Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The honours year combines advanced coursework with an independent research project under the supervision of an academic. Core study typically includes research design and methodology, advanced laboratory techniques, and data analysis and scientific communication. Discipline-specific topics you may engage with include molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, human physiology, immunology, microbiology, genetics and pharmacology.

• Research project (major component) – an original experimental or literature-based thesis including project planning, laboratory work or data collection, analysis and a written thesis.
• Research methods and statistics – experimental design, ethical considerations, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and use of statistical software.
• Advanced specialist units – topics drawn from current biomedical research such as cancer biology, infectious disease, molecular techniques, neurobiology or translational medicine.
• Scholarly communication – scientific writing, presentation skills, and preparation of manuscripts or conference abstracts.

Structure

The honours year is typically a full-time, intensive programme where students undertake their research project alongside advanced coursework. Students are allocated a primary supervisor and often work within a research group or laboratory, with access to ACU’s research facilities and resources.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed a recognised undergraduate degree in biomedical science or a closely related field. Selection commonly requires demonstrated academic achievement in relevant third-year subjects, competence in laboratory techniques, and completion of units in research methods and statistics.

• Academic standing – competitive honours entry is normally awarded to applicants who have achieved honours-eligible grades in their undergraduate degree (for example, upper second-class or equivalent, depending on institutional policy).
• Prerequisite knowledge – foundational knowledge in human biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and laboratory skills is expected.
• Supervisory fit – admission may depend on the availability of a suitable supervisor whose research aligns with the student’s proposed project.
• Additional requirements – some applicants may be asked for a research proposal, references, or an interview as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the honours year are well placed to continue into higher degree research such as a PhD, which is a common pathway to academic and research careers. The programme also strengthens eligibility for technical and specialist roles in clinical and diagnostic laboratories, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, public health agencies, clinical trials coordination, and regulatory science.

• Research scientist or laboratory-based researcher
• Laboratory manager or senior technical officer in clinical pathology or diagnostic labs
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry roles such as research assistant or product development scientist
• Clinical trials coordinator, regulatory affairs or quality assurance positions
• Further professional training in medicine, allied health or specialised postgraduate programmes

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers a supportive, student-focused research environment with access to modern laboratory facilities and active research groups in biomedical and health sciences. The honours programme emphasises close supervision and mentorship, providing hands-on research experience and training in scientific communication and ethics. Students benefit from ACU’s links with hospitals, health services and research partners, which can support project relevance and graduate employability within the healthcare and biomedical research sectors.