Bachelor of Biomedical Science

A Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Notre Dame Australia is a three-year degree built around how the human body works and what goes wrong in disease. You'll study the core biomedical sciences, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology and genetics, alongside the laboratory and analytical skills that underpin medical research and diagnostic pathology. The degree sits on the Australian Qualifications Framework at level 7, so it is a full bachelor qualification in its own right.

How the degree is structured

The course runs over three years of full-time study, delivered through the university's semesters. You accumulate credit points by completing units of study, typically eight per year, with each unit carrying a set credit value. Foundational units in first year give way to more specialised units in second and third year, where you can often choose electives that shape your direction, molecular biology, neuroscience, haematology, clinical biochemistry or similar. A capstone unit or research project in final year lets you design and carry out an investigation under supervision, which is useful if you're considering honours or a research career. Assessment is a mix of written exams, practical reports, laboratory work and presentations.

Skills you build

You'll learn to run experiments safely and accurately, interpret data, read scientific literature critically and explain complex biological ideas clearly. Those skills are transferable well beyond the lab. The degree also develops the kind of problem-solving and evidence-based reasoning that employers in health, research and industry look for.

Who it suits

This degree suits school leavers with an interest in biology and chemistry, and mature-age students looking to move into health or science. It is a common pathway toward postgraduate study in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy or research higher degrees. If you want to work directly in a diagnostic lab, you may need further study or accreditation, check the requirements for your intended role. International students should note that the Student visa allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register. Confirm all details, including English requirements and unit offerings, on the official university page.

Graduates work across Australian health, research and life sciences sectors. Typical roles include:

• Laboratory technician or assistant in hospital pathology, private labs or research institutes
• Research assistant in universities, medical research institutes or biotechnology companies
• Quality control or quality assurance officer in pharmaceutical, food or medical device manufacturing
• Scientific sales or technical support for laboratory equipment and reagents
• Data officer or clinical trials assistant in health services and contract research organisations
• Further study pathway into medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy or a research master's or doctorate

Employers include public and private hospitals, diagnostic pathology providers, CSIRO and other research agencies, universities, pharmaceutical companies and government health departments. Some roles require additional qualifications or professional registration, so check the requirements for your chosen field.