Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The program combines core biomedical science disciplines with practical laboratory and professional skills. Core subjects typically include human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, microbiology and immunology, pharmacology and pathophysiology, and research methods. The curriculum is designed to develop scientific literacy, critical thinking and evidence-based practice.

Students also study professional topics such as clinical communication, medical ethics, public health and epidemiology, and statistics for health sciences. Practical learning is emphasised through laboratory classes, simulated clinical skills sessions, and a research project or capstone unit where you design and conduct a small-scale study and report findings.

The degree is delivered through a mix of on-campus teaching at CQU's regional and metropolitan campuses and online learning, with staged progression that prepares students for competitive entry to graduate-entry medical programs or for direct employment in biomedical roles. Elective units let you tailor study towards areas such as medical imaging fundamentals, pharmacology, or global health.

Entry requirements

Entry is normally granted to applicants who have completed secondary school qualifications with acceptable passes in relevant science subjects such as biology, chemistry and/or mathematics. Mature-age applicants with prior tertiary study or relevant work experience are considered through alternative entry pathways.

Australian applicants are typically assessed on senior secondary results or equivalent vocational/tertiary study; international applicants must meet English language requirements and demonstrate comparable academic preparation. Where applicants lack specific science prerequisites, CQU offers preparatory or bridging units to build necessary knowledge. Admission to the programme does not automatically guarantee progression into graduate medicine; entry to medical school is competitive and depends on meeting the receiving institution's criteria.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a strong scientific foundation that supports a range of pathways. Common destinations include:

• Application to graduate-entry medical programs or other clinical postgraduate courses (for those who meet selection requirements)
• Roles as biomedical laboratory technicians, research assistants or medical science officers in public and private laboratories
• Positions in allied health support, public health, clinical trials administration, and health policy or management
• Further study in specialised biomedical science, clinical research, pharmacology, diagnostics or allied health professions

The degree develops transferable skills valued by employers, such as analytical reasoning, data literacy, technical laboratory competence and written and verbal communication in clinical contexts.

Why study at Central Queensland University

CQUniversity provides a practice-focused medical science education with access to modern laboratory facilities, simulation suites and regional clinical networks. The university has a strong emphasis on flexible delivery, offering on-campus and online study options that suit students from metropolitan and regional areas.

Students benefit from small-group teaching, hands-on laboratory and simulation-based learning, research supervision from experienced academic staff and support services targeted at preparing applicants for postgraduate medicine and health careers. CQU’s links with local health providers and research centres help students gain practical experience and professional contacts while studying.

Overall, the programme is designed to equip students with the scientific knowledge, technical skills and professional capabilities needed to pursue competitive postgraduate medical training or a range of biomedical and health-sector careers.