University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational biological sciences with specialised units in microbiology and immunology. You will study cellular and molecular biology, microbial physiology and genetics, host–pathogen interactions, immunology, and the principles of infection and disease. Practical laboratory training is a major component: you will gain hands-on experience in sterile technique, microbial culture, microscopy, molecular methods (PCR, gel electrophoresis), basic bioinformatics, and immunological assays.

The degree structure typically includes first-year core science subjects (biology, chemistry, statistics or mathematics) followed by intermediate and advanced disciplinary units. Typical topics and modules include:

• Fundamentals of Microbiology
• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Genetics and Genomics
• Principles of Immunology
• Infectious Disease Biology and Pathogenesis
• Laboratory Techniques in Microbiology and Immunology
• Microbial Ecology and Environmental Microbiology
• Applied Microbiology: Food, Clinical and Industrial Contexts
• Data Analysis and Bioinformatics for Life Sciences
• Research Project or Capstone: a supervised laboratory research project or honours pathway subject for students who progress to an honours year

Elective subjects allow you to broaden skills in areas such as pharmacology, biotechnology, public health, epidemiology or plant–microbe interactions. There are opportunities to undertake an honours year or to embed research experience with a summer research scholarship or an industry placement.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on satisfactory completion of secondary qualifications or equivalent tertiary study. Applicants are normally expected to have strong backgrounds in the sciences, particularly chemistry and biology, and competence in mathematics. Typical entry pathways include state senior secondary certificates with an appropriate selection rank, the International Baccalaureate, or recognised overseas qualifications.

Specific prerequisites commonly required or strongly recommended are:

• Senior high-school chemistry and biology (or equivalent);
• Sufficient mathematical literacy — mathematical methods or equivalent is recommended;
• Satisfactory English language proficiency; international applicants must meet the university's English language requirements via recognised tests or qualifications.

Applicants with prior tertiary study in science, or relevant vocational qualifications and work experience, may be considered for admission through alternative entry pathways. Entry to an honours year typically requires a strong academic record in the bachelor degree and application to the School of Biological Sciences.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of laboratory-based and applied careers. Common destinations include clinical and diagnostic laboratories, public health and epidemiology units, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, food safety and quality assurance, environmental monitoring and agriculture, and academic or government research organisations. Roles may include laboratory scientist, microbiologist, research assistant, quality assurance officer, clinical laboratory technician (with additional certification where required), regulatory affairs officer, or technical specialist in industrial microbiology.

Many graduates continue to postgraduate study — honours, coursework masters or doctoral research — to pursue careers in biomedical research, infectious disease, immunology, vaccine development, and specialised clinical or research roles. The programme also provides solid preparation for careers in science communication, policy and laboratory management when combined with appropriate electives or professional experience.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers research-led teaching in life sciences with access to modern teaching and research facilities, including purpose-built laboratories and core infrastructure such as microscopy, flow cytometry and molecular biology platforms. The School of Biological Sciences has active research groups in microbiology, immunology and infectious disease, providing opportunities for students to be involved in current research projects and summer research programs.

Students benefit from strong local partnerships with clinical and research institutions in South Australia, opportunities for industry engagement, and a curriculum designed to develop both technical laboratory skills and transferable competencies such as data analysis, scientific communication and critical thinking. The degree provides clear pathways to honours and postgraduate research, making it suitable for students aiming for research careers as well as those seeking applied roles in industry and public health.