Diploma in Biomedical Science

The Diploma in Biomedical Science is an important stepping-stone toward achieving your career and study goals. Students who undertake a Diploma in Biomedical Science will be able to gain credit for up to the first year of study and articulate into the second year of the Bachelor of Biomedical Science, and potentially other health science bachelor degrees at ACU, or exit with the Diploma in Biomedical Science as a standalone qualification.

Course Details

• The Diploma in Biomedical Science provides a Commonwealth supported place (CSP-funded) for domestic students.
• Undertaking the ACU Diploma in Biomedical Science will help you to develop the academic skills and university experience needed to succeed in more advanced tertiary study.
• The course is designed to support you from start to finish, whether you have just finished Year 12 or finished years ago, with smaller class sizes, tailored support as you transition to university study, and a range of student services to help you succeed.

Course Structure

To qualify for the Diploma in Biomedical Science, students must complete 80 credit points (cp).

Course Map

The course map for commencing Semester 1, 2026, includes the following units:

Year 1, Semester 1

• BIOD125: Human Biology 1 (10 cp)
• BMSD102: Numerical Reasoning (10 cp)
• BIOD130: Cell Biology and Laboratory Skills (10 cp)
• DPHS100: Academic Literacy in Health Sciences (10 cp)

Year 1, Semester 2

• BIOD126: Human Biology 2 (10 cp) (Pre: BIOD125)
• CHED105: Foundations of Chemistry (10 cp)
• BMSD110: Communicating Ideas in Science (10 cp)
• BMSD210: Neuroscience (10 cp)

All units are delivered in multi-mode.

Graduate Statement

As an ACU graduate, you will have personal insight founded on an understanding of who you are as a professional, a citizen, and a scholar. You will embrace change and growth through critical self-awareness and learning autonomy. You will be empowered to seek truth and meaning, drawing on the principles of justice, equity, and the dignity of all human beings.

Empathy

You will value human dignity and diversity, founded on deep reflection and empathy. You will have experience of Indigenous Knowings and perspectives and can engage respectfully when working alongside Australia's First Peoples. You can connect with people and cultures and work with community in ways that recognize the dignity of the human person and all cultures.

Imagination

You will utilize imagination and innovation to solve problems. You will critically analyze information from a range of sources to creatively solve practical problems and use critical thinking to make decisions and advance the common good. You will appreciate the role of innovation and creative thinking in developing a better future for each person and community.

Impact

You will recognize your responsibility to work for social justice and a sustainable world, founded on a commitment to human dignity and the common good. You will lead change through respectful collaboration and effective communication of ideas to diverse peoples, groups, and communities in local and global contexts. You will be empowered to positively impact your profession and the community.

AQF Framework

Diploma - AQF Level 5

Entry Requirements

An applicant must comply with the Admission to Coursework Programs Policy. Domestic applicants are required to have completed the Australian Year 12 certificate or equivalent. In addition, to be eligible for admission to the course, an applicant must have also completed:

1. Equivalent of year 12 level with the ACU minimum eligibility rank for Diploma programs; OR
2. Entry via an alternative pathway as approved by ACU.

International applicants need to meet the English Language Proficiency requirements.

Pathways

The Diploma in Biomedical Science will provide a pathway into the Bachelor of Biomedical Science. It may also provide a pathway into a range of double degrees.

Fees

The average first-year fee for the Diploma in Biomedical Science is $8,936 (CSP).

How to Apply

Domestic applicants can apply through the Tertiary Admissions Centre (TAC). Deferment is available for one year.

Staff Profile

• Associate Professor Pre de Silva: Lecturer in chemistry with research experience in novel biomaterials for bio-medical applications.
• Dr. Santha James: Senior Lecturer with a rich multicultural experience of learning, teaching, curriculum development, and research.

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

---

Overview:

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a leading Catholic university in Australia, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its strong commitment to faith and values, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

---

Services Offered:

ACU provides a comprehensive range of student services, including:

Academic Skills Development:

The Academic Skills Unit offers support in developing essential study skills, academic writing, referencing, maths and numeracy, and exam preparation.

Campus Ministry:

Provides spiritual guidance and support to students.

Career Development Services:

Offers career advice, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Connect2Uni:

Provides support and resources for first-year students.

Counselling Services:

Offers confidential counselling and support for students' mental health and wellbeing.

Disability Support:

Provides tailored support for students with disabilities.

Medical Centres:

Offers healthcare services on campus.

Student Advocacy:

Provides support and guidance to students facing academic or personal challenges.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Services:

Offers dedicated support and resources for Indigenous students.

Student Veterans Support Program:

Provides support and resources for students who have served in the military.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

ACU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience, with opportunities for students to:

Join clubs and societies:

Participate in a wide range of clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.

Engage in creative and cultural activities:

Participate in various events and activities, including arts, music, and theatre.

Develop leadership skills:

Take advantage of leadership opportunities within clubs, societies, and student associations.

Participate in ACU Sport:

Access gyms, fitness classes, and sports facilities, and join sports clubs and activities.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Catholic values and ethics:

ACU's commitment to faith and values creates a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Comprehensive student services:

Provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.

Vibrant campus life:

Offers a diverse range of clubs, activities, and events to enhance the student experience.

Focus on practical skills and real-world application:

Emphasizes the development of practical skills and knowledge relevant to future careers.

Strong reputation and rankings:

ACU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia.

---

Academic Programs:

ACU offers a wide range of academic programs across its four faculties:

Faculty of Education and Arts:

Offers programs in education, arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Faculty of Health Sciences:

Offers programs in nursing, medicine, psychology, and allied health.

Faculty of Law and Business:

Offers programs in law, business, and economics.

Faculty of Theology and Philosophy:

Offers programs in theology, philosophy, and religious studies.

---

Other:

ACU has campuses located in Ballarat, Blacktown, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, North Sydney, Rome, and Strathfield. It also offers a range of online programs through ACU Online.