Regulatory Science

Use your scientific thinking to investigate and adjudicate on controversies in science.

Regulatory scientists are required to make risk-informed and evidence-based decisions, whenever new drugs, medical devices, pesticides, genetically modified organisms, foods, veterinary medicines and fine chemicals have been developed for the market. These decisions are often made in the context of uncertainty and sometimes conflict over the public availability of these goods and the risks that they might pose, in a complex environment.

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Regulatory scientists critically review current scientific knowledge, and assess the potential health, safety and environmental risks to human and natural systems of pre-market and post-market products and activities. The best available scientific evidence on which they rely to make their decisions can be subject to many controversies, as can be the processes that are used. There are many technological and market innovations that will increasingly challenge and politicise their decision making.

Courses

The core subject areas include Australian regulatory framework, policy and risk assessment, toxicology, and data analysis. The courses also involve a three-week work placement in a Regulatory agency or within the industry. These interdisciplinary programs are taught by staff from several UNE Schools:

And have been developed in collaboration with Australian Regulatory agencies.

A science qualification (Bachelor to Doctoral) is required for admission to these programs.

The Master of Science (Regulatory Science), and Doctor of Philosophy research projects can also  be undertaken to resolve regulatory science uncertainties and controversies. UNE researchers and regulatory scientists at the agencies or in industry jointly supervise these projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will assistance be provided to find a work placement in a Regulatory agency or the associated industry and to identify a UNE supervisor?

Assistance will be provided. However, you must apply directly to potential Host Employers and demonstrate your capabilities and attributes, and communicate any perceived conflicts of interest.

What qualifications and background do I need to be able to enrol for one of the postgraduate courses in Science/Scientific Studies?

The basic qualification is an AQF Level 7 Bachelor qualification plus you must be able to demonstrate you have the minimum assumed knowledge required, as specified in the individual Admission Requirements for each course, for the major you intend completing.

If your formal admission qualifications do not clearly demonstrate you have this knowledge, you may include a cover letter with their application describing how you have achieved the minimum assumed knowledge.

Will I have to re-locate to Armidale complete a course Science/Scientific Studies?

All of our postgraduate Regulatory Science courses are offered both on-campus or online on a full-time or part-time basis.  The Graduate Certificate in Science (Regulatory Science) is best completed on a part-time basis.

What are the benefit of studying on campus?

Many UNE students choose to study on campus to take advantage of the location, the unique residential accommodation options and the teaching, research and sporting facilities.

Studying on campus in Armidale gives you the traditional university experience, with the added benefit of small class sizes and great access to lecturers. Academic staff are passionate about what they teach and keen to see you succeed.

How does online study work?

UNE is at the forefront of online learning.

You will access your materials via our Student Portal myUNE. Teaching material including study timetables, details of assessments, topic notes, readings, podcasts, discussion spaces and links to online resources are located on our Learning Management System, myLearn. Your lecturer will interact with you via myLearn and is also available by email or phone.

You are able to purchase textbooks through the UNE Life Shop.

You are also able to access the facilities and services of Dixson Library.

How long does it take to complete a course in Science?

For the Graduate Certificate you will have a maximum of two years.

If you wish to complete the Graduate Diploma you will have a maximum four years.

How much will it cost?

All Science/Scientific Studies courses are available on a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) basis (please note:  quotas do apply) or a Full-Fee basis.  Go to Tuition Fees for further details.

How do I apply?

Go to How to apply and follow the instructions.

I’ve completed study at another university – can I get advanced standing (credit) for that?

If you have completed study at another tertiary institution you are able to apply for Advanced Standing (please note:  this is a separate process to applying to enrol for the course).

When I’m actually enrolling for a course how do I select which units I should be completing for my major? How do I plan my study?

All units approved for your major are listed in the Program of Study for your course.

It is strongly recommended that you follow the Course Plans provided for your course.  These have been developed taking into account unit pre-requisite, co-requisite and timetabling requirements and are located below the Program of Study.

Who can I contact for further information and advice on admission requirements, programs of study and course plans?

If you interested in furthering your career in Regulatory Science, or are keen to start a career in these areas, the Course Coordinator is more than happy to discuss your options and help you choose the program which most suits your needs and background.

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Contacts

For general and administrative enquiries, AskUNE.