Course overview
Develop a comprehensive understanding of human biology through the Bachelor of Biomedical Science. Gain the expertise and practical skills to contribute to disease diagnosis and treatment across molecular, cellular and systems levels. You will become proficient in biological sciences and disease mechanisms, empowering you to enact meaningful change. Tailor your degree by choosing from a range of majors, allowing you to explore your interests and become a specialist in your chosen field.
Explore areas such as early disease detection, disease progression, treatment strategies, and advancements in pharmaceutical science aimed at enhancing health outcomes. Prepare for your future career with extensive practical training opportunities built into your degree. Engage in hands-on learning experiences in our state-of-the-art laboratories, apply your knowledge in real-world biomedical contexts, and gain valuable industry exposure through 80 to 160 hours of work placement.
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The flexibility of Deakin's Bachelor of Biomedical Science opens doors to fulfilling careers across health, science and related fields. From research and laboratory technology to pharmaceuticals, genetic engineering and medical sales, graduates are equipped with a versatile skill set that paves the way for diverse career paths within the biomedical sciences and beyond.
You will build your fundamental knowledge of human biology and health before focusing on one of six specialisations:
- environmental health
- infection and immunity
- medical biotechnology
- medical genomics
- molecular life sciences
- pharmaceutical science.
Your chosen specialisation, along with three open elective units and work placement experience, enables you to tailor your degree to your unique passions and career aspirations. Deepen your knowledge in the biomedical science topics that matter to you, get more out of your qualification, and enhance your employability once you graduate.
Everything you learn throughout this course is supported by practical and authentic experiences. Take the theory you learn in the classroom and apply it in our laboratories. Then, take your observations and test them in real-life biomedicine settings through work placement opportunities.
You will obtain crucial industry experience through 80 to 160 hours of work placement. Not only will you be getting hands-on with the latest tools and facilities, but you will also develop valuable professional networks and experience firsthand what it’s like to be a biomedical scientist.
The next generation of biomedical scientists need more than just technical prowess to adapt to an evolving industry. That’s why we’ve introduced career education to the curriculum. You will cover topics relating to career readiness and develop transferable soft skills like communication, critical thinking, problem solving, digital literacy and teamwork – everything you need to become a highly sought-after graduate and valued employee.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science
- Year
2026 course information
- VTAC code
1400314111 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400514111 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- S323
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 085577M Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Milni's experience in biomedical science
Milni chose the course as a pathway to medical school. While gaining practical experience through a placement, she discovered an unexpected interest in research. She is now planning a research year before pursuing medicine and her goal of becoming a surgeon.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Biomedical Science, you must pass 24 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- 15 credit points of core units
- 1 major (6 credit points)
- 3 credit points of open elective units
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3.
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
You must complete all units below:
Level 1 - Trimester 1
plus one open elective/major unit (one credit point)
* Students with a background of high achievement in VCE Chemistry 3 and 4 (or equivalent) may choose to replace SLE133 Chemistry in Our World with an open elective unit.
Level 1 - Trimester 2
plus one open elective/major unit (one credit point)
^Assumed knowledge: SLE133 Chemistry in our World or high achievement in VCE Chemistry 3 and 4 (or equivalent).
Students with a background of high achievement in VCE Chemistry 3 and 4 (or equivalent) may choose to replace SLE133 Chemistry in Our World with an open elective unit.
Level 2 - Trimester 1
plus one open elective/major unit (one credit point)
Level 2 - Trimester 2
plus two open elective/major units (two credit points)
Level 3 - Trimester 1
plus three open elective/major units (three credit points)
Level 3 - Trimester 2
plus one open elective/major unit (one credit point)
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit).
Select from a range of open electives offered across many courses, you may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).
It is important to note that some elective units may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
Recommended elective units:
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
Students must complete one of the following major sequences:
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
You may be required to complete units in Trimester 3 depending on your chosen major or campus. Please refer to the Handbook for unit offering patterns.
Work experience
You’ll gain practical experience through a placement of 80 to 160 hours at a course-related host organisation. This provides you with opportunities for workplace visits, field trips and industry learning, helping you build valuable professional networks and gain insight into your potential career outcomes. Explore the SEBE WIL program.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
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Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Subject adjustment
A study score of 35 in any English, any Mathematics or any Science equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in any English, any Mathematics or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
The Faculty may give credit towards the Bachelor of Biomedical Science for previous tertiary study and other approved forms of post-secondary study or experience. This previous study need not have led to a complete qualification; for example, a student may be given credit after completing the first year of a course at another institution. All applications for advanced standing must be made initially to the Selection/Enrolment Officer who will advise students of the necessary procedures at enrolment day.
All applications are considered on merit and usually no credit will be given for subjects/courses/units completed more than seven years prior to the request. For the Bachelor of Biomedical Science the maximum Recognition of prior learning that can be granted is 16 credit points. This may include up to 8 credits for non-science studies.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$9,821 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options on our Current students fees website or estimate your tuition fees.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply through VTAC
Applications for Trimester 1, 2027 will open on 3 August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Indigenous Access Scheme
You can apply for this course through the Indigenous Access Scheme, which recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and considers the skills, experience and community work that prepares you for study. We look beyond your ATAR and academic results so we can reward your hard work with a place at university.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Biomedical Science with our pathways finder.
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
The Bachelor of Biomedical Science opens up a world of exciting and diverse career opportunities across the health, science and business sectors. Graduates may move into roles and sectors such as:
- medical research
- genetic engineering
- the pharmaceutical industry
- pharmaceutical/medical sales
- laboratory technology
- laboratory medical scientist
- biotechnology
- healthcare technician
- regulatory affairs
- occupational health and safety
- biomedical sales
- science writer
- physiotherapy
- dietetics
- public health
- health promotion
- chiropractic
- data science
- teaching
- occupational therapy
- speech pathology
- genetic counselling
- patent law.
As a STEM professional, you will also possess strong creativity, problem-solving, critical-thinking and communication skills. These are relevant to a wide range of occupations and will enable you to excel in the business and commercial sectors. You could be a consultant, market researcher or even sales executive, working for:
- consultancy agencies
- accountants
- insurances
- banks.
You may also choose to progress to an honours degree or pursue postgraduate study. This could involve specialising further within biomedical science to strengthen your professional development as a scientist, or branching into areas such as allied health to complement your scientific training and expand your career options. It is important to note that certain opportunities , like allied health, have highly competitive entry requirements due to strong demand.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Develop foundational knowledge of chemistry, physics, mathematics and biology to demonstrate broad and coherent understanding of molecular, cellular and physiological aspects of human biology and disease. Use scientific process of experimentation from conception of an idea to testing of hypotheses and interpretation of scientific information, and apply procedures in order to explore, experiment and expand knowledge in familiar and unfamiliar situations. Critically evaluate current and historical scientific literature, generate original ideas, and effectively apply theoretical knowledge to the conception of new ideas, interpretation of biomedical information and professional practice. |
| Communication | Apply well-developed communication skills to illustrate ideas and conceptions clearly and coherently using a variety of tools and techniques that engage scientific and non-scientific audiences. Articulate scientific information in a structured form to describe scientific problems, formulate hypotheses, analyse evidence in order to support or oppose the interpretations of findings and conclusions, in light of the evidence from scientific studies. |
| Digital literacy | Locate, analyse and interpret information to differentiate established facts from new evidence using scientific tools in a digital world to formulate an opinion. Evaluate information using evidence from a range of reliable sources to establish scientific knowledge, recognise ambiguity and disseminate information. |
| Critical thinking | Use abstract, analytical and logical reasoning to critically evaluate scientific arguments and approaches. Apply critical reasoning in a variety of situations to scope, interpret and structure investigations to develop an in-depth knowledge for professional biomedical practice. |
| Problem solving | Identify scientific problems and use structured approaches and experimental strategies to formulate and propose solutions by taking into account relevant discipline and contextual factors. Use judgement to convince scientific and non-scientific audience, in the use of strategies to generate solutions to real world problems. |
| Self-management | Evaluate own knowledge and skills using frameworks of reflection and take responsibility for learning and performance. Work responsibly and safely in scientific and professional environments to enrich the ideas of others by sharing learning experiences. |
| Teamwork | Work effectively as a team member, assuming various roles and utilising effective teamwork skills in order to achieve goals. |
| Global citizenship | Apply ethical practice in professional situations to demonstrate responsibility as practitioners when working with people from diverse cultures and communities. Identify and prioritise local, national and global issues and concerns and contribute towards solving real world problems from the context of biomedical science. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
