Biomedical science

Why study Biomedical science?

Biomedical science, the study of health and disease, plays an important role in modern medical care. Subjects covered covered in this course are similar to the pre-clinical components of a medical degree. The biomedical scientist requires an understanding of medical biochemistry, microbiology, pharmacology, cell and molecular biology, anatomy, physiology, infectious diseases and neuroscience. Students can gain skills in a range of biomedical techniques and the ability to understand, critically analyse and interpret scientific and biomedical data. Learn how to read and research scientific publications and also develop written skills to convey scientific and biomedical information.

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 work with hospital specialists, scientists and biotechnologists in solving problems associated with the molecular basis of human disorders and disease. Opportunities exist in medical research institutes, government and private sector laboratories, administration, education and postgraduate health professional programs. 

Courses

Local students

Biomedical science courses
Offer yearCourse titleCampus(es)DurationSemester starts
2012 Bachelor of Biological Sciences Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Biological Sciences continued…

Course description
Whether students want to help protect native forests and grasslands, discover new medicinal cures or sustainable agricultural practices, or map the genome of endangered species, students will need a thorough knowledge of biological science to succeed. In addition, students will need skills that will enable them to find a job and develop their career  being able to demonstrate communication, critical thinking, decision making, problem-solving and teamwork capabilities. In 2012, this course offers a unique opportunity to combine both, with the implementation of a new work-ready specialisation for Biological Science students, which includes subjects specifically designed to provide additional skills to help kick-start your career. You can also choose to complete recognised volunteer programs as part of their degree, giving them an edge with employers seeking work-ready staff. As a biological science student at La Trobe you will have the opportunity to attend a full range of practical classes to support lectures, and participate in a range of field trips throughout your the course. Students can study biological phenomena in the Wildlife Sanctuary on-site at La Trobes Melbourne campus and have the option of field trips to locations across Victoria  as well as exchange opportunities around the world. La Trobe Universitys science students will find new career opportunities and education benefits from the development ofAgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, a $288 million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as education and research opportunities for La Trobe science students. The degree is flexible, allowing students to take a general overview, dipping into many areas of biology, or to specialise in particular areas such as biotechnology, molecular biology, conservation ecology, genetics, microbiology, botany or zoology. Please note students enrolling at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus for the last two years of the course.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any). NSW HSC: English
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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. Applicants through UAC may need to complete the La Trobe Alternative Category form, available at: www.latrobe.edu.au/studadmin/aw/downloads/Altentry.pdf
Selection
ATARs (2012) Melbourne: 51.45 Albury-Wodonga: 61.80 Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 65 or above will receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs will be considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ENTER/ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, or Physics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points. Re-ranking is also based on performance in prerequisite studies. Consideration is given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
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 - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation, travel - may also apply.
Additional information
Students performing well in the Bachelor of Biological Sciences (normally achieving an average of 80% or more in a year) are eligible to transfer to the Bachelor of Biological Sciences (Advanced Science).
How to apply
Melbourne: VTAC Albury-Wodonga: VTAC/UAC (interstate applicants)
Full course details
Biological Sciences Melbourne
Biological Sciences Albury-Wodonga
2012 Bachelor of Biomedical Science Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Biomedical Science continued…

Course description
Biomedical science is the scientific study of health and disease and plays an important role in modern medicine. This multidisciplinary course aims to prepare students for biomedical research, postgraduate studies in the medical sciences, or graduate entry into medicine. Students learn how diseases manifest themselves in the human body, and develop an understanding of the molecular basis of human disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, malaria, cancer, and infectious diseases. They also learn how to undertake and apply biomedical research. La Trobe is developing some of the best research facilities in the world, through the development of the A$94 million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, , currently under construction. Once completed, this Centre will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe science students.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 30 in English (ESL), or 25 in each of any other English and Chemistry.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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.
Selection
ATAR 77.50 (2012) Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 85 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, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, or Physics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points.
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 - about A$40. Students can buy these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
How to apply
VTAC
Full course details
Biomedical Science Melbourne
2013 Bachelor of Biomedical Science Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Biomedical Science continued…

Course description
Biomedical science is the study of the human body in health and disease; biomedical scientists perform and analyse many technical procedures to screen, maintain and improve our health, e.g. analysing metabolic disorders, performing blood typing or genetic tests, or identifying infectious micro-organisms. They can also do research in many different settings. This multidisciplinary course aims to prepare students for biomedical research, postgraduate studies in the medical sciences, or graduate entry into medicine. Students learn how diseases manifest themselves in the human body, and develop an understanding of the molecular basis of human disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, malaria, cancer, and infectious diseases. They also learn how to undertake and apply biomedical research. Students can access the faculty's industry experience and student support programs. Work has commenced on the $288-million Centre for AgriBioscience and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe's science students.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 30 in English (ESL), or 25 in each of any other English and Chemistry.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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.
Selection
ATAR 77.50 (2012) Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 85 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, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, or Physics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points.
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 - about A$40. Students can buy these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
How to apply
VTAC
Full course details
Biomedical Science Melbourne

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 are also a wide range of scholarships available for local students. 

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Biomedical science international courses
Offer yearCourse title (CRICOS)Campus(es)DurationSemester startsAnnual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2011 Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science (019481M) Melbourne
4 years Semester 1 and 2 (February and July) $21 430

Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science continued…

Year
2011
Course description
This double degree allows students to pursue interests in both science and arts disciplines, with a wide range of options. Discipline areas are divided equally between science and arts, allowing students to follow two distinct major studies. Potential study combinations are extensive; applicants should explore their options carefully, and may wish to discuss their choices with University staff. Students can also access the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies - 70 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2010 (indicative only) - 72.50 International Baccalaureate - 25 GCE A Levels - 9 Hong Kong A Levels - 6 Sri Lankan A Levels - BBC STPM - 9 MICSS (UEC) - 4A 2B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 75 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.8 Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 75 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.5 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 3.0 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6 GAOKAO - see: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international/apply/how-to/academic-entry-requirements 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 Melbourne'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 (either) or Specialist Mathematics.
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
Additional information
Semester 2 (July) entry is only available to students with Advanced Standing (credit) for previous studies.
Professional recognition
Membership of professional associations is available in line with chosen major studies. Please see individual course entries for more specific information.
Course details
Arts/ScienceMelbourne
2012 Bachelor of Biological Sciences (006171K) Albury-Wodonga
Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 and 2 (February and July) $23 360

Bachelor of Biological Sciences continued…

Year
2012
Course description
Whether students want to help protect native forests and grasslands, discover new medicinal cures or sustainable agricultural practices, or map the genome of endangered species, students will need a thorough knowledge of biological science to succeed. In addition, students will need skills that will enable them to find a job and develop their career  being able to demonstrate communication, critical thinking, decision making, problem-solving and teamwork capabilities. In 2012, this course offers a unique opportunity to combine both, with the implementation of a new work-ready specialisation for Biological Science students, which includes subjects specifically designed to provide additional skills to help kick-start your career. You can also choose to complete recognised volunteer programs as part of their degree, giving them an edge with employers seeking work-ready staff. As a biological science student at La Trobe you will have the opportunity to attend a full range of practical classes to support lectures, and participate in a range of field trips throughout your the course. Students can study biological phenomena in the Wildlife Sanctuary on-site at La Trobes Melbourne campus and have the option of field trips to locations across Victoria  as well as exchange opportunities around the world. La Trobe Universitys science students will find new career opportunities and education benefits from the development ofAgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, a $288 million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as education and research opportunities for La Trobe science students. The degree is flexible, allowing students to take a general overview, dipping into many areas of biology, or to specialise in particular areas such as biotechnology, molecular biology, conservation ecology, genetics, microbiology, botany or zoology. Please note students enrolling at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus for the last two years of the course.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 50 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 51.20, 61.75 (AW) International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 6 HKDSE - 8,2 Sri Lankan A Levels - CCD STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 2A 4B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 65 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.3 Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.5 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.0 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
VCE Units 3 and 4: English (any).
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation, travel - may also apply.
Additional information
Semester 2 (July) entry is only available to students with Advanced Standing (credit) for previous studies. Students at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus after successful completion of their first year.
Course details
Biological Sciences Melbourne
Biological Sciences Albury-Wodonga
2012 Bachelor of Biomedical Science (062549E) Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 (February) $23 360

Bachelor of Biomedical Science continued…

Year
2012
Course description
Biomedical science is the scientific study of health and disease and plays an important role in modern medicine. This multidisciplinary course aims to prepare students for biomedical research, postgraduate studies in the medical sciences, or graduate entry into medicine. Students learn how diseases manifest themselves in the human body, and develop an understanding of the molecular basis of human disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, malaria, cancer, and infectious diseases. They also learn how to undertake and apply biomedical research. La Trobe is developing some of the best research facilities in the world, through the development of the A$94 million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, , currently under construction. Once completed, this Centre will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe science students.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 80 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 76.00 International Baccalaureate - 25 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 8 HKSE - 12, 6 Sri Lankan A Levels - BBC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 5A 1B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 75 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4 Sweden Slutbetyg - VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 75 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.4 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 3.2 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 3.0 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
A minimum grade of 65 per cent Year 12 Chemistry or equivalent.
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can buy these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
Course details
Biomedical Science Melbourne
2011 Bachelor of Finance/Bachelor of Science (062474G ) Melbourne
4 years Semester 1 and 2 (February and July) $21 430

Bachelor of Finance/Bachelor of Science continued…

Year
2011
Course description
This degree combines studies in finance and sciences, such as mathematics, statistics, and computer science. It provides options to add subjects to at least sub-major level from any discipline. Students with an aptitude for mathematics and statistics can apply advanced skills in these areas to the development and analysis of financial products and the forecasting of exchange rates, interest rates and other financial variables. Work has commenced on the $288-million Centre for AgriBioscience and the $98-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe's science students. Students also can access the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic) - minimum overall band score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Computer-based Test - A minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Paper-based Test - A minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the test of written English; or Internet-based Test - A minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University. or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies - 75 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2010 (indicative only) - 82.65 International Baccalaureate - 29 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 7 Sri Lankan A Levels - BBC STPM - 9 MICSS (UEC) - 4A 2B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 75 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.8 Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 75 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.5 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 3.0 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6 GAOKAO - see: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international/apply/how-to/academic-entry-requirements If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe Melbourne's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information, visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
Mathematics determined to be equivalent to the Australian VCE Units 3 & 4 Mathematical Methods (either) or Specialist Mathematics.
Additional information
Semester 2 (July) entry is only available to students with Advanced Standing (credit) for previous studies.
Professional recognition
An appropriate choice of subjects can lead to membership of the Australasian Institute of Banking and Finance and of the Australian Mathematical Society. Students taking a major accredited by the Statistical Society of Australia are entitled to Graduate Statistician status upon joining the Society.
Course details
Finance/ScienceMelbourne

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.

Biomedical science 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. We have partnerships with over 100 universities in more than 30 countries in Asia, Europe, and North and South America. See education abroad.

Student and graduate profiles

Students from our Faculty talk about their experience at La Trobe.

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers. You can view all the staff from the Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering or focus on staff in Biomedical science.

Biomedical science events

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