Overview

Undertake an advanced program of scientific research with specialist studies in astronomy and astrophysics, biology, chemistry, mathematics, palaeobiology, physics or software technology.

Designed for gifted and talented students, this elite program has a strong research focus.  It provides the flexibility of a Bachelor of Science plus advanced units that are not available to other students. You'll have direct contact with researchers and academics and your skills will be nurtured with individual attention in a small select advanced science group.  

In this degree you'll develop your problem-solving skills, independent and critical thinking and be exposed to cutting-edge research. You'll have the opportunity to undertake your own research project in third year and will gain practical experience in research laboratories and research groups.

Macquarie University is the only Australian university to offer undergraduate students a full major in palaeobiology. The aim is to give students a ‘deep time’ perspective on the evolution of life.

By studying the fossil record you will explore:

• the early evolution and phylogeny of animals and plants
• the timing and correlation of important events in deep time
• fundamental questions about fluctuating ecological and environmental parameters through time.

Discover the new discipline of ‘evo-devo’, which melds palaeobiology with evolutionary biology, genetics and developmental biology. It seeks to determine the ancestral relationship between organisms, and understand how developmental processes evolved.

You can complete all units online, on campus or by distance education (external study), on an annual or biannual basis. You would need to attend some weekend on-campus sessions or fieldwork.

Degrees offering Palaeobiology

Key features

• Teaching techniques include problem-based learning, group-based work, seminars and poster presentations, debates/colloquia.
• Most units have fieldwork, from weekend excursions to nine-day intensive programs.
• Research-enhanced learning, with case studies, workshops and field programs.

Location

North Ryde

Suitable for

Students interested in: undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in biology, environmental studies, resource management and/or biodiversity; primary or secondary school science teaching.

HECS Course fee

AUD $4,520 p.a.

Student amenities fee

Information on the Student services and amenities fee