Bachelor of Science (Climate Science)

As a climate science student, you can expect a transformative educational experience. You will engage in work-integrated learning, field experiences, and research projects that prepare you for careers and further climate science studies. 

You will collaborate with your peers and teaching staff from your first semester in QUT’s exciting learning environments. You will explore real-world problems from multiple scientific perspectives and learn the tools of the trade. You may find yourself out in the field, working in the laboratory or learning about the impact of scientific discoveries on people, policy, industry, and the planet. 

You will develop a range of scientific, data and technological capabilities and professional attributes highly valued and sought after in a diverse range of scientific and non-scientific fields. You will also explore the invaluable contributions of First Nations Peoples of Australia to science, promoting respectful engagement in scientific research on their lands. 

Working with the data you have collected, you will study how to apply fundamental methods of scientific practice, perform scientific analysis, and learn the tools to present your findings. 

Your Climate Science major comprises ten units. These units cover topics ranging from understanding the global changes affecting our planet to delving into the intricacies of climate change. You will study the dynamics of Earth's natural systems, history, and evolution, acquire geospatial skills, and explore the chemical aspects of the environment. You will gain insights into natural hazards, explore climate interventions, and study the complexities of the atmosphere.  

The Climate Science units collectively equip you with a well-rounded understanding of climate science and its interconnectedness with the Earth's systems. 

Customise your degree

Tailor your studies to match your career goals with various complementary study options at QUT. You can develop sought-after professional skills, deepen your understanding of your major discipline, pursue an interest from across the university, or broaden your scientific knowledge. You can even work with industry or study overseas to gain credit towards your degree. 

In addition to your chosen major, you can also select either one (1) second major from the following: 

• Biological Sciences 
• Chemistry  
• Computational and Simulation Science 
• Earth Science  
• Environmental Science  
• Human Biomolecular Sciences 
• Physics  
• Sustainable Environments for Health 

OR one (1) minor from the Science or University-Wide Minor Options lists and three (3) electives from the Science and/or University-Wide Unit Options lists. 

Double degrees

Double your career options and combine your Bachelor of Science with a degree in one of the following areas: 

• Business 
• Communication
• Engineering  
• Games and interactive environments 
• Information technology  
• Law
• Teaching (Secondary) 
• Mathematics. 

Careers and outcomes

This Climate Science major opens the door to many rewarding career opportunities. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to significantly address climate change, biodiversity loss and resource depletion and shift the world onto a sustainable path.   

As a QUT graduate, you will be a curious, agile, and resilient problem-solver, able to work independently and in multi-disciplinary teams. You will have a strong presence and a voice, proficient in designing and conducting experiments and evaluating data to articulate well-thought-out, logical, and evidence-based arguments to address current and future challenges facing society and the planet. 

With the knowledge and skills gained from our program, you will be well-equipped to address the critical challenges posed by climate change and make a meaningful difference in your chosen career path. 

Research pathways

Get a taste of groundbreaking research during your degree

During this degree, you can try your hand at research by undertaking a paid project for approximately 6-10 weeks under the Vacation Research Experience Scheme (VRES). This gives you the chance to contribute to a real research project, collaborate with active researchers, gain first-hand experience and decide if a research career is for you.

Read Zoe's VRES story