Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry Degree Program
The La Trobe University Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry degree provides detailed studies in the concepts and techniques of drug discovery and development. The program provides students with a focused education in the disciplines forming the basis of chemistry in the biological area with the emphasis on therapeutics or drugs. The program is a chemistry major with supporting core studies in human physiology and pharmacology at second year and elective studies in either Biochemistry or Microbiology.
Medicinal chemists are required to find and improve the molecules we need for understanding, treating and preventing disease. Medicinal chemistry is firmly based on chemistry, but drug research also requires an understanding of biochemistry, molecular biology, human physiology and pharmacology. Advances in biological understanding and techniques require chemists who are able to draw upon different disciplines in order to solve problems at the interface of chemistry and biology.
Key features of the degree program include:
- Specialist lectures in medicinal chemistry topics
- Chemistry major
- Additional core studies in human physiology and pharmacology
- Choice of elective subjects to complement core studies
- Development of practical laboratory skills in chemistry and biochemistry/microbiology
- Opportunity to join the Honours program in Medicinal Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry or Microbiology*
- Opportunity to join the Master of Chemical Sciences program (with advanced standing)
The La Trobe University Medicinal Chemistry program allows students to take elective subjects in the first year of study of the degree. Elective units can be selected to complement core studies in areas of student interest. The core study area is Chemistry combined with core units in Human Physiology and Pharmacology at second year. At the start of second year studies students choose to enrol in Biochemistry (BCH2BMA and BCH2BMB) or Microbiology (MIC2IM and MIC2MVM).
The La Trobe University Handbook and Faculty degree page includes further details of the B. Med. Chem. course structure, entry requirements and features. International students should also download the Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry information brochure for further information.