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Apply by 1 May 2025 to start 7 Jul 2025
Follow your passion, develop problem-solving skills, and dive into a fascinating career with a Bachelor of Science.
Explore the wonder of science
As a Bachelor of Science (BSc) student at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, you’ll absorb knowledge, observe phenomena, experiment with ideas, and maybe even be part of making new discoveries.
With a strong practical focus, a BSc will take you beyond the lecture theatre with hands-on laboratories, field trips, and summer scholarship opportunities.
Download our handbook
Fill in a form to find out more about your study options in Science in our qualification handbook.
Flexibility is so important in my studies. It’s meant that, as I’ve gained a better understanding of what I’m interested in, I’ve been able to shift my focus. This has allowed me to do the things I really enjoy, which means I work harder and am more engaged in my courses.
Hannah Clark
Bachelor of Science in Geology and Physical Geography
New Zealand’s most flexible Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science is a varied, flexible degree. With the option to choose from more than 25 majors across the physical and social sciences—in everything from Marine Biology to Science Communication to Space Science—you’ll have the flexibility to combine subjects that fit your interests and career aspirations to create a degree that is unique to you.
To take advantage of the flexibility offered by our Bachelor of Science, you can look at options including:
- a double major—specialise in two subjects in your degree
- a second major from another degree—study a wider range of subjects without doing another degree. Choose from over 90 majors across the University.
- a minor—specialise in a subject without doing as many courses as for a major.
- a conjoint degree—this intense programme lets you complete two degrees more quickly, in a minimum of four years.
Develop a future-focused skill set
This three-year undergraduate degree will give you the skills to become a science innovator in a rapidly evolving job market.
You’ll learn in world-class facilities from staff who are world leaders in their fields, in the heart of the science capital of New Zealand.
Wellington has the highest concentration of scientists and science organisations in New Zealand. Our students are ready to leap into the careers of the future, going on to develop new technologies, treat diseases, or protect the environment.
I adore Te Herenga Waka and think it makes Wellington a great place to study. I have absolutely loved my Biology papers and know I have chosen the best path of study for me.
Maia Moetahi Renata-Horn
Student, Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology
First year
In your first year you’re likely to take seven or eight courses from a range of subject areas. There are no core courses common to all majors in this year—choose the 100-level courses from subjects that most interest you. However, at some point in your BSc, you must include one course in either Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, or Econometrics. Most students choose to do this in their first year.
It’s a good idea to look ahead and think about what you might like to study in your second year, as your chosen major may have specific prerequisites for advanced-level courses.
First-year courses lay the foundations for more in-depth study. If you haven’t already decided, at the end of this year you’ll choose the major you want to focus on for the rest of your Bachelor of Science. It’s possible to do two majors, but make sure you take courses that meet the requirements of both.
We have incredible students at Te Herenga Waka. Teaching, to me, is an opportunity to meet students where they’re at, and help them build the skills and knowledge to get where they want to be. Each student arrives with a unique background and a love of science—I always learn from them, and it’s always a privilege to teach and guide them through their degree.
Courtney Addison
Senior lecturer, School of Science in Society
Second year
This year you’ll start to focus on the detail of your chosen major, and you’ll have the opportunity to hone your research skills. You’re likely to take six to eight courses this year—three or four courses in your major subject and the remaining courses chosen from your second major or minor subject or from other electives.
To add variety and depth to your degree, you might take some courses from outside the sciences.
Third year
In the third year of your Bachelor of Science, you’re likely to take three or four courses in your major subject and a further three or four courses that might be your second major or a mixture of your minor and other electives.
You’ll graduate university with specialised knowledge in your major, ready to enter the workforce or to go on to postgraduate study.
Get a postgraduate degree
At the end of your three-year BSc, you can continue your learning with postgraduate study. Give your career options a boost and choose from our wide range of postgraduate science programmes.
International scholarships
Many scholarships are available for international students at Victoria University of Wellington. They can help with tuition fees and with accommodation costs.
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Requirements