Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Biomedical and Health Sciences majoring in Clinical Trials

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BBIOM

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$48,100

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115679H

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission:

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	80
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.90
China – Gaokao	70%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	18
India – CBSE and CISCE	80
India – State Board Examinations	90
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	3.00
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	19
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	3.00
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	9
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	10
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	8.30

Why Bachelor of Biomedical and Health Sciences?

Every day, breakthroughs are being made in the fight against cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, heart failure, infectious diseases, psychiatric disorders and more. Clinical trials pave the way for these innovations. They deepen our understanding of diseases and help us develop safe, effective treatments.

With a Bachelor of Biomedical and Health Sciences majoring in Clinical Trials, you can be part of this promising new frontier – bringing hope to patients with previously untreatable or poorly managed conditions.

You’ll also gain a comprehensive understanding of biomedicine and health, studying how the human body functions in both health and disease. Graduate at the cutting edge of scientific discovery, prepared to help address anticipated health workforce shortages.

Overview

Be prepared to lead the way in health with our Bachelor of Biomedical and Health Sciences. You’ll learn from academics who are world-leaders in their fields. Explore real human anatomy specimens in specialist laboratories, discovering the structures and systems of the human body across the lifespan. High-tech learning environments, including simulation, let you practise what you learn.

Majoring in Clinical Trials, you’ll learn to design, develop and conduct clinical trials. Find out how drugs are created, developed and tested for safety and reliability. Study the science of cells, molecules and biochemistry.

Expand your skills in a real-life environment with a work placement in an industry or research setting. You’ll graduate with highly sought-after, transferable skills in health and research – ready for a wide range of fascinating careers in health or biomedical sciences.

Key features

Study a degree focused on improving human health.
Acquire the skills to design, develop and conduct clinical trials.
Participate in work or research placements within the health sector.
Access dedicated anatomy labs and study real human specimens.
Graduate with in-demand, transferable skills relevant to various careers in health.
Learn from globally recognised academics in a degree backed by innovative research.

What you'll learn

The Bachelor of Biomedical and Health Sciences is a dynamic three-year degree that provides a flexible and cross-disciplinary approach to human biology, health and disease. Forward-facing and evidence-based, it’s designed to prepare you for the evolving nature of today’s health industry.

As a biomedical and health sciences student, you’ll take core courses covering health systems, research, anatomy and physiology. Gain a holistic and diverse view of health and care with cross-cultural and First Nations perspectives embedded into the program.

Throughout your studies, you’ll develop professional skills in communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time-management – ensuring you’re adaptable for any future career path in health. You can also choose up to two majors and undertake a capstone research project. One of the advantages of the Bachelor of Biomedical and Health Sciences is its flexibility, enabling you to customise the course to suit your interests. And there's no rush to decide straight away – you'll have ample time to explore and discover what excites you.

The Clinical Trials major teaches you to design, develop and conduct clinical trials in hospitals, research organisations and pharmaceutical companies. You'll build a solid foundation in cell biology and biochemistry, and explore the principles of pharmacology, including drug classification, formulation and administration.

Discover the toxicities associated with drug development – from discovery and design through to preclinical testing and clinical trials. Gain an understanding of biostatistics and how to apply statistical research methods to health research. Learn to manage data to ensure accuracy and integrity. Build on this knowledge with a choice of electives in cancer diagnoses and treatments, infection and immunity, data management and more.

In third year, you’ll undertake a Work Integrated Learning placement, gaining hands-on experience in a clinical trial-related workplace or research environment.

Majors

The Bachelor of Biomedical and Health Sciences is also available with a major or second major in the following:

Biochemistry
Genetics
Microbiology and Immunology
Neuroscience
Medical Science
Public Health
Reproductive and Childhood Health.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

42 units for all Core courses, and
6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
48 units for all Electives, and
48 units for one Major from Major

Complete 42 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6
Course name Evidence Based Practice and Research	Course code HLTH1002	Units 6
Course name Human Anatomy and Physiology A	Course code HBIO1002	Units 6
Course name Human Anatomy and Physiology B	Course code HBIO1003	Units 6
Course name Research Skill Development	Course code HLTH2000	Units 6

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Health, Society and Systems	Course code PUBH1002	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Clinical Trials	Course code PHAR1001	Units 6
Course name Pharmacology Fundamentals	Course code PHAR2002	Units 6
Course name Clinical Trials Toxicology	Course code PHAR2001	Units 6
Course name Essentials of Biostatistics	Course code PUBH2007	Units 6
Course name Clinical Trials: Design and Analysis	Course code PHAR3001	Units 6
Course name Clinical Trials Management	Course code PHAR3002	Units 6
Course name Drug Discovery and Development	Course code PHAR3000	Units 6
Course name Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacometrics, and Systems Pharmacology	Course code PHAR3004	Units 6
Course name Data Management	Course code PHAR3005	Units 6
Course name Molecular Neuropharmacology and Disease	Course code PHAR3006	Units 6
Course name Infection and Immunity III	Course code PHAR3007	Units 6
Course name Cancer Biology and Therapeutics	Course code PHAR3008	Units 6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name WIL in Biomedical and Health Sciences	Course code HLTH3900	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6
Course name Elective 2	Course code AUXX1012	Units 6
Course name Elective 3	Course code AUXX1013	Units 6
Course name Elective 4	Course code AUXX1014	Units 6
Course name Elective 5	Course code AUXX1015	Units 6
Course name Elective 6	Course code AUXX1016	Units 6
Course name Elective 7	Course code AUXX1017	Units 6
Course name Elective 8	Course code AUXX1018	Units 6

Career outcomes

Your career options upon graduation will be limitless. With your major in Clinical Trials, you might work in lab research, developing crucial new vaccines. Or you may analyse clinical trial data to provide insights into the safety of new treatments. Perhaps you’ll work in medical science liaison, communicating research results to industry and health care stakeholders.

Your broad health expertise will also open diverse career opportunities, including:

Medical researcher
Public health advisor
Health informatics coordinator
Laboratory research assistant
Clinical operations manager
Healthcare and diagnostic product specialist
Science communicator.

Industry trends

The clinical trials field is advancing rapidly, with technological developments and advances in personalised medicine offering exciting new opportunities. In Australia, clinical trials contributed $1.4 billion to the economy through direct expenditure or investment in 2019 (Australian Clinical Trials Alliance, 2021). The benefits and impacts of clinical trials are vast – from better patient outcomes and public health improvements to significant scientific advancements.

More broadly, there are significant career opportunities in health care due to the global shortage of healthcare professionals. The World Health Organization forecasts a global shortfall of 10 million healthcare workers by 2030 (WHO Global Monitoring Report, 2023). This growing demand for skilled professionals, coupled with our innovative health education and research, ensures excellent job prospects for Adelaide University health graduates.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: