- 1 year (or part-time equivalent)
- Toowoomba
- Online
- Feb, May, Sep
- View dates
- AUD 8,021
- (Indicative annual fee)
- External 906275
- Toowoomba campus 906271
Overview
- Step into the world of science and develop an understanding of what’s involved in university study. The Diploma of Science is perfect way to start your science studies with a bite-sized portion. As well as being a solid standalone qualification, it can also be a pathway to a Bachelor of Science degree and beyond.
- Learn to use science to understand the world using explanations developed and tested against evidence. Gain insight into how science help us predict and prepare for the future as well as lay the foundations for useful technological innovations.
- Study courses that foster an appreciation of the nature of modern science while honing your knowledge and skills in particular scientific disciplines. Graduate equipped with widely useful scientific, numerical and critical analysis skills.
Never thought possible
University has given me opportunities that I never thought possible.
Jake - Science
Career outcomes
As a graduate, you can apply for technical and support roles within scientific fields such as:
- laboratory assistant
- field assistant
- veterinary assistant
- environmental monitoring officer.
You may choose to pursue further studies with a Bachelor of Science, which can open doors to more specialised science career opportunities.
What you'll study
To graduate from the Diploma of Science, you must successfully complete 8 units of study.
Degree structure
An undergraduate university degree typically consists of a combination of core, major and elective courses designed to provide you with foundational knowledge and opportunities for an in-depth deeper dive into your chosen field.
Refer to the UniSQ Handbook for detailed recommended enrolment patterns and course availability.
You may be eligible for recognition of prior learning if you have previous studies or relevant work experience. This could reduce the number of courses you need to study to complete your degree.
Other study options
If you’re interested in further study, after completion of this degree you can go on to study the Bachelor of Science (if you meet all the entry requirements).
Entry requirements
There are many ways to be considered for entry into a UniSQ degree based on your education, work experience and relevant personal attributes.
Select the highest level of education you have or will be completing to find the entry requirements that applies to you.
To study this degree, we assume you have sound knowledge in:
- English (Units 3 & 4, C), or equivalent and
- General Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C), or equivalent
We assume that your knowledge is equivalent to a grade C or higher in Units 3 and 4 at high school level (typically studied in Year 12). Find out more about assumed knowledge.
This information applies if you’ve previously completed or started higher education study at university.
If you’ve done any study at UniSQ or another university, you may be eligible to apply based on your previous studies. We’ll use the best selection rank from your previous studies when assessing your application.
If you have completed a qualification from a TAFE or qualified private provider, you can use your Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) awards of:
- certificate III
- certificate IV
- diploma or
- advanced diploma
to apply to study with UniSQ.
We will review your academic history to determine if you’re eligible for admission. We’ll convert your TAFE or VET qualification, past school results and any relevant work experience into a selection rank. This selection rank will determine which degrees you meet the entry requirements for.
If it’s been over two years since you completed secondary education and you haven’t pursued any vocational education training (VET) or higher education since, you’re still eligible to study at UniSQ.
You don't need to have an ATAR or come straight from high school to study at uni. Your work experience and other adjustment factors may help you meet UniSQ's entry requirements.
Let us help you navigate through our entry options – start a conversation, whenever suits you.
All applicants
To learn more about the backgrounds of students in this degree, access the QTAC website via the How to apply section.
You can then explore the ATAR/selection rank of students offered a place in this degree in the first 2025 intake, based entirely or partly on their ATAR.
Entry pathways
There is more than one way to get into university, and if you're not sure about your entry options get in touch to discuss.
Fees and scholarships
- This estimated 2025 annual fee is based on the current average rate for your first year of study (8 units per year) and does not include cost of materials such as textbooks, additional costs or the Student Services and Amenities fee.
- This is an indicative guide only and your fees will vary depending on the courses you select, with the actual rates calculated at enrolment.
- We review our fees annually and they may increase each year.
- Further details are available on the Fees website.
Additional costs
You may be required to pay the Student Services and Amenities Fee as part of your degree cost.
Payment options
You may not have to pay your course (subject) fees upfront. HECS-HELP is a government loan scheme that allows you to defer payment until your income reaches a certain threshold. Find out if you are eligible for HECS-HELP.
You may also be eligible to receive financial support from Services Australia.
UniSQ Scholarships
We offer scholarships for academic excellence, community leadership, and financial need - you can apply for more than one!
Find out moreHow to apply
You can apply to study at UniSQ via the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) website.
- Copy the QTAC code for the study location you've chosen for this degree.
- Click on the location you’ve chosen in the below table to take you to the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) website.
- Select 'Apply Now' to create a QTAC account.
| Location | QTAC Code |
|---|---|
| External | 906275 |
| Toowoomba campus | 906271 |
Some applicants may be eligible to apply directly to UniSQ if they meet certain criteria. Explore the application process that’s right for you.
You can select to start your study in Trimester 1, 2 or 3.
| Study period | Application closing date | Orientation | Start date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trimester 1, 2025 | Monday 10 February | Monday 3 February | Monday 10 February |
| Trimester 2, 2025 | Monday 26 May | Monday 19 May | Monday 26 May |
| Trimester 3, 2025 | Monday 8 September | Monday 1 September | Monday 8 September |
| Trimester 1, 2026 | Monday 16 February | Monday 9 February | Monday 16 February |
More information on application key dates is available.
There are several special admission schemes that use adjustment factors to boost your ATAR or selection rank with additional points, to improve your chances of getting into your preferred degree.
You may be eligible for these admission schemes based on:
- your background and personal circumstances
- where you live
- the subjects you studied at school.
You do not have to apply for these adjustments as they will be automatically applied by QTAC when your application is assessed.
Preparing to apply
You've made the decision to study at UniSQ - congratulations! Take the next steps:
The documentation you need to provide with your application depends on your qualifications.
If applying through QTAC, you will also need a Unique Student Identifier which is your individual education number for life.
Follow our easy instructions to discover further information on applying to study that’s right for you.
Depending on how you applied to study at UniSQ, the process to accept your offer will vary.
Offer to study at UniSQ from QTAC
- QTAC will send you an email if you have received an offer. To respond to your offer, log in to the QTAC application portal.
- Information regarding QTAC key dates for when offers will be made is available.
- Didn’t receive an offer? Don’t worry – you may just need to update your preferences.
Offer to study from UniSQ
- After you’ve submitted your application, you will be emailed a reference number. You will be notified via email the outcome of your application within 10 business days.
- Follow the link in your email from UniSQ or log in to the application portal to accept your offer.
Find out more
Connect with us - start a conversation, whenever suits you.
Available 5 days a week
Chat now
Freecall
1800 269 500
Email us at study@unisq.edu.au
Frequently asked questions
An undergraduate diploma introduces you to the academic culture of university study and is a great option to get your dream career started without committing to a full 3-year degree. At an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 5, it’s all about providing the important foundational skills necessary for success in higher education or in your work environment.
When you study our Diploma of Science online or on-campus, you will gain critical transferrable skills such as scientific, numerical and critical analysis, all while developing foundational knowledge and skills in your scientific discipline.
At UniSQ, there is more than one journey to study a Diploma of Science. If you don’t meet the entry requirements, we have a pathway option to suit you.
A pathway can pave the way to an exciting future of study. After successfully completing a pathway many of our students continue onto undergraduate studies and enhance their expertise further with postgraduate study.
Would you like to talk through your study options? Get in touch and we can provide you with the personalised support and advice you need.
The Diploma of Science major that is right for you will vary depending on your interests and career goals. At UniSQ we have seven majors to choose from:
- Biology - discover the fundamental concepts of biology, chemistry, cells and molecular biology and genetics
- Computing/IT - an introduction to computing and information technology that includes algorithms, data structures, web publishing, programming and more.
- Environment & Sustainability - learn about topics such as ecology, conservation, climate change and biology.
- Mathematics - a versatile major that is relevant to a variety of applications and careers that introduces you to the fundamental concepts of mathematics and statistics.
- Physical Sciences - Including physics, you will learn about the development and role of science, science communication and astronomy.
- Wildlife Management - start your outdoor career in wildlife management by learning about biosecurity, conservation, animal welfare and more.
Gain a strong start to your career in sciences and apply to study a Diploma of Science at UniSQ:
- Learn from industry experts - UniSQ’s science research centres lead research in health research, sustainable agricultural systems, crop health, astrophysics, future materials, applied climate sciences and more.
- Study a Diploma of Science online or on-campus with our flexible ways to study.
- According to the Good Universities Guide, 2025, we are Ranked #1 in Queensland for sciences and mathematics:
- learning resources
- overall educational experience
- student experience
- teaching quality.
