Biomedical Sciences,B-BIOMED

Overview

In this course, you will explore different areas of biology related to human health and disease. This is a flexible course in which you can tailor your studies to your preferred career path – from vaccine development to formulating new pharmaceuticals.

In your first year, you will complete foundation studies in human biology, genetics, cell biology, microbiology and immunology. You'll also study relevant areas of biostatistics, chemistry and scientific communication.

You'll then choose one or two majors, as well as specialisations and optional units. All options combine theory with practical sessions in advanced laboratories, where you'll work on real-world scenarios that will prepare you for your future career.

Majors and specialisations

You can choose to study one or two majors from Human Biomedicine, Molecular Genetics or Pharmacology.

If you select only one major, you can also study a specialisation in Human Pathology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Microbiology, Human Genetics or Pharmacology. Or, you may instead choose a specialisation from another discipline, such as Corporate Governance.

Human Biomedicine

Biomedicine is the application of biological and physiological principles to clinical practice.

You will learn applied human anatomy, physiology and neuroscience, with laboratory experience using cadaveric specimens and physiology equipment.

If you study the Human Pathology specialisation, you can extend your studies into clinical pathophysiology and neurophysiology, which will prepare you for a career as a clinical physiologist.

Molecular Genetics

Molecular genetics is a rapidly advancing discipline. In this major, you will learn about genetics and genomics, and how universal principles and advances in this area can improve health outcomes.

Learning theory alongside practical laboratory training, you’ll study molecular biology, human genetic disease, bioinformatics and genetic engineering.

You’ll also be introduced to advanced technology for molecular and genetic analyses and develop skills in critical thinking and science communication.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology explores the effects of drugs on living organisms, and is the foundation for a career in drug discovery and development.

In this major, you will gain a strong understanding of drug action against microorganisms and pharmacological management of health conditions. You’ll undertake computer-based simulations and laboratory work covering molecular, cellular and physiological responses; and modern drug analysis techniques. You’ll also learn about the dose–response relationship, toxicity, and drug metabolism and elimination; drug design and development; and how genetic variation between populations influences drug response.

Optional units

You can study optional units to further explore your career interests in areas such as reproductive technologies, bioinformatics, forensics and psychology.

What you'll learn

• apply skills, concepts, and principles of scientific investigation in the biomedical sciences
• propose innovative, evidence-based solutions to contemporary problems in the biomedical sciences
• effectively access and communicate biomedical science concepts using a variety of media
• maintain intellectual curiosity and knowledge to contribute to the global scientific community
• demonstrate cultural competency through scientific practice that considers cultural diversity and ways of working that are respectful and responsible
• demonstrate initiative, leadership, and ethical practice when working independently and collaboratively, to a standard expected by industry and the community

English requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

You may demonstrate English proficiency using the following tests and qualifications.

If your documents are not issued in English, an official translation from a recognised translation service must be provided.

Recognised translation services

• National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) accredited translator in Australia
• The Awarding institution
• A Notary Public Office
• The official Government body
• An official and accredited translator*

*Official translations are subject to review.

If you have undertaken previous study or work that matches the content of some of your Curtin course units, you may be able to obtain credit for recognised learning, which exempts you from studying those units.

You can apply direct online through our Applicant Portal. You can access the Applicant Portal by:

1. Navigating to the relevant course page
2. Click ‘Apply now’
3. When the pop-up window appears, select “Apply directly to Curtin University”.

If you want to package your course with a Curtin English course, you can submit your application with your course application documents to streamline the process.

If your application is successful, you will receive an offer that you will need to accept or reject.

If you accept your offer, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment ­– a document from Curtin that details your course, how long you will be studying the course, and the tuition fees. This document can be used for acquiring a student visa.

Apply to the Australian government for your student visa. Gaining a student visa will allow you to participate in full-time study in Australia and work up to 40 hours in a fortnight. If you’re under 18 years of age, you must have approved accommodation and welfare arrangements in place before a visa can be issued.