University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This program provides core training in human biology and health sciences with a detailed biochemical emphasis. Early years cover foundational topics such as cell biology, human physiology, genetics, introductory chemistry and laboratory safety. As you progress, you study focused biochemistry subjects including protein structure and function, enzymology and metabolism, molecular biology, nucleic acid biochemistry, and cell signalling.

• Laboratory and practical skills: routine and advanced laboratory techniques, spectrophotometry, chromatography, electrophoresis, PCR and basic bioinformatics.
• Molecular and cellular modules: gene expression, recombinant DNA technology, proteomics and metabolic pathway analysis.
• Analytical and quantitative skills: biostatistics, experimental design and data interpretation.
• Research project or capstone: an independent laboratory research project or research-led capstone unit that develops experimental planning, problem solving and scientific communication.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: subjects in microbiology, pharmacology, immunology, public health, or bioethics to tailor your degree to specific interests.

The programme typically combines lectures, tutorials and substantial hands-on laboratory classes, with assessment by written exams, practical reports and research presentations.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and based on academic achievement in senior secondary studies or equivalent tertiary qualifications. Typical entry expectations include satisfactory completion of secondary school with strong results in science subjects.

• Subject prerequisites: chemistry is commonly required or strongly recommended; biology and mathematics/statistics are highly recommended.
• International applicants: equivalent qualifications (such as the International Baccalaureate or other national secondary certificates) with competitive scores; evidence of prior science study is advantageous.
• English language: proficiency in English is required; international applicants must meet the university's English language admission standards.
• Alternate pathways: applicants may also enter via university bridging programs, tertiary transfer, or recognised diplomas depending on prior study and experience.

Career prospects

Graduates with a biochemistry specialisation have diverse career pathways across industry, healthcare and research. Many pursue technical roles in diagnostic and clinical laboratories, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, or in food and environmental testing.

• Research assistant and laboratory technician positions in university, hospital or industry laboratories.
• Roles in biotechnology and biomanufacturing, including assay development, quality control and process support.
• Clinical laboratory science and pathology roles (often requiring further vocational or accredited training).
• Regulatory affairs, quality assurance, and laboratory management positions.
• Further study options: honours, professional postgraduate degrees (e.g. medicine, clinical sciences) or research higher degrees (PhD) leading to careers in research and academia.
• Related careers in science communication, patent examination, technical sales and public health policy are also common routes.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers strong biomedical and biochemical training supported by extensive laboratory facilities and active research programs. Its connections with local hospitals, research institutes and the biotechnology sector provide opportunities for research placements and industry engagement.

• Research-led teaching: many units are taught by researchers working in molecular biology, biochemistry and translational health sciences, ensuring contemporary content and exposure to ongoing research.
• Facilities and partnerships: access to modern teaching laboratories and collaborative links with clinical and industry partners in South Australia for internships and project supervision.
• Pathways to honours and postgraduate research: clear progression into research projects, honours year options and support for applications to higher-degree research programs.
• Student support: academic skills services, career development resources and opportunities for industry networking to help transition from study to employment.