Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science

In this degree, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills to work as a medical scientist. Medical scientists perform diagnostic tests of blood, tissues and other bodily fluids to help doctors diagnose diseases such as glandular fever, diabetes, swine flu and cancer. Pathology-based results often form the basis for decisions on an individual’s diagnosis, treatment and subsequent therapeutic monitoring. Medical scientists can also recommend treatment options and help manage clinical trials. You’ll also learn techniques used in forensic investigation and research in the food, animal and cosmetic industries.

In your first year, you’ll learn general chemistry, cell biology, anatomy and physiology to understand how the body functions. From your second and third year, you’ll focus on specialist courses in medical laboratory science and learn about disease diagnosis, blood transfusion and immunology, clinical biochemistry, haematology, histopathology, microbiology and molecular diagnosis. In your fourth year you’ll undertake full-time hands-on clinical placements in various disciplines and complete a research project in a specialisation of your choice.

Areas of study

Medical, natural and physical sciences.

Career opportunities

Scientist in hospital laboratories, private pathology laboratories, state health laboratories and universities, fertility clinics, forensic medicine, defence forces, Australian Red Cross and research and development departments of scientific companies.

Professional recognition

The Australian Institute of Medical Scientists and the Institute of Biomedical Science recognise graduates of this award.

Practical experience

Students must undertake clinical placements. Visit the Griffith University website for professional practice requirements.

Fees and charges

Refer to Griffith University current fee information.