University of Melbourne

What you'll study

The program provides a broad foundation in the biomedical sciences followed by an intensive honours year focused on independent research. Core topics in the early years typically include cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry, human anatomy and physiology, genetics, pharmacology and immunology. You will also study quantitative skills such as biostatistics and research design, and you can choose from elective subjects in areas such as neuroscience, infection and immunity, developmental biology, cancer biology and public health.

The honours year centres on a supervised research project and associated coursework. Students spend the majority of this year conducting an original research project in a laboratory or clinical research setting, producing a thesis and presenting their findings. Coursework in the honours year reinforces research methods, critical appraisal of literature and specialist topics related to the chosen research area.

• Foundational biomedical subjects: cell biology, biochemistry, physiology
• Discipline electives: pharmacology, immunology, neuroscience, genetics
• Practical laboratory classes and research skills training
• Biostatistics, epidemiology and research methods
• Honours research project and thesis

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and typically requires successful completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent secondary qualification with a high overall result. Applicants normally need to have completed senior secondary chemistry and English; additional recommended background subjects include biology and mathematics. International applicants should present a recognised secondary qualification and meet the university's English language requirements.

Selection may be based on academic results (such as ATAR or equivalent), a statement of purpose, and any relevant extracurricular or laboratory experience. Progression into the honours year usually requires achieving a specified minimum grade point average in the undergraduate component; students who do not meet honours criteria may be eligible to graduate with a pass or honours alternative depending on results.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Biomedicine degree and honours are well placed for a range of careers in research, health and industry. Common pathways include roles as research scientists or laboratory officers in university, hospital and commercial laboratories; clinical trials coordinators; biomedical or clinical research assistants; and regulatory or quality assurance positions in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.

The honours year is specifically designed to prepare students for higher research degrees; many graduates proceed to PhD programmes or to professional pathways such as medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy or genetic counselling after further study. Other career directions include health policy, science communication, public health and technology transfer roles that link research with industry and clinical practice.

Why study at University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers a research‑intensive environment with strong links to major hospitals and research institutes in the Parkville biomedical precinct. Students benefit from access to modern laboratory facilities, supervised research projects with active investigators, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across life sciences, engineering and clinical disciplines.

The university emphasises hands‑on practical learning and research training, which helps prepare graduates for postgraduate research or professional health careers. Industry connections, seminar programmes and placement opportunities provide exposure to translational research and employment networks within Australia and internationally.