Bachelor of Health Science/Bachelor of Science(chemistry)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Swinburne University of Technology

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Health Science / Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Swinburne is a unique double degree that blends the study of human health with the science of chemistry, giving you the knowledge and skills to make an impact in both fields. It’s perfect for students who are curious about how chemistry affects biological systems, disease, and health outcomes, while also wanting a strong foundation in human health, wellness, and real-world health practice.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll establish a strong foundation in both health and science. You’ll study units such as Introduction to Health Sciences, Anatomy and Physiology, and Foundations of Statistics to understand the human body and health data, while chemistry and science units like Concepts of Biology and Introduction to Chemistry give you the basics of molecular science.

Year 2:
In the second year, your study becomes more integrated. You’ll explore Health and Disease Across the Life Course while also learning practical chemistry through units like Analytical and Forensic Chemistry and Spectroscopy and Instrumentation, giving you hands-on lab experience and insight into how chemistry supports health science research.

Year 3:
During the third year, you’ll tackle more advanced topics that bring together your health and chemistry knowledge. Units like Research Methods for Health Sciences and Health Sciences Project develop your evidence-based practice skills, while science units such as Investigative Organic Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry deepen your technical and analytical expertise.

Year 4:
In your final year, you’ll apply everything you’ve learned in major projects and electives. This could include advanced chemistry topics, specialised health subjects, or interdisciplinary areas like biomedical science, helping you focus on the career path or research area that excites you most.

Focus Areas

Human health and wellbeing, analytical and forensic chemistry, biological systems, health data interpretation, disease processes, and interdisciplinary science application.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll gain the ability to apply scientific and health knowledge to complex problems, conduct laboratory and health investigations, interpret and communicate data effectively, collaborate in multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to solutions in health and science contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Chemistry major within this double degree aligns with Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) standards, giving you a clear pathway to professional membership and recognised scientific competence.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Swinburne is internationally recognised for its strength in science and health disciplines. Graduates benefit from strong teaching quality, research excellence, and employability, helping you stand out in both health and scientific careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Health Science / Science (Chemistry) double degree at Swinburne, you’ll get much more than classroom knowledge — practical, hands-on experience is at the heart of the program. From working in advanced chemistry labs to completing real-world health projects, you’ll apply what you learn in ways that build confidence and prepare you for professional life. You’ll also collaborate with peers on team projects and have the chance to gain work experience through placements, all while using industry-standard tools and research facilities.

Here’s what your experiential learning looks like:

Work Integrated Learning and placements: Take advantage of Swinburne’s industry-linked projects, internships, and professional placements to see how your learning translates to real jobs in health and science settings.
State-of-the-art chemistry labs: Work in fully equipped Chemistry and Biotechnology Laboratories with tools for molecular biology, analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry, chromatography, microscopy, and more — just like professional research environments.
Group projects and collaborative research: Many units involve team-based research tasks, where you solve real problems, prepare reports, and present your findings — key skills for any health or science career.
Digital and academic resources: Swinburne’s libraries, online platforms, and research tools give you access to scientific journals, databases, and software, helping you analyse data, stay current with developments, and support your independent research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the Bachelor of Health Science / Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Swinburne opens many exciting pathways. You’ll have the skills and practical experience to step into roles such as medical researcher, forensic scientist, healthcare consultant, or sustainability analyst, where your combination of health knowledge and chemistry expertise is highly valued. This degree doesn’t just prepare you for your first job — it equips you to think critically, solve real-world problems, and make an impact in multiple industries:

Career support: Swinburne’s Careers & Employability team helps you every step of the way with resume reviews, interview preparation, and job or internship opportunities through the SwinEmploy portal, ensuring you’re ready for the workforce.
Employment outcomes and salaries: Health and science graduates from Swinburne enjoy strong employment prospects, with around 86 % securing work within four months of graduation, and competitive starting salaries compared to national averages.
Industry partnerships and real-world projects: Through Swinburne’s Work Integrated Learning program, you’ll work on practical, industry-linked projects that strengthen your professional portfolio and connect you with potential employers.
Long-term value: This double degree demonstrates your versatility, curiosity, and ability to tackle complex problems — qualities that help you stand out to employers and grow your career over time.
Graduate outcomes: Beyond immediate job opportunities, your skills can lead to roles in health policy, analytical science, biomedical research, or environmental and sustainability projects.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can continue your studies to specialise further. Many graduates pursue a Master of Public Health, Master of Biomedical Science, Master of Environmental Science, or even a PhD, giving you advanced expertise and access to leadership or research roles in health and science fields.