Welcome to the Bachelor of Medical Science! In this degree you will learn how the body works and responds to disease and treatments. The range of majors offered will prepare you for a diversity of careers including biomedical research, health policy and regulation, pharmaceutical and biotech industry, and health professions. We're thrilled to have you!
How your degree works
Major
Students may elect to complete a Major, or a double Major, from the nine available Major options. Where a student would like to graduate with a Major (this is not a compulsory part of the program) this must be declared by the commencement of a student’s final year of study. Note: if a student chooses two Majors, no double-counting of courses is allowed at level 3.
Information on available Majors can be found at the bottom of this page.
Science Electives
Students must take 6 UOC from the Faculty of Science (Psychology, Physics or Mathematics courses are recommended).
Electives
These are courses that you can choose to take from any subject area, giving you the opportunity to explore topics outside of your science major.
General Education
At USNW, you need to take at least 12 UOC outside your faculty to broaden your education. Any course defined as Science or Medicine cannot be taken as General Education along with courses starting with GENS, GENM, FOOD and COMP. More information on General Education found here.
Units of Credit (UOC)
A UOC helps measure how much you learn in a course and program. Most courses are 6 UOC. As a full-time student, you’ll usually do 12-18 UOC each term. For more info, check our Unit of Credit Details.
Discipline Core – Core Courses and Prescribed Electives
These are courses you must pass to get your qualification. Core courses are mandatory and specific, while prescribed electives are mandatory but let you choose from a list. In a Bachelor of Medical Science, there are core and prescribed electives that all students must take.
Discipline Component
Students must complete 120 UOC of the following to satisfy the core requirements of this degree:
42 UOC from Level 1 Core Courses
48 UOC from Level 2 Core Courses
24 UOC from Level 3 Prescribed Electives
6 UOC from a Science Elective.
Understanding Your Program
Program Overview
The Medical Science program is a three-year degree jointly taught by the Faculty of Medicine & Health and the Faculty of Science. Students will study key areas such as Cell and Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Genetics, Immunology, and Neuroscience. By examining the structure and function of the human body, disease processes, and therapeutic interventions, the program equips graduates with a deep understanding of human health and disease. With opportunities for hands-on learning and research, this degree is the perfect pathway for careers in, biomedical research, health policy and regulation, pharmaceutical and biotech industry, and health professions. Students may also pursue an Honours degree for advanced research opportunities. 
Your First Year
In the first year, students are introduced to foundational concepts in science and human biology that provide the basis for more advanced study. Core courses include biology, chemistry, anatomy, and maths, where students build essential scientific knowledge, analytical skills and develop foundational lab skills. Through a mix of lectures, laboratory sessions, and tutorials, first-year students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the program's more specialised second and third years. 
Planning Your First Year
Starting university is a big transition, and your course structure can help set you up for success. You may want to consider the following options when enrolling in courses during your first year based on your goals and confidence:
Option 1: Ease into it
Why: This lighter start gives you time to adjust to university life, explore effective study habits, and settle into your new routine.
Next Steps: Increase your workload in later terms as you gain confidence and momentum. 
Option 2: Balanced
- Take three courses in Terms 1 and 2, followed by two courses in Term 3 for a lighter end-of-year workload.
Why: This approach allows you to focus on building a strong foundation early while giving yourself more breathing room later in the year for exams, projects, or other priorities
Option 3: Ambitious
Enrol in three courses per term across all three terms for a steady and challenging pace.
Why: For students eager to dive in and stay consistent, even though this workload is higher than expected for first-year students.
