Bachelor of Global Studies/Bachelor of Science(Chemistry)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Monash University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Global Studies / Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Monash University combines a deep understanding of global social, political, and cultural issues with rigorous training in chemical sciences. It’s ideal for students who want to tackle global challenges using analytical, scientific, and research skills, preparing them for careers in international policy, scientific research, and interdisciplinary problem-solving.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In the first year, you’ll establish foundational knowledge in both global studies and chemistry. Core units like Introduction to Global Studies and Global Politics develop your understanding of global systems, cultural dynamics, and policy, while chemistry units such as Chemistry 1 and Chemical Foundations build laboratory skills and fundamental scientific reasoning. You’ll develop critical thinking, research techniques, and basic experimental competence.

Year 2
Year two deepens your expertise with intermediate chemistry units like Organic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry, alongside global studies subjects such as Global Development and International Relations. You’ll explore how chemical knowledge can intersect with global issues, and refine research, analytical, and data interpretation skills across disciplines.

Year 3
In the third year, advanced units such as Physical Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry strengthen scientific and laboratory expertise, while global studies courses like Global Governance and Human Rights in Practice develop your understanding of international policy and societal challenges. Interdisciplinary projects encourage you to apply scientific analysis to global issues.

Year 4
The final year emphasizes specialization and independent research. Chemistry students undertake Advanced Chemical Techniques or a Research Project in Chemistry, while global studies students complete a Capstone Project in Global Studies or Internship/Fieldwork unit. This year integrates practical science skills with applied global studies research to solve real-world challenges.

Focus areas (in a string):
Global politics, international relations, human rights, sustainable development, organic and analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, research methodologies

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Develop interdisciplinary research and analytical skills, integrate scientific and global perspectives, conduct experiments and data analysis, apply critical thinking to complex global and scientific problems, communicate findings effectively

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The chemistry component provides professional laboratory and research training recognised in scientific industries, while global studies equips students with skills valued in international organisations, policy, and development sectors

Reputation (employability rankings):
Monash University ranks highly in QS World University Rankings and is renowned for graduate employability in both science and global studies disciplines

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Monash University, students in the Bachelor of Global Studies / Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) program gain hands-on experience across both scientific and global studies contexts. You’ll work in advanced chemistry laboratories conducting experiments with modern analytical instruments, while also engaging in global studies projects, fieldwork, and policy simulations that mirror real-world international challenges. This combination of laboratory, research, and applied learning ensures graduates are ready for interdisciplinary professional environments:

Purpose-built chemistry laboratories: Access labs equipped for organic, analytical, and physical chemistry experiments, using instruments such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.
Global studies project and fieldwork units: Participate in collaborative research projects, case studies, and field trips to gain practical experience in international relations, development, and policy.
Digital tools and software: Use chemical modelling software, data analysis platforms, and global studies research databases to support experimentation, analysis, and reporting.
Collaborative group projects: Work in teams across both disciplines, solving complex scientific and global challenges while developing communication, teamwork, and project management skills.
Capstone and research projects: Undertake independent research in chemistry (Research Project in Chemistry) and applied global studies (Capstone Project in Global Studies), integrating practical skills with analytical thinking.
Internships and industry engagement: Engage in internships or work-integrated learning with international organisations, NGOs, research institutes, or pharmaceutical/biotech firms.
Library and digital resources: Access Monash libraries and online platforms for scientific journals, policy reports, and global studies research resources.
Interdisciplinary research institutes: Collaborate with Monash research centres focusing on chemistry, sustainability, global development, and policy innovation.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Global Studies / Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Monash University develop a unique combination of scientific expertise and global perspectives, preparing them for careers that require analytical thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary knowledge. You’ll be equipped to work in environments that bridge science, policy, and international affairs. Typical job roles include: Policy Analyst, Environmental Scientist, Chemical Researcher, and International Development Officer. Monash supports your transition into these careers through comprehensive services and industry engagement:

Career services support: Monash Career Connect provides personalised career advice, internship and placement opportunities, CV and interview workshops, and networking events tailored to science and global studies students.
Employment outcomes: Graduates enjoy strong employability, with over 85% securing professional roles within six months, and starting salaries typically ranging from AU$65,000–75,000 depending on sector and role.
University–industry partnerships: Opportunities exist with international organisations, NGOs, research institutes, government agencies, and biotech/pharmaceutical companies for internships, collaborative projects, and work-integrated learning.
Accreditation and long-term value: The chemistry component provides practical laboratory training recognised in scientific industries, while global studies develops skills valued in policy, international relations, and development sectors.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates are prepared for interdisciplinary roles in scientific research, international policy, environmental management, and global development.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can pursue postgraduate studies such as a Master of Chemistry, Master of Global Development, Master of Public Policy, or research-focused PhD programs in chemistry, global studies, or interdisciplinary fields. These pathways allow for advanced research, specialisation, and enhanced career prospects in science, international affairs, or academia.