Master of Biomedical Science

The Master of Biomedical Science at the University of Tasmania is a two-year degree for people who want to work in medical research, diagnostic laboratories or the health sciences, or who need a research qualification before a PhD. It picks up where a bachelor degree in biomedical science, biology, biochemistry or a related field leaves off. You spend the first part of the course in advanced coursework — subjects such as molecular biology, immunology, physiology, pharmacology and research methods — then move into a substantial research project under supervision.

How the degree is structured

Australian master's degrees by coursework and research usually run for one to two years full time and are built from units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. At Tasmania, this one is two years, which typically means a full-time load across four semesters, or trimesters depending on how the units are scheduled. The early units are taught: lectures, lab classes, tutorials and assessments. The later part is the research component — a supervised project, written up as a thesis or major report. That research project is the heart of the degree, and it is what separates a Master of Biomedical Science from a coursework-only qualification.

What you actually do

You learn laboratory techniques used in real biomedical research — cell culture, molecular assays, microscopy, data analysis and scientific writing. You also learn how to design an experiment, handle ethics approvals, keep a lab notebook and present findings to a research group. Much of the second year is spent in a laboratory or research group, working alongside honours students, PhD candidates and academic staff. The university has research strengths in areas such as health and medicine, and the Tasmanian health system gives students access to clinical and population health data that is hard to find elsewhere in Australia.

Who it suits

This degree suits three kinds of people. First, graduates with a bachelor degree in a biomedical or life science field who want more laboratory training and a research credential. Second, international students who need a recognised Australian master's qualification and want to work in health or medical research. Third, people aiming at a PhD — a master's with a strong research component is a common pathway into doctoral study in Australia. If you are already a registered health professional, check with the university about recognition of prior learning and whether the course fits your registration needs.

International students should note the English requirement: IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the usual standard for coursework postgraduate courses, though some fields ask for higher. The university accepts TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and its own English programmes as equivalents. The Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself. While studying, a student visa generally allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term. After graduating, the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may be available, depending on your circumstances. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register under course code 030411K. Check the official University of Tasmania page for current entry requirements, unit details, semester dates and fees.

• Medical research officer or research assistant — universities, medical research institutes and hospitals around Australia.
• Laboratory scientist — diagnostic pathology labs, public health laboratories and private pathology providers.
• Clinical trials coordinator or research coordinator — hospitals, contract research organisations and clinical trial units.
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry roles — research and development, quality control and regulatory affairs.
• Government health and science agencies — state health departments, CSIRO and other public research bodies.
• PhD candidate — a research master's is a common entry point to doctoral study in Australia.
• Science communicator, policy officer or grant administrator — health charities, research funding bodies and science organisations.