Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This combined program integrates foundational and applied biomedical science with business and management subjects. Biomedical science units typically cover anatomy and physiology, cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology and immunology, pharmacology, pathology, laboratory methods and analytical techniques, and research methods including biostatistics. Practical laboratory classes, simulation-based learning and research project options give hands-on experience with experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.

Business Administration subjects focus on accounting and finance fundamentals, marketing, management and organisational behaviour, economics for business, business law and ethics, entrepreneurship and innovation, and operations and human resource management. There are also subjects in strategic management, project management and business analytics that prepare students to lead in commercial or health-related organisations.

The degree structure combines science and business streams across the program, with opportunities for capstone projects, internships or industry placements where available. Elective units allow you to tailor the degree to specific interests such as biotechnology commercialisation, healthcare management, or regulatory affairs.

Entry requirements

Admission is generally based on completion of secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Competitive entry typically requires satisfactory secondary school results (for Australian students this is demonstrated via Year 12/TER/ATAR or state equivalents) or recognised tertiary study for pathway applicants. Relevant senior secondary subjects such as biology, chemistry or mathematics are highly regarded.

International applicants must meet ACU's English language requirements through recognised tests or prior study in English. Mature-age applicants with vocational or workplace experience, or applicants with prior tertiary study, may be considered via alternative admission pathways. Some placements or practical units may require immunisation checks, a National Police Check, or working with children checks depending on placement requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this combined degree are equipped for roles where scientific literacy and business acumen are both valued. Common career pathways include laboratory technician or research assistant roles in universities, hospitals or private laboratories; clinical trials coordinator; regulatory affairs officer; product management or marketing roles in biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device companies; and commercial development or business development roles within health services.

Other options include roles in healthcare administration and operations, quality assurance and compliance, health policy and consulting, or starting and managing health-related enterprises. The combination of science and business studies also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in areas such as honours and research degrees in biomedical science, public health, health administration or MBA programs.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU has an emphasis on health and community-focused education with practical learning embedded in its courses — including modern teaching laboratories, simulation facilities and industry-connected placements. The university supports small-group teaching and offers academic support services and career development programs tailored to health and science students.

Studying at ACU gives access to campuses located in key Australian cities and regional centres, fostering industry links with hospitals, research institutes and health businesses. The university also emphasises ethical practice, social justice and person-centred approaches to healthcare, which are integrated into both the biomedical and business components of the degree.

For students who want to combine scientific expertise with commercial and leadership skills, this combined degree provides practical preparation for a wide range of roles across the life sciences and health sectors.