Bachelor of Science (Environment and Health) | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Bachelor of Science (Environment and Health)

Program summary

QTAC code: 013091
OP/Rank for 2009 entry: OP-18 / Rank-64
Award abbreviation: BSc(EnvHlth)
Degree type: undergraduate
Mode of study: on campus
Duration: 3 years full-time or equivalent part-time
Fee type 2010: Commonwealth supported places, visiting non-award domestic places, international fee-paying places
Total units: 288 units (normally 24 courses)
Recommended prior study: English and Maths
Commence: Semester 1 or Semester 2
USC program code: SC313
CRICOS code: 058569B

Program  overview

This scientific program crosses the disciplinary boundaries of environmental science and public health to prepare graduates for careers in both the environmental management and public health sectors.

The focus is on developing an understanding of our physical environment and its links with human health through a range of courses in both basic and applied sciences.

Required courses address core competencies and skills necessary for environmental health professionals working in a variety of settings. These generic graduate attributes translate to any profession, and include being able to apply, synthesise and evaluate knowledge; reason competently; communicate effectively; use technologies appropriately; and learn independently.

Specific competencies and skills include an understanding of public health and sustainable development principles; human–environment interactions; environment and public health planning; and the approaches used to identify, assess and manage the risks posed by environmental hazards. Elective courses are available to cater for specific interests and career paths.

You will develop theoretical knowledge and understanding by studying topics and practical projects of local, regional, national and international importance. You will gain essential practical experience through a final-year workplace internship or placement.

Opportunities also exist for you to expand your educational experience by becoming involved in ongoing, university-based, environmental health projects or by participating in international study programs as a part of your degree.

Professional recognition

Graduates can apply to become members of the Australian Institute of Environmental Health; Public Health Association of Australia; Australian Health Promotion Association; and the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand.

Career opportunities

Opportunities may include:

  • environmental health professional
  • environment/health specialist in academia 
  • environment/health specialist in the corporate or private sector 
  • health professional in all levels government

Special  features

  • provides scientific training to protect and improve the health and wellbeing of people and the environment 
  • work placements provide hands-on experience in the environment and public health sectors 
  • close liaison with industry and government ensures the curriculum meets the needs of employers

Program structure

Core courses

1 required course:
COR109 Object-Oriented Analysis and Design
Plus select 1 course from:
COR110 Database Programming
COR111 Architecture and Systems Integration

Introductory/foundation courses

7 required courses:
LFS100 Communication and Thought
LFS112 Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship
PUB102 Environment, Technology and Sustainability
PUB112 Cell Biology
SCI102 Human Physiology
SCI105 Environment and Health
SCI110 Public Health Foundations

Advanced courses

11 required courses:
ENP211 Biodiversity and Ecology
ENP365 Chemistry
ENS351 Science Research Methods
LFS261 Planning and Environmental Law
LFS262 Participation and Conflict Resolution
NUT322 Integrated Environmental Management
PUB252 Microbiology
PUB262 Medical Microbiology
PUB742 Food Laws, Regulations and Quality Assurance
PUB332 Health Promotion Needs Assessment and Planning(24 units)
PUB361 Environmental Health Risk Management

Elective courses

3 required courses:
Select up to 3 courses from any faculty (Arts and Social Sciences, Business or Science, Health and Education)

Course substitution: the GO (Global Opportunities) Program

As part of your USC program, you may apply to participate in the GO Program to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider.

Program requirements and notes

  1. A maximum of 10 introductory (100 level) courses may be chosen.
  2. A minimum of 14 advanced (200 and 300 level) courses must be completed.
  3. Refer to the Academic Rules.
  4. Refer to explanation of terms.
  5. Refer to the recommended enrolment patterns. For previous recommended enrolment patterns refer to the relevant archived Student Handbook.
  6. International students need to refer to the University's English language proficiency requirements.
  7. Only a full-time study option is available to international students.
  8. Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods including; namely essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations. Not all courses will necessarily include all methods.

Enquiries

How to apply

Faculty of Science, Health and Education
Tel: +61 7 5430 2869
Email: sheinfo@usc.edu.au

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