Associate Degree of Health (Laboratory Medicine)

The Associate Degree of Health (Laboratory Medicine) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive two-year program designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in clinical laboratory settings. This program provides foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for working in medical laboratories, pathology services, and other health-related environments. Students will gain a solid understanding of human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, and pathology, which are core components of laboratory medicine. The curriculum integrates theoretical coursework with practical training, enabling graduates to effectively perform laboratory tests, analyze results, and contribute to patient diagnosis and treatment processes. The program emphasizes laboratory safety, quality assurance, and ethical practice, ensuring students are well-equipped to meet industry standards. Through hands-on experiences in university laboratories and industry placements, students develop proficiency in utilizing state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and technologies. The Associate Degree of Health (Laboratory Medicine) prepares graduates for employment in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, research facilities, and public health organizations. Graduates may also pursue further studies in health sciences or related fields. The curriculum is designed to align with industry needs and Australian health standards, ensuring that students acquire relevant and up-to-date skills. The learning environment fosters critical thinking, teamwork, and communication, vital for effective practice in multidisciplinary healthcare teams. By completing this program, students will be positioned for a rewarding career in laboratory medicine, contributing significantly to the health sector and patient outcomes.

Program structure

Courses to be studied1, 2Units

Core courses16

Plus 39 days clinical experience

Total16

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:

BIO1101Biology 13

BIO1103Pathology Studies

BIO1104Medical Microbiology and Immunology 13

BIO1204Introduction to Biomedical Sciences3

BIO1205Pathology Clinical Placement 14

BIO2105Pathology Clinical Placement 24

BIO2106Medical Microbiology and Immunology 2

BIO2107Cell and Molecular Biology 1

BIO2108Haematology 1

BIO2214Pathology Clinical Placement 34

BIO2215Clinical Biochemistry 1

BIO2216Histopathology 1

BIO2217Transfusion Science

CHE1110Chemistry 13

CHE2120Chemistry 23

STA2300Data Analysis

Footnotes

1 Only part-time candidates with approved prior learning of industrial experience may commence in Semester 2.

2 A number of courses are offered in dual mode, i.e. on-campus and externally.

3 Each of these courses has a two-day residential school. Candidates with evidence of Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) may seek exemption from some courses and/or residential schools in the first year of the program.

4 Candidates with a minimum of 2 years relevant experience in a medical pathology laboratory may apply for exemption from courses in the program and will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Applicants seeking exemption should contact the Program Coordinator in the first instance for advice and approval.

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4,SA) or equivalent
• Biological Science, Chemistry, Physics or Multi-strand Science is recommended

As a part of your clinical experience, you will also need to provide the following documents:

• evidence of Hepatitis B immunisation 
• a signed Queensland Health Student Orientation Checklist, Queensland Health Placement Deed and a Queensland Health Placement Privacy and Consent Deed 
• a signed USQ Student Clinical Placement Policy Declaration.

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 16/64

You may not have to pay your course (subject) fees upfront. HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP allows you to defer your fees until your income reaches a certain level.

The Associate Degree of Health (Laboratory Medicine) at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to prepare students for a career in healthcare, specifically within the field of laboratory medicine. This program provides students with foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for engaging in various laboratory procedures and diagnostic testing. The curriculum typically covers core topics such as biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, hematology, and clinical laboratory techniques, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and effective patient care. Throughout the course, students gain hands-on experience through laboratory sessions, fostering competence in sample collection, analysis, and reporting. The program emphasizes the importance of quality assurance, safety protocols, and regulatory standards relevant to laboratory environments.

Students enrolled in this associate degree program are also introduced to the ethical considerations and communication skills needed when working with healthcare professionals and patients. As the healthcare industry increasingly integrates technology, the program incorporates training on laboratory instrumentation, data management, and information systems. Graduates from this program are equipped to work in various settings such as hospitals, private laboratories, research institutions, and clinics. Employment opportunities typically include roles like laboratory technician, medical scientist, or pathology assistant. The program aligns with Australian healthcare standards and prepares students for future certifications or further studies in health sciences or biomedical fields.

The University of Southern Queensland provides a supportive learning environment with access to experienced faculty, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, and industry placements where applicable. The flexible delivery modes, including online components, enable students to balance their studies with work or other commitments. The program aims to develop analytical thinking, technical proficiency, and a comprehensive understanding of laboratory medicine, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare outcomes. Upon completion, graduates are well-positioned to contribute effectively to diagnostic teams and advance their careers in the laboratory health sector. The program also encourages ongoing professional development and lifelong learning within the health industry.