The Bachelor of Medical Science at UNSW is offered jointly by the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Science. This degree underpins the study of medicine, allowing you a deep understanding and knowledge of the human body. It provides the basis for a career in biomedical research and is also an appropriate first degree for students planning to enter graduate medical or paramedical degree programs.
How to structure your degree
Students of the Bachelor of Medical Science complete 24 courses taken over three years, if studying full-time. Upon graduation and subject to your academic performance, you'll have the opportunity to apply for an additional honours year of study. Find out more about taking an honours year at UNSW Science.
Compulsory courses
There are lots of compulsory courses in the Medical Science program, so you should follow the degree structure closely. Use the undergraduate degree templates to help you map out your degree.
SCIF1111 Perspectives in Medical Science introduces you to essential medical research skills and should be taken in Term 1, if possible.
In Stage three, you can take any courses from the list of prescribed electives in the UNSW Handbook, or you can declare an optional major, which means you'll need to choose Stage three courses that align with the major. The choice is yours.
Following your degree requirements
All rules are outlined in the Handbook and we encourage you to use this in conjunction with the degree templates to ensure you are selecting courses that count towards your degree. If you’re approaching the end of your studies, you can request a progression check and our staff will provide an outline of your remaining degree requirements.
Enrolling in your flexible first year
Our flexible medical science degree allows you to declare or change your major in Stage two of study, so you can sample several different courses before making a decision. If you’re enrolling and still unsure of your major, follow these steps:
1. Look at the list of majors available in your degree.
2. Eliminate the majors you’re definitely not interested in.
3. Choose first-year courses common to the majors that interest you. That way, you’ll be keeping your options open.