Bachelor of Medical Sciences(medicinal chemistry)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Medical Sciences (Analytical Chemistry) at Macquarie University is a 3-year degree designed for students who are curious about how chemistry supports modern healthcare, diagnostics, and biomedical discoveries. The program blends strong laboratory training with medical science knowledge, making it a great choice for students interested in analytical chemistry, pharmaceuticals, medical research, or diagnostic technologies.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In the first year, you’ll build a strong scientific foundation that supports both chemistry and medical science. Units such as Introductory Chemistry (CBMS101/CBMS102) and Organic and Biological Chemistry (CBMS103) introduce you to chemical structures, reactions, and the role of biomolecules in living systems. You’ll also study Foundations of Chemical and Biomolecular Sciences 2 (CBMS108) while developing essential lab and data skills through subjects like Introductory Statistics (STAT170), helping you understand how scientific experiments are designed and analysed.

Year 2
In the second year, the focus shifts to more specialised chemistry and biomedical concepts. You’ll explore Organic Synthesis (CBMS204) and Physical and Environmental Chemistry I (CBMS207) to understand how chemical reactions and physical principles apply to biological and environmental systems. At the same time, units such as Chemical Analysis I (CBMS208), Biochemistry (CBMS223), and Molecular Biology (CBMS224) help you learn how scientists analyse biomolecules and investigate biological processes using modern laboratory techniques.

Year 3
By the final year, you’ll apply your knowledge to more advanced analytical chemistry and real-world scientific challenges. Units such as Medicinal Chemistry (CBMS306) and the Chemistry Capstone (CBMS302) allow you to explore how chemistry contributes to drug development and biomedical innovation. Advanced subjects like Chemical Analysis II (CBMS308) or Physical and Environmental Chemistry II (CBMS307) further strengthen your skills in analytical instruments, laboratory investigation, and scientific problem-solving.

Focus areas (in a string):
Analytical chemistry, biomolecular science, chemical analysis techniques, medicinal chemistry, laboratory research methods, biomedical chemistry applications

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Strong laboratory and analytical skills, ability to interpret chemical and biomedical data, understanding of biomolecular processes, experience with analytical instruments, research and scientific problem-solving skills

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The program prepares graduates for careers in biomedical laboratories, pharmaceutical industries, and chemical research, and provides a strong pathway to postgraduate study in medical science or analytical chemistry.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Macquarie University is recognised globally and features in major rankings such as the QS World University Rankings, reflecting its strong research reputation and graduate employability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Bachelor of Medical Sciences (Analytical Chemistry) at Macquarie University, learning goes far beyond lectures. From early in the degree, students spend time in modern laboratories where they practise real analytical chemistry techniques, work with scientific instruments, and analyse chemical and biological samples. These hands-on experiences help you build confidence with experimental methods while developing the practical skills that laboratories, research centres, and pharmaceutical companies are looking for.

The university also supports this learning through specialised research centres and advanced instrumentation facilities on campus. Students often work on lab-based investigations, collaborative experiments, and research-style projects, giving them valuable experience in scientific problem-solving, teamwork, and data interpretation:

Modern chemistry and medical science laboratories where students perform experiments related to chemical analysis, biomolecular testing, and analytical techniques used in real research labs.
Regular laboratory sessions in analytical chemistry units, allowing students to practise chemical measurement, sample preparation, and data analysis using professional laboratory equipment.
Macquarie Analytical and Fabrication Facility (MAFF), a specialised facility that houses advanced instruments used for chemical and biomolecular analysis.
High-end analytical instruments, including systems used for mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, and materials characterisation that support scientific research across the university.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) facilities, which allow researchers and students to study molecular structures and chemical compounds in detail.
Australian Proteome Analysis Facility, a nationally recognised centre located on campus that focuses on advanced protein and biomolecular research.
Interdisciplinary research laboratories within the School of Natural Sciences, where students can engage with research areas such as medicinal chemistry, analytical spectrometry, and biomolecular science.
Access to a clinical research environment through Macquarie University Hospital, which supports medical and health-related research on campus.
Collaborative learning spaces and research labs designed for group experiments, scientific discussions, and project-based learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Medical Sciences (Analytical Chemistry) from Macquarie University leave with strong laboratory and analytical skills that are highly valued in the health and science sectors. Many go on to work as Analytical Chemists, Laboratory Scientists, Biomedical Research Assistants, or Pharmaceutical Scientists, contributing to areas such as diagnostics, drug development, and biotechnology research. The program’s strong mix of chemistry and medical science also prepares students for careers in research institutes, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies:

Career and Employment Service: Macquarie’s dedicated career service helps students prepare for the job market through résumé workshops, interview coaching, career consultations, and employer networking events.
Employability Connect job portal: Students can access internships, part-time jobs, and graduate opportunities through the university’s online employment platform.
Industry connections through the Macquarie Park Innovation District: The campus is located within one of Australia’s largest innovation hubs, giving students exposure to more than 180 global companies working in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and technology.
Biotech and research collaborations: Macquarie works closely with industry partners through research hubs such as the Macquarie University Biotechnology Hub, creating opportunities for networking, research collaboration, and industry engagement.
Strong graduate employability: Macquarie graduates are recognised globally for their career readiness, supported by the university’s strong industry links and practical learning approach.
Nationally recognised qualification: The degree is accredited within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), ensuring the qualification is recognised across Australia and internationally.

Further Academic Progression:
If you decide to continue studying after completing this degree, there are several excellent pathways available. Many graduates move into postgraduate programs such as the Master of Research, Master of Biotechnology, or other specialised biomedical science degrees at Macquarie University. The strong scientific foundation from this program can also support entry into competitive professional pathways like medicine, dentistry, or other health-related postgraduate programs, depending on additional admission requirements.