Medicinal chemistry

Why study Medicinal chemistry?

Medicinal chemistry is the design, synthesis and development of pharmaceutical drugs. It includes the characterisation of drugs and drug-like molecules, computer-assisted drug design, drug analysis, molecular biology, pharmacology of drugs, and drug research and development.

Gain the knowledge and skills to work in science-based industries, research laboratories and biotechnology industries. Major in chemistry, biochemistry or microbiology and specialise in drug design.

Students will soon access some of the best teaching and research facilities in the world with the construction of a new $94 million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) building. LIMS focuses on training researchers to turn molecular science, biotechnology and nanotechnology research into medical solutions.

Career opportunities

Graduates are in high demand. The Australian Government’s Pharmaceuticals Industry Action Agenda plans to double the size of the industry. Graduates work in pharmaceutical research, development, production, patent, regulation, trials and registration. You may also work in biotechnology, food and beverages, defence, cosmetics, petrochemicals and polymers, patent law, finance, sales, teaching, publishing, marketing and management.

This course is accredited with the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI), and graduates are eligible for membership.

Courses

Local students

Medicinal chemistry courses
Offer yearCourse titleCampus(es)DurationSemester starts
2013 Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 (March)

Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry continued…

Course description
Medicinal chemistry is the design, synthesis and development of pharmaceutical drugs. It is a rapidly growing field that explores chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology, and how these fields interact to develop drugs. Medicinal chemists are required to find and improve the molecules we need for understanding, treating and preventing disease.

This course is designed to support the growing biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries in Australia and internationally. It aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a wide range of science-based industries, research laboratories, and emerging biotechnology industries. Students can major in chemistry, biochemistry or microbiology, with an additional specialisation in drug design.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any), Chemistry, and either Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics.
Extra requirements
Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 75 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes.

Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. They may also be asked to complete a maths test.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATAR (2013)
Melbourne: 71

Middle band
Successful completion of Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points. Performance in prerequisite studies is also considered.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30, and a dissecting kit - A$40. Prices are approximate and subject to change. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Medicinal ChemistryMelbourne
2013 Bachelor of Science (Applications in Society) Melbourne
Bendigo
Albury-Wodonga
3 years Semester 1 (March)

Bachelor of Science (Applications in Society) continued…

Course description
This new course is designed for people who wish to pursue a career in science but also develop specialised knowledge in other disciplines.

The Bachelor of Science (Applications in Society) combines major studies in science with complementary disciplines from other areas. The course aims to inspire students' curiosity for science and put science into context and how it applies to the world around us. Graduates should have a deep understanding of at least one area of science and also be able to work effectively in their non-science discipline.

The cross disciplinary nature of this course gives graduates the skills to work as knowledge brokers in business, government, education and science. Students enrolled in this degree will also have access to the Work Ready program which helps with the transition from university to the workforce by helping students to develop skills that employers value. See the additional information field for more details.

The Bachelor of Science (Applications in Society) is a broad access degree welcoming students from a wide variety of backgrounds with varying preparation for studying science. In the first year of the degree students will complete foundation studies to develop quantitative skills and an awareness of the nature of science. At enrolment students will select their non-science area of study and foundation studies in at least one of life sciences, molecular sciences, information technology, mathematics and statistics or environmental studies.

To complete the degree, students must complete at least one major in science and a sub-major (discipline sequence to year 2) in their selected non-science discipline. Students can complete a full major in their non-Science discipline.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in any other English.

HSC (NSW): English Band 2 or equivalent.
Extra requirements
NONY12

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.

Test (some applicants): Applicants described in the Admissions Tests section must complete the STAT Multiple Choice (see Admissions Tests: http://www.vtac.edu.au/admissions-tests.html).
Selection
ATARs (2013)
Melbourne: 55.45
Bendigo: 57.1
Albury-Wodonga: 73.5
Middle band
Completing mathematics (any) = 1.5 aggregate points per study. Maximum of 1.5 aggregate points.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Fee amount
TBA
Additional information
Work Ready Science (WRS) offers you the chance to build your future career from the moment you start your course. This program focuses on the transition between university and the workforce by building your experience and developing the skills employers value.
The overall objective of Work Ready is to give students a competitive advantage, by learning to communicate achievements and experiences to an employer in a competent and confident manner.
WRS is available at La Trobe University's Melbourne, Bendigo and Albury-Wodonga campuses. http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scitecheng/study/work-ready-science
How to apply
Through VTAC or UAC. Students applying to our Albury-Wodonga, Melbourne and Bendigo campuses can apply directly to La Trobe University. Please note that direct applications are only available to non-Year 12 applicants and to applicants who have not already applied through VTAC. For more information about direct applications please visit Ask La Trobe.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Science (Applications in Society)Melbourne
Science (Applications in Society)Bendigo
Science (Applications in Society)Albury-Wodonga

Want to know more?

Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.

Fees and scholarships

Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.

There is also a wide range of scholarships available for local students. 

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Medicinal chemistry international courses
Offer yearCourse title (CRICOS)Campus(es)DurationSemester startsAnnual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2013 Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry (056210E) Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 (March) $25 060

Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry continued…

Year
2013
Course description
Medicinal chemistry is the design, synthesis and development of pharmaceutical drugs. It is a rapidly growing field that explores chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology, and how these fields interact to develop drugs. Medicinal chemists are required to find and improve the molecules we need for understanding, treating and preventing disease.

This course is designed to support the growing biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries in Australia and internationally. It aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a wide range of science-based industries, research laboratories, and emerging biotechnology industries. Students can major in chemistry, biochemistry or microbiology, with an additional specialisation in drug design.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 70
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 70.05
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 8
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - BCC
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 4.5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 73
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.7
Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 70
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.4
Indonesia (SMA) - 8
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
Mathematics determined to be equivalent to the Australian VCE Units 3 & 4 Mathematical Methods (CAS) or Specialist Mathematics, English (any) and Chemistry.
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30, and a dissecting kit - A$40. Prices are approximate and subject to change. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Medicinal ChemistryMelbourne
2013 Bachelor of Science (Applications in Society) (077313B) Melbourne
Bendigo
Albury-Wodonga
Semester 1 (March) $25 060

Bachelor of Science (Applications in Society) continued…

Year
2013
Course description
This new course is designed for people who wish to pursue a career in science but also develop specialised knowledge in other disciplines.

The Bachelor of Science (Applications in Society) combines major studies in science with complementary disciplines from other areas. The course aims to inspire students' curiosity for science and put science into context and how it applies to the world around us. Graduates should have a deep understanding of at least one area of science and also be able to work effectively in their non-science discipline.

The cross disciplinary nature of this course gives graduates the skills to work as knowledge brokers in business, government, education and science. Students enrolled in this degree will also have access to the Work Ready program which helps with the transition from university to the workforce by helping students to develop skills that employers value. See the additional information field for more details.

The Bachelor of Science (Applications in Society) is a broad access degree welcoming students from a wide variety of backgrounds with varying preparation for studying science. In the first year of the degree students will complete foundation studies to develop quantitative skills and an awareness of the nature of science. At enrolment students will select their non-science area of study and foundation studies in at least one of life sciences, molecular sciences, information technology, mathematics and statistics or environmental studies.

To complete the degree, students must complete at least one major in science and a sub-major (discipline sequence to year 2) in their selected non-science discipline. Students can complete a full major in their non-Science discipline.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 60
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - not available, new course for 2013.
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 8
Hong Kong A Levels - 6
HKDSE - 2 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - BCC
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) -
WASSCE - average score of 6 from minimum 8 subjects
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 70
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5
Sweden Slutbetyg - G
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 65
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.3
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate programs. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Special requirements
Subject prerequisites:English determined to be equivalent to the Australian VCE Units 3 & 4 English with a study score of 25 (ESL) or 20 any other English.
Additional information
Work Ready Science (WRS) offers students the chance to build their future career from the moment they start this course. This program focuses on the transition between university and the workforce by building experience and developing the skills employers value.
The overall objective of Work Ready is to give students a competitive advantage, by learning to communicate achievements and experiences to an employer in a competent and confident manner.
WRS is available at La Trobe University's Melbourne, Bendigo and Albury-Wodonga
campuses
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Science (Applications in Society)Melbourne
Science (Applications in Society)Bendigo
Science (Applications in Society)Albury-Wodonga

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Medicinal chemistry placements

The industry cadetship program allows you to gain paid workplace experience between semesters, giving you the chance to build on your skills and build your career. See cadetship program.

Overseas study opportunities

Gain valuable overseas experience by studying with one of our global exchange partners. La Trobe has partnerships with over 100 universities in more than 30 countries in Asia, Europe, and North and South America. See education abroad.

Find out about the experiences of our students.

Lori FerrinsMs Lori Ferrins,
Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry

"I completed the Cadetship Program which gave me valuable experience in a commercial lab."

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academic staff during your studies, from tutors through to lecturers and supervisors. You can view staff in Medicinal chemistry or search all staff in the Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering.

Medicinal chemistry events

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