Bachelor
The Bachelor of Biomedical Science is an exciting comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to meet growing global demand for graduates with expertise in a range of health science disciplines. Specialise in one or two of the 12 majors available, or combine a Biomedical Science major with another from Arts, Commerce or Science, to match your interests and tailor your studies with your career goals.
The degree offers options to study a wide range of health science disciplines, spanning studies of human cells, organs and systems, to the design of new drugs, the epidemiology of infectious diseases and the applications of exercise to health. This degree could lead to a exciting careers across a variety of industries and organisations, including academia, the pharmaceutical industry, bioinnovation sector, the medical professions, health service providers and practitioners.
Our Bachelor of Biomedical Science encompasses the biological basis of human structure and function, and the application of this knowledge to disease, wellbeing and society. It's an exciting degree designed to meet growing global demand for health graduates. Some of your classes are held in cutting-edge labs at the UWA Health Campus, located on the QEIIMC site in Nedlands. As one of the largest medical centres in the southern hemisphere, it's surrounded by major public hospitals, pathology services providers, and internationally renowned medical research organisations, including the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and The Kids Research Institute Australia.
I'm majoring in Pharmacology and Finance. Before I chose them I'd heard positive feedback from friends and family. Being in my third year now, I can definitely understand where they were coming from.
The Pharmacology major, in particular, is a very well structured course. While it seemed a little daunting at first, I've grown to really enjoy pharmacology labs and practicals. Getting to know not only my peers but the Pharmacology staff during the lab sessions has been awesome and has made studying a lot easier and more enjoyable. I very much enjoy having a second major in Finance as it keeps my study at UWA a little more dynamic and has broadened my social group.
My favourite aspect of studying at UWA has been making friends through clubs and societies like the Science Union. Getting involved in clubs was one of the best decisions I have made. They've secured me a wonderful group of friends I could call family, and the passion in advocating science we all have only makes it better.
Meet Mia - a third year Bachelor of Biomedical Science student, who is majoring in Anatomy and Human Biology, with a minor in Brain and Behaviour.
Amongst Mia's busy schedule, she also finds time to work three days a week and volunteer one day a week at the Perth Children's Hospital.
Mia's studies are challenging, but rewarding, and she credits the supportive work environment, open student engagement and diverse learning environments at UWA to her enjoyment and success.
"Whilst all my peers are on their own academic journey, I can confidently say that my UWA experience has without a doubt been filled with endless support."
Mia has formed bonds with students and professionals from all walks of life and is grateful to have this network that will remain with her after university.
Along Mia's journey, she had the opportunity to intern at Orana House; a not-for-profit organisation that provides accommodation, holistic support and services to women and children fleeing family and domestic violence.
Mia interned over the summer holidays, by taking the McCusker Centre for Citizenship Internship unit, which offered six credit points toward her degree and immersed her in an invaluable real-life experience she will never forget.
The unforgettable connections Mia formed at Orana House led to her landing a job there too.
"I've learnt that these opportunities don't come to you, you have to chase them and make them happen. UWA not only provides you the opportunities to do this, however, gives you the confidence to take the challenge on!"
Mia believes experiences like this, and other opportunities that are offered to Bachelor of Biomedical Science students are preparing them for their future careers.
From career events, to presentations from professionals in the science industry, to being provided the opportunity to reach out and work with research institutions either via internships or indirectly such as the Perron Institute, and so much more.
Mia expresses how it is common in the final teaching week of the semester of level three units for students to be taught skills to enhance their employability such as resume writing and interview skills. Students are informed of upcoming graduate programs, to ensure they are on the pathway to success upon graduating.
Mia has shared some advice for anyone who is considering studying at UWA:
"Get informed, ask questions, make memories, meet new people and always be open to learn from everyone and everything. It all shapes who you are, the skills you acquire and the knowledge that you generate."
I chose to study Physiology, and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine as I love learning about the physiological mechanisms and systems of how the body works, and linking that to where things go wrong in diseases.
Through honours I've been able to undertake amazing research and laboratory work with the National Centre of Asbestos Related Diseases. I worked on experiments where the results can impact the treatment outcomes for cancer patients which is very rewarding. I want to continue my career in cancer research.
I was in hospital for most of high school with kidney disease caused by an unusual bacterium and that really sparked my interest in the field and the impact these microscopic organisms can have on people's lives.
UWA has been an integral part of my family for decades. My dad studied medicine here 40 years ago and has been taking me and my siblings to open days since we were able to walk.
The lab work is by far the most interesting part of my course. It's great to be able to put into practice all the things you are learning and get a taste of the work you'll do in labs once you graduate.
Studying postgraduate medicine and specialising in immunology or going into research would be my ideal career path - and maybe a Nobel Prize for Medicine if I can fit it in.
UWA offers a number of admission entry pathways for domestic and international students to be able to study with us. If your results do not qualify you for standard entry into the University, check our Admission entry pathways for one that suits you.
These new extended majors are available to students who are offered an Assured Pathway in the respective Master's
UWA Bachelor of Biomedical Science students have access to a range of world-class facilities that enhance your learning and give you hands-on experience before you enter the workplace.
These facilities include:
The Health Students' Society (HSS) is a student-run, not-for-profit organisation for undergraduates completing health-related majors at UWA. HSS provides social and education opportunities and encourages students to make the most of their time on campus and of university life. HSS offers a support network for members during their degrees and aims to enhance the university experience and raise the profile of graduates to prospective employees.