Marian University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational biomedical science with applied clinical skills and professional practice. Core study areas include human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, clinical assessment and diagnostic reasoning, therapeutic interventions and rehabilitation principles, and evidence-based practice.

• Biomedical foundations: modules on anatomy, physiology, microbiology and pharmacology to underpin clinical decision-making.
• Diagnostics and assessment: clinical assessment techniques, interpretation of common diagnostic tests, medical imaging principles and patient history-taking.
• Intervention and treatment: therapeutic modalities, rehabilitation strategies, assistive technology, basic therapeutic procedures and care planning.
• Clinical skills and simulation: hands-on clinical skills laboratory sessions covering infection control, basic life support, patient handling and clinical documentation.
• Professional practice and ethics: healthcare law and ethics, communication skills, interprofessional teamwork and cultural competence.
• Research and quality improvement: research methods, statistics for health sciences and projects focused on service improvement and evidence application.
• Work-based learning: supervised clinical placements or practicums in hospitals, community clinics and allied health services that develop applied competence and professional behaviour.

The programme typically progresses from core science and skills in the first year to more specialised applied modules and extended clinical experiences in later years. Students are assessed through written work, practical demonstrations, reflective portfolios and performance on placement.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a secondary school qualification equivalent to a high school diploma. Typical academic preparation includes biology and another science (such as chemistry or human biology) and competence in English and mathematics.

• Academic qualifications: A recognised school-leaving certificate with passes in science and English; specific grade requirements vary by year and applicant background.
• Supporting evidence: Personal statement demonstrating motivation for allied health, and at least one academic or professional reference.
• Health and safeguarding: Successful applicants must meet occupational health requirements, which may include immunisations and a clear background or DBS check for clinical placements.
• Other requirements: Some applicants may be invited to an interview or practical assessment; prior experience in health or voluntary roles can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates from this degree enter a wide range of roles across healthcare settings. The programme is designed both for direct entry into allied health support positions and as a foundation for further professional training.

• Direct employment opportunities: clinical support roles in diagnostics and rehabilitation, allied health assistant posts, therapy aide positions and roles in outpatient clinics and community services.
• Clinical specialisms: pathways into areas such as diagnostic imaging assistance, respiratory care support, rehabilitation and exercise therapy support, or clinical physiology assistance depending on elective choices and placement experience.
• Progression to professional training: many graduates pursue graduate-entry or postgraduate programmes in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, physician associate studies, radiography or other regulated allied health professions.
• Related careers: roles in healthcare management, health education, clinical research support and public health, especially when combined with postgraduate study or professional certification.

Why study at Marian University

Marian University offers a student-centred environment with small class sizes and personalised faculty mentoring, supporting development of both clinical skills and professional values. The curriculum emphasises interprofessional education so students learn to work effectively with nurses, physicians and allied health colleagues.

• Practical learning: access to clinical skills laboratories and simulated patient scenarios that help translate theory into practice.
• Clinical partnerships: established links with regional hospitals, clinics and community health providers support meaningful placement opportunities and employer connections.
• Holistic education: the university’s focus on service, ethics and whole-person care complements technical training and prepares graduates for patient-centred practice.
• Support for progression: academic advising and career services help students plan clinical careers or prepare for entry to professional postgraduate programmes.