The Bachelor of Science (Honours) program in the Department of Otolaryngology aims to provide students with the skills required to carry out research related to the function of the auditory system and the clinical treatment of hearing loss. In achieving this objective, students should develop abilities to critically analyse research literature, formulate research plans based on hypotheses and statistical requirements, present and defend research results and write a coherent research report.
The Faculty of Science entry requirements are that students should have a B.Sc. (or BmedSci, or combined science degree) or equivalent, and an average 300-level score of 65%. (Please see Faculty of Science web site for more details). In addition to satisfying these requirements, students should have completed undergraduate subjects in a relevant area including, but not restricted to, Physiology, Psychology, Physics, Mathematics, Biochemistry, Genetics, Anatomy, Histology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology and Immunology. Admission to the Honours program in the Department of Otolaryngology will also be based on the availability of a suitable supervisor and project for the student.
The Honours program can only be undertaken on a full-time basis, which commences in February and finishes in November. There is no mid-year intake.
The Science Honours course comprises an Advanced Coursework subject and a Research Project subject. The relative weightings of these subjects are as follows:
* 577-497 Advanced Coursework subject = 25%
* 577-496 Research Project subject = 75%
Advanced Coursework subject (25%)
The Advanced Coursework subject comprises two subjects: Research Methods in Communication Science, which will be examined by written examination and oral presentation; and Introduction to Hearing Science which will be examined by written examination. The latter subject will have components chosen to be relevant to the student's research project area, and may include Anatomy & Physiology, Perception of Sound and Speech, Acoustics or other relevant topics.
Research Project subject (75%)
The Research Project subject comprises completion of a supervised research project, for which an oral presentation of a critical review of the literature and the aims and methods of the project is to be given in the first semester and an oral presentation to the Department on the results of this project to be given near the completion of the project (12.5%). A written report (thesis) is required at the completion of the project (62.5%).
To see a description of some research projects available in 2010 click here.
To see a description of some recent minor research projects completed by students in the department click here.
Students enrolled in the Science Honours program must obtain a minimum of 65% for both Advanced Coursework and Research Projects subjects. Students will also be required to attend Departmental Seminars.
Potential students should contact the Honours Coordinator to discuss potential projects before applying.
General information about BSc(hons) can be found at the Faculty of Science website.
If further information is required about the Honours program please contact:
Honours Coordinator
Dr Karina Needham
Ph. +61 3 9929 8428
k.needham@unimelb.edu.au
Student Services Officer
Ms Annie Cruse
Ph. +61 3 9035 5322
acruse@unimelb.edu.au