Bachelor of Medical Science

Understand how the human body works and the consequences when it malfunctions, such as the onset of diseases. Contribute to the work undertaken to find cures, new therapies and making a difference through clinical trials. Educate the community to demystify complex scientific information and medical research accurately.

As a medical science student you will benefit from our industry connections, experienced staff and strong links with several internationally-renowned research groups, UniSA Cancer Research Institute, and Centre for Cancer Biology (an alliance between UniSA and SA Pathology).

Health research at UniSA brings together internationally recognised researchers in the areas of cancer, pharmaceuticals, clinical neuroscience and mental health, healthy lifestyles, population health, and Aboriginal health. You will have the opportunity to be involved in these areas of research, work closely with industry professionals and gain valuable practical experience.

During the first year you will develop an understanding of biological systems, how the human body functions and will begin to explore research methodologies.

During the second and third years you will complete some core courses but will also be able to choose from a range of elective courses, depending on your area of interest. You can choose from areas such as:

• molecular biology
• microbiology
• immunology
• human disease
• human nutrition
• genetics and reproductive physiology
• pharmacology
• infection and immunity
• cancer biology.

Students may also choose a course that enables them to join one of the University's research groups and undertake a short research project providing students with experience in a research environment. Some of the research projects our students are currently undertaking include the relationship between nut consumption and biomarkers of cardiometabolic health in children, the role of inflammation in the link between traumatic brain injury and dementia, and antimicrobial resistance in residential aged care facilities.

Throughout the program, you will develop important transferable skills including writing scientific literature reviews and presenting work to an audience.

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

The Bachelor of Medical Science is a flexible degree that exposes you to the disciplines central to understanding human health and disease.

You will have an interest in science and how the human body works at all levels, including how different body systems interact with each other and the environment. You will need to be a problem solver, critical thinker, as well as analytical.

There is a wide range of opportunities available for graduates, both in Australia and overseas. Employment opportunities are diverse, and you will be qualified to work in:

• medical or biomedical research: devise and conduct experiments to increase scientific knowledge
• biotechnology: modify or manipulate living organisms to develop new products, such as pharmaceuticals or biofuels
• forensic science: compare, analyse and interpret physical evidence using molecular biology techniques
• medical informatics: develop, maintain and facilitate medical health records for healthcare organisations
• medical sales representative: promote and sell a company's products; must establish and maintain relationships with customers and stay informed of new medical developments.

If you finish your degree with a credit or higher grade point average (GPA) you could also be eligible for the one-year Bachelor of Biomedical Research (Honours) degree and depending on your results, may be eligible to continue postgraduate research with a Masters by Research or a PhD.

The degree also provides you with the ability to choose appropriate pre-requisite courses in order to study Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Education.

Where can my interest in science take me?

View our guide on Science Careers for more information.