Bachelor of Medical Sciences and Bachelor of Laws

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The combined Bachelor of Medical Sciences and Bachelor of Laws at Macquarie University is perfect for students who want to bridge science and law, preparing for careers where healthcare, research, and policy intersect. Over five years, you’ll gain hands-on experience in biomedical research and human health while building a strong understanding of legal principles, giving you the skills to tackle real-world challenges in health law, regulation, and policy and Delivered at the Wallumattagal Campus (North Ryde).

Curriculum structure

Year 1 – Building your foundation in science and law
In the first year, you’ll develop a strong grounding in both biomedical science and legal studies. Units such as Foundations of Medical Science, Human Anatomy and Physiology, and Introduction to Law introduce how the human body functions and the basics of legal systems, research, and reasoning, setting you up for a multidisciplinary approach to learning.

Year 2 – Exploring disease and legal frameworks
In your second year, you’ll dive deeper into health sciences and law. Units like Genetics and Human Variation, Microbiology, and Torts and Contract Law give you a deeper understanding of biological systems and disease processes, while also exploring how legal principles apply in medical and healthcare contexts.

Year 3 – Advanced biomedical and legal study
The third year focuses on more specialised topics in both fields. With units such as Pathophysiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, and Criminal Law, you’ll expand your knowledge of complex health and biological processes while developing your ability to apply legal reasoning to real-world scenarios.

Year 4 – Specialisation and applied practice
In the fourth year, you’ll explore higher-level biomedical and legal subjects. Units like Immunology, Neuroscience, and Administrative Law provide hands-on research opportunities, lab investigations, and deeper insight into law in public health and healthcare administration.

Year 5 – Integration, research, and professional readiness
The final year brings together biomedical and legal knowledge in a practical, career-focused way. Units such as Honours Research Project in Medical Sciences, Health Law, and Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibility prepare you for professional practice, interdisciplinary research, and roles at the intersection of law, health, and policy.

Focus areas (in a string)

Biomedical science, human anatomy, physiology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology, medical research, law, health law, contracts, torts, criminal law, legal research, legal ethics.

Learning outcomes (in a string)

Understand human biological systems, analyse disease mechanisms, conduct laboratory research, interpret biomedical data, apply scientific reasoning, understand legal principles, interpret and apply laws, analyse health-related legal issues, and communicate findings clearly.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This combined degree meets both biomedical and legal industry standards, giving graduates pathways into careers in health law, research, healthcare policy, clinical compliance, or further postgraduate study in law, medicine, or allied health fields.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Macquarie University is well regarded for its research and teaching in both biomedical sciences and law, offering strong industry connections, hands-on learning, and career-focused programs that help graduates stand out in professional fields.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Macquarie University, the combined Bachelor of Medical Sciences and Bachelor of Laws is designed to give students practical, hands-on experience in both science and law from the very start. Students spend time in modern laboratories, work with advanced research tools, and participate in real-world legal simulations, allowing them to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-life situations. Through collaborative projects, industry-linked experiences, and specialised facilities, students build confidence, problem-solving skills, and professional expertise for careers where healthcare, research, and law intersect.

Some of the practical experiences and resources students enjoy include:

State-of-the-art biomedical laboratories for experiments in molecular biology, cell biology, physiology, and immunology, providing valuable research experience.
Macquarie University Research Precinct, where students can join active research projects and receive mentorship from experienced scientists.
Legal skills and simulation labs, allowing students to practice drafting legal documents, negotiation, advocacy, and case analysis in realistic environments.
Advanced research tools and software, including bioinformatics programs, statistical analysis tools, and legal databases to support both science and law coursework.
Collaborative group projects and interdisciplinary assignments that help develop teamwork, critical thinking, and professional communication skills.
Internships and work placements with biomedical labs, healthcare organisations, legal firms, or health policy agencies, giving students real-world exposure and industry connections.
University libraries and digital resources, offering access to biomedical journals, legal case databases, and research materials to support study and independent research.

These hands-on experiences ensure graduates leave Macquarie ready to confidently tackle challenges in both laboratory and legal environments, equipped with the skills to pursue a variety of exciting career paths or further study.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Macquarie University’s combined Bachelor of Medical Sciences and Bachelor of Laws leave with a rare and valuable combination of scientific knowledge, research experience, and legal expertise. Many go on to work as Health Policy Advisors, Biomedical Researchers, Legal Counsels in Healthcare, or Clinical Compliance Officers, while others use this degree as a stepping stone to further study in medicine, law, or allied health. With this unique skill set, graduates are well prepared to make an impact at the intersection of health, science, and law:

Career support and employability services: Macquarie’s Career and Employment Service offers personalised guidance, one-on-one career counselling, workshops for resumes and interviews, and tailored advice on internships and placements for students bridging science and law.
Strong graduate outcomes: Many graduates secure employment within six months, with starting salaries typically ranging from AUD $65,000 to $75,000, depending on their chosen field.
University–industry partnerships: Students benefit from connections with Macquarie University Hospital, biotechnology companies, legal firms, and healthcare organisations, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Accreditation and long-term value: The degree is aligned with both biomedical science and legal industry standards, giving graduates credibility and flexibility for long-term career growth.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates are ready to work in medical research labs, healthcare organisations, legal and compliance departments, or continue onto postgraduate study in law, medicine, or allied health fields.

Further Academic Progression:
After finishing this combined degree, students have plenty of options to continue their studies. Many choose postgraduate programs such as medicine, public health, biomedical research, pharmacy, physiotherapy, or specialised law courses, while others pursue Honours or master’s degrees to focus on health law, clinical research, or biomedical sciences. These pathways allow graduates to deepen their expertise and open doors to senior roles in healthcare, research, policy, or legal practice.