Bachelor of Pharmacology and Toxicology (Honours)

1 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Griffith University Gold Coast Campus

Program Overview

The Honours year in Pharmacology and Toxicology at Griffith University’s Gold Coast Campus is designed for students who have completed their undergraduate degree and want to take their knowledge to the next level. It’s perfect for those who enjoy research and want to develop strong skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific investigation, preparing you for careers in research or further study.

Curriculum Structure

Advanced Research and Methodology Focus

This one-year program is centred around research. You will spend a significant portion of your time completing a research project and dissertation, building on your undergraduate learning while being guided by experienced academic supervisors.

You will also study applied research statistics and research methods, both qualitative and quantitative, giving you the analytical tools to design experiments, interpret complex data, and communicate your findings confidently.

Additionally, you can choose electives such as Advanced Studies in Health Sciences or Epidemiology: Principles and Practices to tailor your studies toward your preferred research or career pathway, whether in lab-based science or health outcomes research.

Focus Areas

Advanced pharmacology and toxicology research, dissertation design and execution, applied research statistics, qualitative and quantitative research methods, health science investigation.

Learning Outcomes

Plan and conduct independent research, apply advanced statistical methods, interpret and present scientific data, integrate pharmacological and toxicological knowledge into research, and communicate findings professionally and ethically.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The honours year is recognised under Australia’s AQF Level 8 framework as an advanced undergraduate qualification. It prepares graduates for further study, such as a Master’s or PhD, and adds a research credential valued by employers in health, pharmaceuticals, biotech, and public sector research.

Reputation (Employability and Rankings)

Griffith University is respected nationally and internationally for research and health science education. Completing this honours year demonstrates your ability to carry out independent scientific work, giving you an edge if you pursue research or specialised roles in industry or academia.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The honours year in Pharmacology and Toxicology at Griffith University is all about getting hands-on experience and applying what you’ve learned in real research settings. You won’t just be sitting in lectures — you’ll be designing and conducting your own research project, working closely with experienced supervisors who guide you every step of the way. The Gold Coast Campus provides access to modern laboratories, research facilities, and professional networks so that your learning mirrors the work done in real-world science and health environments. This practical focus gives you the confidence and skills you need to take your career or further study to the next level.

Some of the key experiential opportunities you’ll enjoy include:

Independent research projects: You’ll design, conduct, and report on your own investigation, gaining direct experience in scientific methods and problem-solving.
Modern laboratory facilities: Work in specialised pharmacology, toxicology, and analytical labs equipped with professional-grade tools used in industry and research.
Advanced teaching spaces: Use flexible, hands-on lab environments like the G12 Undergraduate Laboratories to develop practical and analytical skills.
Connections to research infrastructure: Access resources at the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct, including the Clinical Trial Unit, to experience clinical and biomedical research in action.
Work-integrated learning: Opportunities for internships, placements, and professional projects let you apply your skills in real-world settings and build your professional network.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Completing the Honours year in Pharmacology and Toxicology at Griffith gives you a real edge, combining practical research experience with advanced scientific knowledge that employers value. Graduates often move into roles such as research scientist, laboratory technician, clinical trials coordinator, or regulatory affairs officer, and the independent research you complete during this year really helps you stand out:

Career support and guidance: Griffith’s Careers and Employment Service offers personalised advice, resume and interview coaching, and connects you with industry mentors to help you launch your career successfully.
Hands-on professional experience: Through work-integrated learning programs and mentoring opportunities, you can build your professional network and apply your skills in real-world scientific environments.
Employment outlook and earnings: Roles in pharmacology and toxicology, like research or lab positions, are in steady demand, with typical weekly earnings around AUD 1,386, providing both stability and growth potential.
University–industry connections: Griffith’s partnerships with biotech companies, health research centres, and scientific organisations give you the chance to work with professionals, gaining practical insights and networking opportunities.
Accreditation and recognition: The Honours year is an advanced undergraduate qualification recognised nationally, showing employers and postgraduate programs that you have strong research capability and in-depth expertise in your field.
Graduate outcomes: Surveys show that Griffith graduates are well-prepared and highly employable, reflecting the real-world relevance of your training and research experience.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the Honours year, many students continue with postgraduate research degrees such as a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), diving deeper into areas like drug discovery, toxicology, or clinical pharmacology. Alternatively, you could pursue coursework-based master’s programs in health science or biomedical research, broadening your career options in academia, industry, or regulatory science.