Bachelor degree
A bachelor degree is a systematic introduction to the knowledge, ideas, principles, concepts, chief research methods and problem-solving techniques of a recognised major subject (or subjects, in the case of a double degree or a double major).
It is also referred to as an undergraduate qualification.
It requires meeting specified requirements, as set down in the course of study, and involves at least one sequential study programme (the major subject/s) in which content is progressively developed to the point where a candidate is prepared for postgraduate study and supervised research. It prepares a candidate for advanced study as well as directed research and scholarship in the major subject/s of the degree.
A graduate with a bachelor qualification is able to:
- demonstrate knowledge and skills related to the ideas, principles, concepts, chief research methods and problem-solving techniques of a recognised major subject (or subjects, in the case of a double degree or a double major)
- demonstrate the skills needed to acquire, understand and assess information from a range of sources
- demonstrate intellectual independence, critical thinking and analytic awareness
- engage in self-directed learning
- demonstrate communication and collaborative skills.
A bachelor degree requires a minimum of 360 credits from levels 4 to 7. Some programmes of study, notably in professional fields such as engineering, health sciences and law, encompass additional credits and may require a longer period of study. For example, a four-year (eight-semester) degree would normally be equivalent to 480 credits.
Of the credits required for a bachelor degree, a minimum of 72 credits should be at level 7. A maximum of 20 credits should be at level 4 (to ensure the integrity of the qualification at the higher levels is maintained).
The degree should comprise a spread of credits across levels so that the qualification meets the requirements of the degree definition and achieves learning outcomes in a way that is appropriate to the subject area.
A person who holds a bachelor degree may be able to enrol for a postgraduate diploma or a master's degree.
A bachelor degree may be awarded with honours to recognise advanced or distinguished study in advance of a level 7 bachelor degree. This may occur by:
- recognising outstanding achievement in a 480-credit (or more) degree, especially in relation to work of a research nature (typically at level 8); or
- achieving 120 credits at level 8 following a level 7 bachelor degree (either as part of an integrated honours degree or as a separate qualification).
A person with a bachelor degree with honours may also be able to enrol for a master's or a doctoral degree.