Bachelor of Science in Physics

at La Trobe University - Melbourne Campus Australia

More than ever, employers are searching for professionals with advanced STEM skills.* With job growth expected in this area* – including in areas that don’t even exist yet – there’s no better time to build the scientific skills you need to create a successful, interesting and satisfying career.

La Trobe's Bachelor of Science offers you foundational skills in science and the freedom to delve into your passions. Whether it's protecting endangered animals, developing new ways to treat disease or fighting climate change, you'll be ready to pursue your dream journey in science by tailoring your degree with a mix of majors and minors.

As you learn from leading academics and researchers, you'll take a deep dive into science – not only scientific concepts, but also how scientists think, work and share their findings.

Build skills in problem-solving, communication and collaboration – all highly sought after by employers – then use these skills to come up with innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Personalise your learning so you can spend time focusing on the areas that really interest you. Choose from majors in a range of fields, including botany, statistics, microbiology, genetics, data science and more, and learn from academics who are leaders in their fields.

You'll have opportunities to put theory into practice through work placements with our industry partners. Previous students have undertaken placements with CSIRO, Bayer Crop Science and various State and Federal Government departments.

Physics

Want to explore a discipline that will let you unlock the secrets of the small and invisible? Study physics at La Trobe alongside excellent research teams in exciting laboratories. You’ll become part of our proud history of materials and optical physics and join a collegial and warm environment.

Politics, philosophy and economics degrees have produced political and community leaders who have shaped our world, including Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, journalist and film activist Tariq Ali, and former Australian Prime Ministers Malcolm Fraser and Bob Hawke.

The world needs creative leaders to respond to society’s greatest challenges, including the global effects of the climate crisis and the social impacts of inequalities in resources, opportunity and power.

La Trobe's Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics gives you a multi-disciplinary perspective on the political and economic systems that shape the world. Develop the skills to respond to urgent problems and make a positive social impact

Through the study of politics, you'll enhance your knowledge of political institutions and their history. Analyse who is disadvantaged by existing institutions, and identify what opportunities exist for creative policy development.

Take subjects in philosophy that explore the debates around human rights and justice. Refine your critical thinking and logical reasoning skills and consider how our conceptions of self are informed by society.

Through the study of economics, you'll learn how the economy works in a world of globalised and interdependent markets, examining the relationships between economic systems, institutions, and policy.

Explore how governments can manage their economies to achieve important social objectives. Investigate competing theories of political economy, including institutional, feminist, post-Keynesian, behavioural, and ecological economics.

Equipped with these disciplinary skills, you'll discover the interconnections between philosophical thinking, the study of politics, and economics. From there, you'll apply these interdisciplinary insights to a range of policy contexts.

Tailor your degree to your interests and passions. Choose from five majors, including political economy, politics, economics, political philosophy, and philosophy. Depending on your major, you'll be able to build specialist knowledge in inequality, global institutions, climate change, human rights, political processes and behavioural science.

In your third year, you'll have the option of gaining practical experience and expanding your professional network through a work-based learning placement. Previous graduates have enjoyed internships in the public service and with the Victorian Parliament, as well as a range of non-government organisations and businesses, including Trades Hall, the Grattan Institute, and charitable organisations.

Graduate ready to tackle real-world problems, including climate change, the need for sustainable innovation, and the unequal distribution of wealth, opportunity, and power.

Economics

As a social science, economics is an exciting and challenging discipline that explores real-world issues and analyses ways to improve the well-being of people and the societies we live in. This major will give you valuable insights into the application of economic principles to develop government policy, business solutions and understand the choices people make. Analyse important issues such as poverty, inequality, inflation, unemployment, environmental issues, innovation, digital transformation, international competition, trade and economic development. The key graduate attributes that a major in economics develop are critical thinking, problem solving, researching and evaluating information. Overall you gain the skills for careers in economic and social policy, business, banking, financial markets and consulting.

Organisations in every industry are asking big questions. With a Master of Data Science under your belt, you’ll have the skills to help answer them.

Data science professionals are in high demand in today's data-driven world. Whether you're already working in data science, or you're ready to make a career change, our Master of Data Science prepares you for a successful career in this exciting field.

Designed in collaboration with our industry partners, this degree gives you the knowledge, skills and hands-on experience to transition from university to the workplace. And with two early exit points along the way, you can be sure that every subject is contributing to your career.

You'll build fundamental skills in programming, databases, probability, statistics, data exploration and analysis. Got a particular interest in artificial intelligence, bioinformatics or sport analytics? This degree allows you to specialise in these areas and others, such as big data and cloud computing, business applications and data modelling and analytics.

As you study, you'll have opportunities to work with our industry partners on real-world projects and take on an industry work placement. If your sights are set on a research career, you can choose to undertake a thesis in computer science or statistics.

La Trobe's Master of Biotechnology Management helps you understand the potential for developments in biotechnology to advance human health, environmental sustainability, food security and alternative renewables. You'll gain a solid foundation in how to apply leadership and project management skills within the biotechnology industry.

You'll learn:

• Proteomics and genomics
  • Gain theoretical experience in advanced technologies such as CRISPR-mediated gene editing, next generation sequencing and mass spectrometry along with molecular biology and protein chemistry fundamentals.
• Economics
  • Explore a variety of economic concepts and how they can be applied in real-world business and policy-making.
• Bio-business management
  • Examine organisational structure, intellectual property, scientific reasoning, market research and ethics.
• Bioinformatics
  • Learn how to use and apply commonly available bioinformatics software programs to address biological problems.

For thousands of years, human societies have grown, prospered and warred through diplomacy and trade. In today’s hyper-connected global markets and diplomatic arenas, we need highly skilled professionals who can navigate this complex global landscape and make the most of evolving business structures.

La Trobe's Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Global Studies gives you the expertise to build a rewarding career in global politics, human rights and international business. Gain strong foundations in international trade and diplomacy, as well as a well-rounded business skillset.

Explore the complex social, commercial and sustainability challenges faced by corporations and diverse communities. Understand how to analyse problems, develop forward-thinking solutions, and negotiate with stakeholders to turn your ideas into action.

Grow as a leader and a thinker. Challenge your ideas and preconceptions. Expand your networks and your horizons. You'll be prepared for the rapidly evolving world of international trade and the complex web of relationships negotiated by governments and multinational organisations every day. Develop the creative and analytical skills to work across a wide range of industries, and build the resilience to face real-world challenges.

We understand that global experiences are vital for your studies. You'll have the opportunity to get out of the classroom and build both your skills and your professional network at one of our overseas partner universities. You'll also have the opportunity to do an internship, either in Australia or overseas, that's tailored to your career goals.

Whatever your ambition, tailor your degree with specially curated majors and minors that allow you to explore the various business, economic, geopolitical and humanitarian forces shaping our world.

Graduate ready for a rewarding career in trade, diplomacy, politics, government, business, economics and finance.

Chinese studies advanced

A Chinese studies major will enable you to understand and use an increasingly significant world language. Chinese is spoken by nearly one-fifth of the global population, predominantly in the world’s second-largest economy, China. The Chinese Studies major will give you the opportunity to develop skills in oral and written Chinese (Mandarin), and enhance your understanding in China’s past (culture and tradition) and present (economy and technology). At more advanced levels, specialist subjects are available in Chinese for academic and professional purposes—these will help you develop your integrated communication skills to a professional level. Studying Chinese language and culture will give you an advantage in a range of industries and area of government, given that China has been Australia’s largest trading partner since 2007. You will have the opportunity to enrol in overseas programs to extend your language skills in-country. (Please note: overseas programs may be impacted by travel restrictions.) The major offers four entry-levels to cater to your standard in the Chinese language. You may enrol at beginners, intermediate, advanced or extension levels depending on your background and experience.

Understand the human mind and how it drives behaviour.

La Trobe's Bachelor of Psychological Science will prepare you for a career as a professional psychologist, or in a psychology-related field across industries from clinical psychology to human services and marketing.

Elective subjects with a choice of minor sequences in Human Relationships and Neuroscience gives you the flexibility to work towards the career you want.

You'll learn:

• Analytical, research and communication skills
  • Learn skills that are essential to your future career in psychology.
• Clinical and health psychology
  • Gain an understanding of how to help people cope with mental and physical disorders.
• Developmental and social psychology
  • Understand how environmental factors contribute to peoples' psychological makeup.
• Psychological assessment, intervention and research
  • Become familiar with methods to understand and measure people's psychological state.
  • Learn when and how to intervene and how to conduct research.

Due to the global effects of population growth and the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people living with chronic conditions is on the rise. As a result, the demand for nurses in all specialised fields is expected to rapidly increase.*

La Trobe's Master of Nursing lets you match your study to your career aspirations. Enhance your knowledge and skills in specialist areas by choosing from a range of clinical and non-clinical subjects.

If you're a registered nurse working in Australia, you'll have access to a wide variety of specialisations. Enjoy a flexible, blended learning approach that combines face-to-face workshops with online study that you can fit around your work commitments and access from anywhere. For a clinical specialisation you will also undertake advanced clinical training in your own hospital's relevant work setting.

If you're looking to pursue a career as nursing educator, academic or manager, you'll have access to our online non-clinical specialisations. Develop advanced knowledge of nursing research along with the critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills you need to thrive as a nursing researcher, educator or leader.

Rapid evolutions in science and technology mean our advancements sometimes outpace the law. Get the skills to stay ahead.

In La Trobe's Bachelor of Laws(Honours)/Bachelor of Science, you can pursue multiple interests and gain a powerful combination of legal skills and cutting-edge scientific knowledge.

From stem cell research to how personal information is collected, stored and shared, advances in science and technology have real human impacts. This double degree uniquely prepares you to address contemporary challenges from a scientific, legal and ethical perspective.

Benefit from our progressive approach to legal education with a law degree you can shape to your own career goals. You'll get a solid grounding in the basics of law and hone your expertise in advocacy, negotiation and dispute resolution – skills valued by employers across industries.

Your science degree offers you huge flexibility, with an extensive range of majors to choose from. Follow your interests in emerging areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data science or traditional fields including chemistry, botany and genetics. Bring knowledge to life in world-class facilities, including the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS), and learn from academics who are leaders in their fields.

Take your skills into the real world while you study. You'll have the opportunity to do placements in a range of legal settings, including community legal centres, law firms, government agencies, and judges and magistrates (subject to availability). On the science side, you could complete a placement with one of our industry partners – previous students have worked with CSIRO, Bayer Crop Science, and various government departments.

You will graduate ready to start your career as an expert legal practitioner, with an advanced understanding of scientific concepts or a science professional with a solid understanding of regulatory environments and how they impact scientific work.

Psychological science

Discover psychology using a scientific approach. In this fascinating major, you’ll deepen your understanding of how people think, behave and relate to one another. Expand your understanding of psychological health and illness, while learning how to assess psychological functioning in individuals.

Explore how culture and society can shape our experiences and health choices. You’ll investigate how our thoughts, feelings and behaviours are influenced by other people and you’ll learn how to use statistical techniques to understand the differences between groups of people.

Investigate a range of evidence-based psychological interventions and develop your research skills by conducting an in-depth investigation into an area of psychology. Throughout your studies, you’ll build practical skills in analysis, evaluation and communication. Learn how to apply psychological theory and research to real-world individuals and their communities.

Technological advances are reshaping the business world – including transforming how companies organise and coordinate their operations. Whether they’re automating previously manual tasks or embracing the potential of global business, employers are searching for a new type of leader to help their business succeed.

La Trobe's Global Master of Business Administration will help you become the adaptable leader these businesses are looking for.

Be ready for any challenge as you develop the skills and knowledge underpinning agile leadership. Build expertise applicable in any business, including financial knowledge and how to harness digital disruption. And go beyond just understanding business strategies – explore how top management leaders develop plans.

Wherever you are in your career, we've designed this degree so you build the industry-ready skills to take your next step. Learn from the business experts in La Trobe Business School. Hear guest lectures from experienced industry members. Complete projects that prepare you for the workplace. And get the option to apply your knowledge in a real-world industry placement with one of our industry partners.

During your degree, you'll build vital foundations in business and management. With coursework modelled on real-world business requirements, you'll discover how leading organisations manage their workforce, including the strategic and operational challenges of international business – then learn the techniques to develop and implement your own strategies.

From the human skills of negotiation and communication to the strategic expertise to translate data into action – you'll build your ability to lead in business.

You'll learn:

• Leadership - Understand how to lead, collaborate and connect with your peers.
• Digital literacy - Learn how to use a wide range of digital tools to become a more efficient and effective business professional.
• Sustainable management - Learn about environmental, corporate and governance responsibility, and develop sustainable solutions that prioritise individual and societal wellbeing.
• Corporate strategy - Explore how to drive change and innovation in modern business through the development and delivery of corporate strategies.
• Employee behaviour - Understand how to best manage the behavioural dynamics of individuals and groups to achieve their best performance.

The modern business world is changing at breakneck speed. Ongoing digital and operational disruption present unique challenges – as well as opportunities. We need new leaders who are agile, entrepreneurial and, above all, able to innovate under the toughest of conditions.

Develop solid foundations in modern business with La Trobe's Bachelor of Business. Prepare to thrive in a digitally disrupted world with this highly flexible degree and start building your dream career in business.

You'll explore multiple business disciplines in your first year and develop foundational knowledge and enterprise skills in areas such as management, organisational structures, data analytics and ethical business practices.

You'll choose from a wide range of majors, minors and optional second majors. You can also pair your major with complementary study from another discipline.

No matter how you specialise, you'll get hands-on experience and learn the latest digital skills while developing essential leadership, communication and critical-thinking skills.

You'll develop your professional business skills as you work in diverse teams, present business strategies and use the software that's essential in modern business.

You'll graduate with the perfect blend of business fundamentals and technical expertise so you can change the business world.

International business

Get ready to work in an international business.

Our major in International Business will provide you with the skills and knowledge to develop a career in businesses and organisations that operate in an increasingly globalised economy.

The multidisciplinary components of this course include economics, finance, management and marketing, from an international perspective. You will also explore key contemporary issues in digital business, smart value chains, data analytics, cultural diversity, corporate social responsibility, and the challenges of international development and sustainability.

Learn how businesses operate differently in the local and international markets. You will have opportunities to connect with industry, both in the classroom and in the field, and to internationalise your study by completing part of your degree overseas.