Monash University
Bachelor of Science (Ecology and Conservation Biology)
Nationally Recognised Higher EducationThe escalating global crisis in biodiversity loss is regarded by many as the most critical and pressing issue ever to face humanity. Ecology is the scientific study of interactions between organisms and their environments. This is central to understanding the diversity and organisation of life at the main recognised levels of genes, species and ecosystems. Conservation biology seeks to understand human impact on these natural patterns and processes. It also devises practical solutions to conserve biodiversity and ecosystem functions, such as how nutrients move through nature.
There is a strong emphasis in this major on applying the principles of ecology and conservation biology to real-life management issues, particularly in the conservation field. You will engage with the key principles of the discipline, which will underpin the exploration of the broad range of fascinating and vitally important biological questions that can be addressed by the study of biodiversity. You will be taught by high-quality researchers in advanced laboratory and field settings, using the latest methodologies, technologies and analyses.
In addition to the principles of ecology and conservation biology, you will develop your understanding of the role and relevance of ecology in society, in particularly in connection with the significant role of biodiversity in sustaining life on our planet. You will apply analytical and practical ecological skills in diverse environments, encompassing working with plants and animals, designing and implementing laboratory and field methods for their study, and conducting analyses concerned with testing ideas at ecological levels from genes, to species, to ecosystems.
A major in Ecology and conservation biology will equip you with intellectual, practical and communication skills to gain employment in diverse and highly rewarding areas. You may find yourself developing conservation policy for government environment agencies, in an environmental consultancy, in science communication, or helping mining and engineering companies limit their environmental footprint.
Delivery mode
Monash University offers this course through the following delivery modes:
On campus
Work with instructors and classmates in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Locations
- Wellington Road, Clayton
Entry requirements
Domestic Students
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Qualifications
Equivalent Australian Year 12
Subject prerequisites
Equivalent Australian Year 12
Australian VCE subjects
English - Units 3 & 4: a study score of at least 27 in English (EAL) or 25 in English other than EAL
Sciences/Other -Units 3 & 4: a study score of at least 25 in one of Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geography, Mathematical Methods (Any), Specialist Mathematics, Physics or Psychology
IB subjects
English - At least 4 in English SL or 3 in English HL or 5 in English B SL or 4 in English B HL
Sciences/Other - At least 4 at Standard Level (SL) or 3 at Higher Level (HL) in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Systems and Societies (SL only), Further Mathematics (HL only), Geography, Mathematics, Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches, Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations (HL only), Physics or Psychology.
VET Study
All applicants must satisfy the VCE subject prerequisites demonstrating high performance in Year 12 or equivalent in English and in one unit of mathematics or science.
VET Diploma graduates: To be considered, applicants who have completed VCE or its equivalent and who are applying with a science-based diploma will require an average result of at least 60%. Applicants who have not completed VCE but have completed a science-based diploma will require an average result of at least 70%. Programs that involve competency-based assessment without grades or marks will not meet the admission requirements.
VET Certificate IV graduates: To be considered, applicants with science-based certificate IV level studies will require average results of at least 80%. For applicants who have also completed VCE, both qualifications will be considered. No credit is granted for these studies.
Higher education
University: Two single units at an Australian higher education institution satisfy minimum entry requirements, but more units may be useful for selection, especially in science areas. Applicants should have at least a 60% average in their studies. Studies must have been completed within five years of intended commencement.
All applicants must satisfy the VCE subject prerequisites demonstrating high performance in Year 12 or equivalent in English and in one unit of mathematics or science.
Work and life experience
Applicants who have successfully completed Year 12 are eligible to apply for this course.
Applicants with no formal secondary or tertiary qualifications are not eligible to apply for this course. This course uses the entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
If you don't have the entrance requirements above, you'll be able to gain entry to this course by completing the pathway course Diploma of Higher Education.
Additionally, we recognise that some applicants may have experienced difficulties that have disadvantaged them when applying for university. We offer a range of special admissions schemes that may help you gain entry to your chosen course.
All applicants must satisfy the VCE subject prerequisites demonstrating high performance in Year 12 or equivalent in English and in one unit of mathematics or science.
Minimum age requirements
At the time of enrolment in a course at Monash University, you must be at least 17 years of age.
Academic entry requirements
All Monash undergraduate courses require you to have successfully completed a minimum of an Australian Year 12 qualification (or equivalent) and achieve the required academic entry score. Most Monash faculties generally use your most recent studies for admission however other guidelines may apply where your prior qualification may be considered.
English entry requirements
You can meet English entry requirements if you have completed an English subject in your prior secondary studies that is equivalent to an Australian Year 12 level (score requirements also apply). Acceptable English subjects for international qualifications are detailed in the prerequisite subject requirements section below. Other English subjects may be accepted and are assessed on a case by case basis.
English proficiency test
- IELTS (Academic): Overall 6.5
- Internet Based TOEFL: Overall 79
- Pearson Test of English (Academic): Overall 58
Course fees
$123,300
$151,200
Career opportunities
The Bachelor of Science (Ecology and Conservation Biology) will prepare you for the following roles.
Conservation Biologist
A Conservation Biologist studies and works to protect Australia’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. You might work in national parks, research insti...
Ecologist
An Ecologist studies the relationships between organisms and their environments, focusing on ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resource managem...
Ecology Consultant
An Ecology Consultant is responsible for providing expert advice on ecological matters, conducting environmental assessments, and developing strate...
Environmental Consultant
An Environmental Consultant provides advice on environmental issues to businesses, organisations and government departments. You might look at curr...
About Monash University
Monash is a modern, global, research-intensive university, delivering education and research excellence in Australia and across the Indo-Pacific.
We’re making a positive impact on today's global challenges – whether that’s by mitigating climate change, easing geopolitical insecurity or fostering healthy communities.
We've achieved an enviable reputation for research and teaching excellence in a short 60 years and are ranked among the world's top universities.
