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CG93 - Bachelor of Medical Science (Specialisation)

Overview

Compulsory Residential School

Some units in this course require you to attend a compulsory Residential School or Work Integrated Learning. Please see Course Features in the Getting Started tab for further information.

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Medical Science aims to develop your skills to apply knowledge of Clinical Measurement, Nutrition or Pathology to clinical practice in a health professional role, or Biotechnology in support industries and medical research. The course is designed to build a high level of technical and evaluative skill so you can assess and implement recommendations for best practice in patient testing, monitoring, education or to develop therapeutics in the cutting-edge medical biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry. The course also aims to develop high level communication skills so that you can interact positively with patients/clients, other health professionals or industry leaders and are ready for the clinical or scientific work environment. Clinical decision making and problem solving ability will be promoted through opportunities such as developing skills in designing, conducting and interpreting medical research.


Career Information

Graduates of the Bachelor of Medical Science course from CQUniversity have developed the expertise and skills to work as health professionals in clinical physiology, biotechnology pathology or nutritional areas.

 

The Clinical Physiology specialisation will prepare students for employment as clinical physiologists and medical scientists. The specialisation offers multidisciplinary training in diagnostic physiological measurement in cardiac sciences, respiratory sciences, neurophysiology and sleep science.

 

The Nutrition specialisation is targeted at students who will pursue a career in nutrition related health promotion and food and nutrition industries and provide a pathway for postgraduate study in health education, research and public health.

 

The Biotechnology specialisation will prepare students for the medical research or biotechnology industries. With an emphasis on cutting-edge technologies in the development and application of therapeutics, the student is ideally placed to pursue a career in the biopharmaceutical industry or medical research laboratories.

 

The Pathology specialisation (3-year exit only award for the CL10 Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science Honours course) will prepare students for employment in diagnostic medical laboratories where haematological, biochemical, microbiological and histological analysis of human blood, urine and tissue samples is conducted.

 

 

Course Details
Duration 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time
Credit Points that Must be Earned 144
Number of Units Required CQUniversity uses the concept of credits to express the amount of study required for a particular course and individual units. The number of units varies between courses. Units in undergraduate courses normally consist of 6 points of credit or multiples thereof (e.g. 12, 18, 24).
Expected Hours of Study One point of credit is equivalent to an expectation of approximately two hours of student work per week in a term.
Course Type Undergraduate Award
Qualification (post nominal) BMedSc
AQF Level Level 7: Bachelor Degree
Course Fees
Indicative Year - 2025
  • Commonwealth Supported Place – Indicative First Year Fee - $11,254
  • Domestic Full Fee Paying – Indicative First Year Fee - $31,231.5
  • International Indicative First Term Fee - $19,860
  • International Indicative First Year Fee - $40,500
Indicative Year - 2024
  • Commonwealth Supported Place – Indicative First Year Fee - $9,888
  • Domestic Full Fee Paying – Indicative First Year Fee - $30,786
  • International Indicative First Term Fee - $19,140
  • International Indicative First Year Fee - $38,820
Indicative Year - 2023
  • Commonwealth Supported Place – Indicative First Year Fee - $9,172
  • International Indicative First Term Fee - $17,280
  • International Indicative First Year Fee - $35,280
Indicative Year - 2022
  • Commonwealth Supported Place – Indicative First Year Fee - $8,842
  • International Indicative First Term Fee - $17,280
  • International Indicative First Year Fee - $35,280

Admission Codes

Where and when can I start?
Units offered internally at the below campuses may be delivered using a combination of face-to-face and video conferencing style teaching.
Units offered via MIX mode are delivered online and require compulsory attendance of site-specific learning activities such as on-campus residential schools, placements and/or work integrated learning. See Course Features tab for further information. Online units are delivered using online resources only.
Please Click Here for more information.
The following tables list the courses availabilities by location and term. Directing your pointer over your preferred location will provide further information if this course is not available for the full duration. Please be sure to also check individual unit availability by location and term prior to enrolling.

Domestic Availability

Term 2 - 2026

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2026

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2025

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2025

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2024

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2024

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2023

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2023

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2022

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2022

Bundaberg
Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2021

Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2020

Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2020

Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2019

Online
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2019

Online
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2018

Students commencing the course in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study. There are compulsory residential schools in Rockhampton and work integrated learning placement in Queensland in some units for all majors in this course.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2018

There are compulsory residential schools in Rockhampton and work integrated learning placement in Queensland in some units for all majors in this course.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2017

Students commencing the course in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2017

Distance
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2016

Students commencing the course in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2016

Distance
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2015

Students commencing the program in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2015

Distance
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2014

Students commencing the program in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2014

Distance
Rockhampton
Show All

International Availability

Term 2 - 2026

Sorry, no international availabilities found.

Term 1 - 2026

Bundaberg
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2025

Sorry, no international availabilities found.

Term 1 - 2025

Bundaberg
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2024

Sorry, no international availabilities found.

Term 1 - 2024

Bundaberg
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2023

Bundaberg
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2023

Bundaberg
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2022

Bundaberg
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2022

Bundaberg
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2021

Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2020

Sorry, no international availabilities found.

Term 1 - 2020

Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2019

Sorry, no international availabilities found.

Term 1 - 2019

Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2018

Students commencing the course in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study. There are compulsory residential schools in Rockhampton and work integrated learning placement in Queensland in some units for all majors in this course.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2018

There are compulsory residential schools in Rockhampton and work integrated learning placement in Queensland in some units for all majors in this course.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2017

Students commencing the course in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2017

Distance
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2016

Students commencing the course in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2016

Distance
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2015

Students commencing the program in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2015

Distance
Rockhampton

Term 2 - 2014

Students commencing the program in Term 2 will only be eligible for part-time study.
Distance
Rockhampton

Term 1 - 2014

Distance
Rockhampton
Show All
For any problems regarding admissions availability for the selected course please contact 13 CQUni (13 27 86) or send us an email at http://contactus.cqu.edu.au/
What do I need to start?
Entry Scores
Rank Threshold SR 69 | ATAR 69
Entry Requirements

English Language Proficiency Requirements

If you were not born in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa or United States of America, you are required to meet the English Language Proficiency requirements set by the University.

Applicants are required to provide evidence of completion within the last 5 years or:

  • A secondary qualification (Year 11 and 12, or equivalent), or
  • Bachelor level qualification study for a period of at least 2 years fulltime with a minimum overall GPA of 4.0

completed within Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, South Africa, Ireland, or United states of America, which will meet the English proficiency.

If you do not satisfy any of the above you will need to undertake an English language proficiency test and achieve the following scores as below:

  • An International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic) overall band score of at least 6.0 with a minimum 6.0 in each subset; or
  • An Occupational English Test with Grades A or B only in each of the four components.

English test results remain valid for no more than two years between final examination date and the date of commencement of study, and must appear on a single result certificate.

International Students should visit http://www.cqu.edu.au/international for further information.

Each student will be assessed individually.

Assumed Knowledge
Recommended study - English (4, SA), Maths B (4, SA), Chemistry, Biology, Science
Course Features

Awards and Accreditation

Interim Awards CB25 - Associate Degree of Medical Science
Exit Awards CL13 - Diploma of Health Science CB25 - Associate Degree of Medical Science
Accreditation
  • Core

    The Clinical Measurement specialisation course of study has been developed in conjunction with the relevant professional societies.  The Nutrition specialisation plan has been developed in accordance with guidelines of the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA). Students interested in a career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist should consider the CL10 Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Honours) degree which has full AIMS accreditation.

Residential School Requirements

Compulsory Residential School There are several residential schools attached to this course. These will be held on the Rockhampton North campus.
Click here to view all Residential Schools

Practicum/Work Placement

BMSC13012 - All students enrolled in Bachelor of Medical Sciences (Specialisation) are required to undertake this unit. Students are required to undertake a minimum of 360 hours of compulsory work experience throughout the course. Refer to the More Details section within the Handbook for further information.
BMSC12005 - This unit is specific to students enrolled in the Pathology and Clinical Measurement majors. Students are required to undertake a minimum of 360 hours of compulsory work experience throughout the course. Refer to the More Details section within the Handbook for further information.

Previous and Current Enrolments

Year Number of Students
2024 128
2023 161
2022 196
2021 193
2020 213
Inherent Requirements
There are Inherent Requirements (IRs) that you need to be aware of, and fulfil, to achieve the core learning outcomes of the units and course. IRs are the essential capabilities, knowledge, behaviours and skills that are needed to complete a unit or course.

Please note that in some instances there may be similarities between course, entry and inherent requirements.

If you experience difficulties meeting these requirements, reasonable adjustments may be made upon contacting accessibility@cqu.edu.au. Adjustment must not compromise the academic integrity of the degree or course chosen at CQUniversity or the legal requirements of field education.

Ethical Behaviour
  • Complying with academic and non-academic misconduct policies and procedures such as CQUniversity’s Student Charter, Student Misconduct Policy and Student Behavioural Misconduct Procedures and Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
  • Treating personal information obtained in classroom, clinical and practice settings as private and confidential.
  • Respecting an individual's/group's diversity by demonstrating sensitivity to religious, cultural and individual differences.
  • Demonstrating an ability to reflect on ethical dilemmas and issues and taking responsibility for ensuring awareness of ethical behaviour.
  • Being governed by codes, guidelines and policies outlined by the Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMS) and Queensland Health.
  • Complying with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Australian Research Council (ARC) and Universities Australia (UA)) and the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (NHMRC).
Behavioural Stability
  • Interacting positively and effectively with other students, health practitioners and members of the public while attending activities related to the course.
  • Being receptive and responding appropriately to different viewpoints, constructive feedback and direction from academics, clinical staff and practice supervisors.
  • Coping effectively with your own emotions, responses and behaviour when dealing with challenging situations in the classroom, clinical and practice settings.
Legal Compliance
  • Complying with relevant child protection and safety legislation including mandatory reporting requirements.
  • Understanding and adhering to professional policy around the use of social media.
  • Knowing, understanding and complying with legislative and regulatory requirements which are necessary pre-requisites to clinical placements in order to reduce the risk of harm to self and others.
Communication Skills (Verbal, Non-verbal, Written and Technology)
  • Actively participating in discussion activities related to the course.
  • Using language that is appropriate to the context of the individual or group.
  • Verbally communicating your knowledge and skills with accuracy, appropriateness and effectiveness.
  • Providing team members with clear concise verbal reports which relate to clients or patients.
  • Recognising and interpreting non-verbal cues of all persons encountered during interactions and activities included in the course and responding appropriately.
  • Using appropriate facial expressions, eye contact and gestures while being mindful of interpersonal space.
  • Constructing your assessment work to academic standards with attention to correct grammar and punctuation and structure.
  • Constructing fluent summarised written text from complex and detailed information.
  • Constructing legible reports in a timely manner to meet professional standards and clearly communicating the intended message.
  • Accurately documenting charts, records and reports to meet legal and professional requirements.
  • Accessing a computer for your studies.
  • Regularly accessing the Internet for research and email for communication with peers and lecturers.
  • Analysing, manipulating and displaying scientific information.
Cognitive Abilities (Knowledge and Cognitive Skills, Literacy and Numeracy)
  • Conceptualising and using appropriate knowledge in response to academic assessment items.
  • Applying knowledge of policy and procedures in the classroom, clinical and practice settings.
  • Performing your duties within set time frames.
  • Applying theoretical knowledge to understand best-practice when providing care or services.
  • Paraphrasing, summarising and referencing in accordance with appropriate academic conventions.
  • Actively listening to information within a variety of academic, clinical and practice settings.
  • Reading and accurately interpreting information related to patients and/or clients.
  • Completing documentation that is accurate, clear and concise.
  • Demonstrating effective use of numeracy skills to record data accurately.
  • Applying numeracy skills to interpret and solve problems in a range of education, clinical and practice settings.
Sensory Abilities (Visual, Auditory, Tactile)
  • Focussing on and recognising objects that are either near or far.
  • Ability to visually distinguish colour in order to interpret results of investigations.
  • Safely operating laboratory equipment.
  • Sufficiently hearing verbal communication from other students, academics, clinical staff and practice supervisors during activities related to the course.
  • Having sufficient auditory ability to consistently and accurately monitor, access and manage, and respond to patient and client needs.
  • Accurately interpreting verbal communications and directions from staff.
  • Using touch in an appropriate manner when conveying positive messages for emotional support during difficult circumstances.
  • Conducting physical assessments and detecting anatomical abnormalities.
Relational Skills
  • Rapidly building rapport with people from all walks of life, as well as with colleagues and/or research participants and/or clients in the professional context.
  • Maintaining positive working relationships when under stressful circumstances.
  • Maintaining confidentiality in all contexts.
Reflective Skills
  • Reflecting critically on topics taught during the course.
  • Identifying when your practice may be negatively affected by personal experience and/or reactions and be able to reflect and learn from this experience.
  • Reflecting on situations that may be difficult and sensitive.
  • Identifying, reflecting and learning from successful situations as well as opportunities for improvement.
Sustainable Performance
  • Actively participating in activities related to the course with adequate, sustained levels of physical energy and concentration.
  • Participating in learning clinical and practical laboratory skills and fully engaging in clinical practice activities.
Strength and Mobility (Gross Motor Skills and Fine Motor Skills)
  • Incorporating a range of gross motor skills while participating effectively in activities related to the course.
  • Maintaining balance while safely transferring delicate equipment.
  • Moving with ease around patients and equipment items while performing delivery of care.
  • Safely retrieving and utilising stock and equipment.
  • Manipulating delicate, breakable equipment with ease and care.
  • Manipulating clinical measurement instruments,  syringes and needles with precision and care avoiding harm to self and others.
Interpersonal Engagement
  • Demonstrating the skills of collaborating with fellow students and colleagues, modifying and reflecting on practice during a project, or modifying and reflecting on work integrated learning in response to supervisor feedback.
  • Critically self-reflecting on situations that may/may not have gone well, and taking the learning point(s) from that situation.
  • Interacting and engaging with individuals and groups in clinical practice and/or work placement in a respectful and culturally competent manner in a wide variety of contexts.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Abilities
  • Competently using a desktop operating system such as Microsoft Windows or Mac OS X.
  • Accessing a computer and having sufficient computer skills to engage in on-line learning, reading and responding as required to emails, and completing relevant assessments for the course.
  • Regularly accessing the Internet for research and email for communication with peers and lecturers.
  • Using a variety of computer programs to analyse, manipulate and display scientific information applicable to your course of study.
Compulsory Requirements
Health Requirements

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) placements apply to this course and as such are subject to compulsory pre-placement conditions referred to as mandatory checks and are outlined in the health, security and other compulsory requirements sections. Mandatory checks are determined by industry, organisations, legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures. To be eligible for a WIL placement, students must first achieve compliance with mandatory checks by each closing date prior to a WIL placement and maintain current evidence for the duration of the course. 

Mandatory health requirements include immunisation and vaccination evidence (and serology where required) to the following diseases: Hepatitis B, Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Varicella, Pertussis, Influenza, and Tuberculosis screening. Additional vaccinations and screening are subject to the site or state health authority. 

COVID-19 Vaccination Advice

Effective 25 September 2023, updates have been made to the COVID-19 vaccination mandate for Queensland Health sites and the Queensland Ambulance Service. While Queensland Health does not currently mandate evidence of COVID-19 vaccination, it's essential to recognise that other organisations may enforce their own vaccination specific criteria. This situation is similar across other states and territories, with the exception of Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, where COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory for all healthcare students.    

Security Requirements

Mandatory security requirements may include an Australian Federal Police clearance, working with children check, and NDIS worker screening clearance.

 

Other Compulsory Requirements

Other mandatory requirements may include a First Aid and CPR certificate, student agreement to privacy and confidentiality, fitness to participate in WIL student declaration, jurisdictional and site-specific compulsory requirements, and other training modules.

Core Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Biotechnology Learning Outcomes
  • 1. Apply knowledge of cellular or molecular biology to perform as an industry or research biotechnology scientist
  • 2. Interact professionally and ethically with biotechnologists and other health professionals
  • 3. Evaluate recommendations and standards for best practice in biotechnology
  • 4. Develop new testing procedures to increase efficacy of patient diagnostic testing
  • 5. Improve the efficacy of biotherapeutics for disease treatment and prevention
  • 6. Communicate independent research findings to a professional audience using written and oral form
  • 7. Optimise existing protocols to meet specific laboratory applications
  • 8. Evaluate and interpret research evidence relevant to biotechnology.
  Course Learning Outcomes
Australian Qualifications Framework Descriptors 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
1. KNOWLEDGE Have a broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in one or more disciplines as a basis for independent lifelong learning
2. SKILLS Have cognitive skills to review critically, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge
3. SKILLS Have cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in some areas
4. SKILLS Have cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
5. SKILLS Have communication skills to present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas
6. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Demonstrate initiative and judgement in planning, problem solving and decision making in professional practice and/or scholarship
7. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Adapt knowledge and skills in diverse contexts
8. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILL Be responsible and accountable for own learning and professional practice and in collaboration with others within broad parameters
KNOWLEDGE Develop an understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and culture in contemporary and historical context using the respectful and appropriate protocols and terminology
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Engage in reflective self-evaluation of own cultural values and perspectives to proactively create an inclusive workplace that affirms and celebrates cultural diversity
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Display leadership by creating inclusive work environments and work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in a culturally respectful manner
Clinical Measurement Learning Outcomes
  • 1. Apply knowledge of clinical measurement to practice in the context of your professional role
  • 2. Interact professionally and ethically with clients, clinical measurement scientists and other health professionals
  • 3. Evaluate recommendations and standards for best practice in clinical measurement science
  • 4. Evaluate new strategies and testing procedures to increase efficacy of patient diagnostic testing
  • 5. Adapt standard protocols effectively to meet specific and/or non-standard requirements in clinical measurement science
  • 6. Apply skills in research design, application and interpretation.
  Course Learning Outcomes
Australian Qualifications Framework Descriptors 1 2 3 4 5 6
1. KNOWLEDGE Have a broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in one or more disciplines as a basis for independent lifelong learning
2. SKILLS Have cognitive skills to review critically, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge
3. SKILLS Have cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in some areas
4. SKILLS Have cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
5. SKILLS Have communication skills to present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas
6. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Demonstrate initiative and judgement in planning, problem solving and decision making in professional practice and/or scholarship
7. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Adapt knowledge and skills in diverse contexts
8. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILL Be responsible and accountable for own learning and professional practice and in collaboration with others within broad parameters
KNOWLEDGE Develop an understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and culture in contemporary and historical context using the respectful and appropriate protocols and terminology
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Engage in reflective self-evaluation of own cultural values and perspectives to proactively create an inclusive workplace that affirms and celebrates cultural diversity
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Display leadership by creating inclusive work environments and work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in a culturally respectful manner
Nutrition Learning Outcomes
  • 1. Apply knowledge of nutrition to practice in the context of your professional role
  • 2. Interact professionally and ethically with clients and health professionals
  • 3. Evaluate recommendations and standards for best practice in assessment, monitoring, education and communication within the context of the nutrition discipline
  • 4. Apply professional knowledge to provide advice and interpretation of nutrition specific standards of practice
  • 5. Demonstrate skills in research design, application and interpretation
  • 6. Evaluate new strategies and proposals for application in nutrition related professional practice.
  Course Learning Outcomes
Australian Qualifications Framework Descriptors 1 2 3 4 5 6
1. KNOWLEDGE Have a broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in one or more disciplines as a basis for independent lifelong learning
2. SKILLS Have cognitive skills to review critically, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge
3. SKILLS Have cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in some areas
4. SKILLS Have cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
5. SKILLS Have communication skills to present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas
6. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Demonstrate initiative and judgement in planning, problem solving and decision making in professional practice and/or scholarship
7. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Adapt knowledge and skills in diverse contexts
8. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILL Be responsible and accountable for own learning and professional practice and in collaboration with others within broad parameters
KNOWLEDGE Develop an understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and culture in contemporary and historical context using the respectful and appropriate protocols and terminology
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Engage in reflective self-evaluation of own cultural values and perspectives to proactively create an inclusive workplace that affirms and celebrates cultural diversity
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Display leadership by creating inclusive work environments and work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in a culturally respectful manner
Pathology Learning Outcomes
  • 1. Apply knowledge of pathology to practice in the context of your professional role
  • 2. Interact professionally and ethically with clients, medical scientists and other health professionals
  • 3. Evaluate recommendations and standards for best practice in pathology
  • 4. Evaluate new testing procedures to increase efficacy of patient diagnostic testing
  • 5. Interpret laboratory tests and develop appropriate recommendations for practice
  • 6. Adapt protocols to meet specific and/or non-standard requirements in diagnostic pathology
  • 7. Evaluate and interpret research evidence relevant to diagnostic pathology.
  Course Learning Outcomes
Australian Qualifications Framework Descriptors 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1. KNOWLEDGE Have a broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in one or more disciplines as a basis for independent lifelong learning
2. SKILLS Have cognitive skills to review critically, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge
3. SKILLS Have cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in some areas
4. SKILLS Have cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
5. SKILLS Have communication skills to present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas
6. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Demonstrate initiative and judgement in planning, problem solving and decision making in professional practice and/or scholarship
7. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Adapt knowledge and skills in diverse contexts
8. APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILL Be responsible and accountable for own learning and professional practice and in collaboration with others within broad parameters
KNOWLEDGE Develop an understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and culture in contemporary and historical context using the respectful and appropriate protocols and terminology
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Engage in reflective self-evaluation of own cultural values and perspectives to proactively create an inclusive workplace that affirms and celebrates cultural diversity
APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Display leadership by creating inclusive work environments and work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in a culturally respectful manner
Biomedical Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Chemistry Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Diagnostic Pathology Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Entrepreneurship Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Indigenous Health Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Pre-dietetics Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Research Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Strategic Communication Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Working with the Media Learning Outcomes
Please refer to the Core Structure Learning Outcomes
Course Structure

In order to complete this course, you must:

  1. Complete the core structure
  2. Complete 1 major
  3. Complete 2 minors
Number of units: 8 Total credit points: 48


The Bachelor of Medical Science has eight compulsory units. Seven of the compulsory units are studied in the first year of the course; the eighth compulsory unit is studied in the final year of the course.


Course Structure

Students must complete:

  • 8 core units (48 credit points)
  • 96 credit points from units in one of the following majors and associated minors:
    • Biotechnology;
    • Clinical Measurement;
    • Nutrition; or
    • Pathology.

Student enrolled in the Biotechnology, Clinical Measurements or Nutrition majors will select two minors from a prescribed minors list. Students enrolled in the Pathology major will be required to complete 16 pathology units without inclusion of minors.

Students who undertake the Biotechnology major may also select a "Diagnostic Pathology co-major. Upon graduation, these students will receive the award of Bachelor of Medical Science (Biotechnology and Diagnostic Pathology). These students may also transfer into the 4-year AIMS-accredited CL10 Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Honours) degree.

Please note that whilst individual units may be available across more than one campus, students enrolled on the Bachelor Medical Sciences can only select the Rockhampton or Distance Learning option.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
BMSC11001 Human Body Systems 1
CHEM11043 Atoms, Molecules and Matter
ESSC11004 Study and Research Skills for Health Science
BMSC11002 Human Body Systems 2
BMSC11006 Food, Nutrition and Health
BMSC11005 Foundations of Biochemistry
BMSC13012 Advanced Work Integrated Learning
BUSN11016 Introduction to Study and Professional Practice

Biotechnology Major

Number of units: 8 Total credit points: 48

Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Medical Science (Biotechnology) can select the Diagnostic Pathology Major as an option of 8 units for their studies. The units involved in this Pathology Major include:

  • MBIO19012 Microbiology
  • BMSC12011 Medical Microbiology 1
  • BMSC12001 Histological and Cytological Techniques
  • BMSC12003 Haematology and Transfusion Science
  • BMSC13002 Advanced Clinical Biochemistry
  • BMSC13001 Advanced Haematology
  • BMSC13003 Medical Microbiology 2
  • BMSC13016 Advanced Histopathology and Cytopathology

Students may wish to articulate into the CL10 Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science upon completion of this Diagnostic Pathology major within the Biotechnology course.


The Biotechnology major is available to students studying the Bachelor of Medical Science course. It contains 8 units (48 credit points). Students must also chose one major or two minors from the below list:

Majors:

  • Diagnostic Pathology Major

Minors:

  • Research Minor
  • Chemistry Minor
  • Entrepreneurship Minor
  • Data Management Minor
  • Strategic Communication Minor
  • Working with the Media Minor


Students that complete the Diagnostic Pathology Major will receive the award of Bachelor of Medical Science (Biotechnology and Diagnostic Pathology) upon gradution. They are also eligible to transfer into the 4-year accredited Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Honours) upon the completion of this degree.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
BIOL12106 Molecular Biology
BMSC13009 Immunology
BMSC12012 Molecular Cell Biology
BMSC12010 Clinical Biochemistry
MPAT12001 Medical Pathophysiology
BMSC13010 Pharmacology
BMSC13020 Drug Discovery and Clinical Trials
BMSC13015 Molecular Targeted Therapies

Clinical Measurement Major

Number of units: 7 Total credit points: 48

The Bachelor of Medical Science has eight compulsory units. Seven of the compulsory units are studied in the first year of the course; the eighth compulsory unit is studied in the final year of the course.The eighth compulsory unit, BMSC13012 Advanced Work Integrated Learning provides the opportunity of students completing a work placement in a hospital or clinical setting.

The Biomedical Minor is highly recommended for students who choose to practice a Clinical Measurement scientist because the 4 units of study within this Minor are essential to the knowledge required for a Clinical Measurement scientist to practice safely in a work environment.

Students have a choice of studying three minors in a non-cognate discipline.

  • Research Minor - 4 units, 24 credits
  • Entrepreneurship Minor - 4 units, 24 credits
  • Indigenous Health Minor - 4 units, 24 credits

The Clinical Measurement major is available to students studying the Bachelor of Medical Science course. It contains 7 units (48 credit points). Students must undertake two minors, from the below list:

  • Biomedical Minor - 4 units, 24 credits (highly recommended if opting to pursue a career pathway to practice as a Clinical Measurement scientist
  • Research Minor - 4 units, 24 credits
  • Entrepreneurship Minor - 4 units, 24 credits
  • Indigenous Health Minor - 4 units, 24 credits

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
BMSC12006 Cardiorespiratory Physiology and Measurement
BMSC12007 Neurological Physiology & Measurement
BMSC12005 Work Integrated Learning
BMSC12009 Sleep Physiology and Measurement
BMSC13019 Advanced Cardiovascular and Respiratory Measurement
BMSC13006 Advanced Neurophysiological Measurement
MPAT12001 Medical Pathophysiology
Number of units: 8 Total credit points: 48


The Nutrition major is available to students studying the Bachelor of Medical Science course. It contains 8 units (48 credit points). Students intending to select a pathway into the Master of Nutrition and Dietetics must select the pre-dietetics major to be eligible for entry into the Masters course.


Major: 

  • Pre-dietetics Major


Alternatively, students can select two minors from the list below.


Minors:

  • Research Minor
  • Entrepreneurship Minor
  • Professional Communication Minor

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
BMSC12013 Nutritional Physiology
NUTR12001 Human Nutrition
ENVH12001 Food Safety
NUTR13001 Public Health Nutrition
MPAT12001 Medical Pathophysiology
HLTH13031 Population Health Epidemiology
BMSC13009 Immunology
CHEM12077 Food Science & Analysis
Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

The Biomedical Minor is highly recommended for students who opt to study the Clinical Measurement major because the 4 units of study within this Minor support the delivery of knowledge required for a Clinical Measurement scientist to practice safely in a work environment.

All pre-requisites for the Biomedical Minor can be met within the four units of the Minor.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
MBIO19012 Microbiology
BMSC12010 Clinical Biochemistry
BMSC13009 Immunology
BMSC13010 Pharmacology
Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

The Chemistry Minor enables students to compile a Minor consistent within an area of interest and/or career/professional pathways not already covered in the existing Major. All pre-requisites for the Chemistry Minor can be met within the four units of the Minor.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
BIOL12107 Genomes, Genetics & Evolution
BMED19007 Forensic Science
CHEM13080 Analytical Science
CHEM13081 Biomaterials: Environmental and Medical Applications

Diagnostic Pathology Minor

Number of units: 8 Total credit points: 48

The major is only available to the Bachelor of Medical Sciences (Biotechnology) students. Biotechnology students that complete this Diagnostic Pathology major will be awarded the Bachelor of Medical Science (Biotechnology and Diagnostic Pathology).

The Diagnostic Pathology Major will ehance the students knowledge in diagnostic pathology and provide them a unique opportunity to explore the synergies between the biotechnology and pathology sectors. Biotechnology students that complete this Diagnostic Pathology major will be awarded the Bachelor of Medical Science (Biotechnology and Diagnostic Pathology). They will also be eligible to transfer into CL10 Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Honours).

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
MBIO19012 Microbiology
BMSC12011 Medical Microbiology 1
BMSC12001 Histological and Cytological Techniques
BMSC12003 Haematology and Transfusion Science
BMSC13002 Advanced Clinical Biochemistry
BMSC13003 Medical Microbiology 2
BMSC13001 Advanced Haematology
BMSC13016 Advanced Histopathology and Cytopathology

Entrepreneurship Minor

Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

The Entrepreneurship Minor enables students to compile a Minor consistent within an area of interest and/or career/professional pathways not already covered in the existing Major. All pre-requisites for the Entrepreneurship Minor can be met within the four units of the Minor.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
MGMT11109 Introduction to Business
MRKT11029 Marketing Fundamentals
MRKT13014 New Product Development and Branding
MGMT13151 Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Start-ups

Indigenous Health Minor

Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

The Indigenous Health Minor enables students to compile a Minor consistent within an area of interest and/or career/professional pathways not already covered in the existing Major. All pre-requisites for the Indigenous Health Minor can be met within the four units of the Minor.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
INDG11006 Education and Learning: Colonisation and Decolonisation in the Cultural Interface
INDG19015 Aboriginal Cultures and Country
INDG19016 Contemporary Indigenous Issues
HLTH13035 Health in all Policies

Pre-dietetics Minor

Number of units: 8 Total credit points: 48

The Pre-dietetics Major enables students to meet the entry requirements for the Master of Nutrition and Dietetics. Students that complete the Pre-dietetics Major will receive credit for the first four units into the Masters course.

Please note that Bachelor of Medical Science (Nutrition) students must complete this as a co-major to be eligible for entry into the Masters of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
ESSC11002 Measurement and Evaluation in Health Science
HLTH12028 Health Promotion Strategies
BMSC12010 Clinical Biochemistry
BMSC13002 Advanced Clinical Biochemistry
MEDS21003 Medical Science Research Project 1
NUTR28001 Food and Nutrition Services in Practice
NUTR28003 Nutrition Assessment in Practice
NUTR28002 Communication in Distance Health Care and Practice
Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

The Research Minor enables students to compile a Minor consistent within an area of interest and/or career/professional pathways not already covered in the existing Major. All pre-requisites for the Research Minor can be met within the four units of the Minor.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
ESSC11002 Measurement and Evaluation in Health Science
BIOL12105 Scientific Analysis and Statistics
ALLH12006 Evidence Based Practice for Health Professionals
BMSC13013 Research Project

Strategic Communication Minor

Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

Strategic communication is about using communication techniques with purpose. This minor shows you how to craft a message for a specific audience to ensure the message is received as intended and can be acted upon. Techniques in this minor are drawn from the public relations discipline and combined with fundamental writing skills.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
COMM11110 Introduction to Public Relations
COMM11112 The Internet Never Lies?: Social Media and Society
COMM12022 Communication and Global Technologies
COMM20110 Crisis Communication

Working with the Media Minor

Number of units: 4 Total credit points: 24

This minor will introduce you to the world of media, from traditional journalists who may write a story in a newspaper, to the role of the citizen journalist posting footage from their mobile device to social media. You will learn about how the media operate, what they want and what makes the news. This minor will prepare you to be at the receiving end of a media inquiry, as well as how to create your own news articles for publication.

Available units
Students must complete the following compulsory units:
JOUR11005 Introduction to Journalism
COMM11007 Media Writing
JOUR12040 Narrative Journalism
JOUR12010 Feature Writing
More Details

PLEASE NOTE: ONLY THE CLINICAL PHYSIOLOGY MAJOR CAN BE STUDIED INTERNALLY ON CAMPUS AT BUNDABERG. All other majors can be studied on Rockhampton campus or Online.

Work Placement

Students are required to undertake work placement in health industry professional discipline areas relevant to their specialisation (Biotechnology, Clinical Physiology, Nutrition). From 2025, there will be no student enrolment in the Nutrition specialisation. Students should enrol in the Bachelor of Nutrition courses (CM60, CM61, CM62). Existing Nutrition specialisation students will continue with their course planner. Experience in authentic work environments is very valuable as it develops the professional skills and ‘work readiness' of graduates. Work placements are currently required for the following units:

Clinical Physiology

BMSC12005 - 6 weeks

BMSC13012 – 6 weeks

Nutrition

BMSC13012 – 6 weeks

Biotechnology

BMSC13012 – 6 weeks

Failure to complete work placement and submit the compulsory activities (verified log book and supervisor evaluation) will result in students being deemed ineligible to graduate until this component is satisfactorily completed, regardless of whether all other required elements of the course have been successfully completed.

Before commencing work placement or Work Integrated Learning units, students must have gathered the following:

        Current National Police Check (not older than 3 years), or current Blue card for Queensland residents;

        Completed Queensland Health student health professionals' clinical placement or field work orientation checklist (http://www.health.qld.gov.au/SOP/) if attending a clinical placement within a Queensland Health facility;

        Current first aid certificate;

        Blue Card; and

        Evidence of Immunisations as per the CQUniversity Policy for Vaccination of students in health courses.

 

Residential Schools

Online/mixed mode students will be required to attend residential schools on Rockhampton campus to promote development of course learning outcomes.

 

Computing Requirements

It is a requirement of enrolment in this course that students have access to the CQUniversity website. Students may be required to undertake various components of study in the course using email and the Internet.

It is strongly recommended that students have access to a broadband connection or higher to access online student resources that would include but not limited to, email, internet, video streaming, electronic assessment submission.

 

Recognition of prior learning and application for credit transfer

Course credit may be granted to students who are able to demonstrate appropriate prior learning or experience. Credit transfer will only be granted where a student is able to demonstrate that tertiary studies, equivalent in content and depth to the CQUniversity course, have been successfully completed. Students should examine the unit synopses in this handbook to determine the units for which they may be eligible to claim exemption.

Refer to the Credit Transfer website at http://www.cqu.edu.au/credittransfer for further details on the guidelines and application process.

You can apply for direct credit against CQUniversity units, if equivalent tertiary level study has been completed. You must supply relevant documentation (study guides, unit profiles, etc) to do this. If your study was undertaken more than 10 years ago, you may not be eligible for credit.