University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The programme builds advanced understanding across core biomedical disciplines and combines taught units with practical laboratory training and a substantial research project or capstone. Typical study areas include molecular and cellular biology, immunology, pharmacology, neuroscience, infectious disease, and applied genomics/bioinformatics. Students also cover research methods, experimental design, statistics for biomedical research, and research ethics.

• Core topics: advanced molecular techniques, cellular physiology, host–pathogen interactions, immunological methods, and pharmacodynamics.
• Research and practical training: laboratory rotations or a supervised research project that emphasises experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.
• Specialist options: units in areas such as neurobiology, cancer biology, translational medicine, bioinformatics and public health-related laboratory science, allowing customisation to research or industry interests.
• Professional skills: training in scientific writing, grant application preparation, laboratory safety, and presentation skills to prepare for research or industry roles.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in biomedical science, biological sciences or a closely related discipline. Typical prerequisite knowledge includes foundational subjects in cell biology, biochemistry and physiology. Equivalent professional experience and prior laboratory exposure may be considered for applicants from allied backgrounds.

• Academic requirements: an accredited bachelor’s degree with a competitive academic record; applicants with an honours year, research experience or relevant postgraduate study are preferred for research-led components.
• English language: applicants whose prior study was not in English must meet the University’s English proficiency requirements.
• Supporting documentation: academic transcripts, a CV detailing laboratory or research experience, and referee reports or academic references are typically required.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Master of Biomedical Science enter a range of roles across academia, industry and healthcare-related sectors. The degree prepares students for positions that demand both practical laboratory capabilities and analytical research skills.

• Research assistant or laboratory scientist roles in university, hospital or private research laboratories
• Positions in pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies, including drug development, preclinical testing and quality assurance
• Clinical trials coordination, regulatory affairs and medical affairs roles within healthcare organisations
• Bioinformatics and data-analysis roles supporting translational research initiatives
• Progression to doctoral study (PhD) for careers in independent research and academia

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA has a strong research culture in biomedical sciences with established links to major clinical and research institutes in Western Australia. Students benefit from contemporary laboratory facilities, supervised research projects, and collaborations that facilitate real-world exposure to translational and clinical research.

• Research connections: opportunities to work alongside researchers at affiliated institutes and teaching hospitals, enhancing access to multidisciplinary projects.
• Facilities and supervision: modern wet-lab facilities and supervision by academic staff active in molecular biology, immunology, neuroscience and related fields.
• Flexible study pathways: options to tailor the degree with specialist units or a research-intensive project to align with career goals or preparation for a PhD.