University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The program begins with the Bachelor of Human Sciences majoring in Pharmaceutical Health, which builds foundational knowledge in human physiology, pharmacology, medicinal chemistry and public health. Typical core topics include human anatomy and physiology, cellular and molecular biology, principles of pharmacology, pharmaceutics and formulation science, and epidemiology.

Progression into the Doctor of Pharmacy delivers advanced, profession-focused learning in clinical pharmacy practice, therapeutics, medicines safety and pharmacotherapy. Students undertake integrated clinical placements, case-based learning and coursework modules covering advanced pharmacokinetics, clinical decision-making, chronic disease management, drug interactions, professional ethics and communication, and health systems and policy.

The pathway also includes training in research methods and evidence-based practice. Students may complete a capstone project or research placement during the professional doctorate, and there are clear routes to continue into higher research degrees (such as a PhD) for those interested in academic or industry research careers.

• Foundations: anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology
• Core pharmaceutical sciences: pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics
• Clinical pharmacy: therapeutics, pharmacokinetics, clinical decision-making
• Practice and professionalism: patient communication, ethics, law and medicines safety
• Work-integrated learning: supervised placements in community, hospital and specialised settings
• Research and evidence-based practice: study design, statistics, critical appraisal, and a project component

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Human Sciences typically requires completion of secondary schooling with successful achievement in relevant subjects such as chemistry and mathematics or biology. Selection may be competitive and can consider ATAR or equivalent qualifications and any published prerequisite subjects.

Progression into the Doctor of Pharmacy usually follows successful completion of the undergraduate component with a specified minimum academic standard, and may include additional requirements such as a personal statement, interviews or demonstrated clinical experience, in line with professional accreditation standards. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

For graduates who already hold an appropriate bachelor's degree, entry to the Doctor of Pharmacy may be available via graduate-entry pathways; applicants should consult the university for the exact articulation and recognition of prior learning and for details about any required clearances (for example, police checks or immunisation) for clinical placements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this combined pathway are prepared for registration and practice as pharmacists in community and hospital settings, where they contribute to medication management, patient counselling, health promotion and medicines safety. Other common roles include clinical pharmacist specialising in areas such as oncology, cardiology or paediatrics; antimicrobial stewardship and medicines safety positions; and roles in primary care teams or residential aged care.

The strong pharmaceutical science component also opens opportunities in pharmaceutical industry roles (formulation, regulatory affairs, clinical trials), government and policy agencies, public health, and medicines information services. Graduates interested in research or academia can progress to higher research degrees (eg, a PhD) and research careers in pharmacology, pharmaceutics or health services research.

Why study at University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia offers a combination of rigorous biomedical and clinical training with access to diverse clinical placements across metropolitan and regional health services. Teaching emphasises applied learning, interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice, supported by research-active staff in pharmaceutical sciences and clinical pharmacy.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, links with local hospitals, community pharmacies and industry partners, and opportunities to engage in research projects or honours-level study. The program is designed to meet professional standards for pharmacy education and to prepare graduates for contemporary practice and ongoing professional development.