Biomedical Sciences

Outline

Outline

The Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences is a highly flexible degree that gives you the freedom to explore different areas of biology related to human health and disease. 

Whether you aspire to pursue a career as a clinical physiologist, develop vaccines for infectious diseases, advance cancer or Alzheimer’s research, explore gene sequencing or formulate new pharmaceuticals, this degree lets you tailor your studies to suit your preferred career path.

In the first year of this degree, you will complete foundation studies in areas of biomedical science such as human biology, genetics, cell biology, microbiology, and immunology, alongside complementary learning in chemistry, scientific communication and biostatistics.

In the second and third years, you will branch out into the areas of biomedical science that interest you most. Options open to you include majors in Human Biomedicine, Molecular Genetics, or Pharmacology; as well as specialisations and optional units.

All options combine theory with intensive hands-on, practical sessions in high-quality laboratory facilities, where you will work on real-world scenarios that prepare you for your future career. 

You may also undertake industry site visits to provide you with insight into your chosen career path when you graduate. 

Majors and specialisations

You can major in one or two of the following areas: Human Biomedicine, Molecular Genetics or Pharmacology.

If you select one major, you can combine your study with a specialisation in Human Pathology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Microbiology, Human Genetics or Pharmacology. You are also able to complete specialisations from other disciplines such as Corporate Governance or Digital and Social Media. The choice is yours!

Human Biomedicine

Biomedicine is the application of biological and physiological principles to clinical practice.

You will learn applied human anatomy, physiology and neuroscience, and gain valuable hands-on laboratory experience using cadaveric specimens and physiology equipment.

If you take the Human Pathology specialisation, you can extend your studies into clinical pathophysiology and neurophysiology, which will broadly prepare you for a career as a clinical physiologist.

Molecular Genetics

Molecular genetics is a rapidly advancing and exciting discipline for the 21st century.
In this major, you will learn about genetics and genomics, and how universal principles and new advances in this area can be applied to improve health outcomes.

You will study molecular biology, human genetic disease, bioinformatics and genetic engineering, learning theory alongside practical laboratory training.

You will also be introduced to cutting-edge technology for molecular and genetic analyses and will develop your skills in critical thinking and scientific communication.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology explores the effects of drugs on living organisms and is the cornerstone for a career in drug discovery and development. It is particularly relevant with the increasing global challenge to develop new drugs against infectious agents.

This major gives you a good understanding of drug action against microorganisms through computer-based simulations and laboratory work covering molecular, cellular and physiological responses, and modern drug analysis techniques.

You will learn how drugs target specific receptors in tissues and explore the major biochemical pathways that are activated.

You’ll also learn about dose-response relationship, toxicity, drug metabolism and elimination, drug design and development, and how genetic variation between populations influences drug response.

Additional units

These are optional areas of study that give you room to further explore your career interests in areas such as reproductive technologies, bioinformatics, forensics and psychology.

What you'll learn

• apply skills, concepts, and principles of scientific investigation in the biomedical sciences
• propose innovative, evidence-based solutions to contemporary problems in the biomedical sciences
• effectively access and communicate biomedical science concepts using a variety of media
• maintain intellectual curiosity and knowledge to contribute to the global scientific community
• demonstrate cultural competency through scientific practice that considers cultural diversity and ways of working that are respectful and responsible
• demonstrate initiative, leadership, and ethical practice when working independently and collaboratively, to a standard expected by industry and the community