University of Melbourne

What you'll study

The program combines core biomedical science units with discipline-specific majors and a choice of electives. Core topics typically include cell and molecular biology, human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, pharmacology and pathophysiology. Students also undertake quantitative and research-skills training, including biostatistics, laboratory techniques and scientific communication.

Majors and specialisations commonly available include Molecular and Cellular Biology, Genetics and Development, Immunology and Infection, Neuroscience, Pharmacology and Drug Discovery, and Public Health and Epidemiology. The degree emphasises practical laboratory work and independent inquiry; many students complete laboratory-based subjects each year, and honours (an additional year) or advanced research electives are available for those pursuing a research career.

• Core laboratory and practical classes in each year
• Research methods, experimental design and statistics
• Discipline-specific modules aligned with chosen major
• Elective options across biomedical, clinical and quantitative fields
• Opportunities for a research project or honours year for students who meet progression criteria

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and typically based on academic achievement. Domestic applicants are assessed on their secondary school results (or equivalent), and international applicants on comparable qualifications. A strong background in science is expected: pre-requisite units normally include Chemistry and at least one of Biology or Mathematics at senior-secondary level. All applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.

Additional selection factors can include personal statements or supplementary information where required by the faculty, but the course does not ordinarily require interviews, aptitude tests specific to medicine (such as UCAT), or a portfolio. Applicants with tertiary study, recognised diplomas or relevant work experience may be considered through alternative entry pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across research, industry and health sectors. Common early-career paths include laboratory technician roles in diagnostic or research laboratories, research officer positions in universities or research institutes, clinical trials coordination, and quality control or regulatory roles in pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

The degree also provides a pathway to further study: many graduates progress to honours and then to PhD research, or pursue professional postgraduate programs in medicine, dentistry, allied health, public health, and clinical laboratory science. Other career destinations include scientific consulting, science policy, technical sales, intellectual property and science communication.

Why study at University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers a research-intensive environment with strong links to the Parkville biomedical precinct, which includes major hospitals and internationally recognised research institutes. Students benefit from modern laboratory facilities, opportunities for undergraduate research placements, and teaching by academics actively engaged in biomedical research.

Industry connections and partnerships provide pathways into internships and collaborative projects with biotechnology and pharmaceutical organisations. The university also supports interdisciplinary study, allowing students to take electives across quantitative, clinical and public health disciplines, and offers mobility options for study abroad and exchanges to broaden academic and professional experience.