Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Fine Arts

5 Years Blended Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

This five-year double degree is perfect if you’re someone who doesn’t want to choose between science and creativity. At University of New South Wales, you’ll build strong scientific research skills while also developing your artistic voice — giving you a rare, future-ready combination of analytical and creative thinking.

Curriculum structure

Year 1

You’ll start by building a solid base in both areas — learning core scientific concepts through subjects like SCIF1001 Level 1 Research Skills, while also exploring creative practice through your Fine Arts stream.

Year 2

This is where things get more hands-on. You’ll dive into real research experiences with SCIF2001 Level 2 Research Experience, while continuing to develop your artistic skills in areas like Animation and Moving Image or Visual Arts.

Year 3–4

You begin to specialise — going deeper into your chosen science major (like psychology or biotechnology) while refining your creative style through advanced studio work and theory.

Year 5 (Honours)

Your final year is all about bringing everything together. You’ll complete a major research project in science alongside a strong creative portfolio that reflects your artistic growth.

Focus areas (in a string):

Advanced scientific research, biotechnology, psychology, physics, animation and moving image, visual arts, music, art theory

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Research expertise, critical thinking, creative problem-solving, interdisciplinary skills, professional portfolio development, technical and artistic proficiency

Professional alignment (accreditation):

Built around research-led and industry-informed learning, preparing you for careers in scientific research, creative industries, or interdisciplinary roles

Reputation (employability rankings):

UNSW is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities (QS), known for strong graduate employability and industry connections

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At University of New South Wales, this program is designed around learning by doing. From early on, you’ll be involved in real research projects while also creating your own artistic work — moving between advanced science labs and professional creative studios. It’s a hands-on experience where you’re constantly applying what you learn, not just sitting through lectures.

What really makes this degree stand out is how naturally it blends science and creativity — you’re encouraged to experiment, collaborate, and build skills that feel directly connected to real careers:

Real research from Year 1 – Work on interdisciplinary projects through courses like SCIF1001 Level 1 Research Skills and SCIF2001 Level 2 Research Experience
Advanced laboratories – Access to high-quality science labs and research spaces used by leading researchers
Creative studios & performance spaces – Including studios, editing suites, exhibition areas, and sound labs
Industry-relevant software & tools – Hands-on use of 3D modelling, visual effects, compositing tools, and virtual/interactive media
The Making Centre – A unique hub combining physical workshops and digital production spaces
Showcase opportunities – Regular exhibitions and performances to help you build a strong portfolio
Collaborative projects – Work in teams across science and arts, reflecting real-world creative and research environments
Industry exposure – Opportunities to engage with professionals and real-world projects during your degree
SciConnect platform – Track your skills, experiences, and build a career-ready profile
Libraries & research institutes – Full access to extensive academic and creative resources across the university

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this double degree at University of New South Wales puts you in a uniquely flexible position — you’ll have both advanced scientific research skills and a strong creative portfolio. This opens doors across industries, whether you see yourself working as a research scientist, data analyst, creative technologist, or visual/media artist.

What makes UNSW particularly strong is how it actively supports your transition into the real world:

UNSW Employability & Careers service – Access to personalised career coaching, resume workshops, networking events, and the Job Board with curated internship and graduate roles
Strong graduate outcomes – UNSW graduates are among the most employable globally, with the university consistently ranked in the top tier worldwide for graduate employability (QS rankings)
Industry connections & partnerships – Collaboration with leading organisations, research institutes, and creative industries through project-based learning and internships
Work-integrated learning (WIL) – Built into the degree through research projects, industry exposure, and collaborative assignments
Global career pathways – Skills gained are transferable across both STEM and creative sectors, increasing versatility in international job markets
Honours qualification – Graduating with an embedded Honours degree strengthens your profile for research roles and competitive career pathways
Portfolio + research output – You leave with both a professional creative portfolio and hands-on research experience — a rare and valuable combination

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this program, you’re well-positioned to continue into postgraduate research or specialised master’s degrees. Many students move into PhD programs in science, advanced research fields, or pursue Master’s degrees in areas like data science, biotechnology, or fine arts.

Because you graduate with Honours, you already meet a key requirement for higher-level research study — making the transition into academia or specialised expertise much smoother.