Climate Action

Current global trends are towards increased consumption of high-value plant-based foods. This major will help you learn how to increase the productivity and sustainability of both animals and plants. Your learning will focus on crop production and crop protection, and includes the study of chemistry, botany, microbiology and farm business economics. Specialist units of study include plant physiology, agronomy, horticultural science, entomology and plant pathology.

In the third year, you will have the opportunity for work placements to build networks and gain confidence in your skills and knowledge upon graduation.

Ecologically sustainable practices are essential to primary production. This major includes the study of chemistry, spatial sciences, ecology, microbiology and farm business economics. It focuses on agricultural sustainability and biophysical processes. Pasture, soil and animal sciences are examined at local, landscape, national and global levels. Other specialist units of study include farming systems and agricultural technology.

This degree contains an embedded honours year where you will complete a series of core units, plus either a Research or Professional stream of study.

By completing Honours within the fourth year of your Bachelor of Agricultural Science, you can boost your skills in research, project planning and critical thinking. This will further deepen your subject knowledge, providing valuable support for your future career.

The professional stream contains a series of case studies selected from different areas of agriculture to help contextualise your learning and fully prepare you for your future career. Industries include horticulture, animal production, post-harvest processing, vegetable cropping, dairy, and water policy.

In the major, explore interdisciplinary knowledge and skills that underpin the development of sustainable societies and solutions. Informed by international and local research, practice, and theory, this major allows you to develop specialist expertise across the physical and social sciences and humanities, emphasising student-led and problem-based learning.

It provides the frameworks for developing sustainability-oriented solutions in a range of fields and is relevant to a wide range of careers.

Choosing a double degree allows you to deepen your knowledge within two separate study areas. This means you can pursue your career and follow your passion at the same time. And when you graduate, you’ll have a set of skills that will really set you apart.

The Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours can be combined with a number of other degrees. Visit the Double Degrees page to learn more.

For postgraduate course information, please visit the Master of Agriculture and Food Sciences (Specialisation)

Solving complex geopolitical environmental issues requires an understanding of science. Learn to effectively communicate with government and influence policy-making. Take a multidisciplinary approach to learning with topics ranging from Marine Ecology to Law and International Relations.

You'll be able to work closely with influential decision-makers within the industry, including organisations like the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE). These close collaborations provide valuable insights into the governance and management of marine and Antarctic environments and enhance your employability prospects. The strong demand for individuals with a marine science background in these organisations highlights the significance of this major in preparing you for impactful careers in marine and Antarctic governance.

Careers in Marine and Antarctic Governance include:

• Communications Manager/Officer - Oversee internal and external communications through various channels, synthesising and distilling complex, high-level information for a variety of audiences.
• Policy Analyst - Research data, relationships, and policy developments surrounding environmental challenges and provide recommendations for their solutions based on legislation and policies.
• Legal Consultant - Provide advice and recommendations on legal rights and obligations, ensuring operations are conducted within the framework of the law.
• Environmental Management - Ensuring the operations of the business or research body adhere to environmental legislation and developing and implementing strategies to promote environmental best practices.
• Project Manager - Responsibility for the planning and execution of a project, including coordination, budgeting, and progress reporting.

This major provides a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of marine ecosystems and gain a comprehensive understanding of the role played by plants and animals in sustaining these fragile environments. Our classrooms extend far beyond traditional walls, from the giant kelp forests of Tasmania to the remarkable birds and mammals of the Southern Ocean. Get ready to explore the temperate reefs, unravel the secrets of the southern reef's sustainability, and discover the wonders of marine ecosystems in the Antarctic and Southern Ocean.

Immerse yourself in practical classes that involve a range of lab and field-based activities, and learn how to apply cutting-edge research tools to gain an understanding of the changing marine ecosystems. During your third year, you'll participate in a high-level research project on a six-day field trip to Maria Island. Here, you'll apply your theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting, design and conduct field research, and gain hands-on experience in marine biology.

Careers in Marine Biology include:

• Threatened Species Biologist - Research the biology and ecology of threatened species, identify the underlying mechanisms for their vulnerability, and provide recommendations for their protection and population restoration.
• Marine Park Manager - Oversee the conservation and protection of important regions of the marine environment by managing policy, use, and activities.
• Conservation Biologist - Develop a comprehensive understanding of the environment and ecology of a region of interest, and create plans to restore or maintain the health of the ecosystem.
• Antarctic Scientist - Supervise the implementation and delivery of programs by coordinating research teams.

Sustainable fisheries are critical for global protein demand but also support community-based activities of significance, such as recreational fishing. Our dedicated researchers actively contribute to advancing knowledge in the field, and studying alongside them will give you the skills to understand how we can use marine resources sustainably and equitably.

Work closely with local industry and global experts in fisheries science, gaining the qualifications necessary to make a meaningful impact in this critical field. Your studies include hands-on experience with fishing technology and exposure to the contemporary needs of industry, stakeholders, policy, and management. Learn about applying cutting-edge science to real-world management through close study with our research programs.

Careers in Marine Resource Management include:

• Marine/Fisheries Research Scientist - Study fish for various research purposes such as understanding disease, natural habitats, and fish behaviour. They can choose to work in fields related to basic fishery research or applied research.
• Fisheries Observer - A fisheries observer is an independent specialist who serves onboard commercial fishing vessels, fish processing plants, and other platforms, gathering data. Their primary functions include observing and documenting commercial fishing catches, collecting vessel, technical, and biological data, monitoring operations, and documenting interactions with threatened, endangered, and protected species. These observers play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
• Environmental Consultant - Provide expert assessment and advice regarding the management and mitigation of environmental issues arising from industrial, commercial or governmental initiatives or activities.
• Environmental/Fisheries Technician - Assist in the compliance of environmental laws and regulations through the assessment of environmental samples, ensuring the appropriate mitigation of pollution and waste products.
• Compliance Officer - Provide oversight for the day-to-day operations of a company or institution, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations at local, regional, and national levels of government.

Oceans, Ice and Climate explores the vast world that covers more than 70% of our blue planet. In this major, you'll gain a profound understanding of ocean dynamics, climate variability, and the carbon cycle.

Collaborating with respected researchers and industry contacts such as the CSIRO and the Australian Antarctic Division, you'll delve into pressing issues such as the changing Antarctic sea ice, the impact of melting glaciers, and global ocean circulation shifts. Collaborating with IMAS researchers could include experiences like joining a research voyage aboard the RV Investigator, providing first-hand experience and invaluable insight into the world's oceans.

Careers in Oceans, Ice and Climate include:

• Physical Oceanographer - Research the physical processes of the ocean, including their effects on climate dynamics, as well as the global transport of nutrients and contaminants.
• Meteorologist - Our degree provides great qualifications for internships offered at the Bureau of Meteorology, working as a weather forecaster.
• Hydrologist - Offer hydrogeological expertise to businesses involved in water sourcing, quality assessment, and wastewater treatment.
• Data Analyst - Ensure the protection of our marine environment by managing programs, initiatives, and infrastructure designed to prevent and respond to emergencies and marine pollution.

Aquaculture produces seafood and marine products to meet global demand for protein and nutraceuticals. Learn how to produce various aquatic species alongside industry partners in the fastest-growing sustainable food sector globally. While studying side-by-side with research teams, you'll gain exposure to innovations within the Aquaculture sector and systems to manage environmental impacts. Linking marine science with innovation and applied technology, you'll support environmental, community and economic initiatives and enjoy a broad range of local and global career opportunities, including academic, governance or industry roles.

Our strong connections with the local Tasmanian industry, including Australia's biggest aquaculture companies, provide invaluable opportunities for gaining practical insights and real-world experience in sustainable aquaculture. Work closely with professionals at the forefront of the aquaculture sector, participate in site visits to fish farms, hatcheries, and processing facilities, and witness firsthand the various stages of aquaculture production.

Careers in Sustainable Aquaculture include:

• Aquarium and Conservation Aquaculture - Apply marine plant and animal biology and physiology to explore, conserve, and safeguard marine biodiversity for future generations.
• Environmental Monitoring and Biosecurity - Develop, implement, and enforce policies aimed at safeguarding Australian aquatic ecosystems while ensuring the sustainable future of commercial seafood production.
• Commercial Aquaculture - Translate scientific advancements into innovation by enhancing commercial hatchery and production systems, and developing new aquaculture species.
• Fish Health and Nutrition - Conduct research and design innovative products and technologies to enhance animal welfare, improve performance, and ensure the quality of seafood products.
• Technology Industries - Integrate animal and plant biology with advanced technology and multi-trophic systems to sustainably produce seafood in onshore, coastal, and offshore environments.

In the major, explore interdisciplinary knowledge and skills that underpin the development of sustainable societies and solutions. Informed by international and local research, practice, and theory, this major allows you to develop specialist expertise across the physical and social sciences and humanities, emphasising student-led and problem-based learning.

It provides the frameworks for developing sustainability-oriented solutions in a range of fields and is relevant to a wide range of careers.

Choosing a double degree allows you to deepen your knowledge within two separate study areas. This means you can pursue your career and follow your passion at the same time. And when you graduate, you’ll have a set of skills that will really set you apart.

The Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science can be combined with a number of other degrees. Visit the Double Degrees page to learn more.

For honours course information, please visit the Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science with honours.

Visit the Marine and Antarctic Postgraduate page for postgraduate study options. These postgraduate courses combine marine science with a focus on the Southern Ocean and Antarctic, providing an ideal study experience for a career in marine biology and the fisheries and aquaculture industries.

Discover how living things interact with their environment in one of the world's most exceptional learning environments - Tasmania. You'll study climate, soil, flora, fauna, and geology, with many opportunities for fieldwork in diverse landscapes. Our staff includes Aboriginal Tasmanians, providing invaluable insights into the local environment and its management.

Emergency Management is a vital function for any organisation, particularly those tasked with mitigating environmental impacts in the wake of disasters. These units focus on developing plans, structures, and arrangements to coordinate the efforts of multiple agencies in responding comprehensively to various environmental crises.

Learn about resource economics and the conservation of nature in productive landscapes. From wood to wool production, you will learn in the field and from experts with close connections to primary producers, regulators, and other land managers. This area of study will appeal to you if you want to balance conservation with production.

Learn how politics, social systems, and cultural beliefs affect our environment and our ability to manage it globally. Explore complex issues like food security, energy futures, and climate change using various tools, including fieldwork and case studies.

In the major, explore interdisciplinary knowledge and skills that underpin the development of sustainable societies and solutions. Informed by international and local research, practice, and theory, this major allows you to develop specialist expertise across the physical and social sciences and humanities, emphasising student-led and problem-based learning.

It provides the frameworks for developing sustainability-oriented solutions in a range of fields and is relevant to a wide range of careers.

Choosing a double degree allows you to deepen your knowledge within two separate study areas. This means you can pursue your career and follow your passion at the same time. And when you graduate, you’ll have a set of skills that will really set you apart.

The Bachelor of Natural Environments and Conservation can be combined with a number of other degrees. Visit the Double Degrees page to learn more.

For honours course information, please visit Bachelor of Natural Environment and Wilderness Studies with Honours

For postgraduate course information, please visit Protected Area Conservation and Planning.

You can also work towards a Master of Protected Area Conservation through the all-new Bachelor of Natural Environments and Conservation and Master of Protected Area Conservation double degree, where you can graduate with both degrees in just four years.

Chemistry is the study of things at the molecular level, allowing for a deeper knowledge of the world around us, the development of methods to identify chemicals in our environment, and the creation of ways to make useful materials such as polymers and pharmaceuticals.

You will learn analytical and industrial chemistry, as well as ways to make and characterise chemicals and materials. Chemistry is a foundational science, underpinning disciplines such as environmental and marine science, medical and pharmaceutical sciences, materials and chemical engineering, biotechnology and biochemistry.

Careers in Chemistry include:

• Laboratory Chemists
• Research Scientists
• Industrial Process Managers
• Separation Scientists
• Teachers and Science Communicators
• Advisors and Policy Analysts
• Patent Lawyers

Earth Science is fundamental to understanding and addressing the world around us. From climate change, to geology, resource management and more; this major will help you to explore the challenges our planet faces. You will explore fascinating topics, like volcanic activity and earthquakes, mineral and petroleum resources, rock formation and much more.

This major will help you go beyond the basics. In your studies,  you will examine how planet Earth was initially formed and then modified by plate tectonics, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, weathering, erosion, biological evolution and human activities.

There is no better place to study the Earth than Tasmania, as our state packs 1,400 million years of history into a small space, with more diversity and better coastal and mountain rock exposures than anywhere else in Australia.

During your studies, you'll have many opportunities for experiential learning. By participating in field trips, you'll be granted access to Tasmania's awe-inspiring geological formations, ore deposits, and geological hazards, providing valuable hands-on learning experiences.

Careers in Earth Science include:

• Mining
• Environmental geology
• Ground water management
• Mineral exploration
• Engineering geology
• Geophysics
• Forensic geology
• Climate research
• Geo-hazard management

Learn about the ways in which living things interact with their environment, and develop strategies to support and conserve populations and communities in the natural world. You’ll study climate, soil, flora, fauna and geology, and have many opportunities to do fieldwork. You'll gain critical cultural perspectives from Aboriginal Tasmanians and learn about environmental management practices that have been used for centuries.

The ecology major has field trips across Tasmania in all stages of your study, ranging from the coast to the mountain tops and from agricultural landscapes to the south-west wilderness.

Careers in Ecology include:

• Ecologist
• Environmental Consultant
• Natural Resource Manager

This major focuses on post-farm gate processes and food innovation. Apply scientific principles to identify, assess and control hazards and use new technologies to create an innovative future for the industry.

You'll explore food and beverage practices like fermentation, quality and safety, and genetic modification and develop skills in food analysis, production and new product development.

Throughout your studies, you'll have the direct support of our close industry partners within Tasmania's thriving food industry, so you'll graduate prepared for an exciting career with industry knowledge and connections.

Careers in Food Innovation and Safety Include:

• Food Scientist
• Food Biochemist
• Research Assistant

Understanding the interaction between natural environments, places and societies is critical to addressing issues such as climate change, economic inequality, biodiversity loss, resource scarcity and more.

Throughout your studies in this major, you will engage directly with the subject matter, participating in field experiences that feature Tasmania's unique environment. These include an 8 day field study trip where you will learn environmental data recording techniques; and a 3 day field study experience within a protected area of the Tasmanian Midlands. You can go on your first field trip within your first 3 weeks of study.

You will develop specialist skills across physical, spatial and social science; gaining the knowledge needed to tackle environmental challenges, both locally and globally.

Careers in Geography and Environment include:

• Land Management
• Policy and Planning
• Sustainability Planning
• Environmental Regulation and Assessment

Mathematics underpins all aspects of the natural and built worlds. It’s at the centre of fast-growing industries across the globe and is key to all technological innovation. Our graduates are agile thinkers, with portable skills in analysis, reasoning and problem solving, all of which are in high demand in the modern workforce.

Mathematical modelling skills developed in this major will give you the ability to model dynamical systems and understand how these systems will react to perturbation. For instance, the techniques you will learn underpin climate models that inform climate action. Indeed, many of the UN sustainable development goals require us to accurately model the world around us and predict how it will respond to change – mathematical skills are a key component of doing this successfully.

Careers in Mathematics include:

• Financial Analyst
• Physicist
• Mathematician
• Aerospace Engineer
• Economist
• Operations Analyst
• Statistician

This major looks at how microorganisms work and their role in our world. From bacteria and viruses to fungi, single-celled animals and algae; microorganisms are fundamental to the cycles that underpin life on Earth. You’ll investigate infectious diseases, explore the production of foods and chemicals, and gain practical skills that are applicable around the world.

Your studies will include engaging field trips to commercial enterprises where microbiology takes centre stage in various industries. From examining the role of microorganisms in food and beverage production, to exploring their significance in the biodegradation of solid and liquid wastes, these field trips will give you a firsthand glimpse into the real-world applications of microbiology.

Careers in Mircobiology include:

• Quality Control Analyst
• Food Microbiologist
• Environmental Microbiologist
• Fermentation Technologist
• Research Scientist

Molecular Bioscience looks at life from inside out. You can peek into the heart of a cell, witness the intricate dance of molecules that orchestrate the very essence of life.

Explore the ways living organisms function from both molecular and cellular perspectives. Focus on the role molecules have in health and disease, and cover issues of global relevance.

You'll apply your knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios in collaboration with business, natural sciences and medicine.

Careers in Molecular Bioscience include:

• Epidemiologist
• Chemist
• Biomedical Engineer
• Plant Geneticist
• Research Technologist
• Forensic DNA Analyst
• Molecular Genetics Technologist

Physics is the study of the fundamental laws that govern the world around us, from sub-atomic scales to the entire observable universe. It is the foundation of engineering and technology, and enhances our understanding of the other science disciplines, providing a basis for understanding biology, chemistry, geology and biomedical sciences. Physics has deep links to mathematics and computing.

The Physics major will give you the knowledge and skills to investigate matter and energy in theoretical and experimental terms and to communicate information about these investigations to others. You’ll work alongside global industry partners like the Australian Antarctic Division, NASA and CSIRO.

Careers in Physics include:

• Astronomer
• Data Scientist
• Energy Analyst
• Medical Physicist
• Meteorologist/Climate Scientist
• Science Teacher
• Space Operations Analyst

This major is for those with an interest in investigating plants and their impact on human life. You’ll study how plants function and develop, and how they’ve evolved through time. With pristine ecosystems accessible directly from campus, we offer not only unparalleled access but also a distinctive breadth and depth of flora and fauna to give you a truly holistic education.

From captivating excursions to Tasmania's beautiful and significant natural systems to conducting experiments using cutting-edge research facilities, you'll have the chance to delve into the latest theories shared by world-leading researchers. One exciting highlight is a weekend excursion, where you'll explore the breathtaking diversity of Tasmania's east coast. During this trip, you'll witness firsthand the remarkable adaptations of plant species to diverse environments, deepening your knowledge of plant biology and their intricate relationship with their surroundings.

Careers in Plant Science include:

• Crop Consultant
• Soil Scientist
• Botanist
• Ecologist
• Plant Pathologist
• Biosecurity Officer

This major was developed after industry consultation and responds to industry’s need for work-ready graduates with the capacity to respond to local opportunities and challenges within diverse industry sectors.

This is a complementary major that supports your primary area of study. If you wish to study this major, it will be paired with another major in your study plan. You'll graduate with specialist skills and knowledge catered to your unique interests and your chosen industry's needs.

Careers in Science and Industry (Complementary major) include:

• Business Analyst
• Data Analyst
• Software Developer
• Information Systems Manager

Data, and its interpretation can streamline processes and improve our lives. In this major, you'll become a data detective, uncovering hidden patterns and unlocking insights that solve real-world problems.

Participate in projects with real-world applications such as hospital patient flow optimisation, or developing accurate maintenance schedules for mechanical operation and safety, and machine learning modeling to identify bird species from bush recordings for conservation efforts.

If you have an interest in the mathematical modelling and analysis of systems, this course will equip you with the skills to achieve your goals, using statistics, applied probability and optimisation tools From modelling global phenomena such as pandemics and climate change, to local problems such as the spread of wombat mange, the skills gained by studying statistics and decision science are widely applicable, easily portable, and highly valued in the modern workforce.

Careers in Statistics and Decision Science include:

• Business Analyst
• Data Analyst
• Software Developer
• Information Systems Manager

Place yourself at the forefront of a sustainable future. Informed by international and local research, practice and theory, this major allows you to develop specialist expertise across the physical and social sciences and humanities. You’ll learn to identify sustainability-oriented impacts of decisions, as well as come up with effective solutions.

Careers in Sustainability:

Sustainability aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.
It is an important element in a range of fields and careers, and the market is rapidly expanding.

You could pursue career opportunities that positively impact the environment and your community in areas like renewable
energy, green building, circular economy, environmental advocacy, governance and eco-tourism.

Unleash your animal curiosity, and delve into the behaviours, distribution, physiology and conservation of wildlife. Zoology looks at the structure and function of animals, and how these traits have evolved over time. There is no better place to immerse yourself in the study of animals than Tasmania’s living laboratory. We offer unparalleled access to our distinctive range of ecosystems, flora and fauna, coastal landscapes, and the Southern Ocean.

One of the highlights is the unparalleled access to the unique fauna of Tasmania, providing you with extraordinary opportunities to explore and study diverse animal species found nowhere else in the world.

Experiences include a weekend excursion to the breathtaking Tasman Peninsula, where you'll witness firsthand the astounding diversity of animals and their habitats. You'll have the opportunity to design and conduct experiments focused on animal behaviour, allowing you to master professional and career-relevant skills.

Careers in Zoology include:

• Environmental Consultant
• Animal Nutritionist
• Research Scientist
• Biomedical Scientist
• Field Trials Officer
• Toxicologist

In the major, explore interdisciplinary knowledge and skills that underpin the development of sustainable societies and solutions. Informed by international and local research, practice, and theory, this major allows you to develop specialist expertise across the physical and social sciences and humanities, emphasising student-led and problem-based learning.

It provides the frameworks for developing sustainability-oriented solutions in a range of fields and is relevant to a wide range of careers.

Fast track your studies and become a fully qualified teacher while studying for a Bachelor of Science. The University of Tasmania is one of few universities in Australia that offer a double degree combining a Bachelor of Science with a Master of Teaching. This course will accelerate your career allowing you to graduate with two degrees in just 4-years.

Learn more about the Bachelor of Science and Master of Teaching

The Bachelor of Science combines with a wide range of courses like Law, Music, Economics, and many more. Studying a double degree, you can deepen your knowledge and expertise within two separate study areas. It's also your chance to pursue a career and follow your passion at the same time. Learn more about Double Degrees.

For honours course information, please visit the Bachelor of Science with Honours.

The Master of Chemistry provides students with the opportunity to acquire advanced current knowledge in the Chemistry discipline. In addition, students will develop a capacity for independent research and problem-solving that can lead to relevant industry employment and/or a higher degree by research (Masters or PhD).

For course information please visit the Master of Chemistry.