Program Overview

Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science

The Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science is a four-year full-time course that prepares students for a career in medical laboratory science, medicine, research, or the healthcare industry. The course is designed in consultation with industry professionals and provides students with practical laboratory experience, advanced diagnostic techniques, and real-world learning opportunities.

Course Overview

The course commences with the development of fundamental concepts in cellular and molecular biosciences, anatomy, physiology, mathematics, statistics, biophysics, and chemistry. Students are introduced to the local, national, and global profession of medical laboratory science and the Australian Healthcare System.

Year 1

In the first year, students develop a sound knowledge and understanding of the concepts that underpin medical laboratory science. They are also introduced to the profession of medical laboratory science and the Australian Healthcare System.

Year 2

In the second year, students explore more specialized concepts in pathology, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, cytogenetic and molecular pathology, histopathological techniques, quantitative medical science, and quality assurance systems. They also learn the latest techniques used in the clinical diagnostic pathology industry.

Year 3

The third year allows students to further develop and refine their knowledge, understanding, and practical skills to a more advanced level. They learn how these skills are applied in clinical disciplines such as molecular diagnostics, microbiology, chemical pathology, diagnostic endocrinology, histopathology, cytopathology, haematology, and transfusion and transplantation science.

Year 4

In the final year, students undertake a semester-long work-integrated learning internship in a recognized laboratory. They also complete studies in health informatics and learn how this relates to day-to-day laboratory operations. Students can choose an elective to complement their learning and prepare professional plans and identify graduate opportunities.

Course Requirements

• ATAR/selection rank threshold: 72.00
• Assumed knowledge: Chemistry (Units 3 & 4, C), Mathematical Methods, or Specialist Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C)
• English language requirements: IELTS Academic/One Skill Retake (Overall 6.5, Listening 6, Reading 6, Writing 6, Speaking 6), Cambridge English Score (Overall 176, Listening 169, Reading 169, Writing 169, Speaking 169), PTE Academic (Overall 58, Listening 50, Reading 50, Writing 50, Speaking 50), TOEFL iBT (Overall 79, Listening 16, Reading 16, Writing 21, Speaking 18)

Fees

• 2026: CSP $9,500 per year full-time (96 credit points)
• 2026: $57,200 per year full-time (96 credit points)
• Additional costs: Requirements that students need to meet as part of the course, some of which have associated costs.

Scholarships

• QUT Excellence Scholarship (Academic)
• Equity scholarships scheme
• QUT Elite Sport Scholarship
• International Merit Scholarship
• International Talent Scholarship

Careers and Outcomes

Graduates can work in various areas, including genes and DNA (genomics), blood (haematology), tissues (histopathology), cells (cytopathology), germs (microbiology), and the chemicals in the body (biochemistry). They may pursue a future in research, exploring advancements in technology and disease discovery. The Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science also provides a strong foundation for further postgraduate study in medicine or pathways to allied health.

Professional Recognition

The course is accredited by the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists, and graduates will have completed the academic and work placement requirements for admission as a full member. Depending on employment, graduates will be eligible to apply for membership of various professional organizations.