What Is Medical Science?
Medical science is the study of the human body’s functions and diseases, with the aim to improve understanding and patient health outcomes.
Medical science is the study of the human body’s functions and diseases. A bachelor degree in this field sets you up for further studies in medicine, pharmacy, and allied health.
Definition
Medical science is an umbrella term for numerous fields of study concerned with the human body, diseases, and treatments. Each field helps advance our understanding of health and disease, paving the way for improved patient care and overall well-being.
Medical sciences, a branch of health sciences, include the following (noting that this list is far from exhaustive):
- Basic disciplines (e.g., anatomy, physiology, biochemistry)
- Organ-focused specialties (e.g., cardiology, neurology, gastroenterology)
- Disease-specific studies (e.g., oncology, immunology, rheumatology)
- Interdisciplinary domains (e.g., genomics, epidemiology, health informatics)
- Technological and methodological areas (e.g., bioinformatics, medical imaging, radiology).
A medical science degree program may cover subjects such as human anatomy, molecular and cellular biology, pathology, pharmacology, and medical ethics.
The term “medical science” is most used in education, as well as in research institutions, academic publications, and professional conferences. In professional and health services settings, narrower fields or disciplines will almost always be referred to specifically.
What Does a Bachelor of Medical Science Do?
A Bachelor of Medical Science explores various medical disciplines, from anatomy and biochemistry to microbiology and genetics. The idea is to gain a well-rounded understanding of the workings of the human body and the science behind health and medicine.
Core subjects in undergraduate programs include physiology, molecular biology, immunology, pharmacology, pathology, and cellular biology.
The primary purpose of this degree is to provide foundational education. It serves as a springboard for further specialisation in postgraduate studies, such as medicine, pharmacy, allied health, or specialised health science fields. Such progression is common in Australia, leading to more advanced training.
Studying medical science has enduring benefits. It fosters a holistic view of healthcare. Students grasp the interconnectedness of the human body. They learn to consider emotional, psychological, and physical factors together. This broad approach enhances patient care and treatment outcomes.
Given its broad scope, the degree by itself might not position graduates for high-paying jobs. While graduates may secure positions as laboratory technicians or research assistants, the degree mainly prepares students to cultivate in-depth expertise. It sets the foundation for advanced study or supplementary training, opening doors to competitive roles in medicine and health.
Qualification for Medicine and Pharmacy
A Bachelor of Medical Science is a strong pathway into both medicine and pharmacy. The degree builds the scientific foundation needed for postgraduate study, while also allowing you to develop a competitive GPA, which is often the most important selection factor.
Preparation for Medicine
For graduate-entry medicine in Australia, a medical science degree is excellent preparation, though not strictly required. Students develop knowledge across key areas such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, immunology, genetics, and pharmacology. These subjects align closely with the science reasoning assessed in the GAMSAT and the early years of a Doctor of Medicine.
There are typically no strict subject prerequisites for medicine. A high GPA remains the priority for admission. However, students who have studied core biomedical subjects are generally better prepared for both the entrance exam and the academic demands of medical training.
Preparation for Pharmacy
For graduate-entry pharmacy programs, the pathway is more structured. A medical science or biomedical science degree often satisfies most, if not all, prerequisite requirements. Core areas usually include chemistry, physiology, pharmacology, and biochemistry, with microbiology and basic mathematics also commonly expected.
Many universities require these subjects to have been completed within the past ten years, along with a solid academic average. Because of these specific requirements, a science-based degree is often the most direct and reliable pathway into pharmacy.
International perspective
For an international perspective, online PharmD degrees in the U.S. may specifically require: Biology I with labs, General Chemistry I and II with labs, Organic Chemistry I and II with labs, Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs, Physics I (or Physics for Health Sciences), Calculus I, and Statistics. These requirements are more prescriptive than in Australia and reinforce the importance of a strong science foundation.
ATAR Scores
The required ATAR or selection rank for medical science averages around 84. Requirements can vary significantly depending on the university. For instance, the minimum ATAR is 65 at Western Sydney University and 92 at UWA. For combined programs with a Doctor of Medicine, the lowest ATAR climbs even higher, reaching levels like 99.85 at Griffith University and 96.8 at Monash University.
Careers with a Medical Sciences Degree
A Bachelor of Medical Science provides a foundation in various medical disciplines, but on its own, it opens doors to a limited set of roles. For a broader career spectrum, further specialisation or postgraduate study is usually required.
With the degree alone, a graduate may find roles in medical research as a laboratory technician, research assistant, or health science writer. They can also venture into positions like a sales representative for medical products, health informatics assistant, or clinical trials assistant.
Career paths with further study
A medical sciences degree is a good starting point for those keen on a deep dive into the medical field or pursuing a career as a medical scientist. It sets the stage for postgraduate studies in medicine, pharmacy, and public health.
Those aiming to become medical scientists can explore various specialties with this degree. Most medical scientists hold doctorates in their specific field or a closely related one.
The degree serves as a useful foundation for postgraduate studies in disciplines such as biomedical science, clinical immunology, molecular biology, pharmacology, microbiology, or pathology.
Postgraduate Courses
Professionals working in areas such as clinical research, biomedical science, and healthcare administration often do postgraduate medical science courses to further their interdisciplinary expertise.
- A graduate certificate offers introductory or focused exploration of specialised areas. Graduates often have the option to progress to a graduate diploma or master’s program, using the credits they’ve earned.
- The graduate diploma goes a step further. With about twice the content of a graduate certificate, it suits professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and readiness for advanced roles.
- A Master of Medical Science is the top-tier option, combining in-depth academic instruction with practical experience. It’s ideal for future leadership or research positions.
Completing a postgraduate qualification opens doors to high-level job opportunities. Potential jobs include clinical project manager, policy advisor, research director, biotechnologist, pharmaceutical researcher, medical laboratory scientist, and clinical physiologist.