Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science

Develop strong laboratory skills

'I love how the course works, learning the theory first and then putting it into practice during practical classes. We learn specific techniques and skills that prepare us for our careers. During a practical class in third year haematology, I found it difficult to differentiate some of the white blood cells. The demonstrators gave me a few amazing tips on how to do this, that you won’t find in any textbook.'

Read Oskar's story

Studying medical laboratory science

'Medical laboratory scientists test human and animal specimens to diagnose a disease or mutation, or find toxins and poisons. Some of the best moments I've had at QUT have been learning more about infectious diseases and immunity. Connecting theory to practice helped develop a deeper understanding of diseases and how the body works to defend itself.'

Explore QUT laboratories

Take a sneak peek at where you will learn if you choose to study biomedical science or medical laboratory science at QUT. You’ll be learning in the laboratories from Semester 1 of your first year. Check out the spaces where you’ll master lab skills.

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Providing career pathways

After deciding a career in pathology was for me, I spent a great deal of time reading job advertisements. The overwhelming majority of pathology jobs require the medical laboratory science degree. I chose QUT because their course is centred on practical and specific pathology subjects, and extremely focused on career pathways. I was impressed with the industry connections and quality of the lecturers and guest speakers. Every one of them had extensive experience and ties to the industry.

Practical placements that count

In my final year, I had a 12-week laboratory placement in an area of my preference. This was in a busy metropolitan histology laboratory, where I had the chance to rotate through all the different areas, including embedding, sectioning, special stains and immunohistochemistry. I found the experience extremely interesting and valuable, and it led to my first job in a pathology laboratory.

Opportunity to gain practical experience

‘QUT provides students with the opportunity to undertake internships. During these placements, we get to experience the working environment and pace of a real laboratory and explore areas that may not be covered in our university coursework. I completed my first placement in histology and my second in haematology. I found both fields fascinating, and they offered experiences that were quite different from our practical classes at uni.’

Hands-on learning from day one

'One of the best things about my course is the emphasis on real-world practice and hands-on learning that starts from day one. The technical and professional skills I have developed at QUT will prepare me for my future career.'

Hands-on learning opportunities

‘I have always been interested in biology and chemistry since high school and have long aspired to work in a health-related field. Studying medical laboratory science at QUT was the perfect choice for me, as it not only combines two of my favourite sciences but also allows me to apply the skills I’ve learned in a real-world setting, such as a hospital laboratory.’