De La Salle University

What you'll study

This four-year degree provides a foundation in general biology and then builds specialised competence in medical and clinical aspects of the life sciences. Early years emphasise fundamental courses in cell and molecular biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and mathematics. Core medical biology topics include human anatomy and physiology, medical microbiology, clinical biochemistry, immunology, molecular genetics, histology and pathology.

• Fundamental sciences: cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, ecology and evolution.
• Medical and clinical modules: human anatomy and physiology, medical microbiology, immunology, clinical chemistry, hematology and parasitology.
• Laboratory skills and techniques: microscopy, aseptic technique, microbiological culture, immunoassays, molecular methods (PCR, electrophoresis), laboratory safety and quality assurance.
• Research and practicum: research methodology, statistics, a supervised research project or thesis, and a practicum or internship in a hospital, clinical laboratory or research institution.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: public health, bioinformatics, pharmacology and biotechnology-related subjects to broaden career choices.

The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory experience, scientific communication and ethics in medical research. Students typically complete a capstone research project and a practical placement to develop workplace-ready technical and professional skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school leaving qualification or equivalent with strong preparation in science and mathematics. Typical prerequisites include satisfactory attainment in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics; Physics is also highly recommended. Admission is competitive and usually requires the university's standard admission assessment, submission of academic transcripts and any other documentation requested by the admissions office.

International applicants must present equivalent qualifications and evidence of proficiency in English where required. Mature applicants and those with prior tertiary study may be considered through the university's alternative admission pathways subject to standard assessment procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Medical Biology major have a range of career options across clinical, laboratory and research settings. Common pathways include:

• Entry into professional health programmes such as medicine, dentistry or other allied health courses (subject to relevant professional admissions).
• Laboratory technologist roles in clinical diagnostic laboratories, hospital laboratories and public-health laboratories.
• Research assistant or technician positions in university, government and private-sector research groups focused on biomedical, pharmaceutical or biotechnology topics.
• Careers in public health, epidemiology, health policy, medical sales, regulatory affairs and quality assurance in healthcare-related industries.
• Progression to postgraduate study (MSc, PhD) in molecular biology, biomedical sciences, clinical laboratory science or related disciplines.

The degree provides both the practical laboratory skills and the theoretical background valued by employers, while the research project and practicum help graduates demonstrate applied experience to prospective employers or professional schools.

Why study at De La Salle University

De La Salle University’s College of Science offers an established science curriculum with strong laboratory training, supervised research opportunities and links to clinical and research institutions. Students benefit from modern laboratory facilities, experienced faculty active in biomedical research and a curriculum that integrates scientific rigour with ethical and professional training relevant to medical and health-related careers.

The university’s network of hospital and industry partnerships supports practicum placements and internships, while campus resources for student support, career services and student organisations help develop professional skills and employability. For students aspiring to clinical professions or research, the programme provides a solid, nationally recognised foundation and pathways to postgraduate study and professional training.