Key facts
UNE unit code: SCI210
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Are you interested in learning skills in technology and scientific data modelling that can help you to stand out in your career, but lack programming experience?
This unit provides you with an introduction to scientific programming, using problem-based learning and hands-on, practical exercises.
Delving into fundamental programming concepts that are invaluable in a scientist’s tool kit, the unit is designed to help you hone the skills needed to use and apply common techniques used in modern scientific programming. These include data analysis, advanced graphs and image analysis.
You will develop programs in MATLAB, applying these to a wide range real-world of topical and emerging issues in the physical and life sciences.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Access to MATLAB is required.This is available through a central server and through a university-wide site licence, allowing installation on students' personal computers.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- use technical and logical skills to develop well-structured computer programs in MATLAB;
- demonstrate the application of programs to real-world scientific problems, with students applying modelling skills learned in this unit to the physical and life sciences;
- apply current methods of data analysis and visualisation to a wide range of scientific data, including mobile and remote sensors, publically-available data, simulated data, and images; and
- critically appraise and effectively communicate results of their analyses to others.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assignments | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Programming assessment. 10 weekly programming projects worth 2% each. These assessments must be attempted in order to pass the unit. |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 80% | All offerings | It is mandatory to pass this examination in order to pass the unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
MATLAB: A Practical Introduction to Programming and Problem Solving
ISBN: 9780323917506
Attaway, S., Butterworth-Heinemann 6th ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
