Why study biomedical science at UoN?

If you have enjoyed subjects such as biology, physics, chemistry or mathematics and have an inquiring mind and really like to find out how things work, and then think about a degree in biomedical science. Graduates are trained in basic knowledge of the structure and function of living organisms with particular focus on the human. Using this knowledge, together with problem solving skills, critical reasoning and scientific methods taught in the program, the graduate is well prepared to collaborate on scientific investigations of human structure and function in health and disease at a molecular, cellular and whole systems level.

Biomedical science at the University of Newcastle focuses on gaining the knowledge and skills to become high level researchers in a wide range of biomedical fields. Graduates also qualify for entry into a range of graduate health professional programs such as pharmacy and medicine where they can become registered health care practitioners.

During the degree you will study a wide range of topics including human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology and the analysis of drug actions, bioinformatics, human genetics, genetic engineering, immunology, bacteriology, virology and all aspects of cell biochemistry. In the third year of the degree you have the opportunity to participate in the design and implementation of a research project or go on an overseas exchange.

Practical experience

Students in the Bachelor of Biomedical Science program have the option of applying to undertake a School of Biomedical Sciences Summer Research Scholarship over the summer break. Find out more

Career opportunities

Biomedical science graduates are employed in government and private sector laboratories located in hospitals, universities and pharmaceutical companies. Find out more

Meet our achievers

Why would you do this degree? Find out from graduates, students and academics. Discover how their future is taking shape, and learn first-hand what it's like to study at uni. Find out more

Practical experience

Students gain ‘work-ready skills’ during laboratory classes in selected courses.

Research experience

Students in the Bachelor of Biomedical Science program can apply for a School of Biomedical Sciences Research Scholarship and can choose the option of undertaking a research project in year three of the program. This provides opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in a research project. It is undertaken in a research laboratory, under the guidance of our world-class researchers. Students may also elect to participate in Study Abroad to gain research and  practical experience at an overseas institution such as the Karolinska Institute, in Sweden. More information regarding the research activities conducted by the School of Biomedical Science can be located at the  school's research web page.

Career opportunities

Biomedical science graduates are employed in government and private sector laboratories located in hospitals, universities and pharmaceutical companies. Graduates also find employment as clinical trials associates, laboratory product specialists in the private sector and as drug and research regulators in government departments. Biomedical science graduates are also employed by medical, veterinary and health science companies to work with researchers and clinicians in product and technology developments in the veterinary and health care sector.

Meet our achievers

Matilda

Elroy

Bachelor of Biomedical Science

The biomedical science course involves plenty of hands-on laboratory work which is really engaging, and helps to reinforce the theoretical knowledge we are learning. I hope to one day be an academic/researcher at the University of Newcastle.

Gough

Present: Cancer researcher

Bachelor of Biomedical Science

Gough thinks the best thing about his job is that it’s his chance to contribute to the field of cancer research and to make a difference. He chose the Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Newcastle because the program enabled him to study a field that really interested him, while staying close to his family and friends. After completing his undergraduate degree, Gough chose to undertake a PhD. Awarded a National Health and Medical Research Council grant, Gough is researching the use of naturally occurring live viruses as a treatment for cancer.

“I have a unique opportunity to be working in both the commercial sector with regards to research and product development, whilst being a university academic.

“Once you’ve completed a biomedical science degree, there is a diverse range of career opportunities – being a full-time scientist is one of many”.

Lauren

Bachelor of Biomedical Science

The Bachelor of Biomedical Science program at the University of Newcastle offers many research opportunities to students. My dream job when I complete my degree is to be doing research in cancer, virology, immunology or genetics. I love studying at Newcastle because it is a large campus with great services and support with great work experience opportunities.

Gillian

Bachelor of Biomedical Science

I came to the University of Newcastle so that I could learn more about and become involved in medical research. I have found all aspects of the biomedical science degree very interesting and see that it will assist me in achieving my goals. I hope to extend my education after my undergraduate degree and look into doing my PhD.