Gain practical skills and knowledge in anatomy and physiology, biochemistry and microbiology, exploring the human body.
This degree is designed for high-achieving students who wish to pursue next-level careers in health and medical research or related government, medical and industry sectors.
You will develop a broad understanding of the complexities of the structure and function of the human body in health and disease, as well as advanced knowledge and technical skills in one or more fields of specialisation during the honours year.
Our biomedical science-based research strengths include:
As a biomedical science (honours) student, you’ll gain access to world-renowned researchers, industry leaders and state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities through the extracurricular Academic Community of Excellence (ACE) program.
Designed to connect research-focused students, the ACE program provides:
Study in our state-of-the-art biomedical facilities, using the latest technology to drive health innovation.
Gain the benefits of mentorship and engagement with interdisciplinary researchers and industry professionals.
Honours graduates will have advanced knowledge and skills in a specialised area of biomedical science.
You can tailor your studies by completing a minor to complement your area of interest, or choosing from the minor courses and university electives to add breadth to your studies.
The Medical Biotechnology minor will give you an understanding of how the application of breakthroughs in cutting-edge fields such as genomics, tissue engineering and medical biotechnology can be used to target global health challenges.
The Clinical Health and Disease minor will give you an in-depth understanding of anatomy, nutrition and how breakthroughs in tissue engineering can restore and replace biological tissues.
The teaching approach in this program is designed to foster your development as an independent learner so you will be able to apply knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement, adaptability and responsibility as a biomedical science research professional.
Teaching methods include recorded lectures, lectorial, seminar, tutorial, workshop, practical and laboratory sessions, site visits and provision of online materials.
You are expected to complete all prescribed out-of-class learning activities in preparation for scheduled face-to-face and online classes, and encouraged to extend your learning through additional recommended readings and online activities. Of particular importance is the time spent in practical, laboratory-based and work-integrated learning (WIL) activities that will develop your employability skills and capabilities.
The program culminates in an honours research project where you will be embedded into a research team to undertake authentic experiential research training.
While most courses in the program are delivered on campus, others may be delivered via a combination of online activities supported by some campus-based activities, particularly towards the end of your degree. All courses use Canvas for electronic provision of course material, tutorial problems and/or other relevant documents.
Assessment is designed to give you the opportunity to demonstrate your capabilities. Various forms of assessment will be used throughout the program. The assessment you undertake will be appropriate to the objectives and student learning outcomes for each course.
Assessment may include class tests, quizzes, essays/reports, oral class presentations, group projects, research projects, laboratory projects, practical assignments, timed assessment and a minor thesis (honours year).
Career Development Learning (CDL) experiences are embedded within the program, providing you with the knowledge, skills and attributes to manage your career and development throughout your life.
The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.
Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.
This program has a diverse Industry Advisory Committee (IAC), drawn from external industry and professional institutions.
This committee helps inform program development, ensuring content and learning outcomes remain closely aligned with the needs of future employers.
In addition, academic and research staff maintain close connections with industry to develop and deliver work integrated learning experiences, as well as offering advice on professional careers.
This program involves interaction with active research teams through the embedded honours year research placement, and you will also have exclusive opportunities to interact with research leaders and industry experts through the Academic Community of Excellence (ACE) program.
The honours year is a full academic year full-time placement in a university or industry research team.
The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.
The academic program is structured to provide you with a broad biomedical science education, as well as advanced training in one or more fields of specialisation.
You will complete the Foundations of Health in your first year block, learning fundamental knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, develop your communication and professional skills, and introduce you to factors that impact the health of individuals and communities, particularly our Indigenous peoples.
You will then progress into the Biomedical Science core body of knowledge, gaining a broad understanding of disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. You will develop understanding of the fundamentals of biomedical science and the cellular and molecular processes that are fundamental to life, as well as the origins and mechanisms of disease at the cellular, tissue, organ and systems level.
In your third year, the Research Project for Medical Sciences provides you with a capstone experience, which will give you the opportunity to integrate, critically reflect on and consolidate what you have learnt in your program.
The program culminates in a full year honours research project involving an independent project and thesis, allowing you to specialise in an area of your interest. Through authentic experiential learning, your supervisor will guide you to develop advanced knowledge and skills in biomedical science.
Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.
Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.
As a graduate of the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours) you will have a solid foundation for entry into postgraduate masters or PhD studies. In addition, you’ll have the capabilities required to work in a broad range of sectors, particularly those focused on solving global health challenges.
Possible career paths include:
Graduates are eligible for membership of professional societies such as:
You must have successfully completed the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) (or equivalent qualification).
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) units 3 and 4:
AND
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) units 3 and 4:
or equivalent studies.
AND
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) units 3 and 4:
or equivalent studies.
Entry to this program is competitive. Eligible applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement plus any adjustment factors.
You may be eligible to receive adjustment factors which include equity access schemes and/or subject adjustments to a maximum of 28 aggregate adjustment points. For more information about what adjustment factors RMIT considers visit Admission to RMIT.
We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. The highest level of education you have previously completed will usually determine how you are ranked.
Please select the highest level of education you have or will be completing in order to find out the selection criteria that applies to you, in addition to meeting the above entry requirements.
Entry to this program is competitive. Eligible applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement. You will be ranked on your ATAR plus any adjustment factors.
A study score of 25 in any Information Technology, Maths: General Mathematics, Maths: Mathematical Methods, Maths: Specialist Mathematics or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study.
Overall maximum of 8 points.
Entry to this program is competitive. Applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement, e.g., level of TAFE qualification completed (including any adjustment factors).
We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. The highest level of education you have previously completed will usually determine how you are ranked.
You will be assigned a selection rank (comparable to an ATAR) based on your highest completed qualification:
You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice. Your overall score will be converted to an equivalent ATAR and competitively ranked for selection.
Your STAT results are valid for two years prior to the commencement of your study.
If you are applying to RMIT as an applicant with vocational education and training study, you may sit the STAT multiple choice if you:
You are still required to meet all other program prerequisites or equivalents.
Learn more about the STAT and STAT results.
Entry to this program is competitive. Applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement, e.g., GPA (including any adjustment factors).
We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. Previous fail grades in similar courses may affect your eligibility.
You must have satisfactorily completed at least four courses (subjects) (0.5 EFTSL) at an Australian undergraduate level (or overseas equivalent). You will be assigned a selection rank (comparable to an ATAR) based on your GPA.
You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice. Your overall score will be converted to an equivalent ATAR and competitively ranked for selection.
Your STAT results are valid for two years prior to the commencement of your study.
If you are applying to RMIT as an applicant with vocational education and training study, you may sit the STAT multiple choice if you:
You are still required to meet all other program prerequisites or equivalents.
Learn more about the STAT and STAT results.
If you have been excluded from a program due to academic progress you are encouraged to submit a personal statement outlining the strategies you will adopt to ensure academic success.
If you are applying to RMIT through VTAC you can complete and submit the VTAC personal statement via your online VTAC account.
If you are applying direct to RMIT you can upload your completed personal statement via your online direct application.
Entry to this program is competitive. Applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement, e.g., Special Tertiary Admission Test (STAT) score (including any adjustment factors).
You must have successfully completed the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) (or equivalent qualification) and meet the stated prerequisites.
Work and life experience does not provide any additional consideration for entry to this program. You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice.
You may satisfy the academic requirements by completing the STAT multiple choice. Your overall score will be converted to an equivalent ATAR and competitively ranked for selection.
Your STAT results are valid for two years prior to the commencement of your study.
If you are applying to RMIT as an applicant with vocational education and training study, you may sit the STAT multiple choice if you:
You are still required to meet all other program prerequisites or equivalents.
Learn more about the STAT and STAT results.
A study score of 25 in any Information Technology, Maths: General Mathematics, Maths: Mathematical Methods, Maths: Specialist Mathematics or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study.
Overall maximum of 8 points.
View the ATAR profile and selection rank from students offered a place into this program wholly or partly on the basis of ATAR in the most relevant recent intake period.
This degree is new for semester 1 2024 and as such no student profile information is currently available.
The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.
The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.
If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.
By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:
If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.
To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service
The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.
*ATAR refers to the lowest selection rank to which an offer was made (including consideration of any adjustments) for current and recent Year 12 applicants.
RMIT is committed to providing transparency to the admissions process. In line with this commitment, we provide you with information that will help in making informed choices about your undergraduate study options. Find out more about admission to RMIT.
You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.
You must have successfully completed a qualification recognised by RMIT as equivalent to the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) with a minimum average of 65% (see calculator below).
Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.
Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted.
Please note: October intake is not available to students with advanced entry.
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Units 3 and 4 in one of Biology or Chemistry and one of Mathematics (any) or Physics, with study scores of at least 20.
A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.
To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:
For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.
Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.
The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.
The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.
If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.
By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:
If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.
To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service
The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.
Undertaking a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree can help you meet the entry requirements for your preferred course. These qualifications often provide credit, reducing the duration of your bachelor degree.
Unfortunately there are no formal pathways into this degree.
Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.
Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.
The Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours) program is designed to prepare you for further research training in the form of PhD or Masters by Research.
Upon completion of the program, you will meet the minimum requirements for admission into a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program, provided you receive a distinction average in the final year; or the Masters by Research program, provided you receive a credit average in the final year.
In 2024, the annual student contribution amount (tuition fee) you will pay for a standard year of full-time study is between AU$4,445 to AU$16,323*.
Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.
Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.
You may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which can be used to defer payment of up to the full amount of your student contribution fees. You may also be eligible to apply to defer payment of your SSAF through the SA-HELP loan scheme.
Learn more about fees for undergraduate study.
For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.
If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government.
Your share of the fee (student contribution) is set on an annual basis by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual enrolled courses, not the overall program.
The Australian Government has introduced changes to university funding and student contribution fees under its Job-ready Graduates Package.
The fees in the table below apply to students who commence their program in 2024. Fees for continuing students are available at fees for Commonwealth supported students.
Each course (subject) falls into a band. The band determines the student contribution amount for the course.
Amounts listed in the table below are based on a standard, full-time study load (96 credit points per year) with all courses in the same band. A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load or for enrolment in courses (subjects) from a combination of bands.
You can learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees for units from different bands at Fees for Commonwealth supported students.
Student contribution band by course (subject) |
Maximum annual student contribution amount (per EFTSL) in 2024 |
|---|---|
| Education, Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Nursing, Indigenous and Foreign Languages, Agriculture | $4,445 per standard year $555 per standard (12 credit point) course |
| Allied Health, Other Health, Built Environment, Computing, Visual and Performing Arts, Professional Pathway Psychology, Professional Pathway Social Work, Engineering, Surveying, Environmental Studies, Science, Pathology | $8,948 per standard year $1,118 per standard (12 credit point) course |
| Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science | $12,720 per standard year $1,590 per standard (12 credit point) course |
| Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Communications, Society and Culture | $16,323 per standard year $2,040 per standard (12 credit point) course |
On 1 January 2022, the Government implemented the Student Learning Entitlement (SLE).
For more information about SLE, visit Study Assist.
The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the HECS-HELP loan scheme, which allows eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) to defer payment of up to the full amount of their student contribution.
You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.
If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.
You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.
For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.
In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.
The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2024 is $351.
You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.
RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.
The annual tuition fee for 2022 is AU$XX,XXX.
The total indicative tuition fee for 2022 commencement is AU$XX,XXX.
In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:
You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.
In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.
The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2024 is $351.
Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.
Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.
RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.
Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.
