Health (Laboratory Medicine)

The Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a dynamic and vital career in the healthcare and medical sciences sector. This program provides students with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of laboratory medicine, encompassing a broad range of disciplines including clinical biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, hematology, immunology, and molecular diagnostics. Through a blend of theoretical coursework, practical laboratory training, and industry placements, students develop the critical skills necessary to operate advanced laboratory equipment, analyze complex data, and contribute meaningfully to diagnostic processes that underpin effective patient care. The program emphasizes scientific expertise, technical proficiency, and a strong understanding of the ethical and professional standards required in medical laboratories. Graduates will be equipped to work in hospital laboratories, research institutions, public health agencies, and private diagnostic companies. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in laboratory technology and medical research, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving landscape of healthcare diagnostics. Students also gain valuable experience collaborating with healthcare professionals, engaging in research projects, and applying evidence-based methods to real-world problems. The university faculty comprises experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to providing high-quality education and mentorship. Upon completion, graduates may pursue further specialization or graduate study, potentially leading to roles in laboratory management, scientific research, or advanced clinical practice. The program aims to produce competent, ethical, and innovative laboratory medicine professionals who can contribute to improved health outcomes and the advancement of medical science.

Program structure

Courses to be studied Units

Core courses24

Plus 52 days clinical experience

Total24

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:

BIO1101Biology 11

BIO1103Pathology Studies

BIO1104Medical Microbiology and Immunology 11

BIO1204Introduction to Biomedical Sciences1

BIO1205Pathology Clinical Placement 12

BIO2105Pathology Clinical Placement 22

BIO2106Medical Microbiology and Immunology 2

BIO2107Cell and Molecular Biology 1

BIO2108Haematology 1

BIO2214Pathology Clinical Placement 32

BIO2215Clinical Biochemistry 1

BIO2216Histopathology 1

BIO2217Transfusion Science

BIO3105Pathology Clinical Placement 42

BIO3106Pathology Residential School 13

BIO3107Haematology 2

BIO3108Histopathology 2

BIO3206Medical Microbiology and Immunology 3

BIO3207Cell and Molecular Biology 2

BIO3208Pathology Residential School 23

BIO3215Clinical Biochemistry 2

CHE1110Chemistry 11

CHE2120Chemistry 21

STA2300Data Analysis

Footnotes

1  Each of these courses has a two or three-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.

2  Current employees of pathology service providers with a minimum of 2 years full-time or equivalent relevant technical experience may seek exemption from Pathology Clinical Placements courses 1 to 4 on the basis of approved industrial experience. However, for candidates to be eligible for the award of Bachelor of Health (BHEA) and who are seeking course credits by exemption must satisfactorily complete a minimum of 8 courses of the BHEA. 

3  Requires attendance at USQ for the residential school.

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4,SA)
• 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: 15/67

International entry requirements

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.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

• A-level Mathematics
• A-level Biological Science, Chemistry, Physics or Multi-strand Science or equivalent

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.

The University of Southern Queensland offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Health (Laboratory Medicine) program. Domestic students can access a range of government-funded schemes, such as FEE-HELP, which is a deferred payment scheme allowing eligible students to access loans to cover tuition fees. This support program helps reduce the upfront financial burden, enabling students to focus on their studies while managing their repayment obligations after graduation. International students, on the other hand, are usually required to pay tuition fees upfront or secure private financial arrangements unless they are participating in specific scholarship programs or sponsorships. The university also provides its own scholarships and bursaries aimed at supporting students in health-related disciplines, which can significantly offset their study costs. These scholarships might be offered based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the field of study in Laboratory Medicine. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government grants, health sector sponsorship programs, and community grants tailored for students pursuing careers in medical sciences. The university’s financial advisory services can assist students in planning their finances, applying for available loans, and exploring scholarship opportunities to ensure they can afford their education without undue hardship. For international students, specific visa conditions and international student support programs also include provisions for managing tuition fee payments and access to financial advice. Overall, financing studies at the University of Southern Queensland in this program involves a combination of government aid, university scholarships, private funding, and personal financial planning, designed to support students throughout their academic journey and into their professional careers in laboratory medicine.

The Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to prepare students for careers in clinical laboratories, pathology, and medical diagnostics. This program provides in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for working in diverse laboratory settings, including hospital, research, and industrial laboratories. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of human biology, biochemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology, and molecular biology, enabling them to contribute effectively to healthcare and biomedical research. The curriculum emphasizes contemporary laboratory techniques, quality assurance, and safety protocols to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation. Practical placements and internships form a key component of the program, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world environments, collaborate with healthcare professionals, and develop professional competencies. The program also covers topics such as laboratory management, ethics in healthcare, and data analysis, fostering well-rounded graduates capable of critical thinking and problem-solving in complex diagnostic scenarios. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers in medical laboratories, research institutions, public health organizations, and private diagnostic companies. The University of Southern Queensland maintains strong industry links, providing students with networking opportunities, industry exposure, and support for employment after graduation. The program is suitable for students with a strong interest in healthcare, science, and laboratory work, and it lays a solid foundation for further postgraduate studies or professional certification. Overall, the Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine at USQ aims to develop highly skilled, competent, and ethical laboratory professionals committed to advancing health and scientific discovery.