Bachelor of Medical and Health Sciences (Honours)

at University of Wollongong - Wollongong Campus Australia

The study of Philosophy at UOW teaches you how to think, not what to think. As lovers of wisdom, philosophers are deeply, personally invested in their quest for truth and enlightenment. There are no questions that philosophers will not consider.  How should we live and treat others? Do our lives have meaning? Does science have all the answers?  In studying philosophy at UOW you will explore the most fundamental topics, ask the deepest questions and –rigorously and systematically– scrutinize the answers given by the best minds down the ages.

Studying for a UOW degree in Philosophy will train you in logic and argumentation. It will enlarge and enrich your conception of what is possible. You will acquire the intellectual discipline needed to challenge the assumptions that frame the way we think about the world and how we should behave in it. You will learn to bring philosophical considerations to bear on practical problems in order to make informed decisions about important issues such as:  social justice; free speech; global poverty; climate change, animal welfare; humane psychotherapy; education and expertise.

A philosophical education is valuable in just about any line of work. It develops your persuasive powers; critical thinking, problem solving abilities; and communication skills. A 2016 report by the Foundation for Young Australians reveals that these skills are in great demand today in professions that require people who can stand back and think with an open mind. Past UOW Philosophy graduates have found work in such diverse careers as: administration; art and design; business development; community and social services; consulting; education; entrepreneurship; healthcare; human resources; IT; legal; management; media; program and project research.

What you will study

Core subjects will teach you about: ethics, politics, mind, self, knowledge, science, and the relevance of philosophy to the wider world and the workplace. Elective areas of study include media; art and society; logic; the meaning of life; philosophy in film and literature; global and environmental ethics; bioethics; political philosophy; narrative psychology and selfhood; imagination and emotion; health and happiness; and Eastern philosophy.

International Relations is a vibrant, growing and constantly evolving discipline designed for students interested in careers in international organisations, foreign affairs or any organisation that has a focus beyond Australia’s borders. Whether it is the latest peace deal in a conflict zone, aid package, humanitarian relief operation, trade deal or climate negotiation, studying International Relations at UOW helps you understand the motives behind the actions taken by states, international organisations and the many other actors in global politics. While studying a Bachelor of Arts (International Relations) at UOW, you will learn how to apply critical thinking and analytical skills to real world issues to inform thinking and practice in business, government and not for profit sectors.

What you will study
You will undertake core subjects on how global politics works, how security is organised, how conflict is managed, and on the role of the state in the new millennium. You will partake in a model United Nations (UN), discussing ideas and brainstorming solutions to global challenges as model diplomats learning not just about the UN, but about negotiation skills and policy development. You can choose from a range of electives covering issues including war, peacekeeping, international law and global political economy.

Statistics is the study of the collection, organisation, analysis and interpretation of data. Applied statistics use mathematical concepts and methods to develop, design and analyse scientific experiments, sample surveys, medical clinical trials, environmental studies, and industrial and business big data systems. It uses mathematical models of variation to enable analysis and forecasting in many industries. It is the basis for successful decision-making and problem-solving in government, business, science, engineering, agriculture and industry.

This degree
Applied Statistics uses mathematical concepts and methods to develop scientific experiments, sample surveys, medical clinical trials and environmental studies. It uses mathematical models of variation to enable analysis and forecasting in many industries. The degree is flexible, so you can take up to one quarter of your subjects from other disciplines to expand your career options.

There are opportunities for scholarships from corporate partners, plus summer scholarships and undergraduate research projects with academic staff, access to programs of the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI) and inter-university courses via our Access Grid Room.

What you will study
A major in Applied Statistics equips you with the essential skills and knowledge of a professional statistician: logic, problem-solving, mathematical and statistical modelling, experimental design and the ability to organise, analyse and interpret large amounts of data. You will study subjects including estimation and hypothesis testing, applied probability and financial risk, linear and generalised models, statistical inference and sample surveys and experimental design.

You will gain strong computing and communication skills, and learn problem-solving, critical thinking and analytical skills that are in demand across government and private sectors.

Studying Sociology at UOW will prepare and enable you to understand, question and analyse human life and society, social processes, cultural and social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behaviour. You will develop an understanding of our diverse and rapidly changing world and identify the roots of and solutions to social problems. In an increasingly dynamic world, where divisions and inequalities are becoming more prevalent, this discipline provides invaluable analytical, research and intellectual skills and an in-depth understanding of our diverse societies and cultures.

The Sociology program at UOW organises specific study areas thematically, allowing you to find your own path through the curriculum, and consolidate in areas of interest over the course of the degree.

What you will study
Specific areas of study include: power and stratification; employment, work futures, and social policy; globalisation, migration, and urban/family life; sexualities, genders and intersectionality; social movements, subcultures and networks; and bodies, biotechnology, emotions and affect.

A major in Global Sustainable Development explores ethical issues surrounding global challenges and the interaction between human and environmental security. With 2.4 billion people on the planet living on less than US$2 a day, poverty and inequality remain two of the biggest challenges of our time. Equally, environmental change is a major concern that will affect human activity for the foreseeable future.

The Bachelor of International Studies examines the relationships of politics, society, culture, language, and history in a range of countries. You will analyse national and global issues, focusing on the way global forces and interactions increasingly influence domestic politics. You will also be encouraged to study abroad or undertake a study tour.

What you will study
Core subjects will teach you the key theories, approaches and practices for promoting human development for the future. You can elect to do subjects that specialise in environmental issues from a range of different disciplinary perspectives, or you can focus on issues of development from economic, social and political perspectives.

The Bachelor of Sustainable Communities will provide you with an understanding of the challenges communities face, and the ability to manage them in a volatile world.  You will gain career-relevant skills in a practical setting, and have the opportunity to learn first-hand how other countries are seeking to create and maintain sustainable communities. Our technology-integrated learning ensures that you will graduate with the skills to excel.

What you will study
The Bachelor of Sustainable Communities is a multidisciplinary degree that provides the ability to appreciate complex environmental, economic and societal challenges, and a range of skills needed to provide solutions for sustainable communities.

You will study subjects from disciplines including Human Geography, Social Policy, Health and Society, Cultural Studies, Economics and Commerce, Science and Technology Studies, International Studies and Politics. You will gain skills in logical and critical thinking, creative problem-solving, practical research, computer applications (including geographic information systems), and strong communication skills.

International Business is about understanding business in other cultures and regions, and learning how to think globally about the business world. International business focuses on the impact of differing cultures and languages, the issues posed by differing markets, and the differing government regulations within this rapidly growing environment. It is also concerned with foreign exchange markets and the effects of exchange rate policies.

This degree
You will undertake a foundation year that covers all core disciplines of business, giving you a solid understanding of issues facing organisations today. From your second year, you will begin your major in International Business. With a major in International Business, you will understand international marketing strategies that consider the socio-economic, legal, political, financial and cultural factors affecting regional markets. This includes strategic options for entry and expansion, and contemporary issues in multinational business contexts.

Careers in International Business include importer, exporter, international business analyst, international banker, foreign exchange trader and trade specialist. You will also undertake a final-year capstone subject that lets you apply everything you have learned in collaboration with students from other disciplines. Plus, you have the option of applying for an internship to gain valuable experience whilst receiving credit towards your degree.

What you will study
You will learn how to manage across cultural boundaries in an international business context, having gained knowledge on international human resource management and trade environments. You will improve your understanding of leadership, strategy, cultural diversity, communications and decision making as they relate to contemporary international business issues. Major topics include financial management, employment relations, industry and trade in South East Asia, international marketing and management, and business in Europe.

Computer scientists focus on the theoretical foundations and practical approaches to computation and its applications. They design methods and tools and write programs for computer applications. These applications can be in areas such as computer systems to control machinery, information management and big data, applications for mobile devices, stock market trend analysis, game design, visualisation of chemical reactions, neural network design, computational geometry for robot navigation, patient monitoring in hospitals, and much more.

What you will study
Find your strengths and interests as you study the fundamentals of computer science and IT: programming, problem-solving, network and communications, web technology, data management, system analysis, human-computer interaction, and project management. Throughout your first year you will study a common core of subjects that links our computer science, IT and information systems degrees. There is an opportunity to specialise in a major at the Wollongong campus from your second year of study by choosing one or more of the following majors:

• Big Data
• Cyber Security
• Digital Systems Security
• Game and Mobile Development
• Software Engineering

For students who do not wish to specialise with a major, you will complete advanced subjects providing you with specific knowledge while also instilling you with professional knowledge and skills in computer science. In your final year you will develop your own application as part of an annual student team project, developing solutions to real-world problems provided by our industry partners.

The Graduate Diploma in Engineering delivers skills and applied competencies to students who wish to further their engineering knowledge and progress to become a professional engineer. It also provides a broadening program for current professional engineers who wish to further develop their engineering skills.

This degree provides a pathway to the UOW Master of Engineering, which is professionally accredited by Engineers Australia.

What you will study
You will study a core of key engineering subjects in Innovation and Design, Advanced Laboratory, Communication and ICT Workplace Practice and Engineering Research Method. You will undertake four elective subjects in your chosen field of either computer, electrical or telecommunications engineering.

This degree
The Graduate Diploma in Engineering is designed to train and enhance professional practice, advance technical and specialist skills, and provide an opportunity to put theory into practice with applied projects and research. The degree also delivers the strategic project management and communication skills essential for practising engineers.

The Bachelor of Communication and Media degree offers students a strong foundation in global communication and media industries. This degree has a focus on preparing students for global careers in digital and social media, visual communication design, journalism, screen media production, marketing, communication and advertising. Students will encounter key ideas in the study and practice of media and communications, and gain flexible and transferable skills that will prepare them for informed engagement with the changing world of global media culture.

International Studies is the analysis, appreciation and study of the diversity of the global community. It examines the relationships of politics, society, culture, language, and history in a range of countries and globally. International Studies teaches you how to analyse national and global issues. You will learn about the forces shaping the modern world and the theories that underpin our understanding of the most important global issues. You will also gain language skills and we strongly encourage students to undertake study abroad to further expand their skills.

The two degrees are complementary with their focus on internationalisation and globalisation from different perspectives. It suits those seeking future careers in media, or related fields, in an international context and will prepare you for the world of digital communications and social media.

What you will study

The Bachelor of Communication and Media offers five majors - Digital and Social Media, Visual Communication Design, Journalism, Screen Media Production and Marketing, Communication and Advertising. You will need to select one major to specialise in throughout the duration of your degree.

You can also choose one major from the Bachelor of International Studies - International Relations, or Global Sustainable Development.  As part of the degree, you will also study a language minor, choosing from Mandarin, French, Italian, Japanese or Spanish.