#1 Melbourne university for science facilities
#1 Melbourne university for course satisfaction
Why choose biomedical science at Deakin
Develop a comprehensive understanding of human biology through the Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the #3 university in the state of Victoria for 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 industry biomedical contexts, and gain valuable industry exposure through 80 to 160 hours of work placement. Be the force behind cutting-edge science breakthroughs, creating solutions for a healthier world.
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Pathways to health careers
Build a strong foundation for postgraduate study in a range of allied health fields.
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Practical learning for every student
Gain hands-on experience through industry-based learning in real biomedical settings.
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Modern laboratory facilities
Develop practical skills using contemporary laboratory techniques aligned with biomedical practice.
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Industry-informed curriculum
Study content shaped by current biomedical research and healthcare needs.
Connected to industry
Deakin’s strong industry connections help shape your learning. Build practical experience in real workplace contexts through work-integrated learning, mentoring and networking opportunities. Industry advisory boards also help shape our degrees, which means what you study is current, relevant and aligned to what your future employers need.
Deakin puts employability first
Career outcomes
Explore diverse career opportunities across health, science and business sectors. Graduate with transferable STEM skills in problem-solving, critical thinking and communication, or choose to pursue honours or postgraduate study.
Medical laboratory technician
Perform routine laboratory tests, prepare and analyse samples, operate diagnostic equipment and accurately record results to support medical scientists and pathologists in investigating health and disease.
- 4.4/5
Job satisfaction
- 8%
Projected job growth in 5 years
Research scientist
Conduct scientific experiments and analyse and interpret data. Collaborate with other scientists to advance knowledge in biomedical science and contribute to new approaches to understanding health and disease.
- $118k
Typical annual salary in Australia
- 10%
Projected job growth in 5 years
- 4.5/5
Job satisfaction
Professional areas
- Medical research
- Biotechnology
- Pharmaceuticals
- Regulatory affairs
- Occupational health and safety
- Biomedical sales
Download a course guide
Study at Deakin and be rewarded with new skills that will give you an edge in the job market
FAQs
Deakin's campuses in Melbourne, Geelong and Warrnambool are set in vibrant, multicultural communities where it is easy to connect and feel at home. As the #1 university in Australia for international student happiness and student satisfaction, you will be supported at every step of your journey. You can join clubs and societies through the Deakin University Student Association (DUSA), attend social events, go on trips and live on campus to meet people from around the world. Each campus has fitness centres, cafes and 24-hour security, as well as prayer rooms and multifaith chaplains.
Deakin offers a range of merit-based scholarships that can reduce your tuition fees by 20%, 25%, 50% or 100% for the duration of your degree. Eligibility varies by scholarship and the degree you choose, but you will automatically be considered for most scholarships when you apply to Deakin. Use the Find a scholarship tool and filter by 'citizenship' to see what is available to you, or explore Australia Awards scholarships if you are from an eligible country.
As an international student at Deakin, you can work part time according to the conditions of your visa. On a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during trimesters. When you are on a trimester break you can work as much as you want. Compulsory work experience that forms part of your degree does not count toward this limit. Find part-time roles and internships through DeakinTALENT and learn more about working in Australia.
Most students studying full time at Deakin need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). You can apply for this visa after you accept your offer and receive your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). To apply, you will need a valid passport, your CoE, proof of Overseas Student Health Cover and any other documents required by the Department of Home Affairs. Apply as early as possible, but do not book travel until your visa has been granted. Find out more about student visas.
Australia is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world for students, with strong legal protections, reliable public services and a multicultural community. In fact, Melbourne is ranked the #4 student city in the world! At Deakin, you will be part of a supportive community, with 24/7 help, dedicated campus security and practical tools to help you feel safe, confident and connected. Deakin’s SafeZone app also connects you directly to campus security and support services if you ever need help. Find out more about studying in Australia.
Deakin offers a wide range of support to help you settle in and succeed throughout your studies – we are ranked the #1 university in Melbourne for student support. You can access 1:1 study support, English language support, career planning help, disability services and free counselling, as well as financial assistance if you need it. On campus, the SafeZone app and 24/7 security services mean help is always within reach. You can explore the full range of support services for international students or start an online chat with a student ambassador before you arrive.
To enrol in an undergraduate degree at Deakin, many degrees require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent). Some degrees require higher scores so check the entry requirements tab on the degree page for details. You may also meet the requirement through recent secondary or university study completed in English, or by demonstrating five or more years of living and working in an English-speaking country. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis. If you do not yet meet the requirement, the Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) offers pathway programs to help develop your English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Completion of DUELI’s English for Academic Purposes can give you the minimum English language requirements for most Deakin degrees.
Deakin is the #1 university in Melbourne for international student graduate employment. Our degrees are developed with industry insight, so you will gain career-ready skills from the beginning. Each Deakin student can access work-integrated learning through opportunities including placements, internships and projects with well-known industry partners. Our dedicated international student career support program helps you learn about the Australian workforce, make connections and build your network through placements. You will get support with your resume, help looking for an internship or a job after graduation and even advice about your career options overseas.
There is more than one way to study at Deakin. If you do not meet the academic requirements, Deakin College offers a guaranteed pathway to Deakin with small, supportive classes on campus. If you meet the academic requirements but not the English requirements, you can enrol in a Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) English pathway program and progress to your chosen Deakin degree upon successful completion. Deakin also has formal pathway agreements with partner institutions in countries like China, India, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and the United States, so you can start your studies locally before transferring to Australia to complete your degree.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
What will I study in the Bachelor of Biomedical Science?
The Bachelor of Biomedical Science is a three-year degree. You will explore human biology and disease while developing practical and analytical skills to understand health at a molecular and systems level.
Foundations in biomedical science
Explore human biology and systems
Learn how the body functions across cells, tissues and organ systems.
Understand health and disease processes
Examine how diseases develop and how scientific research informs treatment and prevention.
Develop core laboratory skills
Build foundational skills in scientific methods, data analysis and communication.
Develop biomedical science expertise
Advance knowledge of disease mechanisms
Explore how biological systems are affected by disease at molecular and cellular levels.
Apply skills through practical experiences
Engage in laboratory-based learning that reflects biomedical research and testing.
Broaden your studies with electives
Select complementary areas of study to support your interests and future pathways.
Advanced application and career preparation
Undertake advanced biomedical analysis
Investigate complex health issues using scientific and analytical approaches.
Apply learning through research projects
Complete projects that reflect contemporary biomedical research and practice.
Strengthen career-ready capabilities
Build communication, teamwork and critical thinking skills for biomedical careers.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Biomedical Science, you must pass 24 credit points.
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.
Are you a current student? For course information that applies to the year you started your degree, visit the handbook.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
Units
You are required to complete 15 core units (these are essential units for this degree)
In your first trimester you must also complete three 0-credit point units which are compulsory for this degree.
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).
You must complete one of these major sequences.
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability
Choose three open elective units from across the University, including from a completely different study area (subject to meeting unit prerequisites).
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:
What to expect while studying
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.
If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
When can I start?
When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Work effectively as a team member, assuming various roles and utilising effective teamwork skills in order to achieve goals. |
| 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. |
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400314113 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), International full-fee paying place
1400514113 - Burwood (Melbourne), International full-fee paying place - 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
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
$47,000
for 1 yr full-time AUD
The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course and unit enrolment. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning.
Scholarships
Deakin scholarships recognise your hard work and achievements. Our support can ease the financial pressure of studying in Australia so you stay focused on your success. Numbers are limited, so apply early for the best chance.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Applications can be made directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service.
We recommend engaging with a Deakin Authorised Agent who can assist you with the process and submit the application.
Apply through VTAC
If you are an international student completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas, you must submit an application through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). In addition, you may also apply directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's international student application service.
Recognition of prior learning
We value your previous study and experience. Recognition of prior learning enables you to get credit for what you've already achieved. When you apply, we'll consider your previous study and experience for recognition of prior learning.