Study with the Department of Rural Clinical Sciences
We are meeting rural workforce challenges by attracting students from rural areas, providing them with rural placements, and producing graduates who are proud to build their careers in regional areas.
Our contemporary, evidence-based courses in biomedical science (medical), biomedical science, pharmacy, dentistry and oral health focus on preparing students for careers that are professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling.
Our postgraduate research degrees, and professional development programs, give health professionals the opportunity to upskill, reskill, advance into leadership roles, or pursue research.
Courses
Supportive learning
Our students are encouraged to develop the practical skills and theoretical knowledge they need to graduate with confidence. We use our simulation facilities to bring anatomy, dentistry, pharmacy and science to life. And, through our extensive partnerships network, students get to experience what it’s like to work, and make a difference, in rural communities.
With access to our extensive network of rural healthcare services and industry partners, our students can connect with peers, academics and rural health professionals to build new knowledge and practices together.
We actively engage with student representatives, hosting forums to stay attuned to the evolving needs of our student cohort. Our commitment to small class sizes ensures that students have access to our dedicated staff and state-of-the-art teaching facilities.
Students can engage socially through a range of associations, including the La Trobe Rural Health Club. School, campus and club events provide students with opportunities to connect with peers across the University as well as network with members of their future profession, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
Professional experiences
Our Work Based Learning and clinical placement programs equip our students with the discipline skills, adaptability and confidence to practice safely and effectively upon graduation, as well as develop their own professional networks while studying.
Our dentistry, oral health and pharmacy students benefit from our on-campus clinical simulation facilities early in their studies to prepare them for external clinical placement in later years. Our science students engage in hands-on learning in our state-of-the-art laboratories, to understand and apply techniques used in industry.
Our extensive clinical placement and industry network in Victoria and beyond supports students to undertake work placements – giving them the opportunity to immerse themselves in rural communities and gain the skills and experience needed to enter the sector upon graduation.
Global connections
The Department of Rural Clinical Sciences is globally connected with many international partners. We encourage students and staff to embrace a global perspective on health and wellbeing.
Our international collaborations and opportunities contribute to the depth of our education and research programs, providing an enriching experience for students and staff.
Many of our staff participate in international collaborative research projects. We have a strong focus on Asia – through our partnership with PSB Academy in Singapore – to deliver Biomedical Science and Science courses, including honours.
Students have opportunities to undertake short overseas placements.
Additionally, our innovative Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) experiences enable students to engage in multicultural classroom learning with peers from around the world. This collaborative approach not only builds intercultural communication skills but also nurtures the development of effective global citizens.