The Critters to the Cosmos event is a dynamic and hands-on science experience designed to ignite curiosity and passion for the natural sciences among high school students. Participants explore the full spectrum of scientific inquiry – from the tiniest living organisms to the vastness of space – through engaging workshops, interactive demonstrations, and field-based activities.

Why Attend?

This experience offers a rare opportunity for Year 12 students to learn directly from leading scientists in one of Australia’s most biodiverse and geologically rich environments. It’s ideal for students considering future studies or careers in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

Get excited about our natural environment…and what you might like to investigate more

• Learn practical techniques normally taught on the job or at university
• Be exposed to a broad range of natural science experiences in the field and laboratory
• Spend your field days across Mt Field, Maydena and our Greenhill Observatory site
• Access the UTAS Sandy Bay STEM campus with a personalised full campus tour and time to ‘meet the expert’ of your choice
• Group dinner on the final night
• You will present your findings on the final day of the trip at our Sandy Bay STEM campus (parents /guardians/teachers welcome)
• The unit is a practical introduction to the natural sciences you can study in the Bachelor of Science.

Student costs are covered by the university for this course in 2026

• Group style accommodation for 3 nights in the field and 3 nights in Hobart.
• Your transport from Hobart to field sites and return
• All your meals, however, you may wish to bring some extra snacks. We will be asking you to assist with some meal preparation and cleaning up duties.

Who is eligible?

If you are undertaking Year 12 in 2026 in Tasmania and planning to study, or have studied any of the following in Year 11:

• TASC 3 Physical Sciences, Environmental Science, Geography, Biology, Mathematics Methods-Foundation, General Mathematics
• TASC 4 Mathematics Methods, Mathematics Specialised, Chemistry, Physics

Students are welcome from across all Tasmanian DECYP, Catholic and Independent schools. Teachers are welcome to enquire, as parts of the program can be accessible for professional learning opportunities by arrangement.

Applications for 2026

• Will open 01 December 2025
• The application form will become available on this website at that time
• Students will be contacted in early 2026
• Register your interest

For more information email sns.learningandteaching@utas.edu.au