Fast Facts
Location
Commencing
- Townsville: February, July
Fees
$8,021.00+
+estimated annual Commonwealth Supported Fee for a full-time study load
Plus Student Services and Amenities fee
Fee deferral and scholarships available if eligible
Duration
3 years full-time
or part-time equivalent
3.5 years full-time for mid-year entry
Entry Requirements
ATAR 65.4
English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4,C), Chemistry (3/4,C)
Recommended Knowledge
One of Biology, Health, Physical Education or Physics
QTAC Codes
- 316071
Course detail
Study human biology, from molecular to whole-body systems, and understand how the body responds to disease. Choose from one of four specialised majors and learn leading research techniques and skills from world-class medical professionals.
Be equipped with practical work skills learning in state-of-the-art laboratories, hospitals, and medical centres, both on- and off-campus.
JCU Biomedical Sciences graduates have the knowledge, skills, and competitive edge needed to succeed in their chosen fields.
Additional information
About JCU's Bachelor of Biomedical Science
Do you have a passion to advance human health, develop vaccines, or create strategies for better public health measures? Do you want to make a positive difference, not just in the life of one or two people, but for a whole community or even the world? The Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences degree at JCU will prepare you to go straight to work and build a fulfilling and successful career.
Study Biomedical Science and Open Opportunities
Both a degree and a job are important, and as you study biomedical science at JCU you will be opening up diverse avenues of opportunities for your future career.
You could conduct research, working in labs or educational institutions. Your research could involve exploring diseases and innovating cures, developing new drugs, or finding better ways to combat parasites.
In the public health sector, you could work in health promotion or government administration, helping to develop policies that improve health outcomes for all.
In comparison to a biomedical science major, this degree allows you to gain a thorough and comprehensive understanding of biomedical sciences. JCU Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences graduates have the breadth of knowledge to begin a career in varying industries.
A Bachelor of Biomedicine with World-Class Education
The biomedical sciences are the foundation to clinical practice and underpin everything from veterinary medicine to pharmacology and neuroscience. Graduates of this biomedical science degree have developed their skills to follow their passions.
Come to one of the best universities for biomedical science* and learn from world-class researchers and health professionals. Build your network of connections with JCU’s industry partners and take part in research that matters. Like a Bachelor of Biomedicine, studying for our Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences degree will prepare you to apply research to a variety of contemporary problems in the field.
Follow your passion and choose your specialisation from Physiology and Pharmacology, Microbiology and Immunology, Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Molecular and Cell Biology. Throughout the degree, develop a wide background in general biomedicine and clinical science which will complement your specialisation. When you graduate, you will be eligible for membership in the Australian Society of Microbiology.
Study Biomedical Science and Build Practical Skills
Be prepared for your career with this biomedical degree that combines theoretical knowledge and teaches you the practical skills you need to succeed. At JCU, your Bachelor of Biomedical Science studies will give you a well-rounded experience so you are ready today, for tomorrow.
In addition to foundational knowledge, develop your critical analysis skills so you can synthesise data and apply it to a range of situations and problems. Understand how to apply all the tools of biomedicine to make new discoveries and use them successfully.
Your growth as a communicator will enable you to clearly express your ideas and arguments, adapting the information to fit a variety of audiences. Similar to a biomedical science major, you will interact with people of various cultures and understand the power of collaboration in research.
Develop as an Individual with JCU's Biomedical Science Major
Lecturers committed to student success will help you succeed in your biomedical degree. Enjoy the vibrant student life on campus and JCU’s academic services which can help your studies develop.
Join the JCU Student Association or take part in Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS). Meet new people, develop your professional network, and work with other students to develop a deeper understanding of the material.
Understand the needs of some of Australia’s most remote regional communities through your work placements. Your study experience will equip you to work wherever your passion takes you: a bustling urban environment, a remote rural clinic, or even to a non-profit organisation on the other side of the world.
You want to play a pivotal role in making the world a better place. Get the training and support you need to change the future, for yourself and others, at JCU.
*ERA 2018/2019 well above world standard for biological sciences
Hide additional information
View the Handbook for a detailed overview of available subjects.
Majors
You can choose from four different Biomedical Sciences majors. All majors are studied at JCU's Townsville campus.
Molecular and Cell Biology
Study and apply the theories of modelling natural systems, quantitative methods in science, molecular genetics, and cell biology. Consolidate and extend your knowledge by studying the molecular basis of disease, bioengineering and bioinformatics.
Choose from specified elective subjects to further develop your interests, including the option of completing an advanced research project.
Microbiology and Immunology
Gain the skills and knowledge in the theories of epidemiology, molecular genetics, cell biology, and advanced immunobiology. Extend your knowledge by understanding and analysing the theories of infectious diseases and tropical microbes.
Choose from specified elective subjects to further develop your interests. Graduates majoring in microbiology can apply for membership of the Australian Society of Microbiology.
Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Explore the general principles of drug action, molecular genetics, and cell biology. You will build a comprehensive knowledge of medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical analysis.
In your third year, you will consolidate and extend your knowledge and skills by completing a research project. Graduate with an in-depth understanding of organic chemistry mechanisms and how to apply Biomedical Science principles.
Physiology and Pharmacology
Advance your understanding of the theories of epidemiology, molecular genetics, cell biology and pathobiology, and choose from specified elective subjects.
Gain the knowledge and skills to understand and apply pathophysiology and therapeutics theory. In your third year, you will consolidate and extend your knowledge and skills by designing and completing a research project.
Honours
If you're a high-achieving student you may be offered the opportunity to study for a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (Honours) degree. This consists of extra study and the development of a personal research project and thesis. An Honours degree is usually required for entry to research higher degrees.
Refer to the Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (Honours) Handbook to learn more. Complete an application through our Online Application Portal.
JCU Biomedical Sciences graduates are broadly-skilled scientists who have the flexibility to be employed in a variety of industries.
Graduates pursue careers in various areas including laboratory support in the medical or clinical sciences as pathology assistants, cardiac, respiratory, sleep or renal physiologists. Further study could take you into public health, health promotion, media, education, law, or research.
You could find employment as a research assistant, laboratory technician, scientific journalist, teacher, or patent lawyer. Additionally, go on to study the Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (Honours) to undertake a research career, a Graduate Diploma in Medical Science (Clinical Science) to work as a Clinical Scientist or choose to apply for graduate entry into medicine, veterinary science, physiotherapy, dentistry, or other health sciences.
Entry score threshold
These are the lowest adjusted scores we made an offer to in Semester 1, 2021. Entry scores are based on the most recent Semester 1 intake and are updated in June each year. Meeting the threshold doesn't guarantee admission.
ATAR/Selection Rank: 65.40
Entry score range
This table shows the range of entry scores for recent secondary students offered a place in the Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences for Semester 1, 2021. The table includes offers deferred to Semester 1, 2021 which may have been assessed using the entry score threshold of an earlier year.
JCU Townsville
Without adjustments | With adjustments* | |
|---|---|---|
Highest | 99.20 | 99.95 |
Median | 89.45 | 93.375 |
Lowest | 59.85 | 68.00 |
Notes:
<5 – indicates less than 5 OP/ATAR-based offers made.
* Refer to Adjustment Factors
Find out more about who you might study with by viewing this course’s student profile.
Adjustment factors
James Cook University applies bonus ranks under the Regional Preference Scheme and QTAC’s Educational Access Scheme (EAS). Learn more about JCU’s adjustment factors.
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences
Handbook year | 2022 |
Course code | 116910 |
Course type | Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) |
Owner | Division of Tropical Health and Medicine |
College | Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences |
Award Requirements
Admission Requirements
Course pre-requisites | English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4,C), Chemistry (Units 3/4,C) Recommended: one of Biology, Health, Physical Education or Physics (Units 3/4,C) |
Minimum English language proficiency requirements | Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 2 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy. |
Additional selection requirements | Information published by JCU or otherwise made available to students when applying, may specify additional criteria to be considered in ranking applicants in order of merit if the number of applications exceeds a quota or other limit on the places made available for the course. Information provided by applicants during the application process and any other information obtained by JCU in the application process may be used by JCU to rank applicants in order of merit by reference to those additional criteria. |
Post-admission requirements | This course may have specific admission requirements such as immunisation, a Suitability to Work with Children card, a federal police check and/or other conditions that students must comply with. Students must complete all professional experience placement requirements by the prescribed deadlines and maintain currency of these requirements in order to stay admitted in the course.
You will find your course requirements here: |
Academic Requirements for Course Completion
Credit points | 72 credit points as per course structure |
Course learning outcomes | On successful completion of Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences, graduates will be able to:
|
Inherent Requirements
Inherent Requirements | Inherent requirements are the fundamental abilities, attributes, skills and behaviours needed to complete the learning outcomes of a course while preserving the academic integrity of the university’s learning, assessment and accreditation processes. Students and prospective students must be able to demonstrate that they have acquired or have the ability to acquire the inherent requirements for their degree. For more information refer to Inherent Requirements page. |
Reasonable adjustments | Reasonable adjustments may be made to assist students manage additional circumstances impacting on their studies provided these do not change the academic integrity of a degree. Reasonable adjustments do not alter the need to be able to demonstrate the inherent requirements of the course. |
Course Structure
CORE SUBJECTS
Level 1
Teaching Period 1
BM1000:03 Introductory Biochemistry and Microbiology
BM1001:03 Introduction to Biomedicine
BM1002:03 Anatomy: Principles and Systems
CH1001:03 Chemistry: A Central Science
Teaching Period 2
BM1004:03 Anatomy and Physiology 2
CH1002:03 Chemistry: Principles and Applications
Level 2
Teaching Period 1
BC2013:03 Principles of Biochemistry
MI2011:03 Microbial Diversity
PP2101:03 Medical Physiology I
Teaching Period 2
MI2021:03 Introductory Infectious Diseases and Immunobiology
PP2201:03 Medical Physiology 2
Level 3
Teaching Period 1
BC3101:03 Genes, Genomes and Development
MI3021:03 Clinical Microbiology
PP3101:03 Advanced and Integrated Physiology
PLUS
Select a major from Table A
TABLE A (Majors)
Type of major | Mandatory, Single |
Credit points in major | 30 credit points |
Major | Available at | Notes |
JCU Townsville | ||
JCU Townsville | ||
JCU Townsville | ||
JCU Townsville |
Location
COURSE AVAILABLE AT | NOTES |
JCU Townsville | Mid-year entry available (Please note students will complete the course in 3.5 years when starting mid-year) |
Candidature
Expected time to complete | 3 years full-time or equivalent part-time |
Maximum time to complete | 7 years |
Maximum leave of absence | 1 year |
Progression
Course progression | Nil |
Course includes mandatory professional placement(s) | No
|
Special assessment | Nil |
Professional accreditation | Nil |
Supplementary exam for | Not applicable |
Credit
Eligibility | Students may apply for credit transfer for previous tertiary study in accordance with the Credit Transfer Procedure |
Maximum allowed | 48 credit points |
Currency | Credit will be granted only for subjects completed in the 10 years prior to the commencement of this course |
Expiry | Credit gained for any subject shall be cancelled 17 years after the date of the examination upon which the credit is based if, by then, the student has not completed this course |
Other restrictions | A maximum of 9 credit points of credit may be granted at level 3 |
Award Details
Award title | BACHELOR OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES |
Approved abbreviation | BBiomedSc |
Inclusion of majors on | Any major may appear on the testamur |
Exit with lesser award | Students who exit the course prior to completion and have successfully completed 12 credit points of appropriate subjects, may be eligible for the award of Certificate of Higher Education. Students who have completed 24 credit points of their course award requirements, and withdraw from or fail to meet the requirements for progression in the later years, may be eligible for the award of Diploma of Tertiary Studies |
Course articulation | Not applicable |
Honours
Honours availability | Available as a separate graduate entry course |
Eligibility | Students must satisfy the College requirements relating to the standard of academic achievement necessary to proceed to the honours degree |
Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $AUD8,021.00
A Student Services and Amenities fee is payable per subject up to a maximum amount per year.
A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.
An ATAR is the score required for entry into most undergraduate courses. If you are not a Year 12 school leaver or do not have an ATAR, you can be assigned an equivalent score. Scores are calculated from previous study that you might have completed, either secondary, tertiary or vocational, or previous paid employment experience.
JCU offers pathway courses to help you move into a degree. Pathway courses provide you with an individualised study plan and specialised support as you transition to university.
Contact us to find out more.
Successful applicants require Hepatitis B immunisation, current Queensland First Aid and CPR certificates before undertaking a placement. These requirements need to be completed by the end of your first semester/teaching period. Visit Professional Experience Placement for further information.
Note the course QTAC code for the location you've chosen. You'll need to enter it as part of your QTAC application.
ATAR score is indicative only. Entry scores will be finalised in the major offer round.
Real stories
-
Student
Mitchell Hearn
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences
If you’re into science, if you’re into helping people, if you want to further research in microbiology and immunology, definitely get into biomedical science. It’s awesome.
-
Alumni
Jessica Scott
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences
Undertaking a bachelor's in biomedical sciences was a worthwhile experience, to say the least! It is a degree that has fostered my curiosity and learning and provided extensive, complementary laboratory skills and techniques. The lecturers and supporting staff genuinely have your best interest at heart.
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Alumni
Rhys Gillman
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences graduate and Master of Philosophy Candidate
JCU was the obvious choice for my tertiary education, as it offered leading education in Biomedical Sciences, and is taught by real research scientists! Completing this course seamlessly led me to a postgraduate education under the same researchers who had taught and inspired me.
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International Student - India
Medha Chaturvedi
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences
I have always dreamt of becoming a research scientist in microbiology, and this degree is the key to reach my goal. My main focus has always been microorganisms and I get to work in PC2 labs which involves the efficient handling of microorganisms. I’ve had the most amazing lecturers and peers, as well.
-
Lecturer
Dr Hillary Vanderven
Immunology/Infectious Disease
What I love about the Bachelor of Biomedicine is that students get hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories from their very first year of study. Our students learn practical, broadly applicable skills, allowing them to transition into a variety of exciting research and health professions.