Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This dual degree brings together foundational and advanced biomedical science with the full sequence of core legal subjects. In the biomedical science component you will study human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology and pathology, together with laboratory methods, data analysis and research design. Many students also complete a capstone research project or honours research year if they pursue an advanced research pathway.

The law component covers the doctrinal and practical subjects required for a legal career: constitutional and administrative law, contract, torts, criminal law, property, equity, commercial and corporate law, evidence and civil procedure. Practical skills training includes legal research and writing, advocacy and negotiation, mooting and clinical legal placements that develop client interview and case management skills.

The degree is structured so that science and law units are taken across the program; early years focus on core scientific and legal foundations and later years emphasise specialist electives, research or clinical/professional experience. You will also undertake interdisciplinary topics such as health law and ethics, regulation of therapeutic products, intellectual property in the life sciences, and public health policy.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires successful completion of secondary schooling or an equivalent qualification. Competitive entry generally looks for a strong academic record with good achievement in English; science subjects such as Biology and Chemistry are recommended for the biomedical science component. Applicants without recent school study may be eligible through recognised tertiary or bridging pathways, and mature‑age applicants are considered on the basis of work experience and other achievements.

Domestic applicants should meet Australian tertiary admission requirements and any specific prerequisites listed by the university. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency to the level required by the university and meet equivalent academic qualifications. Additional selection methods such as interviews or portfolios are not commonly required for this combined award, but applicants should check the university’s admissions guidance for any program updates.

Career prospects

Graduates of the combined biomedical science and law degree are well placed for careers that intersect science, health and the legal system. Typical career pathways include:

• Legal practice with a focus on health law, regulatory compliance, medical negligence and informed consent matters.
• Regulatory affairs and policy roles in government agencies or industry bodies overseeing therapeutic products, clinical trials and public health regulation.
• Intellectual property and patent law roles specialising in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and medical devices (additional professional training or admission to the bar may be required).
• Clinical research coordination, ethics committees, and clinical trial management where legal and ethical expertise is an advantage.
• Forensic science and medico‑legal consultancy, combining scientific evidence interpretation with legal processes.
• Further research or academic careers following postgraduate study in biomedical sciences or law.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University offers this combined program with a focus on applied learning and ethical practice. ACU provides modern laboratory facilities and simulation suites for biomedical training alongside law clinics and practical legal education that let students gain real‑world experience. The university maintains links with hospitals, research institutes and legal services, supporting placements and industry engagement.

ACU emphasises small‑group teaching, professional development and interdisciplinary learning, which benefits students navigating the overlapping demands of science and law. The university also supports a range of student services — including academic skills, career advice and research supervision — to help you move from study into practice in either scientific or legal fields, or roles that combine both.