Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine (53G)

The information on this page is for current students. If you are applying for our next intake, please view our active course offerings here.

Overview  2021

Entry Requirements

See entry requirements

Duration

Minimum 3.5 Years, up to a maximum of 8 Years

Duration

Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Location

Launceston
Semester 1

Commonwealth Supported places available

Entry Requirements

See entry requirements

Duration

Minimum 3.5 Years
Entry requirements

Location

Launceston
Semester 1

Every day we're investigating something new, we're finding new things, even here at a local level. I love my job, that's where my passion lies.

Lauren Upston, Bachelor of Biomedical Science
The information on this page is indicative of our course offerings for 2022. Information about our 2022 offerings will be updated in August 2021.
In medical laboratories all around the world, bright minds are helping to diagnose and track the treatment of human disease – and bring new discoveries to light. This course gives you the chance to join their ranks.

Formerly known as The Bachelor of Biomedical Science, the newly titled Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine is the perfect degree for anyone looking to work in specialised medical or pathology laboratories. This degree is professionally accredited by the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS), so employers will recognise that graduates from the course have been specifically trained for the industry – and are ready to be employed as medical scientists.

The three and half year course consists of six semesters of on-campus study, plus a seventh semester of clinical placement in an accredited lab in Australia.

This program is structured to build your knowledge in chemistry, anatomy, physiology, histology, immunology, cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, haematology, clinical biochemistry and medical microbiology.

With this knowledge, you'll be ready to work in diagnostic pathology or medical research laboratories, and start making your own contributions to the medical science field.

The Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine is designed to prepare students to work in specialised medical and pathology laboratories that provide diagnostic services that are an essential part of the health care system. The tests performed provide valuable information that is used in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Many graduates continue into postgraduate study and conduct research in the areas of molecular biology, clinical chemistry, medical microbiology and haematology.

Students will gain knowledge and a variety of skills in professional areas such as: clinical chemistry, endocrinology, haematology, blood transfusion science, histopathology, microbiology, human molecular biology, and immunology.

  • Exhibit well-developed knowledge of disciplines within Laboratory Medicine by: - Demonstrating broad, coherent and comprehensive knowledge of Laboratory medicine disciplines and principles of laboratory testing; - Performing, analysing and interpreting diagnostic laboratory tests, and - Integrating and applying knowledge to quality systems and laboratory medicine within health care.
  • Critically analyse and solve problems by: - applying well-developed knowledge; - gathering, synthesis and critically evaluating information from a range of sources; - designing, planning and conducting laboratory investigations; - collecting, accurately recording, interpreting and drawing conclusions from laboratory data.
  • Be effective communicators of laboratory medicine by: - communicating laboratory methods and results as appropriate for a professional environment.
  • Be accountable for their own professional behaviour by: - being independent and self-directed learners; - demonstrating effective, responsible and safe work practices in a laboratory, and - demonstrating knowledge of the social, ethical and legal requirements associated with laboratory practice and patient care in the health care.

During the final semester of this course, you will participate in a Professional Experience Placement (PEP). This work integrated learning approach enables students to practice newly acquired skills, behaviours and knowledge in a workplace environment. The aim of PEP is to immerse students in a professional healthcare setting, to gain a better understanding of the roles of professionals within the health care system.

This clinical placement is undertaken off campus in an accredited diagnostic pathology laboratory, where you will develop practical laboratory skills and contribute to patient healthcare via diagnostic techniques within the laboratory.

Safety in Practice Compliance

All students enrolling in College of Health and Medicine programs which include a professional experience placement component, laboratory and/or field activity are required to establish and maintain their capacity to practice safely via Safety in Practice Requirements documentation.

The University of Tasmania is integrated into all areas of industry locally, nationally and internationally be it through research or work placement programs. Talk to your course coordinator about finding an opportunity to take part in a work experience, placement, or extracurricular activities during your degree.

Career outcomes

Studying at UTAS is good because of the small class numbers, so you receive one on one tutoring which is beneficial. The lecturers in the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Laboratory Medicine) are very helpful, and student have direct access to lecturers.

Yik Chang Ho, Alumni - Bachelor of Biomedical Science [Laboratory Medicine]

On graduation you will be ready to undertake an exciting career at the forefront of laboratory medicine. The opportunities are broad, including roles with diagnostic pathology labs – both public and private facilities, or within the medical research field.

This degree can also be used to launch a career in medical research, veterinary laboratories, diagnostic and pharmaceutical companies or health management.

A number of graduates have used their degree internationally, working in pathology laboratories across South East Asia and Europe.

"A career in biomedical science is an exciting and rewarding, yet challenging career, where no two days are ever the same. The Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Laboratory Medicine) is an excellently rounded degree, which allows graduates to work in numerous scientific fields and apply your skills to a diverse collection of jobs."

– Dr Elizabeth Witherden, Post-doctoral research associate, Kings College London, Alumni, Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Laboratory Medicine), University of Tasmania.

Professional Recognition

The Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine is accredited by the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS).

Graduates from this course meet the academic requirements for direct entry into the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists.

Further study opportunities

This course provides an excellent foundation if you are hoping to enter undergraduate and postgraduate medicine and other allied health courses across Australia. A number of students use the knowledge they've gained in this course to enter undergraduate and postgraduate medicine courses across the country.

Students interested in pursuing an honours course in Laboratory Medicine should contact Dr Kiran Ahuja (Honours Coordinator).

Course structure

Semester One

Chemistry 1A (Semester 1) and Chemistry 1B (Semester 2) are core units for the Chemistry major, Environmental Science and Biomedical Science students and give an introduction to the fundamentals of chemistry. Both units build on the introduction to chemistry given…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
LauncestonSemester 1

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

This unit equips you with introductory level clinical laboratory skills and theoretical knowledge in the disciplines of Haematology, Clinical Biochemistry and Microbiology. At the end of this unit, you will be competent in a range of basic laboratory techniques, using…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 1
LauncestonSemester 1

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

This unit is designed to introduce students to human cells and tissues and the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary, defence, musculoskeletal and neuroendocrine systems in the human body. The unit will include: (a) the basic facts and concepts relating…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 1
LauncestonSemester 1

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

This unit introduces the determinants of health and wellbeing including lifestyle factors. Students are introduced to the types of measures that are used in reporting health information and the ways in which this information is presented and utilised. Students will…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
LauncestonSemester 1

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

    

Semester Two

Chemistry 1A (Semester 1) and Chemistry 1B (Semester 2) are core units for the Chemistry major, Environmental Science and Biomedical Science students and give an introduction to the fundamentals of chemistry. Both units build on the introduction to chemistry given…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
LauncestonSemester 2

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

This unit is designed to introduce you to the anatomy and physiology of the reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and digestive systems of the human body. The regulation of body temperature will also be studied in the unit. The unit will…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 2
LauncestonSemester 2

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

Undertaking medical research requires a range of skills and knowledge related to the ways information is generated, evaluated and communicated. Processes like peer review and open evaluation are essential to ensure that the knowledge underpinning medicine, health care and medical…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 2
LauncestonSemester 2

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

This unit focuses on developing students’ health literacy. Health literacy is the capacity to understand, evaluate and apply information to make decisions about health and health care. Students will explore how health information is communicated and how to distinguish evidence-based…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
LauncestonSemester 2

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

Semester One

This unit (along with Chemistry 1B in Semester 2) is the required prerequisite for students intending to major in Chemistry and for those intending to proceed to any second-year chemistry unit. The unit builds on the introduction to chemistry given…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

This unit equips you with introductory level clinical laboratory skills and theoretical knowledge in the disciplines of Haematology, Clinical Biochemistry and Microbiology. At the end of this unit, you will be competent in a range of basic laboratory techniques, using…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 1
LauncestonSemester 1

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

This unit is designed to introduce students to human cells and tissues and the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary, defence, musculoskeletal and neuroendocrine systems in the human body. The unit will include: (a) the basic facts and concepts relating…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 1
LauncestonSemester 1

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

In this unit you will examine research methods that will help you design studies to investigate questions about relationships and differences among a variety of behavioural and health-related variables. You will learn when and how to use data analysis methods…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 1
LauncestonSemester 1

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

    

Semester Two

This unit (along with Chemistry 1A in Semester 1) is the required prerequisite for students intending to major in Chemistry and for those intending to proceed to any second-year chemistry unit. The unit builds on the introduction to chemistry given…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

This unit is designed to introduce you to the anatomy and physiology of the reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and digestive systems of the human body. The regulation of body temperature will also be studied in the unit. The unit will…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 2
LauncestonSemester 2

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

Undertaking medical research requires a range of skills and knowledge related to the ways information is generated, evaluated and communicated. Processes like peer review and open evaluation are essential to ensure that the knowledge underpinning medicine, health care and medical…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
HobartSemester 2
LauncestonSemester 2

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

This unit focuses on developing students’ health literacy. Health literacy is the capacity to understand, evaluate and apply information to make decisions about health and health care. Students will explore how health information is communicated and how to distinguish evidence-based…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
LauncestonSemester 2

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

Semester One

Metabolic biochemistry entails the study of intermediary metabolism and the structures involved. This unit is concerned mainly with the metabolic processes involved in the inter-conversion and storage of metabolic energy, the regulation of these processes and the associated molecules. Specifically,…

Credit Points: 12.5

LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
LauncestonSemester 1

Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

This unit is designed to give the student a broad understanding of the immune system and its functions. Topics include: activation and regulation of innate and adaptive immunity and the principles governing vaccination; the molecular basis of antigen specificity; antibody…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

This unit will introduce you to the fundamental theoretical and practical concepts and principles of histology. The unit provides you with an in-depth study of histological methodologies including fixation, decalcification, processing and section cutting of normal tissues and techniques to…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

This unit introduces students to the pathological processes underlying various human diseases. Students learn about common pathological conditions, their causes, including environmental factors and their consequences. A group project and presentation allows in-depth study of one disease process, its causes…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

    

Semester Two

Haematology is the study of blood, the blood-forming organs, and blood diseases. It includes the aetiology, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and prevention of blood diseases such as leukaemia, anaemia, haemophilia and deep vein thrombosis.The first half of the unit covers normal…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

In this unit you will explore how bacterial characteristics can be used as part of an identification strategy in a clinical microbiology laboratory. Module 1 examines how bacteria regulate their behavior, communicate and multiply using various metabolic & genetic regulation…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

This unit introduces you to the pathological processes that underlie various humandiseases. It enables students to recognise common pathological conditions.In addition, the histological methods used to demonstrate bacterial and fungalinfections, amyloidosis, pigments, neoplasia and immunocytochemistry will bestudied theoretically and in…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

The unit CXA 251, Clinical Chemistry 1, is designed to impart a thorough knowledge of: quality assurance, including sources of error; use and establishment of reference ranges; collection, preservation, transportation and storage of specimens for analysis; preparation of laboratory method…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

Semester One

Expands on the understanding of biochemistry obtained in CXA261 Metabolic Biochemistry, concentrated at a molecular level. The unit is a comprehensive study of regulation of cellular metabolism and signalling along with a detailed study of the molecular mechanisms of genetic…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

In this unit you will integrate and extend prior knowledge and skills about the laboratory differentiation of normal and abnormal haematological health conditions gained in CXA231 Haematology 1. You will systematically investigate the causes, laboratory investigations and treatment of anaemia…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

Introduces students to diagnostic medical bacteriology. Skills taught include: processing of clinical specimens, recognition of normal microbiota, identification of pathogens and the undertaking of appropriate antimicrobial susceptibility tests. Students learn: aspects of laboratory safety, epidemiology, pathogenesis and control of infectious…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

Description of Proposed amendment:The purpose of CXA 352 is to provide you with the knowledge and skills to conduct and interpret laboratory analyses in the areas covered in the curriculum. An important part of the unit involves contextualising quality assurance…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

    

Semester Two

This unit extends the student's understanding of the concepts of genetics and molecular biology obtained in CXA171 Cell Biology and Function and CXA262 Cell and Molecular Biochemistry. The unit focuses on medical molecular genetics, providing detailed study of genetic mutations…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

This unit covers the major blood group systems of relevance to human blood transfusion and the theoretical basis of common transfusion testing practices. We explore the donation of blood products and the management of transfusion services and study in detail,…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

This unit has been designed to systematically introduce the students to the common and diagnostically important fungal, parasitic and viral diseases of major organ systems in humans. The unit content is primarily concerned with laboratory diagnostic aspects of the above…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

Endocrinology is a specialised area of study in Clinical Chemistry and investigates the hormonal control mechanisms and regulation of metabolism and growth within the body. The study of endocrinology builds on many topics studied previously in Clinical Chemistry 1 and…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

This is a professional experience placement (PEP) unit, undertaken while off campus in diagnostic pathology laboratories accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), or equivalent. Students develop an holistic view of the role of the diagnostic pathology laboratory…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

Medical Laboratory Placement 1 & 2 (CXA412, CXA425) are two of three professional experience placement units (PEP) undertaken off campus in diagnostic pathology laboratories accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), or equivalent. Students experience core and specialised…

Credit Points: 12.5

This unit is currently unavailable.

Medical Laboratory Placement 1 & 2 (CXA412, CXA425) are two of three professional experience placement units (PEP) undertaken off campus in diagnostic pathology laboratories accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), or equivalent. Students experience core and specialised…

Credit Points: 25

This unit is currently unavailable.

Need help choosing your first year units? Try the Unit Selection Guide.

Entry requirements

This course is available on campus only. Due to a technical issue in the application system you may see an option for “off campus”. Please do not select this option. Only select “on-campus”.

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you’re not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, the admissions team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Enquire online for advice on the application process and the available pathways to study.

DOMESTIC APPLICANTS
Domestic applicants who recently completed secondary education (completed in the past two years)

Applicants are ranked by ATAR and offers made based on the number of places available. In 2020, the lowest ATAR to receive an offer into this course was 75.90 The lowest ATAR to receive an offer may change from year to year based on the number of applications we receive.

Applicants who have recently completed senior secondary studies but have not received an ATAR may still be eligible for admission. We will consider your individual subject results on a case-by-case basis when we assess your application.

You must also meet the subject prerequisites listed below.

Domestic applicants with VET / TAFE study

To be eligible for an offer, you must have completed a Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques or a Diploma of Laboratory Technology.

You must also meet the subject prerequisites listed below.

Domestic applicants with higher education study

To be eligible for an offer, you must have:

  • Partially completed an undergraduate course at Diploma level or higher (or equivalent). Applicants must have completed at least two units of study (equivalent to 25 UTAS credit points). If an applicant has failed any units the application may be subject to further review before an offer is made.

You must also meet the subject prerequisites listed below.

Domestic applicants with work and life experience

This course does not admit students on the basis of work or life experience. You can enquire online for advice on pathways or alternative course options.

Subject Prerequisites

To be an eligible for an offer, you must have studies or experience equivalent to a satisfactory achievement in the following Tasmanian Senior Secondary subjects:

  • Chemistry (CHM415115)

You can enquire online for information on interstate and international equivalents to the Tasmanian senior secondary subjects above. If you have not met this prerequisite, you will need to complete a UTAS foundation unit before you start your course.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

If your ability to access or participate in education has been affected by circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for special consideration as part of your application. We will consider a range of factors for special consideration, including economic hardship, a serious medical condition or disability.

We can only approve applications for special consideration where we are confident that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your studies. If your application is not approved, the admissions team will work with you to find the best alternative pathway to your chosen course. Special consideration is not available for international applicants.

SAFETY IN PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS

This course includes compulsory work placements. All students must meet the course’s Safety in Practice Requirements before their first placement. The safety in practice requirements are completed separately to the course admission application.

INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS

Admissions information for international applicants, including English language requirements, is available from the International Future Students site. You can also enquire online to check your eligibility.

Credit for appropriate studies completed in TAFE and other university courses may be granted.

Applications for credit can be made in your course application. Find out more information about how to apply for a credit transfer/advanced standing at Recognition of Prior Learning.

Talk to us on 1300 363 864 or enquire online about your credit transfer.

Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.

Fees & scholarships

Domestic students

Domestic students enrolled in a full fee paying place are charged the Student Services and Amenities Fee but this fee is incorporated in the fees you pay for each unit you enrol in. Full fee paying domestic students do not have to make any additional SSAF payments.

Detailed tuition fee information for domestic students is available at the Domestic Student Fees website, including additional information in relation to a compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).

International students

2021 Total Course Fee (international students): $127,937 AUD*.

Course cost based on a rate of $34,950 AUD per standard, full-time year of study (100 credit points).

* Please note that this is an indicative fee only.

International students

International students are charged the Student Services and Amenities Fee but this fee is incorporated in the annual rate. International students do not have to make any additional SSAF payments.

Scholarships

Domestic

Each year the University of Tasmania administers an estimated $7 million in scholarships to students from all walks of life, including those who have achieved high academic results; those from low socio-economic backgrounds; students with sporting ability; students undertaking overseas study; and students with a disability.

Applications for most awards commencing in Semester 1 open at the beginning of August and close strictly on 31 October in the year prior.

For more information on scholarships and to view the full range of scholarships available to you, head to the scholarships website.

International Students

There are a huge range of scholarships, bursaries and fee discounts available for international students studying at the University of Tasmania. For more information on these, visit International Scholarships.

How can we help?

Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.

Domestic
1300 363 864
International
+61 3 6226 6200
Email
Course.Info@utas.edu.au
Online
Online enquiries

Next steps