Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine (Honours)

Undergraduate | 2026

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Mode
Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load. Part-time study is not available for international students.
4 year(s) full-time
Program code
Program code
HLABM
Study as icon
Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
Indicative annual fees
Published fees are indicative for 2025 , including the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and appropriate yearly indexation. This is based on the total number of units studied for this program on an annual full-time basis. Please note that your tuition fees may be subject to an annual increase.
$48,100
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
Any one of SACE Stage 2 Physics, Biology or Chemistry (or equivalent).
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
None
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.5 IELTS Listening 6.5 IELTS Speaking 6.5 IELTS Writing 6.5 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS Code icon
CRICOS code
115724H
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

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) in a higher education award program in an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher.

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 6.5
  • IELTS Listening 6.5
  • IELTS Speaking 6.5
  • IELTS Writing 6.5

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

Why Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine (Honours)?

Make the diagnosis that could save lives as an accredited medical laboratory scientist.

Medical laboratory scientists play a significant role in Australia’s health system. Working in diagnostic pathology laboratories across Australia, they support clinicians by diagnosing, managing and treating diseases through testing patient samples, conducting research into the causes and cures of disease, and developing improved methods for disease detection. The skilled professionals who analyse, interpret and report on this data are crucial in helping clinicians and their patients make informed, timely and life-saving treatment decisions. They also play a critical role in shaping public health initiatives, including disease prevention efforts and developing new diagnostic tests.

Apply your inquisitive and analytical mind in a career where you can make a real and lasting impact.

program overview

Overview

Gain the skills and knowledge needed to work as a medical laboratory scientist in diagnostic pathology or research.

Develop core knowledge of the natural and biomedical sciences, and their application in diagnostic pathology. Learn how to perform diagnostic tests, including cross-matching for blood transfusions, identifying infection-causing organisms, screening for cancer cells and detecting genes responsible for disease conditions. Undertake training in all areas of pathology, including biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, molecular pathology, haematology and histopathology.

Put your learning into practice in a variety of private, public, community and allied health settings with up to 26 weeks of clinical placements. Get hands on in our purpose-built histopathology and haematology laboratories, where you’ll use industry-standard technology to perform, analyse and interpret test results. Gain advanced research skills and contribute new knowledge to the field through a major honours research project.

Through a comprehensive blend of theory, practical experiences and clinical placements you’ll develop the skills to expertly diagnose disease. You’ll graduate with the knowledge, skills and experience to thrive in your medical laboratory career – in whatever setting you choose.

What you'll learn

Taught over four years, our Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine (Honours) provides you with a solid foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of pathology, with training in biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, molecular pathology, haematology and histopathology.

In first year, you’ll be introduced to core biomedical sciences topics in chemistry, anatomy, mathematics and quantitative health research methods. Second year will expand your knowledge of pathological processes, with courses in areas such as:

  • Biochemistry 
  • Haematology 
  • Genetics 
  • Histology 
  • Immunology 
  • Microbiology 
  • Pathophysiology.

During your third and fourth years, you’ll strengthen your knowledge and skills further through clinical courses and professional placements. Under the supervision of professionally accredited and experienced medical laboratory scientists, you’ll gain valuable experience working in real diagnostic laboratories across a wide range of public and private medical laboratories.

You’ll learn in dedicated facilities, including our purpose-built histopathology and haematology laboratories. Here, you’ll learn how to conduct diagnostic testing using industry-standard technologies and processes.

In your final year, you can choose to undertake Advanced Clinical Practice for 13 weeks or Experimental Research Practice for 13 weeks. In both options, you’ll work as part of a team in a diagnostic or research setting, learning how to manage specimens, perform tests and operate equipment.

You’ll graduate with the qualifications necessary to register and practice as a medical laboratory scientist in Australia.

What courses you'll study

Complete 192 units comprising:

  • 144 to 168 units from Core courses, and
  • 24 to 48 units from Work integrated learning

Complete 144 to 168 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Biology A
Course code
BIOL1011
Units
6
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Course name
Biology B
Course code
BIOL1012
Units
6
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Course name
Chemistry 100
Course code
CHEM1005
Units
6
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Course name
Chemistry 101
Course code
CHEM1006
Units
6
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Course name
Health and Society
Course code
HLTH1005
Units
6
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Course name
Mathematics for Laboratory Sciences
Course code
MATH1024
Units
6
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Course name
Quantitative Methods in Health
Course code
MATH1025
Units
6
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Course name
Professional Issues in Laboratory Medicine
Course code
MDST1002
Units
6
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Course name
Microbiology
Course code
BIOL2021
Units
6
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Course name
Biochemistry
Course code
BIOL2027
Units
6
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Course name
Genetics
Course code
BIOL2030
Units
6
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Course name
Physiology
Course code
BIOL2032
Units
6
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Course name
Histology
Course code
BIOL2033
Units
6
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Course name
Immunology
Course code
BIOL2034
Units
6
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Course name
Pathophysiology
Course code
MDST2009
Units
6
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Course name
Essential Haematology
Course code
MDST2010
Units
6
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Course name
Chemical and Molecular Pathology
Course code
BIOL3023
Units
6
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Course name
Histotechnology
Course code
MDST3004
Units
6
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Course name
Infectious Diseases
Course code
MDST3005
Units
6
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Course name
Transfusion and Haemostasis
Course code
MDST3008
Units
6
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Course name
Clinical Biochemistry
Course code
MDST4000
Units
6
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Course name
Advanced Haematology
Course code
MDST4001
Units
6
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Course name
Histopathology and Cytopathology
Course code
MDST4002
Units
6
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Course name
Specialised Microbiology
Course code
MDST4003
Units
6
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Course name
Experimental Research Practice A
Course code
MDST4006
Units
12
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Course name
Experimental Research Practice B
Course code
MDST4007
Units
12

Complete 24 to 48 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Clinical Practice A
Course code
MDST3006
Units
12
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Course name
Clinical Practice B
Course code
MDST3007
Units
12
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Course name
Advanced Clinical Practice A
Course code
MDST4004
Units
12
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Course name
Advanced Clinical Practice B
Course code
MDST4005
Units
12

How to apply

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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.

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Gather your relevant documents

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

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Complete and send your application

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

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026. 

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. 

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

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, spanning 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 to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, 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 the Academic calendar. 

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: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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