Biomedical Sciences
Why study Biomedical Sciences?
Biomedical Sciences involves the study of the body’s function; understanding the science behind medicine, exploring how our bodies work, and investigating what causes disease. The ultimate goal is to improve healthcare outcomes. This knowledge is vital not only for advancing medical research but also for shaping careers across the health sector, from frontline healthcare support to public health policy and community wellbeing.
The Biomedical Sciences major can be studied in both the Bachelor of Health and the Bachelor of Science.
Biomedical Sciences and the Bachelor of Health
Biomedical Sciences in the Bachelor of Health is underpinned by the following six core concepts that set the BHealth apart:
- Māori and indigenous perspectives and practices.
- Holistic understandings of hauora, health and wellbeing.
- Community collaboration and engagement.
- Analytical and communication skills.
- Clear links to regional/rural health, social justice and equity, and critical perspectives.
- Competencies desired in the practices of health professionals, as identified through consultation with key stakeholders and industry.
These foundations prepare graduates for diverse roles within health services, where cultural competence, equity, and strong communication are essential.
Biomedical Sciences and the Bachelor of Science
The Biomedical Sciences major in the Bachelor of Science will gear you up for a career in research - at the cutting edge of medical breakthroughs and discoveries.
By understanding diseases, treatments, and human biology, graduates play a vital role in drug discovery, clinical trials, and designing new treatments. They also contribute to the development of medical technologies such as bio-printable devices that drive medical advancement. This major also provides an excellent foundation for those continuing into graduate medical degrees.
Career opportunities
Graduates of the Biomedical Sciences major can pursue careers across medical research, clinical research, biotechnology and the wider health sector. By developing an understanding of human biology, disease, treatments and biomedical research, graduates can contribute to areas such as medical research, drug discovery, clinical trials, health data and the development of new treatments and medical technologies. Career options may include medical scientist, clinical research coordinator and clinical data manager, with some roles requiring further postgraduate study or specialist training.
These roles can be found in universities and research institutes, hospitals and health organisations, clinical research organisations, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government agencies and other organisations involved in health and medical research. The careers listed below illustrate potential pathways for Biomedical Sciences graduates, although job titles, entry requirements and responsibilities vary between employers.
- Clinical laboratory scientist
- Research technician
- Medical Sciences Technician
- Medical scientist
- Biochemist
- Molecular biologist
- Microbiologist
- Geneticist
- Clinical research coordinator
- Bioinformatics scientist
Study Biomedical Sciences in these qualifications
Scholarships and prizes
Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.