciences units, depending on their particular interests.

Level two

The unit ASP2011 is presented by the School of Physics, which operates its own observatories at Mount Burnett and at the Clayton campus, while ASP2062 is taught by the School of Mathematical Sciences. The units cover both theoretical and observational astronomy. ASP2062 is a core unit in the astrophysics major and should be taken at level three if not taken at level two. Students intending to take 24 points of astrophysics in level three must have completed at least 12 points of mathematics and at least six points of physics at level two. The mathematics units completed must include MTH2010 and MTH2032 (Differential equations with modelling); MTH2051 or MTH3051 (Introduction to computational mathematics) is also strongly recommended. The minimum physics requirement is PHS2011, which is a modern physics unit built around quantum physics taught in the context of atomic, molecular and solid state physics. However, it is preferable for students to take 12 points of physics comprising PHS2011 and PHS2022, especially if they are more interested in the observational or instrumental aspects of astrophysics. This is because this combination of units provides a good grounding in quantum concepts, electronics principles and optics, all of which are important in astronomy and astrophysics.

Level three

It is expected that students taking astrophysics at level three will combine the sequence primarily with either 24 points of mathematics (for those intending to follow theoretical astrophysics) or with 24 points of physics units (for those intending to follow a more observational or instrumentational approach) at level three. In either case, there is a core of 12 points at level three composed of the two units ASP3012 and ASP3051. In addition, students must complete at least one of ASP3222, ASP3231 and MTH3360. Students who completed ASP2062 at level two would normally take MTH3360 and ASP3231. Students who still have to complete ASP2062 at level three would normally choose between MTH3360 (if inclined more to the theoretical) and ASP3231 (if inclined more to the observational). ASP3222 is for students who are not taking physics at level three and are inclined towards theoretical astrophysics.

Students intending to study theoretical astrophysics at honours level in the School of Mathematical Sciences are advised to include MTH3360 at level three and to gain some experience with numerical computation.

Students at third-year level and wishing to take astrophysics but who lack the appropriate physics prerequisites may be able to enrol in some of the ASP core units as part of their mathematics sequence (see the level three entry under `Mathematics' in this section of the handbook), however, they should discuss this with the astrophysics coordinator at the earliest opportunity.

Honours

Further study in astrophysics is available within the honours program offered by the School of Mathematical Sciences. Inclusion of components from the School of Physics is possible. The minimum requirement to apply for entry into honours in astrophysics is an average grade of distinction in 24 points of level-three astrophysics units, or equivalent.

Atmospheric science - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Dr Richard Wardle (School of Mathematical Sciences), Professor Nigel Tapper (School of Geography and Environmental Science)

The discipline

Atmospheric science explores the structure and evolution of the atmosphere, and includes the problems of forecasting the day-to-day weather, the climate and the role of both in environmental issues. The undergraduate program is designed to introduce the scientific principles behind these phenomena as well as provide a broad understanding of them. An interdisciplinary approach is essential in studying atmospheric science. The field draws on the strengths of environmental science, applied mathematics and physical geography; it involves applications of concepts in physics and chemistry. Modern scientific and computing techniques are employed to approach some of the fundamental problems facing our society. The discipline offers a balance of field work, data analysis, theoretical research and state-of-the-art modelling.

The atmospheric science program is offered jointly by the School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Geography and Environmental Science (in the Faculty of Arts).

Units offered

Level one

Level two

  • ATM2020 Climate dynamics of the atmosphere and oceans
  • ATM2030 Clouds, weather and forecasting
  • ATM2211 Climatology: surface-atmosphere processes and interactions
  • ATM2250 Climate change and variability

Level three

  • ATM3040 Physical meteorology
  • ATM3050 Dynamical meteorology
  • ATM3261 Earth systems interactions: from biogeochemical cycles to global change
  • ATM3370 Applied environmental climatology
  • MTH3051 Introduction to computational mathematics
  • MTH3230 Time series and random processes in linear systems
  • MTH3360 Fluid dynamics

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in atmospheric science (24 points)

The level two units ATM2020 and ATM2030 have a co-requisite/pre-requisite of MTH1030.

Major sequence in atmospheric science (48 points)

  • A minor sequence in atmospheric science
  • At least two of ATM3040, ATM3261, ATM3050 or ATM3370
  • The remaining 12 points from the level two or three units listed above, with at least six points at level three

MTH2010 and MTH2032 must also be completed as corequisites/prerequisites for some of the level three units.

Recommendations

Level one

ATM1020 and ATM1030 are designed for any science student, not necessarily those wishing to major in this discipline. They may form part of a minor sequence in atmospheric science, however they are not a pre-requisite for higher-level units.

Students considering taking a major sequence in atmospheric science will need to complete a 12-point sequence of level-one mathematics (either MTH1020 and MTH1030, or MTH1030 and MTH2010). Also, as atmospheric science is a broadly based discipline, a level-one unit in either physics or chemistry is recommended.

Level two

Students considering taking a major sequence in atmospheric science must complete the prerequisite mathematics unit MTH2010 and are strongly encouraged to take MTH2032 as well (as it is a prerequisite for MTH3360).

Level three

Students taking a major sequence in atmospheric science should take at least two of ATM3040, ATM3050, ATM3261 and ATM3370, although some substitution is allowed with the approval of the coordinator.

Honours

Students may apply for honours studies in atmospheric science through the completion of satisfactory level-three studies in either atmospheric science, mathematical sciences, or geography and environmental science. Students will further develop their research skills through individual research projects supervised by staff members, as well as through lectures on advanced topics.

Students also have the option of studying some atmospheric science at the honours level through either the School of Mathematical Sciences or the School of Geography and Environmental Science. Students choosing this option should see the entries for those areas in this handbook.

Biochemistry - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Dr Alfons Lawen (Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)

The discipline

Biochemistry deals with the chemical components and genetic material of living cells in order to understand the molecular events that underlie all biological processes. These are important in human and animal biology, medicine, agriculture, forensic science and biotechnology. Biochemistry opens up our understanding of the causes of disease and provides the basis of the development of effective treatments.

Units offered

Level two

  • BCH2011 Structure and function of cellular biomolecules
  • BCH2022 Metabolic basis of human diseases

Level three

  • BCH3021 Cell organisation: organelle structure and function in health and disease
  • BCH3031 Advanced molecular biology: modern concepts and applications
  • BCH3042 Cell signal transduction: role in cancer and human disease
  • BCH3052 Protein biology: from sequence to structure and disease
  • BCH3990 Action in biochemistry research project

Sequence requirements

Biochemistry

Minor sequence in biochemistry (24 points)

VCE Chemistry or at least a level-one unit in chemistry is recommended for level-two units.

Major sequence in biochemistry (48 points)

Biochemistry and molecular biology

Major sequence in biochemistry and molecular biology (48 points)

Double major sequence in biochemistry and molecular biology (72 points)

Details of the MIC units and sequences are described in the `Microbiology' entry in this section of the handbook.

Bioinformatics

Minor sequence in bioinformatics (24 points)

Details of the MOL units and sequences are described in the `Molecular biology' entry in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

Level two

Biochemistry and molecular biology are first offered as units at level two. For students who wish to complete a minor or major sequence in biochemistry and molecular biology the level-two unit combinations BCH2011 and BCH2022, together with MOL2011 and MOL2022 are highly recommended.

Level three

Students who have completed BCH2011/BCH2022 and MOL2011/MOL2022 will have gained a firm foundation for studying any combination of the following 6-point units: BCH3021 and BCH3031 in first semester, and BCH3042 and BCH3052 in second semester, in addition to BCH3990 (either semester). Completion of at least four 6-point BCH units at level three offers maximum flexibility in choice for future studies in biochemistry. Students should discuss their interests and career plans with level-three unit coordinators to facilitate a choice of units that best suits their interests.

Honours

Honours studies in biochemistry and molecular biology incorporate research training as well as minor coursework. Students who satisfy the requirements for entry into Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours) or Bachelor of Behavioural Neuroscience (Honours) may also undertake research training in the discipline of biochemistry and molecular biology.

Biological sciences - Faculty of Science

Contact: Associate Professor Jenny Read (School of Biological Sciences)

The discipline

Biology is the study of life processes and living organisms. It is concerned with microbes, plants and animals, and their structure, function, development, evolution and ecology.

The School of Biological Sciences offers students a choice of units leading to a double major (72 points), a major (48 points), or a minor sequence (24 points) in the following sub-disciplines: biology, biotechnology, ecology, environmental and conservation biology, genetics, marine and freshwater biology, molecular biology, plant sciences, and zoology. Many of the units are suitable for students enrolled in the Bachelor of Biomedical Science or Bachelor of Environmental Science, and many units may be sensibly combined with units from other fields of study such as chemistry, microbiology, physiology, geography and environmental science, biochemistry or geosciences, to provide valuable training for particular career paths.

Students may undertake a fourth year of study for a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in a course combining studies of advanced topics with a research program under supervision.

Units offered

Level one

Level two

  • BIO2011 Ecology
  • BIO2022 Evolution and systematics
  • BIO2031 Biodiversity and bioresources
  • BIO2042 Conservation biology
  • BIO2181 Evolution of plant diversity
  • BIO2231 Animal diversity
  • BIO2242 Animal structure and function
  • BIO2282 Plant structure and function
  • GEN2041 Foundations of genetics
  • GEN2052 Human and population genetics
  • MOL2011 Molecular biology: Genes and their expression
  • MOL2022 Molecular biology: Gene technology and its application

Level three

  • BIO3011 Research methods in biology
  • BIO3021 Marine biology
  • BIO3052 Animal behaviour
  • BIO3082 Plant responses to the environment
  • BIO3091 Ecology of Australian vegetation
  • BIO3111 Ecological management
  • BIO3122 Freshwater ecology
  • BIO3132 Biology of Australian vertebrates
  • BIO3990 Biology in action research project
  • BTH3611 Plant and cellular biotechnology
  • GEN3030 Genetics of development
  • GEN3040 Genomics and molecular genetics
  • GEN3051 Medical and forensic genetics
  • GEN3062 Conservation and ecological genetics
  • GEN3990 Genetics in action research project
  • SCM3022 Tropical terrestrial biology

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in biology (24 points)

Major sequence in biology (48 points)

  • BIO1011, and either BIO1022 or BIO1042
  • at least 12 points of BIO, GEN or MOL units at level two
  • at least 18 points of BIO or GEN units at level three, BTH3611 or SCM3022
  • any remaining points to be made up from BIO or GEN units at level two or three

The unit BIO3011 Research methods in biology is a prerequisite for admission to honours.

Minor and major sequences are also offered in the sub-disciplines of biotechnology, ecology, environmental and conservation biology, genetics, marine and freshwater biology, molecular biology, plant sciences and zoology. For details and contacts regarding these sub-disciplines refer to the entry for each area of study in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

Level one

The School of Biological Sciences offers three 6-point units at level one: BIO1011 in first semester is followed by either BIO1022 or BIO1042 in second semester. BIO1022 emphasises genetics, microbiology and animal biology, while BIO1042 emphasises environmental aspects of biology. A 12-point sequence in biology at level one is a prerequisite for the level-two units BIO2022, BIO2181, BIO2231, BIO2242, GEN2041 and GEN2052.

First-year students planning to take biological science units in subsequent years should take note of the level-one prerequisites for units at level two.

Level two

Various combinations of level-two units are possible. Students are recommended to take one or more of the preferred combinations listed as sub-disciplines above. Students wishing to enrol in other combinations of units are strongly advised to discuss their proposed course plan with a sequence coordinator.

Level three

Any student who intends to enrol in level-three units offered by the School of Biological Sciences should have completed a total value of at least 12 points of level-two units offered by the school. Students should note, however, that some level-three units do have some specific level-two units as prerequisites. Details of these are given in the unit descriptions.

Students wishing to proceed to honours in biology must complete BIO3011.

Honours

Students with a good academic record and at least a distinction average in units worth 24 points at level three may apply to enrol in an honours year in either biology or genetics. Students undertake supervised research, present a research seminar, and submit an essay on advanced topics. Special studies may be included to meet the needs of individual students. Students in biology may commence the honours year at the beginning of either semester. Students in genetics start at the beginning of first semester. Further information is available from the head of school and at meetings held with prospective students during second semester.

Biotechnology - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Dr Alan Neale (School of Biological Sciences)

The discipline

Biotechnology is an exciting area in modern science that has great potential in the industrial, medical and agricultural sectors. Biotechnology includes practical applications of knowledge involving many biological processes and its strength at Monash is that it draws on advances in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, chemical science/engineering, cell biology, immunology, pharmacology and other disciplines. A major in biotechnology reflecting all facets of this area includes units from various disciplines across faculties, departments and schools. Students achieve background for this discipline by completing the level one and two units listed in the `Sequence requirements' outlined below.

Alternatively, this major can be taken as an undergraduate Diploma in Biotechnology (Research and Management) as a third science major by overloading concurrently with a degree course (for information about this diploma, see the 'Outline of undergraduate courses' section in this handbook).

Units offered

Level three

  • BTH2732 Recombinant DNA technology
  • BTH2741 Biochemistry
  • BTH3711 Food and industrial microbiology
  • BTH3722 Medical microbiology
  • BTH3732 Environmental microbiology
  • BTH3741 Medical aspects of cell biology
  • BTH3752 Molecular biology and biotechnology
  • BTH3611 Plant and cellular biotechnology

Sequence requirements

Major sequence in biotechnology (48 points)

In addition to these requirements, students completing a major sequence in biotechnology may need to complete additional prerequisite units at levels one and two. Students should check the individual unit entries in the back of this handbook when planning their selection of units.

Recommendations

Level three

It is highly recommended that students undertake one of BCH3990, CHM3990, GEN3990, MIC3990 or SCI3741 to provide practical experience working in a research environment.

 

Chemistry - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Listed below for each year level

The discipline

Chemistry is the study of substances: their makeup, structure and composition; how they behave; and how they may be measured, harnessed and transformed for useful applications in the worlds of materials, medicine, technology and the environment.

The School of Chemistry provides units in chemistry for students with a wide variety of interests, including analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, materials chemistry, medicinal and biological chemistry, and synthetic chemistry. Opportunities for specialisation in these areas commence at level two. As well as those students who major in chemistry, there are many who need some chemistry as a prerequisite or recommended unit for their higher-level studies.

Both observation and measurement are essential in chemistry. Therefore, all chemistry units involve laboratory work and practice in solving problems in addition to lectures, tutorials and opportunity for oral and written communication.

Students may graduate with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in chemistry after a fourth year of study which combines units on advanced topics in chemistry together with work on a research topic under supervision.

Units offered

Level one

Level two

  • CHM2911 Molecular design and reactivity
  • CHM2922 Instrumental and forensic chemistry
  • CHM2942 Chemistry of life
  • CHM2951 Environmental chemistry - water
  • CHM2962 Food chemistry
  • CHM2981 Chemistry at the interface
  • CHM2990 Introductory chemical research project

Level three

  • CHM3911 Spectroscopy, synchrotron and structure
  • CHM3922 Synthesis 2: Understanding chemical reactions
  • CHM3932 Medicinal chemistry
  • CHM3941 Synthesis 1: Chemistry of bioactive compounds
  • CHM3952 Analytical and forensic chemistry
  • CHM3960 Environmental chemistry
  • CHM3972 Sustainable chemistry
  • CHM3981 Chemistry at the interface
  • CHM3990 Chemistry project

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in chemistry (24 points)

Major sequence in chemistry (48 points)

  • CHM1011 and CHM1022, or CHM1031 and CHM1042
  • At least 12 points of CHM units at level two
  • The remaining 18 or 24 points from CHM units at level two or three, with at least 18 points at level three

Double major sequence in chemistry (72 points)

Students intending to proceed to honours must undertake at least 12 points of CHM units at level two including CHM2911 and CHM2922, and at least 18 points of CHM units at level three, including at least three of CHM3911, CHM3922, CHM3941 and CHM3952.

Recommendations

Level one

Coordinators (School of Chemistry): Dr Richard Morrison (CHM1011 and CHM1022) and Dr Chris Thompson (CHM1031 and CHM1042)

Four 6-point chemistry units are offered at level one, two in each semester. These sequences are CHM1011 and CHM1022, or CHM1031 and CHM1042.

CHM1011 and CHM1022, or CHM1031 and CHM1042 together are prerequisites for most level-two chemistry units and also are prerequisites or recommended for some other science units.

Level two

Coordinator (School of Chemistry): Dr Mike Grace

At least two chemistry units need to be taken at level two to complete a major sequence Students intending to complete a major sequence in chemistry should note that CHM2911 and CHM2922 must be completed to proceed to honours in chemistry, and that those units are prerequisites for many level-three chemistry units. The level-two program in chemistry is designed to introduce students to many concepts of modern chemistry in a variety of interest areas.

A significant degree of choice exists in chemistry offerings at level two with units providing specialisation in the areas of synthetic, analytical, biological, environmental, food, materials and interfacial chemistry.

Level three

Coordinator (School of Chemistry): Associate Professor Stuart Batten

Depending on the number of Chemistry units taken at level two, a minimum of at least three or four units should be completed at level three for a major sequence in chemistry. Students intending to proceed to honours in chemistry must complete at least 18 points of chemistry units at level three from CHM3911, CHM3941, CHM3922 or CHM3952.

Honours

Coordinator (School of Chemistry): Associate Professor Ian McKelvie

Honours in chemistry may be undertaken by students who achieve at least a distinction average grade in 24 points of level three chemistry units (although six points from a chemistry-related discipline may be permitted at the discretion of the honours coordinator). Honours studies include advanced coursework and an extended research project.

Computer science - Faculty of Science

Contacts: Associate Professor Bernd Meyer (Clayton School of Information Technology)

The discipline

In our computerised society, no modern scientist should be without knowledge of computers. First-level computer science is a general introduction to computing and is suitable either for students whose major interest is in another science discipline, or students who wish to become computer scientists with an understanding of all the basic aspects of computing.

Units offered

Level one

Level two

Level three

  • FIT3014 Analysis and design of algorithms
  • FIT3036 Computer science project
  • FIT3042 System tools and programming languages
  • FIT3080 Artificial intelligence
  • FIT3081 Image processing
  • FIT3082 Programming languages and paradigms
  • FIT3084 Multimedia programming and the world wide web
  • FIT3085 Numerical computing
  • FIT3088 Computer graphics

Sequence requirements*

Minor sequence in computer science (24 points)

Major sequence in computer science (48 points)

Major and minor sequence in computer science (60 points)

Double major sequence in computer science (72 points)

In addition to these requirements, students completing a major sequence in computer science are required to have completed at least 12 points of approved mathematics units.

FIT2001 is also required as a prerequisite for FIT3036.

Graduates who have completed at least the 48-point major sequence in computer science are eligible for level-one membership of the Australian Computer Society.

    *Students who commenced the sequence prior to 2006 should follow the requirements published in the 2005 handbook.

Recommendations

The sequence of both FIT1002, which covers basic programming skills, and FIT1015, which extends those programming skills, is highly recommended for all students, whether or not they intend to become computer scientists.

Level one

The level-one units serve both as a general introduction to computer science and as a prerequisite for further studies. Thus they may be taken either by students wishing to major in computer science or by students whose major interest is in some other branch of science. FIT1002 covers basic programming skills for problem-solving. FIT1015 gives an introduction to computer science, developing an understanding of algorithms, data structures and computer systems.

Students who are considering completing a major sequence in computer science should also take at least 12 points of approved mathematics units at level one or equivalent.

Level two

The core level-two units aim to develop a firm foundation in the fundamental concepts of computer science, namely algorithm development and the theory of computation. In addition, the elective level-two units introduce new topics to broaden the student's view of computation and its applications.

It is recommended that students who intend to complete a 48-point major sequence in computer science, or who are considering proceeding to honours in computer science, should take FIT2022 in their second year of study. Those wanting to complete a 60-point major and minor sequence in computer science should take an additional level-two computer science elective.

FIT2001 is also required as a prerequisite for teh core unit FIT3036.

Level three

Students intending to complete a major sequence in computer science must take FIT3036 and FIT3014, which provides advanced study of algorithms, and at least 12 points of additional level-three computer science units (which may not include another project). Students intending to take a double major (72 points) of computer science should complete a major and minor in computer science (60 points) plus either:

(a) one level-two and one level-three Bachelor of Computer Science electives or

(b) two level-three Bachelor of Computer Science electives.

Students intending to proceed to honours should complete at least the 48-point computer science major sequence to ensure they have sufficient breadth to undertake the honours coursework units offered each year. It is recommended that in addition to the core project unit FIT3014, these students take at least four other level-three computer science units listed above.

Honours

Coordinator: Dr Jon McCormack, (Clayton School of Information Technology)

Honours in computer science is suitable for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer science. Students with honours are particularly sought after by employers and can choose from more interesting research and development positions because of their extra skills and proven abilities. An honours degree also leads on to postgraduate study, which is necessary for an academic career or a career in industrial research.

To be admitted to the honours year, students require an average of a distinction or better result in FIT3036, FIT3014 and at least two other third-level computer science units. Entry to the honours year may be subject to quota restrictions.

The honours program includes a substantial individual research project, supervised by an expert in the area, and coursework units worth 24 points from computer science honours units offered, including a compulsory research methods unit.

Developmental biology - Faculty of Science

Contact: Professor John Bertram (Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology)

The discipline

Developmental biology is one of the most exciting and fast-moving fields in modern biomedical science. Developmental biology covers such topics as classical embryology, body structure and design, molecular mechanisms of development, organogenesis, causes of birth defects, stem cell biology, regenerative biology and medicine, and tissue engineering.

Units offered

Level two

  • DEV2011 Early human development from cells to tissues
  • DEV2022 Principles of organ and body design

Level three

  • DEV3011 Fundamentals of developmental processes
  • DEV3022 Developmental pathways to health and disease
  • DEV3032 Stem cells and regeneration
  • DEV3990 Action in developmental biology research project

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in developmental biology (24 points)

Major sequence in developmental biology

Additional requirements: MOL2011 is a prerequisite for all level-three DEV units.

Ecology - Faculty of Science

Contact: Dr Dennis O’Dowd (School of Biological Sciences)

The discipline

Ecology is the scientific study of interactions between organisms and their environment. It focuses on explaining pattern and process in the natural world at different levels of integration (as individuals, populations and communities) and at varying temporal and spatial scales.

Sequence requirements

Major sequence in ecology (48 points)

A list of related units are provided in the ‘Biological sciences’ entry in this section of the handbook.

Environmental and conservation biology - Faculty of Science

Contact: Dr Dennis O'Dowd (School of Biological Sciences)

The discipline

Environmental and conservation biology is a new, integrated science that addresses the protection of the world's biodiversity and ecosystem function. Its key goals are to document the Earth's biodiversity, develop an understanding of human impacts upon biodiversity and devise practical means to conserve biodiversity and ecosystem function.

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in environmental and conservation biology (24 points)

Major sequence in environmental and conservation biology (48 points)

A list of related units are provided in the `Biological sciences' entry in this section of the handbook.

    * These units have compulsory level-two prerequisites.

Genetics - Faculty of Science

Contact: Associate Professor Steve McKechnie (School of Biological Sciences)

The discipline

Genetics is the study of genes – their structure, function, transmission and evolution. It lies at the centre of biology because the same genetic principles apply to microbes, plants, animals and humans.

Sequence requirements

Genetics

Minor sequence in genetics (24 points)
Major sequence in genetics (48 points)

Genetics and molecular biology

Major sequence in genetics and molecular biology (48 points):

A list of related units are provided in the Biological sciences entry in this section of the handbook.

* This unit has compulsory level-two prerequisites.


Geography and environmental science - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Listed below for each level

The discipline

Geography is concerned with the relationships between people and the natural environment, and includes 'physical' (eg landscape processes) and 'human' (eg cityscapes and population migration) geographies. It employs a variety of spatial and temporal techniques to understand these various landscapes, or components of them, and provide a basis for their rational management.

The School of Geography and Environmental Science offers geography sequences in the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Science. The school also offers a sequence permitting undergraduate specialisation in environmental science for the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Environmental Science (BEnvSc) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees and in atmospheric science for the BEnvSc and BSc degrees.

The program has been adapted to suit local educational and vocational demands, but is otherwise fully representative of geography's international profile. Its goal is to develop a mature understanding of the following: the key characteristics of places; the complex interdependence of human activities; the roles of human agency in the transformation of the earth's surface; and the availability of a rich diversity of approaches to the accumulation of knowledge concerning the interrelationships of place, people and environment.

The term 'environment' is employed at every level in the geography curriculum. It considers the following: the notion of `natural' environments unaltered by human activity; human-modified environments representing profound alterations over vast areas of the globe and including, most notably, agricultural systems and rural settlement; and even more 'artificial' environments such as industrialised regions and urban areas.

An appreciation of the importance of field and laboratory-based observations is required at all levels, especially in physical geography options. Computer techniques are considered highly relevant, from a minimum expectation of basic keyboard skills to the integration of sophisticated analytical methods in later segments of the program.

Units offered

Level one

  • GES1020 Australian physical environments: Evolution, status and management
  • GES1050 The global challenge
  • GES1070 Natural hazards and human vulnerability

Level two

  • GES2130 Soils, land use and the environment
  • GES2160 Coastal geomorphology and management
  • GES2170 Biogeography - The status of Australian biota
  • GES2190 Climatology: Surface-atmosphere processes and interactions
  • GES2210 Environmental hydrology
  • GES2340 Cities and sustainability
  • GES2660 Power and poverty: Geographies of uneven global development
  • GES2760 Place and the politics of identity
  • GES2860 Climate change and variability

Level three

  • GES3240 Geomorphology and soils
  • GES3250 Environmental assessment and decision making
  • GES3260 Cultural landscape, environment and sustainability in Italy
  • GES3330 Field studies in regional sustainability (subject to strict quota)
  • GES3350 Resource evaluation and management
  • GES3360 Soils, landscape and their management
  • GES3370 Applied environmental climatology
  • GES3420 Researching human environments
  • GES3520 Social space: Urban justice
  • GES3555 Environmental change: Past to future
  • GES3610 Geographical information systems for business and social science applications
  • GES3750 Sharing prosperity: geographies of work, regional development and economy
  • GES3810/GES3820 Geographical information systems (GIS) for environmental management

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in geography and environmental science (24 points)

Major sequence in geography and environmental science (48 points)

  • GES1070 and one of GES1020 or GES1050
  • 12 or 18 points of GES units at level two
  • the remaining 18 or 24 points from GES units at level three

Some related sequences are also described in the `Atmospheric science' entry in this section of the handbook.

Note that Bachelor of Environmental Science students (only) may substitute ENV1011 (Planet earth and its environment: the cosmic connection) and ENV1022 (Australian physical environments: evolution, status and management) for level one GES units in any sequence in geography and environmental science.

Recommendations

Level one

Coordinator: Dr Haripriya Rangan, School of Geography and Environmental Science, Faculty of Arts

The primary objective of the syllabus of units at level one is to explore human impacts on the environment and to introduce key concepts in physical and human geography. No prior studies in geography are required to begin study at level one.

A first-level sequence in geography consists of two semester units. In first semester, students enrol in GES1070. In second semester, they may choose either GES1020 or GES1050. Students planning a comprehensive introduction to geography may take all three units.

Level two

Coordinator: Dr Jason Beringer, School of Geography and Environmental Science, Faculty of Arts

The syllabus at level two permits students to select from a variety of systematic sub-disciplines. The satisfactory completion of a minor sequence in geography equips students with an appreciation of the nature of the unit as a whole and with knowledge of the fundamental contents and approaches contained within one or both of its human and physical branches.

Level three

Coordinator: Dr Stephen Legg, School of Geography and Environmental Science, Faculty of Arts

At level three, majoring students elect to enrol in one or more of the main systematic fields which are intended to challenge them with appropriate advanced material and to intensify their familiarity with the purpose and practice of original research work. To obtain a major in geography, students would normally complete 24 points at level three.

Honours

Coordinator: Dr Christian Kull, School of Geography and Environmental Science, Faculty of Arts

Students proceeding into the fourth year, or honours year, have the further opportunity to consolidate their understanding of an area (or areas) of specialisation, while pursuing a research topic under expert supervision. Mid-year entry is offered by the school, subject to the availability of places. Combined honours may be taken in the School of Geography and Environmental Science and another discipline, provided that all honours requirements have been met in both disciplines and subject to the approval of the heads of school.

Geosciences - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Listed below for each level

The discipline

Geosciences is a multidisciplinary science that seeks to understand the Earth's dynamic systems. The geosciences program provides students with an insight into both present-day processes and how the Earth has changed over geological time, including an understanding of how its chemical, physical and biological systems (eg plate tectonics, volcanoes, mountain belts, ocean basins, earthquakes, groundwater and surface water, the biosphere and the atmosphere) are interrelated, and how they have shaped the planet on which we live. Additionally, units in environmental geosciences, mineral and petroleum exploration, and geophysics provide applied geosciences applications relevant for sustainable use of the Earth's resources. Speciality streams within the geosciences include geology, environmental geosciences, geophysics, geochemistry, volcanology and palaeontology. In addition, the discipline draws on, and has links with, numerous allied sciences such as physics, chemistry, biology, geography, information technology, mathematics and atmospheric science.

The core geosciences program examines the major geological processes on planet Earth within a plate tectonic framework. All units are multidisciplinary and reflect both the broad scope and the interaction between the different Earth systems. Further, the units develop transferable skills such as logical thinking, data manipulation, problem solving, team building, research and communication. Careers in geosciences are varied and include mineral and petroleum exploration, marine science, groundwater and surface water resources, teaching, geological engineering and geotechnical surveys, environmental consulting, and resource evaluation. There are also opportunities for geosciences research and development in the university, government, and private sectors. Additionally, the transferable skills developed are in wide demand within the science and non-science sectors of the economy.

Units offered

Level one

  • ESC1011 Planet Earth and its environment: The cosmic connection
  • ESC1022 Planet Earth: Dynamic systems, environmental change and resources

Level two

  • ESC2032 The dynamic biosphere: Changing fauna through geological time
  • ESC2132 Field geology
  • ESC2111 The dynamic Earth I: Building of continents and the environment
  • ESC2122 The dynamic Earth II: Global processes

Level three

  • ESC3162 Ore deposit geology and global metallogeny
  • ESC3170 Field geology of New Zealand
  • ESC3180 Field mapping
  • ESC3190 Hydrogeology and environmental geophysics
  • ESC3200 Earth sciences project
  • ESC3201 Deformation and metamorphism of the crust
  • ESC3232 The dynamic biosphere: Changing fauna and flora through geological time
  • ESC3291 Climates in geological time
  • ESC3311 Geophysics: Regional mapping
  • ESC3332 Global dynamics and crustal evolution
  • ESC3410 Earth sciences special studies 1
  • ESC3411 Sediments, basins and resources
  • ESC3420 Earth sciences special studies 2
  • ESC3421 Volcanology and igneous petrology

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in geosciences (24 points)

  • At least one of ESC1011, ENV1011 or ESC1022
  • The remaining 12 or 18 points from the ESC units at level two or three

Major sequence in geosciences (48 points)

  • At least one of ENV1011, ESC1011 or ESC1022
  • ESC2111 and ESC2122
  • The remaining 24 or 30 points from the ESC units at level two or three, including at least 18 points at level three

Recommendations

Level one

Coordinator: Ms Marion Anderson (School of Geosciences)

First-year students studying geosciences should include the 12-point combination ESC1011/ENV1011 and ESC1022 along with SCI1020 (Introduction to statistical reasoning) or STA1010 (Statistical methods for science), and at least one of chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, computer science or physical geography. Students aiming to specialise in palaeontology should also take biology. Similarly those with interests in environmental science are advised to take two of biology, chemistry and geography, while those with interests in geophysics are advised to take physics and/or mathematics. First-year students who intend to major in geosciences are strongly advised to discuss their program with members of staff.

ESC1011 is of interest to students seeking a broad overview of earth and environmental sciences. ESC1022 provides a continued overview of geosciences, in particular the processes that have shaped the Earth's crust through its evolution.

Level two

Coordinator: To be advised

Students planning to complete a major in geosciences are required to complete ESC2111 and ESC2122; ESC2192 is also strongly recommended.

Geoscience students enrolled in the Bachelor of Environmental Science are advised to complete the major in geosciences to complement their other areas of study. Students who have not taken ESC1011, ENV1011 or ESC1022 may apply to the head of school for permission to enrol in these level-two units.

At least one other coherent package of 12 points at level two from another area of study (chemistry, physics, mathematics and statistics, biological sciences, computer science, geography) should be taken.

ESC2032, ESC2111, ESC2122, ESC2192, ESC2131 are also available to students wishing to take them as independent units to support other studies. Students not intending to proceed to level-three studies in geosciences may take any combination of level-two geosciences units.

Level three

Coordinator: Dr Roberto Weinberg (School of Geosciences)

The level-three program in geosciences consists of several 6-point units in geology, geophysics and environmental geosciences that may be taken in any combination depending on the student's interests and the units completed at level two. Students interested in continuing with geosciences at honours or masters level or becoming professional geologists, geophysicists or environmental geoscientists should take 48 points of geosciences units at level three. While there are no required units at level three, students should choose combinations of units with regard to their interests, experience and future aspirations. Advice on suitable combinations of units for various geosciences streams is available from the School of Geosciences and all students are urged to seek advice before choosing sequences of units. Students interested in the geosciences project unit (ESC3200) must obtain permission from the third-year coordinator before enrolling.

Bachelor of Environmental Science students and others interested in environmental geosciences should include ESC3190 and ESC3291. Students interested in geophysics should combine the three relevant level three units (ESC3410, ESC3311, ESC3332) with other level-three units from geosciences, mathematics or physics.

Level four

Coordinator: Professor Ray Cas (School of Geosciences)

At fourth-year level, students may choose to do either a one-year honours program or the Master of Science preliminary (MScPrelim) program. The honours program involves limited coursework, seminars and a major research project. Entry into the honours program or the MSc preliminary will be based on a distinction grade average in four relevant level-three units. A case can be made for applicants applying several years after graduation, provided it can be demonstrated they have sufficient aptitude for research in the proposed field.

Entry into either the honours or masters preliminary program may take place either in first semester or second semester.

Human pathology - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Dr Simone Schoenwaelder (Australian Centre for Blood Diseases), Associate Professor Jennifer Rolland (Department of Immunology)

The discipline

Human pathology units are offered in both semesters at third-year level. Students will gain an understanding of basic pathologic processes with particular reference to cell death, inflammation, disorders of immunity and neoplasia. Particular diseases will also be discussed including: ischaemic heart disease; cancer of the breast, lung, colon and skin; diabetes; renal failure and anaemia. Skills in microscopy, histology-staining techniques, and diagnosis and problem-solving will provide students with valuable assets for future careers in applied or research pathology and biomedical sciences.

The human pathology units are offered jointly by the Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Department of Immunology or the Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology in the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences.

Units offered

Level three

  • HUP3011 Human pathology 1: understanding disease processes
  • HUP3022 Human pathology 2: pathology of human diseases

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in human pathology (24 points)

Major sequence in human pathology (48 points)

Details of the BCH, DEV, IMM and MIC units, are provided in the Biochemistry, Developmental biology, Immunology and Microbiology entries in this section of the handbook.

Additional requirements:

Honours

The level-three units provide the basis for higher-level studies of pathology and disease mechanisms at honours level within either the Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Department of Immunology or the Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology.

Immunology - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Associate Professor Jennifer Rolland and Dr John Emmins, (Department of Immunology)

The discipline

Immunology examines our defences against foreign invaders such as viruses and bacteria. Knowledge of immune cells and molecules leads to vaccine development and also therapy of immune disorders such as allergy, autoimmunity and transplant rejection.

The immune system has evolved to provide the host with a highly sophisticated strategy for defence against invading micro-organisms including viruses, bacteria and larger parasites. There is also evidence that the immune system can target cancer cells and thus has a fundamental role to play in maintaining host homeostasis.

Immunology is the study of the cells and molecules that provide an effective and highly specific response to a wide array of foreign antigens. Knowledge of the mechanisms for coordination and regulation of the immune system is an exciting and rapidly advancing frontier with major implications for vaccine development and treatment of immune disorders. There are several diseases associated with disorders of the immune system, including allergy, autoimmunity and immunodeficiency such as following HIV infection. Transplant rejection is also an example of an unwanted immune response. Recent insight into the molecular basis for these disorders is leading the way to more effective and selective treatments.

Immunology links with other branches of biology such as pathology, biochemistry and microbiology, and units in these disciplines are an excellent complement to immunology.

Units offered

Level two

  • IMM2011 Function of the immune system

Level three

  • IMM3031 Molecular and cellular immunology
  • IMM3042 Clinical immunopathology
  • IMM3051 Principles of applied immunology
  • IMM3062 Clinical and research laboratory immunology

Sequence requirements

Immunology

Minor sequence in immunology (24 points)

Major sequence in immunology (48 points)

Immunology and human pathology

Major sequence in immunology and human pathology (48 points)

Details of the BCH, DEV, HUP, and PHY units, and some related sequences, are described in the Biochemistry, Developmental biology, Human pathology and Physiology entries in this section of the handbook.

Additional requirements:

Recommendations

Level three

The Department of Immunology offers four immunology units at level three. In each semester, students can take one theory-based immunology unit (IMM3031/IMM3042) and one practical-based unit (IMM3051/IMM3062). Together, these units provide an excellent coverage of all aspects of immunology, and students will be well equipped to undertake a career in research, applied or diagnostic immunology.

Honours

Students with appropriate level of performance in relevant level three units may undertake an honours program in 'Medical biology and immunology' at fourth year. This program incorporates a major research project on a topic selected from a wide range in immunology, immunopathology and medical biology conducted in the Department of Immunology or affiliated institutes. There is also minor coursework comprising theory modules and seminar presentations.

 

Marine and freshwater biology - Faculty of Science

Contact: Dr Paul Bailey (School of Biological Sciences)

The discipline

Marine and freshwater biology is the study of plant and animal life in aquatic environments, from their biochemistry to their ecology, in environments ranging from ephemeral lakes through tropical reefs to the depths of the ocean.

Sequence requirements

Major sequence in marine and freshwater biology (48 points)

A list of related units are provided in the `Biological sciences' entry in this section of the handbook.

    *This unit has level-two prerequisites.

Materials science - Faculty of Science

Coordinators (Department of Materials Engineering): Associate Professor Kiyonori Suzuki

The discipline

Materials science looks at different types of materials (metals, polymers, ceramics, glasses and composites) and the fundamental structural reasons for the astounding range of properties displayed. The discipline is intended for students of physical science who seek an understanding of the structure and properties of solid materials and the relationships between them. Studies in materials science are offered by the School of Physics in the Faculty of Science and the Department of Materials Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering. Throughout a major in materials science, structure property relationships are studied among all classes of materials (metals, ceramics, polymers, glasses and composites), and the contents of individual units focus on experimental measurement of microstructure and properties, materials synthesis and their technological significance.

Units offered

Level one

  • MSC1010 Materials in our environment

Level two

Level three

  • MSC3111 Materials durability
  • MSC3121 Microstructural design in structural materials
  • MSC3132 Functional materials and devices
  • MSC3142 Materials characterisation and modelling

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in materials science (24 points)

Major sequence in materials science (48 points)

Details of the CHM and PHS units, and some related sequences, are described in the `Chemistry' and `Physics' entries in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

A major in materials science can be combined with a wide range of other majors, including physics, chemistry and mathematics. Students with an interest in biomaterials may choose to combine materials science with a physiology major. A materials science major commences at level two.

Level two

The level-two units have no formal prerequisite requirements from level one but students must have successfully completed at least 12 points of science units at level one before they may enrol in any science unit at level two. It is recommended that at least six points of mathematics units are undertaken at level two.

Level three

Four 6-point units are offered at level three, and these generally comprise 32 hours of lectures and tutorials and a weekly practical session in the School of Physics or the Department of Materials Engineering laboratories.

Honours

Honours in materials science features a major research project of the student's choice carried out under the guidance of an academic member of staff. This project comprises half the year's work and is conducted over two semesters. Usually the project will be related to the research interests of the staff member and the work will be done in a research team environment alongside other postdoctoral researchers and higher-degree students. This will often be work at the cutting edge of new materials technology. In addition, coursework at an advanced level is undertaken, where the topics are chosen (with advice from the student's project supervisor) from a wide range of elective topics offered within the School of Physics or the Department of Materials Engineering, or from other departments or schools. The coursework comprises the other half of the honours year. Mid-year entry to the honours program is available.

Mathematics - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Listed below for each level

The discipline

Mathematical techniques and models form a significant component of nearly all branches of modern science. Mathematics is also a vital and growing discipline in its own right, and encompasses the formal study of numerical, algebraic and analytical structures, the development of quantitative methods essential for the practice and development of science, engineering, economics and other fields, and the development and utilisation of mathematical and numerical models in various contexts.

Units are offered in specialist areas of mathematics and statistics, as well as in mathematical methods (designed in part to support units offered for other disciplines). Areas for which specialist units are offered include algebra, analysis and geometry, applied and computational mathematics, statistics and probability, astronomy and astrophysics, atmospheric science and fluid dynamics. Information sheets with suggested programs for these areas are available from the School of Mathematical Sciences prior to re-enrolment.

All units offered for the first three levels of the Bachelor of Science and associated degrees have MTH codes for mathematics units and STA codes for some statistics units. For details of the statistics units that are available at the Clayton campus, see the Statistics entry in this Handbook.

Some second and third-level astronomy and astrophysics (ASP) and atmospheric science (ATM) units can also contribute towards minor and major sequences in mathematics; consult the relevant year coordinator for details. Mathematics units designed specifically to meet the requirements of the faculties of Engineering and Information Technology are listed under the relevant regulations for those courses, often with MAT codes; normally these units cannot be taken as part of a mathematics sequence for the students in the Bachelor of Science and related courses.

For first, second and third-level mathematics units offered at the Clayton campus, the fourth digit (0, 1 or 2) in the unit code indicates the semester in which it is given, where 0 indicates that streams of the unit are normally available in either or both of first and second semester. For some mathematics units not offered at the Clayton campus, the fourth digit in the unit code may be 5, 6, 7 or 9. With the approval of the relevant year coordinator, students can replace some units in a recommended program by equivalent units offered at the Gippsland campus (see Science areas of study and sequences - Gippsland in this section of the Handbook) or by off-campus learning.

Units offered

Level one

  • MTH1010 Functions and their applications
  • MTH1020 Analysis of change
  • MTH1030 Techniques for modelling
  • MTH1112 Numbers, logic and graphs
  • MTH1122 The nature and beauty of mathematics
  • MTH2010 Multivariable calculus
  • STA1010 Statistical methods for science

Level two

  • ASP2062 Introduction to astrophysics
  • ATM2020 Climate dynamics of the atmosphere and oceans
  • ATM2030 Clouds, weather and forecasting
  • MTH2000 Mathematics research project level 2
  • MTH2010 Multivariable calculus
  • MTH2021 Linear algebra with applications
  • MTH2032 Differential equations with modelling
  • MTH2051 Introduction to computational mathematics
  • MTH2121 Algebra and number theory
  • MTH2132 The nature and beauty of mathematics
  • MTH2140 Real analysis
  • MTH2222 Mathematics of uncertainty
  • STA2032 Advanced data analysis

Level three

  • ASP3012 Stars and galaxies
  • ASP3051 Relativity and cosmology
  • ATM3040 Physical meteorology
  • ATM3050 Dynamical meteorology
  • MTH3000 Mathematics research project level 3
  • MTH3011 Partial differential equations
  • MTH3020 Complex analysis and integral transforms
  • MTH3051 Introduction to computational mathematics
  • MTH3060 Advanced ordinary differential equations
  • MTH3110 Differential geometry
  • MTH3121 Algebra and number theory
  • MTH3140 Real analysis
  • MTH3150 Algebra and number theory II
  • MTH3160 Analysis and topology
  • MTH3230 Time series and random processes in linear systems
  • MTH3241 Random processes in the sciences and engineering
  • MTH3251 Financial mathematics
  • MTH3360 Fluid dynamics

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in mathematics (24 points)

Major sequence in mathematics (48 points)

  • A minor sequence in mathematics
  • At least one of MTH3011, MTH3051, MTH3110, MTH3140
  • Remaining units from the MTH, STA, ATM and ASP units at level two and three listed above, with at least 18 points at level three

Details of the ASP, ATM and STA units, and some related sequences, are described in the Astronomy and astrophysics, Atmospheric science and Statistics entries in this section of the Handbook.

Major sequence in computational mathematics

Major sequence in pure mathematics

Major sequence in applied mathematics

Recommendations

There are many possible combinations of mathematics units and strong prerequisite requirements on mathematics sequences. Students considering completing a sequence in mathematics or statistics are advised to determine the prerequisites for any higher-level units in their area of interest before finalising their choice of units and may seek the assistance of the relevant year coordinator. Information sheets with suggested programs are available from the school. As a general rule, it is advisable to choose a set of units at any level that leave several options open at higher levels.

Level one

Coordinator: Dr Chris Hough, Deputy: Mr Simon Teague, (School of Mathematical Sciences)

Level one mathematics units are provided for students from a wide variety of backgrounds, from those who have not studied mathematics at VCE level to those who have completed VCE Specialist Mathematics units 3 and 4. It is recommended that all science students should include some level-one mathematics units in their course, particularly those who have not completed VCE Mathematical Methods units 3 and 4.

The units MTH1010, MTH1020 and MTH1030 are provided in support of other science disciplines, as well as preparation for further studies in mathematics. They should be taken sequentially commencing from a point that depends on a student's previous studies in mathematics, for example by their level of preparation from VCE level. MTH2010 is available to students at both first and second level who have completed MTH1030, including first-year students who have taken MTH1030 in their first semester. Further details of recommended mathematics sequences are provided below.

The units STA1010, MTH1112 and MTH1122 can form part of a mathematics sequence at level one, in combination with one or more of MTH1010, MTH1020 and MTH1030, but any student who is considering completing a minor or major sequence in mathematics may limit their options at higher years if MTH1030 is not taken in their first year. STA1010 is designed specifically as a service unit in data analysis and statistics for students intending to major in other disciplines, particularly in psychology and the life sciences, as well as forming part of the normal statistics sequence. MTH1112 is a specialist mathematics unit but it also has a service role, being recommended for students of computer science. MTH1122 is designed for arts and education students. It would also be useful for science students provided there is room in their program and it does not constrain their progression to higher-level studies.

The School of Mathematical Sciences also offers the unit ASP1022, described in the Astronomy and astrophysics entry in this section of the handbook, and contributes to ATM1020 and ATM1030, described in the Atmospheric science entry.

Recommended level-one mathematics sequences

For students who have completed VCE Mathematical Methods units 3 and 4 with an average grade of C or above in the written examination components, the recommended mathematics level one sequence is MTH1020 and MTH1030.

For students who have completed VCE Specialist Mathematics units 3 and 4 with an average grade of B or above in the written examination components, the recommended level one mathematics sequence is MTH1030 and MTH2010. These students may also choose to take MTH1112, MTH1122 or STA1010 instead of MTH2010 in their first year.

For other students, the recommended level-one mathematics sequence is MTH1010 and MTH1020.

Students not intending to take any level-two mathematics units may choose any one of the above recommended sequences or replace the second unit in any of the sequences by STA1010 or MTH1122.

It is recommended that Bachelor of Science (BSc) students complete SCI1020 prior to STA1010 if they have not completed VCE Specialist Mathematics or achieved at least an average grade of B or above in the written examination components of VCE Mathematical Methods units 3 and 4.

Level two

Coordinator: Dr Leo Brewin, Deputy: Dr Eric Chu, (School of Mathematical Sciences)

The School of Mathematical Sciences offers level-two units in mathematical methods as well as in a range of specialist areas. The astrophysics and atmospheric science units given by the school, ASP2062, ATM2020 and ATM2030, can also be taken as part of any mathematics sequence at level two.

The unit MTH2000 (Mathematics research project level 2) is normally only available to students in the Bachelor of Science Advanced with Honours (BScAdv(Hons)) or Bachelor of Science (Science Scholar Program) (BSc(ScSchProg)), or by permission of the head of school.

The School of Applied Sciences and Engineering also offers some level-two mathematics and statistics units at the Gippsland campus and through off-campus learning.

Level three

Coordinator: Associate Professor Michael Page, Deputy: Dr Aidan Sudbury, (School of Mathematical Sciences)

The School of Mathematical Sciences offers a broad range of mathematics units at level three. Many of these units are intended for non-specialist third-level studies in mathematics. Specialist unit areas include algebra, analysis and geometry, applied and computational mathematics, mathematical statistics and probability, astrophysics, atmospheric science and fluid dynamics. The astrophysics and atmospheric science units given by the school, ASP3012, ASP3051, ATM3040 and ATM3050 can also be taken as part of any mathematics sequence at level three.

The unit MTH3000 (Mathematics research project level 3) is normally only available to students in the BScAdv(Hons) or BSc(ScSchProg), or by permission of the head of school.

The School of Applied Sciences and Engineering also offers some level-three mathematics and statistics units at the Gippsland campus and through off-campus learning.

Honours

Coordinator: Dr Maria Athanassenas, Deputy: Dr Andrew Prentice, (School of Mathematical Sciences)

The School of Mathematical Sciences offer honours studies in mathematics and mathematical statistics for students commencing in either first or second semester. The program normally consists of some lecture topics in addition to an essay topic and the completion, under supervision, of a major project. A list of the fourth-year topics will be available at the time of enrolment. A limited number of level three units, or units from other schools, may be substituted for fourth-year topics, as approved by the honours coordinator.

The minimum entry requirement to apply for honours studies in mathematical sciences is normally an average of at least distinction grade in 24 points of level-three mathematics or statistics units, or equivalent. This will normally include at least 18 points in the area of study in which the student proposes to enrol. Applications for entry into the program in the following year must be submitted normally before the end of the third year of studies, but it is advisable to approach the honours coordinator as early in that year as possible for advice. The school also offers honours-level studies in astrophysics and atmospheric science and lecture units from these can be taken as part of honours studies in mathematics; further details are provided under the honours entries for those disciplines in this handbook.

Microbiology - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Professor John Davies (Department of Microbiology)

The discipline

Microbiology is an absorbing science that is at the core of exciting new developments that have occurred in modern molecular biology. It involves the analysis and genetic manipulation of bacteria, parasites and viruses.

Recent developments such as mad-cow disease, HIV infection, legionnaire's disease and the rise of antibiotic resistance emphasise the importance of understanding infectious diseases for human health. Microbiology is concerned with the study of these emerging diseases and micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses, their structure and way of life, how they interact with people and other living organisms in both harmful and beneficial ways and how they can be exploited to our advantage. All these aspects are featured in units commencing at level two. These involve the study of the diversity of the microbial world, food microbiology and an analysis of how microbes grow and survive. At the practical level, students will learn about how micro-organisms interact with their environment, and about how they interact with the human body to cause disease. Several major diseases such as malaria, influenza and tuberculosis will be studied in depth.

At level three, studies progress to the molecular biology of bacteria and viruses, bacterial and viral pathogenesis, and medical microbiology. In the current era of recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering, bacterial plasmids and viruses provide the essential vehicles for genetic manipulation and expression in recipient cells, emphasising the core role of microbiology in the biomedical sciences. Practical classes in microbiology are designed to provide laboratory skills in safe handling of micro-organisms, experimental procedures illustrating their properties and functions, laboratory diagnosis, and genetic manipulation and expression. There is a strong emphasis on training in the techniques of recombinant DNA technology.

A sequence that integrates the study of microbiology with molecular biology is also offered.

Units offered

Level two

  • MIC2011 Introduction to microbiology and microbial biotechnology
  • MIC2022 Microbes in health and disease

Level three

  • MIC3011 Molecular microbiology
  • MIC3022 Molecular virology and viral pathogenesis
  • MIC3032 Pathogenesis of bacterial infectious diseases
  • MIC3041 Medical microbiology
  • MIC3990 Action in microbiology research project

Sequence requirements

Microbiology

Minor sequence in microbiology (24 points)

Major sequence in microbiology (48 points)

Microbiology and molecular biology

Major sequence in microbiology and molecular biology (48 points)

Double major sequence in microbiology and molecular biology (72 points)

The BCH, MOL and GEN units and related sequences are described in the `Biochemistry', `Biological Sciences' and `Molecular biology' entries in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

Level two

Students enrolling in MIC2011 and MIC2022 are strongly advised to enrol in the molecular biology units MOL2011 and MOL2022. Useful companion units are available from biochemistry, immunology, genetics and pharmacology. Students should also note that MIC2011 and MIC2022 are prerequisites for MIC3032 and MIC3041. Microbiology units are recommended for students planning future studies in medical or paramedical fields. They are also recommended for those students who are uncertain about the direction of their future career, as they offer a basic grounding that is considerably adaptable.

Level three

The final year of microbiology offers a broad range of specialist units that in combination provide well-structured training in most modern aspects of microbiology. Four of the five level-three MIC units are required for accreditation in the workforce as a professional microbiologist.

Honours

Students with an appropriate level of performance in level-three MIC or related units may be eligible to undertake a year of research training under the direct supervision of the leader of one of the research groups in the department. For further details see http://www.med.monash.edu.au.

Molecular biology - Faculty of Science

Contacts: Dr Alan Neale (School of Biological Sciences), Professor Ben Adler (Department of Microbiology)

The discipline

Molecular biology emphasises the role of genetic information in controlling the wide variety of functions in all forms of life. It provides the basis for recombinant DNA techniques, which underpin biotechnology and genome projects.

The molecular biology units are offered jointly by the School of Biological Sciences in the Faculty of Science and the departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Microbiology in the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences.

Units offered

Level two

  • MOL2011 Molecular biology: genes and their expression
  • MOL2022 Molecular biology: gene technology and its application

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in molecular biology (24 points)

Major sequence in molecular biology (48 points)

Details of the BCH, BIO, BTH, GEN and MIC units and sequences are provided in the `Biochemistry', `Biological sciences' `Biotechnology', `Genetics' and `Microbiology' entries in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

Level two

Students who wish to complete a minor or major sequence in molecular biology should complete the two 6-point units MOL2011 and MOL2022. In addition, students who intend to complete a major sequence in molecular biology should consult the contributing departments concerning complementary discipline-specific units that are recommended at level two.

Level three

There are no cross-discipline level-three units in molecular biology. Students who are commencing level three and who have completed the level-two combination MOL2011 and MOL2022 should consult the contributing departments concerning the combination of discipline-specific units that will best suit their interests and needs in terms of possible future studies. The discipline-specific units need to be completed in particular combinations to ensure a major in molecular biology or a double-major in molecular biology and a related discipline (eg biochemistry, genetics or microbiology).

Other science units - Faculty of Science

Units offered

Level one

  • SCI1020 Introduction to statistical reasoning (coordinator: Dr Kais Hamza)

Level two

  • SCI2010 The practice and application of science (coordinator: Dr Ros Gleadow)

Level three

  • SCI3090 Technology management for scientists (coordinator: Dr Alan Chaffee)
  • SCI3094 Technology management for scientists II (coordinator: Dr Alan Chaffee)
  • SCI3740 Science in action research project (coordinator: Dr Alan Neale)

Pharmacology - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Dr Wayne Hodgson (Department of Pharmacology)

The discipline

Pharmacology and toxicology has a broad contemporary educative function, teaching how a wide variety of chemicals and drugs produce their effects on living organisms.

An understanding of the way in which drugs produce their effects in the body is becoming increasingly important as the use and abuse of drugs becomes more widespread in society. The science of pharmacology is the study of the effects of drugs on living organisms where the term drug can be defined as a chemical substance, natural or synthetic, which affects a biological system. Pharmacology is an interdisciplinary science that employs experimental approaches common to chemistry, biochemistry and physiology.

Units offered

Level two

Level three

  • PHA3011 Principles of drug action
  • PHA3021 Drugs in health and disease
  • PHA3032 Neuro and endocrine pharmacology
  • PHA3042 Modern drug development
  • PHA3052 Poisons and toxins
  • PHA3990 Action in pharmacology research project

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in pharmacology (24 points)

Major sequence in pharmacology (48 points)

Details of the PHY units, and some related sequences, are described in the `Physiology' entry in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

Level two

The school offers one 6-point unit - PHA2022 - at level two. This unit is of interest to all students taking biomedical science units (physiology, biochemistry, anatomy, microbiology) but also as an adjunct to a degree in law or psychology. PHA2022 is not a prerequisite for further study in pharmacology but is highly recommended.

The prerequisites for PHA3011 and PHA3021 are normally an adequate performance in physiology at level two. Units studied at level two may also include pharmacology, biochemistry or chemistry.

Students planning to complete major sequences in both physiology and pharmacology are advised to take all three level-two physiology units and PHA2022.

Level three

The first semester units, PHA3011 and PHA3021 lay the foundations for understanding how drugs act and the use of drugs to treat disease; PHA3011 is a prerequisite for all second-semester units offered by the school. In second semester students may elect to take any combination of the four units - PHA3032, PHA3042, PHA3052 and PHA3990. These units may be combined with units in other disciplines such as any of the biological/medical disciplines, chemistry or law.

Honours

Students who have completed appropriate studies at level three may be eligible for the opportunity to pursue a fourth year at honours level. These studies involve advanced coursework and a laboratory-based project under the supervision of a staff member. Details of projects can be found at http://www.med.monash.edu.au/pharmacology.

Physics - Faculty of Science

Coordinators: Listed below for each level

The discipline

Physics is a major branch of science that provides an understanding of the physical world. Many of the important methods and techniques in other branches of science and technology owe their existence to physics. Students explore diverse topics ranging from cosmology to sub-atomic particles. A program of study in physics provides a sound scientific background for a complex and technologically oriented world.

Instrumentation, measurement and analysis are essential in physics, as in many areas of scientific endeavour, and are emphasised in all physics units. The School of Physics offers physics units at levels one, two, three and four and astronomy at levels one, two and three. See the separate entry for `Astronomy and astrophysics' for details. Materials science units are equivalent to materials engineering units and are co-taught with Department of Materials Engineering staff from the Faculty of Engineering. Students may include some astronomy, astrophysics and materials science units in a physics major.

The first three levels of physics provide a broad foundation for the discipline. In honours and postgraduate study, opportunities exist for specialisation in a wide range of topics in theoretical and experimental physics.

Units offered

Level one

Level two

  • ASP2011 Astronomy
  • MSC2011 Nanostructure of materials
  • MSC2111 Functional materials
  • PHS2011 Physics: Quantum concepts and technologies
  • PHS2022 Physics: Electromagnetism, light and entropy

Level three

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in physics (24 points)

Major sequence in physics (48 points)

In special circumstances, the head of school may approve PHS1042 instead of PHS1022.

For level two and three physics, there are mathematics prerequisites: PHS2022 has MTH2010 as a prerequisite; PHS2011 has MTH1030 as a prerequisite; PHS3031 has MTH2010 and MTH2032 as pre-requisites.

At level one, MTH1020 or MTH1030 are recommended corequisites for PHS1011 and PHS1022.

Details of the ASP and MSC units, and related sequences, are described in the `Astronomy and astrophysics' and 'Materials science' entries in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

Level one

Director of first-year studies: Dr David Mills (School of Physics)

The sequence PHS1011 and PHS1022 covers the foundations of physics over two semesters, providing a balance between a theoretical understanding of physics along with practical applications and experimental physics. These units follow a mathematical approach using calculus, and the student is required to have studies VCE year 12 Physics (or equivalent) . PHS1011 and PHS1022 are normally taken by students with interests in physics, mathematics, astrophysics, chemistry, computer science, those interested in the nature of the universe, and those doing science/engineering double degrees.

Foundation physics PHS1080 is suitable for students with no year 12 Physics (as above) who wish to study physics or astrophysics at level two and above. It should be followed by PHS1022.

PHS1031 and PHS1042 are specifically designed for students interested in biomedical and environmental disciplines. There is an emphasis on applications of physics principles in a broad range of sciences. These units can be undertaken by students with no previous physics experience; the approach is a balance of descriptive and analytical treatments; calculus is not used.

PHS1011 or PHS1080 and PHS1022 are normally required to enter the level-two physics units PHS2011 and PHS2022, however students with alternative semester-one physics may enrol in level-two units at the discretion of the head of school. Any level-one physics provides a foundation for level two in astronomy and materials science. Students entering level-two physics should have completed sufficient level-one mathematics to undertake MTH2010.

The school also offers a level-one unit, ASP1010 (Introductory astronomy). See the `Astronomy and astrophysics' entry for details.

Level two

Coordinator: Dr Greg Jakovidis (School of Physics)

There are three major unit groupings, or streams, at level two: physics (PHS2011 and PHS2022), astronomy (ASP2011), taught by the School of Physics, and materials science (MSC2011 and MSC2111), taught by Faculty of Engineering staff. These streams are designed to provide a good grounding in the various aspects of physics for students wishing to major in other disciplines as well as those intending to continue to major in physics.

Students intending to proceed to level-three physics and/or theoretical physics must pass PHS2011 and PHS2022. The units ASP2011, MSC2011 and MSC2111 complement the mainstream physics units and allow students to broaden their understanding of the physical world.

The units PHS2011 and PHS2022 introduce some of the underlying principles of physics, including quantum physics, solid state physics, electromagnetism, optics, atomic and nuclear physics, thermodynamics and statistical physics. The key concepts are linked via applications in the areas of quantum concepts and technologies (PHS2011) and physics for communications and measurement (PHS2022). Students intending to proceed to level-three physics/theoretical physics should also take the 6-point level-two mathematics units MTH2010 and MTH2032.

The School of Physics has observatory facilities at Mount Burnett and at the Clayton campus and offers the level-two unit ASP2011. For details, see the `Astronomy and astrophysics' entry in this section of the handbook.

Details of the level-two materials science units MSC2011 and MSC2111, which are taught by School of Physics staff and Department of Materials Engineering staff, are provided under the `Materials science' entry in this section of the handbook.

Level three

Coordinator: Associate Professor Andrei Nikulin (School of Physics)

The School of Physics offers a range of level-three units that cover theoretical physics, solid state and fundamental particle physics and technological physics. In addition, the school offers a unit that provides training in physics relevant to astrophysics and a number of units based on a project approach to the discipline.

Level-three physics units normally consist of two series of 12 one-hour lectures, a further 12 hours of tutorial/workshops, and an average of 2.5 hours of laboratory per week or one-hour seminar work per week for theoretical units. Physics project units require a total time commitment of 12 hours per week.

Honours

Coordinator: Csaba Balazs (School of Physics)

Honours in physics prepares students for professional roles as scientists. It encompasses a major research project of the student's own choice carried out under the guidance of an academic member of staff. The project is further supported by attendance at six lecture units, each consisting of approximately 18 hours of class contact. These are chosen in collaboration with the project supervisor and with the permission of the honours coordinator. Students are also encouraged to participate in one of the research groups of the school.

Students wishing to proceed to honours should apply towards the end of their third year. A distinction average or higher in 24 points of PHS, ASP or MSC units at level three is required.

Not all fourth-year lecture units may be offered in any particular year, and students may include units at an appropriate level from other schools of the university. Lecture units are normally given during the first semester of the calendar year and, accordingly, most of the project work is carried out during the second semester. Mid-year entry to the honours program is also available.

Physiology - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Associate Professor Alan Tilbrook (Department of Physiology)

The discipline

Physiology is the study of the way in which the body functions normally, and in dysfunction and disease. It is the core discipline of the biomedical, medical and life sciences. A program of study in physiology provides an ideal cornerstone for students wishing to pursue future studies in medical or allied health areas. Physiology provides the answers to questions on how the body works, on what happens when we are born and develop, on how our body systems adapt when challenged by stresses such as exercise or environmental extremes, and on how body functions change in disease states. From nerves to muscles, from the brain to hormones, physiologists are concerned with functions at all levels. This spans from the molecular and cellular to the organ and body systems levels, to ultimately provide understanding of the integrated function of the whole body.

In all units, emphasis will be on human body function. There will be study of both normal function as well as of common examples of adaptation to unusual environments (eg high altitude) and of dysfunction (eg heart disease, infertility, ageing) as appropriate to the unit and level of study. The aim is to provide students with greater insight into body function and an understanding of the basis of many common dysfunctions.

Units offered

Level two

  • PHY2011 Neuroscience of sensation, brain and movement
  • PHY2021 Body systems physiology
  • PHY2032 Physiology of human health

Level three

  • PHY3012 Integrative neuroscience
  • PHY3072 Muscle and exercise
  • PHY3082 Developmental physiology
  • PHY3111 Sensation and movement
  • PHY3171 Clinical and experimental cardiovascular physiology
  • PHY3181 Sex, reproduction and society
  • PHY3990 Action in physiology research project

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in physiology (24 points)

Major sequence in physiology (48 points)

  • a minor sequence in physiology
  • 24 points from level two or three PHY units, with at least 18 points at level three.

Recommendations

Level two

There are no prerequisites for any level-two units. To be able to take any of the level-three physiology units, students must have passed any two of PHY2011, PHY2021 and PHY2032.

Students planning to complete major sequences in both physiology and pharmacology are advised to take all three level-two physiology units and PHA2022.

Level three

There are three level-three units available in semester one and a further three in semester two. Students wishing to major in physiology normally take two units in semester one and another two units in semester two, however students can take these units in any combination. Less than fours units can be taken by students not wishing to major in physiology, and all six can be taken by students with a special interest in physiology.

The level-three units can be paired as: PHY3111 with PHY3012, PHY3171 with PHY3072, and PHY3181 with PHY3082. They do not, however, indicate prescribed paths that must be followed, and students are free to take these units in any combination that they wish.

Honours

The level-three units provide the basis for higher-level study in physiology at honours level, within the department or its affiliated institutes, or for graduate and postgraduate study in many other biomedical and medical disciplines. Honours-level study comprises two long units. In PHY4100 (36 points), students undertake a major research project, under the supervision of a staff member, in a topic selected from a wide range available within the department or its affiliated institutes. PHY4200 (12 points) provides for advanced theoretical study and further development of students' analytical, research and communication skills. Mid-year entry to physiology is possible depending on the availability of places.

Plant sciences - Faculty of Science

Contact: Associate Professor Jenny Read (School of Biological Sciences)

The discipline

Plant science is the study of plants, their diversity and structure, and how they function. It involves studying plants living on land, in the sea and in freshwater environments, from the scale of genes and molecules to ecology.

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in plant sciences (24 points)

Major sequence in plant sciences (48 points)

A list of related units are provided in the `Biological sciences' entry in this section of the handbook.

    *This unit has level-two prerequisites beyond those listed at level two.
    # The version of these units at level three cannot be taken if the corresponding version at level two has been completed.

Psychology - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Dr Max Jory, (School of Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine)

NOTE: Some units may not be available in the on-campus mode to students enrolled at the Gippsland campus. Please check the unit entry for details on availability.

The discipline

The Department of Psychology in the School of Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences offers an undergraduate program for students who intend to specialise in psychology by completing a 60-point major sequence which is accredited by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the Singapore Psychological Society, and approved for registration purposes by the Psychologists Registration Board of Victoria. This program provides an avenue to further study in psychology and to the training required to practise as a psychologist with the option of proceeding to a degree with honours, or into postgraduate programs of study. The 60-point accredited major sequence may be taken in the Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Behavioural Neuroscience, Bachelor of Behavioural Science, Bachelor of Psychology and Management/Marketing, Bachelor of Arts and some Bachelor of Arts degrees with specialisations. A 48-point major in psychology may be sufficient to satisfy the requirements for a major sequence in any of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science, single or double degrees, but is not APS-accredited and will not permit entry to fourth-year programs in psychology.

Further details of the psychology units and sequences, and the locations at which they are available, are provided in the `Psychology' entry in the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences section of this handbook.

Units offered*

Level one

Core units

Level two

Core units

  • PSY2031 Developmental and biological psychology
  • PSY2042 Cognitive and social psychology
  • PSY2051 Research design and analysis

Elective unit

  • PSY2112 Organisational psychology (also available by off-campus learning)

Level three

Core units

  • PSY3032 Abnormal psychology
  • PSY3041 Psychological testing, theories of ability and ethics
  • PSY3051 Perception and personality
  • PSY3062 Research methods and theory

Elective units

  • PSY3120 Introduction to counselling (also available by off-campus learning)
  • PSY3130 Health psychology (also available by off-campus learning)
  • PSY3160 Psychology of language (also available by off-campus learning)
  • PSY3180 Human neuropsychology: developmental and neurodegenerative disorders
  • PSY3190 Addiction studies
  • PSY3220 Philosophical and theoretical psychology
  • PSY3230 Psychological foundations of law
  • PSY3240 Psychology of music
  • PSY3250 Positive psychology

    *Offerings of elective units will vary from year to year.

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in psychology (24 points)

Major sequence in psychology (48 points)

  • PSY1011 and PSY1022
  • PSY2051 and at least one level-two PSY unit
  • the remaining 18 or 24 points from the PSY units at level three

Students wishing to gain accreditation by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) or apply for entry into fourth-year courses in psychology must complete 60 points of PSY units including the following nine units: PSY1011, PSY1022, PSY2031, PSY2042, PSY2051, PSY3041, PSY3051, PSY3032 and PSY3062, and one elective PSY unit at level two or three. The additional PSY units required for professional accreditation are above the requirements of a major sequence in the Bachelor of Science.

Recommendations

Level one

Students intending to complete either a minor or major sequence in psychology must complete both PSY1011 and PSY1022 at level one. For information on unit choices contact: psychology.firstyear@med.monash.edu.au or psychology.firstyear.off-campus@med.monash.edu.au

Level two

Students may take an elective unit at level two and some level-three electives may be undertaken at level two providing prerequisites and corequisites are met. Students intending to complete the APS-accredited major sequence are advised to select their level-two units carefully. For information on unit choices contact: psychology.secondyear@med.monash.edu.au or psychology.secondyear.off-campus@med.monash.edu.au

Level three

Up to four elective units are available at level three, so that it is possible for students to study 48 points of psychology at level three. The electives offered may vary from year to year depending on staff availability. For information on unit choices contact: psychology.thirdyear@med.monash.edu.au or psychology.thirdyear.off-campus@med.monash.edu.au

Honours

Students completing a degree with a 60-point APS-accredited major sequence in psychology are eligible to apply for entry to a fourth year in psychology through an honours year, or the Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology (refer to the entry for this course in the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences section of the Postgraduate Handbook).

Soil science - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Dr Tony Patti (School of Chemistry and School of Applied Sciences and Engineering)

The four units that make up the minor in soil science provide a background and focus in basic chemical and physical properties of soils. This background is utilised to examine a number of important environmental issues related to Australian soils, particularly salinity, erosion, acidity and the depletion of soil organic matter.

Minor sequence in soil science (24 points)

 

Statistics - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: As listed under Mathematics

The discipline

Statistics is the branch of mathematics that captures the interplay of data and theory. Applied and mathematical statistics combine to extract useful knowledge from data. Mathematical statistics develops the methodology, while applied statistics exploits the theory to learn from real-life information.

The discipline caters for the application of statistics in scientific research and data analysis. In the applied statistics (STA) stream, statistics is taught as a mathematical science and not a field of mathematics. The emphasis is on statistical ideas and offers a real career choice with excellent employment prospects with industry, commerce and government organisations.

Mathematical statistics has cross-links with areas of pure and applied mathematics as well as applications in the fast-developing fields of financial mathematics, mathematical biology and signal system analysis. The mathematical statistics (MTH) sequence caters for these highly sought-after disciplines.

The use of statistics is constantly expanding, and a sound knowledge of the discipline is important even for those who do not complete a major sequence in the area.

Units offered

Level one

  • STA1010 Statistical methods for science

Level two

Level three

  • MTH3230 Time series and random processes in linear systems
  • MTH3241 Random processes in the sciences and engineering
  • MTH3251 Financial mathematics

Sequence requirements

Applied statistics

Mathematical statistics

Minor sequence in statistics (24 points)

Major sequence in mathematical statistics (48 points)

Details of the MTH units and some related sequences are provided in the Mathematics entry in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

Level one

STA1010 is introductory and does not require that a student has completed any previous studies in statistics, although it is most suitable for those who have completed either VCE Mathematical Methods units 3 and 4 or SCI1020.

Students considering completing a major sequence in mathematical statistics who have not completed VCE Specialist Mathematics with an average grade of B or above should take MTH1020 before MTH1030, as well as STA1010. Students with an average grade of B or above are advised to complete MTH1030 and MTH2010 at level one.

Level two

MTH2222 covers the theoretical material needed to complete a major sequence in mathematical statistics. It is only offered in second semester, so students who wish to complete MTH2222 and who have not completed MTH2010, MTH2021 or MTH2111 by the end of the first semester must take MTH2010 concurrently with MTH2222. STA2032 is an applied statistics unit with STA1010 or MTH1030 as a prerequisite.

Level three

A major sequence in statistics includes the three units MTH3230, MTH3241 and MTH3251 at level three. Students who complete MTH2010 but not STA1010 at first level and who do not complete either MTH2021 or MTH2111 at second level will have to complete an additional mathematics unit at either level two or three.

Honours

An honours program in mathematical statistics is available; see the `Mathematics' discipline entry in this section of the handbook for further details. Some honours lecture topics are taught through the Key Centre for Statistical Science, which is a collaborative arrangement between Monash University, the University of Melbourne, La Trobe University and RMIT University.

Zoology - Faculty of Science

Contact: Dr Richard Reina (School of Biological Sciences)

The discipline

Zoology is the study of animals - their diversity and structure, and how they function. It involves the study of animals living on land, in the sea and in freshwater environments, from the scale of genes and molecules to ecology.

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in zoology (24 points)

Major sequence in zoology (48 points)

A list of related units are provided in the Biological sciences entry in this section of the handbook.

Science areas of study and sequences - Gippsland

The School of Applied Sciences and Engineering offers a number of major and minor sequences creditable to the Bachelor of Science and related awards; these are offered on the Gippsland campus and by off-campus learning. Available studies range across the biological, chemical, environmental and mathematical sciences, together with psychology and information technology.

Students should consult individual unit* entries for details of prerequisites and scheduling. Some sequences include units with prerequisites that are not included in the sequence itself. Some upper-level units are offered every second year, but sequenced to allow completion of a major over three consecutive years. Also, some other units are offered in off-campus mode every second year only.

All units have a value of 6 points unless otherwise indicated. Some entries for a science area of study may refer students to an associated area of study; in these instances the reference is to the relevant area of study for the same campus.

Occasional reference is made to desirable or prerequisite studies in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) - those students who did not study the VCE should seek advice about unit choice for students with qualifications other than the VCE.

* If specific units must be studied, in each science area of study they are referred to by the full unit code and title in the first instance and by their code only thereafter. Where units can be chosen from a group of related units, these are referred to by the three-letter prefix common to all of the units in that group (eg ASP - astrophysics units).

Other science units

 

Applied biology - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Ms Jenny Mosse, School of Applied Sciences and Engineering

The discipline

The School of Applied Sciences and Engineering offers major sequences in applied biochemistry and applied microbiology and a minor sequence in human physiology. Both major sequences have a strong emphasis on modern experimental techniques and their relevant medical, industrial and environmental applications.

The minor sequence in human physiology looks at the relationship between structure and function in the human body. This sequence complements the applied biochemistry and psychology major sequences.

Units offered

Level one

Level two

  • BIO2721 Human development and genetics
  • BIO2742 Exercise physiology and fitness assessment
  • BTH2711 Introductory microbiology
  • BTH2722 Microbial function and immunology
  • BTH2732 Recombinant DNA technology
  • BTH2741 Biochemistry
  • BTH2752 Cellular metabolism
  • CHM2762 Design of molecules and macromolecules

Level three

  • BTH3711 Food and industrial microbiology
  • BTH3722 Medical microbiology
  • BTH3732 Environmental microbiology
  • BTH3741 Medical aspects of cell biology
  • BTH3752 Molecular biology and biotechnology
  • CHM3730 Bioactive chemistry
  • SCI3741 Biotechnology in action research project

Sequence requirements

Applied biochemistry

Minor sequence in applied biochemistry (24 points)

Major sequence in applied biochemistry (48 points)

Applied microbiology

Minor sequence in applied microbiology (24 points)

Major sequence in applied microbiology (48 points)

Human physiology

Minor sequence in human physiology (24 points)

 

Applied chemistry - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Ms Jenny Mosse (School of Applied Sciences and Engineering)

The discipline

Applied chemistry explores the nature of molecular matter and change by applying the principles of chemistry to practical situations in industry, biotechnology and the environment. It has a strong emphasis on instrumental and analytical techniques.

Units offered

Level one

Level two

Level three

  • BTH3752 Molecular biology and biotechnology
  • CHM3730 Bioactive chemistry
  • CHM3742 Chemistry of aquatic systems and processes
  • ENV3726 Atmospheric processes

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in applied chemistry (24 points)

Major sequence in applied chemistry (48 points)

Details of the BTH and ENV units, and some related sequences, are described in the Applied biology and Resource and environmental management entries in this section of the handbook.

Recommendations

Students seeking accreditation by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute should contact the school for advice on unit selection.

 

Information technology - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Dr Kai Ming Ting, School of Information Technology

The discipline

The Faculty of Information Technology offers a major sequence in information technology which can be included as a science sequence for the Bachelor of Science course. The sequence focuses on the development of computer-based applications, exploring computer technology, programming environments and system development, with a range of more specialised options at third level.

Units offered

Level one

Level two

  • FIT2001 Systems analysis and design
  • FIT2009 Data structures and algorithms
  • FIT2034 Computer programming 2

Level three

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in information technology (24 points)

Major sequence in information technology (48 points)

Students will also be required to complete FIT1004 as a prerequisite for FIT2001

 

Mathematical sciences - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Dr Alistair Carr, School of Applied Sciences and Engineering

The discipline

A major sequence is offered in mathematics and modelling and a minor sequence is available in applied statistics.

The mathematics and modelling sequence provides a grounding in mathematical techniques relevant to modelling and problem analysis, spanning continuous and discrete mathematics and both deterministic and stochastic modelling. The applied statistics units cover the design of experiments and surveys and the analysis and interpretation of the data that they yield, emphasising the appropriate choice of techniques and use of computer software. There is an opportunity to combine these disciplines with a sequence of computing or business decision support units. Many employers are looking for graduates with such a range of expertise.

Units offered

Level one

Level two

  • MTH2010 Multivariable calculus
  • MTH2032 Differential equations with modelling
  • MTH2111 Mathematical structures
  • STA2216 Applied statistics 2A

Level three

Sequence requirements

Mathematics and modelling

Minor sequence in mathematics and modelling (24 points)

Major sequence in mathematics and modelling (48 points)

Recommendations

Level one

MAT1049 is intended for students without a VCE Year 12 level (or equivalent) background in calculus and related mathematics, and it is broadly equivalent to VCE Mathematical Methods units 3 and 4.

Other science units - Faculty of Science

Units offered

Level one

  • PHS1722 Physical science (coordinator: Mr Wayne Kirstine)
  • SCI1020 Introduction to statistical reasoning (coordinator: Dr Kais Hamza)

Level two

  • IBL2030 Industry based learning: Science (coordinator: Ms Jenny Mosse)
  • SCI2010 The practice and application of science (coordinator: Dr Ros Gleadow)

Level three

  • SCI3716 Laboratory and workplace management (coordinator: to be advised)

Resource and environmental management - Faculty of Science

Coordinator: Dr Wendy Wright, (School of Applied Sciences and Engineering)

The discipline

The major sequence in environmental science and resource management explores the scientific basis for management of natural resources and environmental problems. There is a focus on conservation, biodiversity, natural area management and the sustainable use of resources such as air, soil, water and energy.

Units offered

Level one

  • ENV1711 Environmental science 1 - the dynmaic environment
  • ENV1722 Environmental science 2 - resource management issues

Level two

Level three

  • ENV3639 Global resources and energy management
  • ENV3647 Forest management
  • ENV3656 Natural area management
  • ENV3726 Atmospheric processes
  • ENV3737 Environmental management
  • ENV3761 Waste management and remediation
  • GES3820 Geographical information systems (GIS) for environmental management

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in environmental science and resource management (24 points)

Major sequence in environmental science and resource management (48 points)

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