Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Social Sciences

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Social Sciences at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is a four-year double degree that brings together scientific knowledge and social understanding to help students tackle complex global challenges. It is ideal for students who are curious about both the natural world and society, and who want to develop the analytical, research, and problem-solving skills needed to make a meaningful impact across a range of industries.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students build a strong foundation in both science and social sciences. Science studies begin with subjects such as SCIF1000 Science Communication alongside introductory courses from the chosen science major, while social sciences students explore topics through Policy and Society (SOSS1000) and Social Research and Society (SOSS1001), developing an understanding of social structures, policy, and research methods.

Year 2

The second year focuses on strengthening disciplinary knowledge and analytical skills. Students continue with intermediate science subjects within their chosen major while studying social science courses such as Power and Powerlessness and Qualitative Social Research, gaining a deeper understanding of social issues and research approaches.

Year 3

During the third year, students further specialise in their chosen areas of study. Science students undertake advanced major-specific subjects and professional development opportunities, while social sciences students deepen their expertise in areas such as Economics, Global Development, International Relations, Environmental Humanities, or Sociology.

Year 4

The final year emphasises advanced learning, practical experience, and career preparation. Students complete higher-level science and social science courses and may participate in opportunities such as SCIF3199 Science Work Placement or the POLS5100 International Relations Internship, allowing them to apply their knowledge in professional settings and build industry connections.

Focus Areas

Scientific Research, Data Analysis, Environmental Studies, Biotechnology, Psychology, Mathematics, Public Policy, International Relations, Economics, Sociology, Global Development, Environmental Humanities, Social Research, Critical Thinking, Evidence-Based Decision Making

Learning Outcomes

Develop scientific and social research skills, analyse complex global challenges, apply evidence-based problem-solving techniques, communicate effectively across disciplines, evaluate social and policy issues, conduct data-driven investigations, collaborate in diverse teams, and develop innovative solutions to scientific and societal problems

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This double degree combines two highly regarded UNSW qualifications and allows students to customise their studies through a wide range of science majors and social science specialisations. Students also benefit from work-integrated learning opportunities, internships, industry engagement, and professional development programs that enhance career readiness across multiple sectors.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

UNSW is consistently recognised as one of Australia's leading universities and is a member of the prestigious Group of Eight. Students benefit from strong industry connections, career-focused learning experiences, internship opportunities, international exchanges, and employability initiatives that help graduates stand out in competitive job markets.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Social Sciences at UNSW gives students the opportunity to apply scientific knowledge and social science insights to real-world challenges through practical learning, research experiences, and industry engagement. Throughout the degree, students develop hands-on skills using advanced laboratories, research facilities, professional development programs, and workplace learning opportunities. The combination of science and social sciences allows students to gain both technical expertise and a broader understanding of social issues, preparing them for a wide range of careers:

Complete SCIF3199 Science Work Placement, which includes a supervised industry placement with an external organisation related to the student's field of study.
Participate in UNSW Science's Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program, connecting students with employers across science, technology, health, government, and research sectors.
Undertake approved internships that provide valuable workplace experience and can contribute towards degree requirements.
Develop professional and employability skills through SciConnect, UNSW Science's career development and industry engagement program.
Work on industry-focused projects involving research, data analysis, problem-solving, report writing, and professional communication.
Gain practical laboratory and fieldwork experience depending on the chosen science major, helping students apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings.
Explore research opportunities with UNSW academics and research teams through science-based projects and research experiences.
Participate in internship opportunities within the social sciences, including experiences related to international relations, policy, and community engagement.
Access specialised teaching and research laboratories across a wide range of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, environmental science, physics, psychology, and materials science.
Utilise UNSW's extensive library resources, digital databases, and research collections to support both scientific and social science studies.
Learn alongside leading researchers and engage with research centres and institutes working on scientific, environmental, social, and policy-related challenges.
Build teamwork, leadership, and communication skills through collaborative projects, presentations, case studies, and interdisciplinary learning activities.
Use digital research tools, data analysis software, scientific technologies, and discipline-specific platforms that support practical learning and research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Social Sciences at UNSW graduate with a powerful combination of scientific knowledge, research capability, analytical thinking, and social understanding. This unique blend of skills allows them to pursue careers across a wide range of industries, including science, technology, government, policy, consulting, sustainability, and research. Depending on their chosen majors and specialisations, graduates may pursue roles such as Data Analyst, Environmental Consultant, Policy Adviser, and Research Officer:

UNSW Science supports career development through SciConnect, a dedicated employability program that helps students build professional skills, industry connections, and workplace readiness throughout their studies.
Students can participate in the Science Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program, gaining practical workplace experience through industry placements with organisations across science, technology, health, government, and research sectors.
UNSW Employability provides career coaching, resume and application support, interview preparation, networking events, career fairs, and employer engagement opportunities.
Internship, research, and placement opportunities allow students to gain valuable real-world experience and strengthen their professional profiles before graduation.
The degree develops highly transferable skills in research, data analysis, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and project management that are valued by employers across many sectors.
UNSW maintains strong connections with industry, government agencies, research institutes, and community organisations, creating opportunities for collaboration, placements, and graduate employment.
Graduates are well prepared for careers in scientific research, environmental management, sustainability, public policy, international relations, social research, business analytics, consulting, and government services.
The combination of science and social sciences provides a multidisciplinary perspective that is increasingly valued in organisations seeking professionals who can understand both technical and social challenges.
UNSW is internationally recognised for academic excellence and graduate employability, helping graduates stand out in competitive job markets.
Practical learning experiences, industry engagement, and professional development activities ensure students graduate with both academic knowledge and workplace-ready skills.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this double degree, graduates can continue their studies through a variety of postgraduate pathways. Depending on their interests, they may pursue honours programs, specialised master's degrees in science, environmental management, public policy, international relations, economics, data science, sustainability, public health, and related fields. Students interested in research can also progress to a Master by Research or PhD, building on the strong analytical, scientific, and research skills developed throughout the program. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree provides a strong foundation for advanced professional, academic, and research qualifications across multiple disciplines.