Our study abroad and exchange program offers units from a wide range of allied health disciplines that are professionally recognised in Australia. We have partnerships with governments, health organisations and communities to offer real-world clinical and practical training. Study in multi-million-dollar facilities and simulation centres to hone your skills before placements.
Units you can study
Choose from the undergraduate or postgraduate options on offer across a range of disciplines. As long as you meet the prerequisites, you can choose subjects from any of our discipline areas to suit your interests.
Most units have a lecture and a tutorial each week. Lectures and tutorials for postgraduate units are usually held in the evenings.
Approved units
All students can study these units, regardless of your academic background. These units will be approved on your QUT study plan after you apply.
Biomedical sciences
LQB180 Foundations of Biochemistry
As part of your foundational level studies and training in disciplines related to biomedical and health sciences, you need to develop knowledge and comprehension of biochemistry in order to describe and explain the biomolecular composition of cells that constitute living systems, such as the human body, the structural nature of biomolecules, and the functions of biomolecules in essential life processes.
LQB181 Introduction to Medical Laboratory Science
Medical laboratory scientists work in clinical diagnostic pathology, performing laboratory based tests on tissue(s) or bodily fluids e.g. tissue biopsies, blood or urine. These assist medical practitioners and allied healthcare workers in the diagnosis of disease, management of patient care and ongoing research into disease. Up to 70% of medical treatments are based on a pathology diagnosis. This first year unit introduces you to the profession of medical laboratory science, the clinical practice of diagnostic pathology and your LS47 course. In a case-study scenario, you will learn and apply foundational knowledge and laboratory skills required to practice in clinical pathology. You will also be introduced to personal and academic support resources to support transition into first year and the rest of your course at QUT, and academic skills including information literacy and digital technologies.
LQB182 Cell and Molecular Biology
Cell and molecular biology is an exciting, rapidly evolving, and major field in biomedical disciplines and this unit will expose you to modern examples of applications of cell and molecular biology in medical and research settings. There will be an emphasis on the development of practical skills and knowledge that will support your learning of fundamental concepts. A basic understanding of cell and molecular biology is required for further study in many areas, including the study of clinical sciences, biochemistry, and human physiology. Importantly, this unit will provide you with a strong foundation of knowledge regarding cells, their structures and functions that is applicable to many professional disciplines.
LQB187 Human Anatomy
Anatomy, derived from the Greek language and translated literally to mean 'to cut up', is the science of morphology or structure of an organism and its various parts. The study of human systematic anatomy requires the identification and description of biological structures of the human body through an investigation of functional organ systems, such as the cardiovascular, nervous, digestive and skeletal systems. This unit will introduce anatomy as a language enabling health professionals, scientists and engineers to effectively communicate with each other through the application of appropriate anatomical terminology to a range of audiences. This introductory unit provides appropriate foundational knowledge and practical skills in anatomy for students enrolled in health, science or engineering courses through the investigation of organ structure using macroscopic and microscopic anatomy. It is an essential prerequisite for further study in anatomical sciences and health.
LQB301 Medical Microbiology and Infection Control
Infectious agents continue to be an important cause of human morbidity and mortality in the healthcare system, while also posing an occupational risk for healthcare professionals. In your clinical practice as a healthcare professional, a broad knowledge and understanding of infectious diseases is fundamental to developing strategies to reduce the risk of transmission and infection-associated sequelae in the community and in healthcare facilities through prevention, control and treatment of infectious diseases. This introductory unit provides you with foundational knowledge on the range of infectious agents affecting human health and disease, alongside the methods used to limit the growth and transmission of microbial pathogens. This foundational knowledge underpins the practical experience you will gain in dealing with infectious agents in the subsequent clinical practice units of your degree.
LQN100 Human Genetics
This foundational unit addresses the fundamentals of human genetics in a clinical context. You will learn how to evaluate clinical genetics cases and communicate the genetic basis of pathology to colleagues. This unit enables you to become comfortable, competent and confident with analysing human pedigrees and researching the clinical and molecular aspects of condition present in the family tree. Clinicians who are requesting and/or interpreting genetic test results will become familiar with these concepts to communicate with colleagues and care for patients. The unit embeds teaching of academic skills including the use of genetic and library databases.
LQN101 Disease Pathogenesis
This foundational unit addresses the core concepts, mechanisms, and consequences of molecular and chromosomal aberrations. You will be given real world case studies including genetic diseases that impact Indigenous Australians such as Machado Joseph Disease (MJD) and the mitochondrial disorder MELAS. You will be given specific examples where racial stereotyping and lack of Indigenous genomic reference sequence has delayed diagnosis of a genetic disease. This is an introductory unit and the knowledge and skills developed in this unit are relevant to core diagnostic genomic units and electives. Students are required to verify their identity in this unit by displaying their student identification card during the assessment 1 oral presentation. Authentication of learning and verification of identity may be assessed by an online viva with the unit coordinator.
LQN102 Diagnostic Genetics
This foundational genomics unit examines the different types of molecular lesions encountered in human diagnostics and provides insight into how to select the most appropriate diagnostic platform to detect them. You will learn about how to interpret results in order to communicate them to colleagues and referring physicians. Clinicians requesting and/or interpreting genetic test results for their patients will become familiar with these concepts to improve clinical practice. Students are required to verify their identification in this unit by displaying their student identification card during the assessment 1 oral presentation. Authentication of learning and verification of identity may be assessed by an online viva with the unit coordinator.
LQN103 Genetic Technologies
This foundational genomics unit examines the key molecular technologies that can be applied to clinical diagnosis and human genetics research. Examples of different types of molecular lesions encountered in human genomics are used to demonstrate the selection of the most appropriate diagnostic platform. You will learn about how to interpret results in order to communicate them to colleagues and referring physicians. Clinicians who interpret genetic test results for their patients will become familiar with these concepts to improve clinical care. Students are required to verify their identification in this unit by displaying their student identification card at the beginning of their assessment 2 oral presentation.
LQN200 Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology
Fundamental and advanced concepts in cell and molecular biology are covered in order to fully appreciate the principles of disease pathogenesis, and diagnostic methodologies in order to apply them. Genomic scientists need to know how to interpret molecular test results in order to communicate them to colleagues and referring physicians. Clinicians requesting and/or interpreting genetic test results for their patients also need to be familiar with these molecular biological concepts.
LQN201 Lab Management, Compliance and Quality Control
All aspects of laboratory management are examined including, compliance, accreditation, regulation, safety and quality control. This unit covers governance practices required for genomic scientists and clinicians working in laboratory senior positions.
LQN202 Variant Classification
This unit covers the application of array technology and massively parallel sequencing data processing to identify variants. In addition, the tools available to assist with variant interpretation and classification are examined. Not only do genomic scientists need in-depth knowledge of these platforms, but so do clinicians requesting and receiving results of genetic tests in order to advise and manage patients.
LQN203 Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Genetics and Genomics
This unique interdisciplinary unit is specifically designed for students to gain in-depth perspectives of the ethical implications of genetics and genomics including the additional considerations which apply to genetic testing related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. In this unit, you will explore the ethical, legal, and social implications surrounding the practice of clinical genetics, medical testing, and scientific research. By examining these crucial issues, you will gain valuable insights into the complexities that govern the field and understand how you can contribute to shaping responsible and equitable practices in genetics.
LQN204 Molecular Genomics
This unit provides high-level training in human molecular diagnostic genomics covering the knowledge in genomics that scientists and clinicians working in genomics need to have. This includes medical conditions that are commonly referred to clinical laboratories, genetic testing required to confirm diagnoses, and the interpretation of results.
LQN206 Cytogenomics
This unit provides high-level training in human cytogenomics and develops the skills to identify and appropriately investigate chromosomal abnormalities. This unit will enable scientists to apply critical thinking to interpret the clinical significance and prognosis of chromosomal abnormalities and to apply this reasoning to drive a wholistic, genome-wide approach to patient management. Clinical and research scientists working in cytogenomic laboratories will become knowledgeable of some of the germline and somatic conditions which are commonly referred to diagnostic cytogenomic laboratories and the pipelines using the technology currently employed in diagnostic cytogenomic laboratories to investigate these genomic abnormalities.
LQN301 Cancer Genomics
This unit examines both the somatic and germline genomic lesions behind cancer initiation, progression and resistance to therapies. Clinicians, biomedical scientists and those working in diagnostic laboratories need to understand the genetic basis of cancer including the role of hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes and the varied genomic changes that can occur somatically. An understanding of the utility of cancer genomic testing in classifying and diagnosing cancer, the separate roles of this testing for predicting prognosis and as predictive biomarkers for precision oncology therapies and in monitoring disease progression will also be explored.
LQN303 Computational Genomics
This unit provides an overview of the various tools used across genomic diagnosis and provided the opportunity for students to practice using these tools. Genomic scientists and healthcare professionals need to be familiar with the computational principles behind big data analysis used in array technology and next-generation sequencing. Genomic scientists need to develop a working knowledge of common computer programs and databases used to interpret such data. Clinicians should be familiar with how genomic variants are interpreted and the strengths and limitations of different approaches.
LSB111 Understanding Disease Concepts
This unit reinforces fundamental assumed knowledge of anatomy and physiology and introduces the study of human disease processes or pathophysiology. General concepts underlying human diseases as well as disorders relating to organ systems will be studied and the major diseases affecting Australians, in particular those identified as contributing significantly to disability and death in Australia by the National Health Priority Areas, will be addressed. The ability to understand and interpret the pathophysiology specific to clinical contexts and to communicate this information using appropriate medical terminology are essential requirements for all students undertaking allied health courses and prepares them for professional practice.
LSB142 Human Anatomy and Physiology
A strong background in human body structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) is essential for students in professional health courses. In this introductory unit you will be provided with opportunities to investigate both theoretical and practical aspects of gross, systematic and microscopic anatomy. You will also review general physiological principles such as homeostasis and investigate how all the organ systems of the body contribute to maintaining internal balance. Knowledge and practical skills acquired in this foundational unit will allow you to engage with more advanced studies in human health.
LSB231 Human Physiology
A strong foundation in human physiology is essential for all allied health professionals and biomedical scientists. Human physiology is the study of the function of the human body and how it adapts to changes in the internal and external environment. In this first year foundational unit you will be introduced to the principles of physiology, the major physiological systems and how they relate to each other. You will gain skills in physiological measurement, data analysis and interpretation and an introduction to clinical physiology skills.
Health
QUT003 QUT You: Real Action for Real Change
Real world challenges such as climate change, health epidemics, data or food security are by their very nature complex. Solutions require both large scale changes through government and commercial sectors, but also locally driven action that is tailored to the nuances of a community. In this QUT You unit, you will develop an action plan related to a social, health, political or environmental real world challenge of interest. You will employ critical and creative thinking to drive positive impact. Generative AI technologies will be explored to further develop your change ideas. Your discoveries will identify the challenges, reasons for a lack of action, and likely areas of intervention that may result in a meaningful change to attitudes, technologies, and/or behaviour. Through supported classes, you will create a locally driven action plan to engage, educate, and encourage meaningful change from members of the general public or a relevant community.
QUT005 QUT You: Seeing Me, Seeing You: Skills for a Diverse World
We both live and work in a diverse and multi-cultural society. To be successful in your professional and personal lives you need to recognise and appreciate the impact that your own identity and the identity of others contributes to our social interactions and relationships. This unit provides you with skills to become more culturally aware in your communication and express yourself in a confident, but respectful manner. By learning about the intricate nature of culture, language and power, and how they contribute to engagement with others, you will be better able to form meaningful and connected relationships. You will also learn to apply skills including observation, empathy, communication and social connection to understand and address power imbalances in personal and work relationships. These skills will enable you to work effectively in diverse teams and to foster inclusive environments in both personal and professional settings.
Nursing
NSB103 Health Assessment
Health assessment is the foundation of nursing practice and clinical reasoning. This unit complements the unit LSB142 Human Anatomy and Physiology for Health Professionals by providing an opportunity for you to apply knowledge of scientific foundations of human health to the core nursing skill of health assessment. Effective health assessment underpins all aspects of person-centred nursing care. The foundational skills learnt in this unit are critical to success in later integrated-practice units and unit concepts are further developed as you extend your knowledge of health and nursing. Selected Principles of Public Safety and Quality Health Standards.
NSB202 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' Well-being
An understanding of the social determinants of health and the impact of historical and contemporary policy and practice influencing the health and well-being of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders is essential to providing optimal health care. This unit privileges cultural safety as the preferred model to contemporary health care delivery in Australia. It promotes the position of the contemporary health practitioner as a fundamental member of the partnership with the health care recipient, and thus is necessary to enhancing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and well-being. Cultural safety also makes conspicuous manifestations of racism which impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and well-being. Importantly, a culturally safe approach values the pivotal role of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples' self-determination in leading health care advances associated with their own care.
Psychology and counselling
PYB007 Communication for Health Professionals
Effective communication is widely considered to be a key component of health care practice in the real world. In this multidisciplinary and highly practical unit, you will work with other learners from different health disciplines to have the opportunity to develop the core communication skills identified by the industry as essential for ethical, culturally safe and intentional practice. A major focus of PYB007 will be the development of interpersonal communication skills which you will practice in a safe and supportive environment. In addition to face-to-face practice, you will develop and practice skills specifically for online communication in recognition of the changing face of healthcare. These skills will support you to build effective relationships with clients and colleagues, facilitate important conversations and meetings, resolve conflict and provide feedback, all in a culturally safe manner.
PYB100 Foundation Psychology
Psychology is a broad-ranging and multifaceted discipline which encompasses the scientific study of human behaviour, and the systematic application of knowledge gained from psychological research to a broad range of applied issues. The goal of this foundational unit is to introduce you to major subfields and perspectives in psychology, to develop your understanding of the research methods used in psychological research and to develop your critical thinking skills. This unit provides a strong basis for future learning in the discipline. Topics covered in PYB100 will include child and adult development, social psychology, and an overview of the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems. We will consider Indigenous and diverse cultural perspectives, ethical issues in psychological research, and how psychological perspectives can help us understand and address real world issues. This unit will help you develop your database searching and critical evaluation skills.
PYB110 Psychological Research Methods
Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and cognition. This unit is designed to introduce students to the scientific method of research in psychology, research design, and data analysis. The unit covers elementary research design, operationalisation of variables, descriptive statistics, correlation, hypothesis testing using statistical tests such as t-tests, and qualitative research methods. By learning these research methods, students are expected to start developing a data-driven, evidence-based perspective on psychological issues.
PYB321 Introduction to the Psychology of Trauma
More than half the population experiences trauma across the lifetime. Trauma is acknowledged as playing a key role in the development of mental and physical health issues. There is an increased understanding and interest in society around the prevalence and impact of trauma including domestic violence, child abuse, sudden bereavement and war. Despite this, most professionals across disciplines including psychology, social work, education and law, receive no systematic training in trauma. This introductory unit provides you with foundational knowledge about the psychology of trauma and vicarious trauma as it applies to people who experience trauma firsthand or those in professions likely to assist people who have experienced trauma. This elective complements learning across disciplines including social work, psychology, law, education and nursing. The unit is linked to core psychology units PYB100 and PYB102 and is linked to PYB304 regarding neurobiological aspects of trauma.
Units requiring approval
Students need specific academic background knowledge to study these units. We will assess your eligibility and determine if you’re able to take these units after you apply. We will let you know the outcome as soon as possible.
Biomedical sciences
LQB280 Genes, Genomes and Genetics
Molecular genetics underpins the diagnostics and treatment of many inherited and acquired diseases. Central to the approaches currently being applied to understand complex life processes is the ability to interrogate and interpret the molecular genetic information stored in DNA, RNA or protein (i.e., bioinformatics and genomics). Such information not only underpins our identification and understanding of the particular disease state but also points to potential options for treatment. Higher-level studies in the life sciences, and specifically the health-related sciences, require an understanding of these basic theoretical and practical concepts and approaches to interrogating the genomes of humans and other organisms.
LQB286 Quantitative Skills for Health Scientists
Quantitative Skills for Health Scientists develops and reinforces key foundational numerical literacy, practical and quantitative skills which are required for practicing biomedical and/or medical laboratory scientists. The unit provides opportunities to apply these skills through collaborative workshops which provide a forum for practically applying numerical skills and data analysis, to enhance scientific communication in the biomedical sciences. This unit is designed to expand students' knowledge of important skills and competencies in numeracy, mathematical operations, data collection and analysis, and biostatistics, that provide a strong foundation for continuing studies in the broad range of biomedical disciplines and related health areas.
LQB362 Fundamentals of Microbiology
Medical microbiology involves research into human infectious diseases from multiple viewpoints including: spectrum of disease, diagnosis, aetiology, treatment, prevention, control and epidemiology. An integral part of the practice of medical microbiology is the laboratory processing of specimens derived from patients with infectious diseases, with a focus in this unit on bacterial, fungal and parasitic species. Ultimately, you will need to have both a comprehensive and in-depth knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts in infectious disease microbiology and be able to apply that knowledge and understanding safely, competently and skilfully in a PC2 diagnostic laboratory context.
LQB381 Biochemistry
Biochemistry is where biology meets chemistry to reveal how life works at a molecular level. Building on the biochemistry and biology concepts from your first year studies, this unit explores how biomolecules, such as nucleic acids, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates, power the processes within living cells, and drive everything from cellular metabolism to health and disease. This unit provides a solid foundation to deepen your exploration of biochemistry and related fields within biomedical and allied health sciences.
LQB382 Developmental Anatomy and Tissue Adaptation
The human body is very responsive to its environment, both in terms of genetic cues during embryological development and hormonal and mechanical signals during post-natal ageing. This unit will explore a number of key embryological processes where tissue patterning results in the formation of the nervous, muscular, skeletal and cardiovascular organ systems, and provides the foundational understanding of the mechanisms responsible for anatomical variation in the human body. Furthermore the ability of tissues to adapt to their environment will be discussed by building understanding of tissue biomechanics and the effects of trauma and ageing on the human body; where you will have the opportunity to design, implement and analyse experimental data in a bone strength research project. This developmental unit builds on foundational knowledge gained in first year anatomy and provides keystone knowledge and skills to advance into further units in Anatomical Sciences.
LQB385 Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics
The human genome shapes who we are. In this unit, you will learn how, why, when and where genes are expressed. You will learn about the human genome, the importance of protein coding genes and of regions that do not encode proteins and the consequences of genetic variation and mutations, which may cause disease. An important part of the unit is the hands-on development of molecular biology skills in the laboratory and bioinformatics skills on the computer. You will amplify, quantify, sequence and clone DNA. You will also use the Nobel prize-winning technology CRISPR, a gene-editing tool that has shown early successes in the treatment of patients by correcting genetic defects. Finally, you will use bioinformatics approaches to analyse DNA, RNA and protein sequences, including in the context of disease, and learn data analytics approaches, which are invaluable in the current era of big data and precision medicine.
LQB387 Clinical Immunology
Many aspects of human health and illness rely on the interaction of the components of the immune system. The principles of some of these interactions are also used in the laboratory for the diagnosis of disease or physiological states, including for infectious and non-infectious presentations. To work effectively and with confidence as a medical laboratory scientist it is essential you have knowledge relating to the immune system and application of fundamental and investigative immunological procedures. This unit is positioned in the introductory to developmental phase of LS47 and assumes knowledge from LQB292. This unit also provides you with inter-related critical foundation knowledge and practical skills for subsequent clinical units in LS47 including clinical microbiology, biochemistry, haematology, transfusion and transplantation science, and Work Integrated Learning Internship.
LQB388 Medical Physiology 1
An appreciation of how the human body works is an important prerequisite to understanding the basis of health, disease, diagnostic technologies and treatment strategies. This unit deals specifically with the physiological systems that are responsible for the maintenance of health in humans. It therefore provides a useful frame of reference for students enrolled in biomedical science, nutrition science, nutrition and dietetics, exercise science, medical engineering or any of the biological sciences. In the course of the semester you will investigate half the systems that constitute the human body with the remainder dealt with in the second semester unit Medical Physiology 2 (LQB488).
LQB389 Regional and Sectional Anatomy for Radiation Therapy
A detailed knowledge and understanding of regional and cross-sectional anatomy is a basic requirement for radiation therapists working in clinical and diagnostic settings to excel in their performance in radiotherapeutic procedures. This unit provides theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the identification and description of biological structures in the anatomical regions of the human body. These regions include the head, neck, back, thorax, abdomen, pelvis and perineum, with a focus on the lymphatic system.
LQB390 Regional and Sectional Anatomy for Medical Imaging
A detailed knowledge and understanding of regional and cross-sectional anatomy is a basic requirement for diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers to excel in their performance in imaging procedures. This unit provides theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the identification and description of biological structures in the anatomical regions of the human body. These regions include the head, neck, back, thorax, abdomen, pelvis and perineum, and the upper and lower limbs.
LQB429 Quality and Analysis in Clinical Biochemistry
Quality and Analysis in Clinical Biochemistry develops previous work undertaken in LQB286 and LQB381. This second-year unit introduces quality assurance, analyses, automated technologies, and clinical topics relevant to real world chemical pathology laboratories. Assays must be performed with accuracy and precision, and data and results validated according to quality standards, and troubleshooting skills also developed. With emphasis on the knowledge, skills and values required for good laboratory practice, and a commitment to high quality results, this unit prepares you for more complex procedures and clinical topics in the third-year unit LQB529 Chemical Pathology.
LQB462 Microbial Diagnostics
Medical microbiologists investigate microorganisms, those found within a human host as normal regional flora and those that cause human infectious diseases. This unit will introduce you to the diversity of microorganisms, the spectrum of infectious disease states, methods for the detection and identification of aetiological agents, and directed and supportive therapies for treating infections. In this unit you will develop expertise in the laboratory techniques applied in the diagnostic microbiology laboratory, the ability to interpret the significance of diagnostic testing results, and to communicate these results and your recommendations to medical professionals. This unit is positioned in the developmental phase of your course and assumes proficiency in the laboratory skills and theoretical learning from first and second year in LQB181, LQB292 and LQB362. Combined with LQB562 in third year, LQB462 will prepare you for employment in a diagnostic microbiology laboratory.
LQB481 Biochemical Pathways and Metabolism
The study of biochemistry, along with cell and molecular biology, provides you with the knowledge required for an effective understanding of the structure and function of living organisms at the molecular level. This unit advances the studies begun in LQB381 Biochemistry and further develops your knowledge and understanding of biochemical and molecular studies into metabolic pathways and processes occurring in living cells with a focus on human metabolism in health and disease. This unit provides you with a knowledge base and skills for advanced studies in biochemistry, as well as support for higher level units in life science and allied health courses.
LQB482 Anatomical Imaging
In order to recognise human pathology in a clinical setting, an understanding of the anatomical presentation of organs in health is essential. This unit focuses on the acquisition and application of knowledge of the organ systems of the thorax, abdomen, head and select regions of the limbs to a medical imaging context. Imaging modalities in plain and contrast radiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging will be explored to understand the context of their application in the clinical setting. Furthermore an understanding of phenotypic patterns of anatomical variation will be examined through case studies and exploration of human donor material, where you will further develop effective teamwork and self-management skills, essential attributes of clinicians and biomedical scientists. This unit will build on your knowledge gained in first level anatomy and provide relevant knowledge and skills for more advanced studies in Anatomical Sciences.
LQB485 Cell Biology
Understanding the role of cells and how their cellular components are fundamental to a healthy life is crucial for your understanding of how they become disregulated in disease and how individual components might be targeted to treat diseases. This unit builds on your knowledge of cellular components to examine how these come together structurally and functionally to build cells and tissues that function as part of a whole organism capable of surviving and protecting itself from disease and trauma. It will provide a platform for students undertaking the final year cell and molecular biotechnology units. This unit will provide hands on laboratory experience working with cells and will enhance skills in assessing, summarising and placing biomedical research in the context of health and disease.
LQB488 Medical Physiology 2
An appreciation of how the human body works is an important prerequisite to understanding the basis of health, disease, diagnostic technologies and treatment strategies. This unit deals specifically with the physiological systems that are responsible for the maintenance of health in humans. It therefore provides a useful frame of reference for students enrolled in biomedical science, nutrition and dietetics, exercise science, medical engineering or any of the biological sciences. In the course of the semester you will investigate half the systems that constitute the human body with the remainder dealt with in the first semester unit Medical Physiology 1 (LQB388).
LQB494 Viruses and Viral Pathogenesis
This unit is designed for students in biomedical sciences, to provide a strong grounding in the field of virology and to expand on the fundamental mechanisms and processes that underpin the pathogenic potential of select viruses. This unit is a core unit in the infection and immunity strand, building on concepts introduced in Principles of Infection and Immunity (LQB292). LQB494 continues the study of the virus-host interactions with a focus on microbe-specific factors that underlie infectious disease progression, knowledge necessary for further studies of more advanced molecular virology analyses. You will develop a strong, fundamental knowledge of virology and industry-relevant skills, using cutting-edge technology in laboratory classes, to prepare you for a career in biomedical research, medical biotechnology and postgraduate studies in biomedical science.
LQB495 Molecular Genomics
This unit provides high-level training in human molecular pathology to provide clinical and research scientists with the core knowledge and practical skills for the detection and clinical interpretation of germline and somatic chromosomal genomic disorders. This unit will provide a foundation applicable to diagnostic molecular genomic and research laboratories.
LQB508 Pathophysiology
LQB508 Pathophysiology is an advanced unit that will build upon your existing knowledge of disease processes and practical skills gained in LSB258, LQB388 and LQB488. This unit will give you an in-depth understanding of the pathophysiology of a wide range of diseases/disorders with particular emphasis conditions identified as areas of national health priority by the Australian National Medical Health and Research Council (NHMRC) such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and metabolic syndromes. The lecture content is complemented by case study workshops. The practical component will assist you in developing the technical and analytical skills required to investigate the pathophysiology of disease processes crucial in both research and industry settings. Critical evaluation and communication, both written and oral, of complex pathophysiological research data is also a key component of this unit.
LQB529 Chemical Pathology
This unit is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical competencies required to function effectively as medical laboratory scientists within Chemical Pathology laboratories. Positioned in the formative phase of the course, it follows LQB429 Quality and Analysis in Clinical Biochemistry, ensuring a logical progression of learning. Together, these units provide comprehensive preparation for employment in both small, multi-disciplinary laboratories that conduct a limited range of biochemical tests, and larger, specialised laboratories engaged in advanced investigations across all domains of chemical pathology.
LQB562 Advanced Microbial Diagnostics
An integral part of the practice of diagnostic microbiology is the laboratory processing of clinical specimens derived from patients with infectious diseases. Ultimately you will need to have a comprehensive and in-depth knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts in infectious disease microbiology and be able to apply that knowledge and understanding safely, competently and skillfully in a PC2 diagnostic laboratory context.LQB562 is part of a structured progression from your earlier LS47 units, including: LQB181 Introduction to Medical Laboratory Science, LQB292 Principles of Infection & Immunity, LQB362 Fundamentals of Microbiology and LQB462 Microbial Diagnostics. The LS47 medical microbiology stream as outlined above was specifically developed to ensure a stepwise and coherent learning pathway in your training to become a professionally-accredited medical laboratory scientist with expertise in diagnostic microbiology.
LQB570 Forensic Anatomy
A strong foundation in human anatomy, particularly human osteology, is essential for the identification and interpretation of human remains as required by the Coronial system. This unit focuses on building advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in the interpretation of a biological profile of unknown human skeletal remains. A biological profile includes the estimation of sex, ancestry, age and stature of unknown remains that assists towards potential matches in the missing persons database. This unit will also investigate crime scene examination techniques, human skeletal variability and taphonomy; and current research and applications within forensic anthropology. The unit culminates in the presentation of evidence in a moot court based on a semester long missing person case.
LQB571 Neuroscience
Neuroscience is the study of the structure and function of the nervous system and has the ultimate aim of understanding the neural basis of normal behaviour as well as the changes that are responsible for the debilitating consequences of nervous system disorders. In this unit you will explore a number of contemporary neuroscience topics including functional brain imaging, neural repair and regeneration, neuronal stem cells, memory and neurological disorders. This unit will utilise human cadaveric prosections and tissue obtained from euthanased animals. This unit is positioned in the advanced phase of the course and builds on knowledge of the physiology of the nervous system in Medical Physiology 1 (LQB388) and regional and imaging anatomy of the nervous system gained in Anatomical Imaging (LQB482).This unit will provide a strong foundation for entry into neurobiology research or clinical fields.
LQB581 Biomolecular Control Systems
This unit extends the principles of enzyme structure and function, and metabolic regulation, using several model systems. It develops an advanced understanding of basic theoretical and practical aspects of metabolic systems and biomolecular signalling pathways, and the integration and regulation of cellular responses to external stimuli. Through coverage of these principles you will further develop your knowledge, practical expertise and research skills in preparation for pursuing career opportunities relating to biochemistry or allied professions in biomedical science.
LQB583 Molecular Systems Biology
Over the past decade, technological advances have transformed research capabilities to the point where multiple biomolecular targets, such as genes, proteins or metabolites, within a single system can be investigated simultaneously. Systems biology involves the study of a complex system through multiple biomolecular perspectives to determine molecular relationships and functions across a biological system of interest. Resulting data is often interrogated using advanced bioinformatics to determine how networks of molecules relate to specific phenotypes. Importantly, such approaches are becoming increasingly prevalent in the laboratories of most leading research institutions globally. Thus, the skills necessary to extract meaningful biological information using omics approaches are highly sought after. This unit will provide you with a strong overview of various omics approaches and expose you to advanced bioinformatics tools for solving complex biological problems.
LQB596 Immunology and Immune Dysfunction
Our immune system has evolved to discriminate between self and non-self in order to protect against microbial infection and disease. While this discrimination is highly regulated, immune dysfunction can disrupt the balance between protection and uncontrolled inflammation leading to long-term and sometimes devastating chronic immune disease. This unit will develop a deeper understanding of immune regulation theory which is further applied to clinical immune dysfunction case studies. Further knowledge of immune pathway dysregulation in clinical disease is essential not only for understanding disease pathogenesis but also for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic targets.
LQB600 Pharmacology
An understanding of pharmacology and how drugs interact with physiological systems is important for biomedical scientists. This unit will extend your knowledge of systems physiology/pathophysiology gained in Medical Physiology 1 (LQB388) and Medical Physiology 2 (LQB488) and help you understand the principles behind the use of medicines, as well as the rationale for the development of new drugs. There will be an emphasis on learning about the major mechanisms of drug action. This unit will focus on common diseases and a number of body systems, including the peripheral and central nervous systems, cardiovascular system, respiratory system and endocrine system. This unit will prepare you for working in the field of clinical physiology, or for further studies in allied health, or medicine, and provide an understanding of the physiological basis of pharmacology for students interested in undertaking research in this exciting specialism.
LQB601 Cancer Biology
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and research into its treatment and prevention has significantly improved cancer mortality rates. This unit will build upon knowledge and skills acquired from Cell and Molecular Biology (LQB182); Human Health and Disease Concepts (LQB281), Cell Biology (LQB485), and other Biomedical Science units to specifically inform the study of cancer biology and the implementation of technologies employed to investigate this complex group of diseases. This unit has a substantial practical focus and will prepare students for further study in medical or biomedical fields, or for biomedical research. Cancer is a major research priority at QUT and this unit will provide a strong foundation for undertaking Higher Degree Research in this field. The unit will also deliver a hands-on experience in cancer research laboratory techniques that will ably equip cell and molecular biology students intending to enter the workforce following graduation.
LQB608 Extreme Physiology
This unit is designed for students undertaking the human physiology major in the Bachelor of Biomedical Science. You will integrate and apply knowledge obtained from Medical Physiology 1 (LQB388) and Medical Physiology 2 (LQB488) to study a number of advanced topics in physiology. In addition you will develop your ability to discuss, interpret and critically analyse important scientific issues. By successfully completing this unit you will be able to demonstrate a range of important skills including critical thinking, team work, planning, scientific writing, time-management, problem-solving and organisation skills. This unit has a very strong practical focus and you will investigate physiological problems independently and as a member of a team. These skills will prepare you for postgraduate study (such as the Bachelor of Biomedical Science - Honours), to work in biomedical research or for a career in clinical physiology.
LQB682 Biomolecular Design
Biomolecular Design provides an advanced theoretical and practical foundation for careers in biomedical research, development, and biotechnology. It focuses on the methodologies and applications of protein-based analytical technologies, which are relevant for biomedical research, and therapeutic development. You will explore these technologies gaining hands-on experience in laboratory-based approaches while also developing the critical thinking skills required for evaluating emerging technologies. Building on prior studies in biochemistry and molecular biology, this unit equips you with essential competencies for experimental design, data analysis, and problem-solving in biological research. Additionally, it extends your understanding for broader applications, including regulatory considerations, technology assessment, and intellectual property.
LQB683 Diagnostic Cytopathology
The goal of cytopathology is to predict the underlying histology of lesions using small samples obtained by minimally invasive methods. The results are used to direct patient management and often involve the integration of diagnostic tests you have developed and applied in earlier units, such as histology, immunohistochemistry and molecular pathology. This unit builds on the knowledge and practical skills you have gained in LSB466 and LSB566 to expand your practical/technical and diagnostic skills. This unit prepares you for employment in a diagnostic cytopathology laboratory and introduces the types of specimens reported, methods of processing applied and the cytological features used to diagnose tumours and benign conditions.
LQB684 Advances in Medical Biotechnology
This unit has a focus on learning by doing. Students design their own experimental methods, conduct research, collect data and analyze their results. Students focus their research project on one of the below questions in personalized medicine; Bio-Organoids: A cellular based research project utilizing 3D tissue culture, cellular assays and immunofluorescence. Genomic medicine: A dry-lab research project using GWAS to gain biological insight and tailor patient clinical management. Biomolecular analysis: Using advanced level biochemical assays including chromatographic and electrophoretic techniques. The research is complemented by an understanding of emerging treatments for health problems in remote Australia and Indigenous communities. You will further develop your scientific research and analytical skills and design innovative solutions for improving modern healthcare.
LQB693 Immunological Approaches for Research
Our immune system has evolved to discriminate between self and non-self in order to protect us against disease and to avoid autoimmune responses and disease. Understanding how our immune system works will allow an appreciation of the analyses, and their performance, required to monitor its function in health and disease. As one of the final units in the infection and immunity learning progression, this unit will collate the fundamental and advanced knowledge of immunology covered in the Biomedical Sciences' Infection and Immunity study area and illustrate the application of this knowledge and understanding by immunologists to recent real-world research focus areas. This approach will assist with your transition from university study into research career paths that understand and employ immunological research methods to investigate immunological study areas.
LQB694 Infectious Disease Outbreaks
Infectious diseases continue to be a major public health concern in Australia and globally. The emergence of drug-resistant bacteria and viruses that cause disease outbreaks and epidemics is a significant global health burden. Microbiologists play an essential role in the detection and management of infectious diseases, they research the pathogenesis and epidemiology of microbial pathogens, and develop new diagnostic, preventative and therapeutic technologies to prepare for disease outbreaks. You will apply your knowledge and understanding of infectious diseases to recent, real world disease outbreaks. This unit will also expose you to researchers and industry experts from universities, hospitals, and government organisations that deal with infectious diseases on a daily basis and will provide you with insights into career opportunities in this field.
LQB697 Cytogenomics
This unit provides high-level training in human cytogenomics to provide clinical and research scientists with the knowledge and skills for the detection and clinical interpretation of germline and somatic chromosomal genomic disorders. This unit will provide a strong foundation applicable to diagnostic cytogenomic and research laboratories.
LQH370 Digital Research Practice in Biomedical Science
Advances in biomedical science rely on the ability to locate, evaluate, and synthesise high-quality evidence in an increasingly data-driven and digitally enabled environment. This unit develops foundational capabilities for contemporary biomedical research and practice across research, clinical, industry, and educational settings, integrating information retrieval, data analysis and management, scientific critique, and digital literacy. Students engage with current tools and technologies, scientific databases including artificial intelligence, to interpret complex literature and/or datasets, and communicate findings effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Emphasising critical and creative thinking, ethical use of technologies, and research integrity, the unit prepares students with the digital fluency, disciplinary knowledge and professional skills needed to contribute to modern biomedical science contexts.
LSB235 Anatomy of the Lower Limb
This is a foundational anatomy unit for clinical practice in Podiatry which requires a detailed understanding and knowledge of the systemic and regional anatomy of the lower limb. This unit introduces you to the theoretical and practical concepts of these two areas of anatomy. It builds on LQB187 Human Anatomy and prepares you for your clinical studies.
LSB365 Pathology
It is essential that students studying medical laboratory sciences have a substantive knowledge and skill set pertaining to pathology. Pathology is the study of disease processes from the cellular level to that of the whole organism. This unit is positioned in the developmental phase of LS47 and assumes knowledge and proficiency in the laboratory-based skills you have acquired and developed during your first-year units. Understanding general and systematic pathology is essential for the application of knowledge to clinically relevant states and major diseases that you will study in later clinical units of this course.
LSB466 Histological Techniques
Histological techniques are often essential for the diagnosis and management of disease, and therefore constitute an important skill set for medical laboratory scientists. Histological techniques are also widely used as a research tool for the analysis of tissue structure and thus are also valuable for biomedical scientists, especially for those interested in anatomical science. The purpose of this unit is to provide you with the opportunity to learn the theory underpinning basic histological techniques routinely used in clinical as well as research laboratories, and how they are applied and interpreted. The unit LSB466 Histological Techniques incorporates and builds upon your learning in LQB187 Human Anatomy.
LSB492 Microbiology
Optometrists require a strong knowledge base in microbiology for their professional practice and on which to base future studies within their discipline.A detailed knowledge of infectious agents, their structure, prevalence and pathogenicity will enable you to apply these concepts to infection control to prevent the transmission of disease and to understand the mode of action of antimicrobials. You will also study infectious agents that are aetiological agents of disease states of the eyes or of public health significance, and appropriate methods for the management and treatment of these disease states. Basic knowledge of biology and chemistry is assumed for this unit.
LSB555 Principles and Practice of Clinical Haematology
Haematology is the study of blood. It investigates the causes and pathologies associated with blood cell dyscrasias and haemostatic abnormalities that lead to an increased risk of bleeding or thrombosis. For you to work with confidence in diagnostic haematology and meet future employer expectations. You will require knowledge of the most common conditions and scenarios encountered in haematology, along with the ability to recognise and interpret associated results and confirmatory tests. This unit is positioned in the developmental phase of LS47 and assumes knowledge and proficiency in the laboratory-based skills you have acquired and developed in your second-year units. Combined with LSB655 next semester, LSB555 will prepare you for future employment in a haematology and/or multidisciplinary pathology laboratory.
LSB566 Histopathology
Histopathology is an essential component of pathology and one of the major disciplines in clinical diagnostic pathology. This unit is positioned in the developmental phase of the course and builds upon your learning in LSB466. This unit is designed to provide you with theoretical knowledge and practical skills of advanced histological techniques used primarily in the clinical setting, but which may also have relevance to research applications. In contrast to preceding units, a greater emphasis will be placed on the theory and application of techniques required for disease diagnosis. This unit combined with your preceding unit LSB466 (Histological Techniques) prepares you for work in a diagnostic histopathology laboratory as a medical laboratory scientist.
LSB655 Applied Clinical Haematology
Haematology is the study of blood and investigates non-malignant and malignant blood cell disorders, and abnormalities of the haemostatic system leading to an increased risk of bleeding or thrombosis. In order for you to work effectively and with confidence in a diagnostic haematology laboratory. It is essential you are able to identify and investigate the less frequently encountered disorders and complex malignancy cases. This unit is positioned in the developmental phase of the course and assumes knowledge and practical skills from LSB555.
LSB658 Clinical Physiology
Clinical Physiology (LSB658) is an advanced unit that will build upon your existing knowledge of disease processes gained in previous units. You will also utilise your accrued background knowledge gained throughout your course in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology and clinical practice to solve, and suggest treatment for, complex clinical cases.This unit will give you an in-depth understanding of the pathophysiology of a wide range of diseases/disorders with particular emphasis on disorders that are currently identified as areas of national health priority by the Australian National Medical Health and Research Council (NHMRC). The unit will further your skills in managing emergency situations by exposing you to new clinical scenarios with complex background pathophysiology, and assist you in developing new practical skills in clinical physiology instrumentation and data analysis.
LSB665 Transfusion and Transplantation Science
Medical scientists must be knowledgeable of transfusion and blood compatibility environment and competent in the laboratory procedures and practices required to provide a safe and reliable blood transfusion service. This involves immunohaematological knowledge, testing of blood samples for donors and patients, mainly in transfusion and pregnancy scenarios, and vigilance for quality outcomes. Transplantation science similarly involves compatibility assessment of donors and recipients, but for tissues other than blood. This unit is positioned in the late developmental phase of the course and requires that you have foundational knowledge in human immunology and haematology. This unit prepares you for employment in laboratories that participate in transfusion services, such as pathology/hospital bloodbanks.
Clinical sciences
CSB330 Foundations of Paramedicine
This foundational unit will introduce the profession, regulatory bodies and professional standards, and the foundations of high-quality, culturally safe and patient-centred healthcare. A particular emphasis of this unit is to provide a foundation for practical knowledge, skills and application of knowledge related to paramedic practice. This will enhance your work-integrated learning experience, and prepare you for clinical practice.
CSB338 Law, Ethics and Accountability in Clinical Care
Healthcare professionals encounter situations with ethical and legal implications for both practitioners and the patients. Introducing ethical and legal awareness appropriate for the professional development of health professionals governed by regulation will support graduates. Using legal and ethical principles – in addition to regulatory structures, the National Law and human rights – this unit will help you resolve dilemmas using ethical and legal frameworks. It will provide you with the ability to access and understand the information in relation to professional practice, policy, principles, legislation, conduct and standards.
OPN161 Advanced Eye Care 1
The theory and practice of clinical optometry procedures form the basis for providing students with a thorough knowledge in all aspects of patient management. This unit involves clinical procedures required to perform advanced investigation of visual problems, including those in paediatric populations, for patients with visual loss, and in the workplace.
OPN162 Contact Lens Practice
Contact lenses are an important clinical option for the correction of refractive errors of the eye. This unit lays the foundation for the development of your knowledge and skills in contact lens clinical practice, which you will build upon in future didactic and clinical units in the course.
OPN163 Clinical Practice 1
This unit begins clinical optometric practice in the primary care area within the Optometry Clinic of the Faculty of Health Clinics. Through clinical practice, students will develop specific problem solving strategies, and develop problem specific examination techniques, reinforcing and refining clinical skills developed in the previous units. This unit begins the transfer of theoretical and practical skills to the clinical situation, providing the early basis for transition to professional practice.
OPN262 Advanced Eye Care 2
This unit begins clinical practice in the specialist areas of contact lens practice, binocular vision, and low vision. Students will begin development of clinical case management and problem solving strategies in these specialist areas of clinical practice. They will also develop higher level clinical examination techniques, reinforcing and refining clinical skills developed in the previous specialist clinical units in these areas.
OPN263 Clinical Practice 2
This unit continues clinical optometric practice in the primary care area within the Optometry Clinic of the QUT Health Clinics. Through clinical practice, students will further develop specific problem solving strategies, and further develop problem specific examination techniques, reinforcing and refining clinical skills developed in previous units. This unit continues the transfer of theoretical and practical skills to the clinical situation. Students will take on a gradually increasing responsibility for clinical decision making and management and begin demonstrating strategies that enable ongoing self-reflective, culturally safe practice in a professional context.
Nursing
HLB006 International Study Experience
Following an approved international study experience (no longer than 2 weeks), this unit provides an opportunity for students to further develop knowledge and skills for working in a globalised context through exploration and analysis. Health professionals are faced with rapidly changing challenges that require an understanding of global trends and issues that influence practice and healthcare provision in their discipline. This unit advances students' knowledge and skills regarding health and research practice in global contexts through analysis of an international study experience undertaken during the course and examination of health-related issues or challenges, or scientific programs. Learning activities offer an international 'lens' through which students reflect on experiences, enabling the opportunity to broaden and deepen a repertoire of skills for working in local and/or global contexts.
NSB102 Professional Practice and Cultural Safety
This foundational unit introduces you as a student of nursing to the structure and function of the Australian health care system, and how it is situated across primary, secondary, and tertiary health care sectors. Applying by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) guidelines students will examine regulatory standards of nursing practice from the perspective of a health care professional working within the contexts of care where planetary safe, person-centred, and inclusive care is central to practice. This unit explores how professional nursing practice is shaped by national and global initiatives to promote equitable access to health care, and how nurses contribute to improving health outcomes within a complex and evolving system.
NSB132 Integrated Nursing Practice 1 On campus
This beginning-level unit aims to establish cognitive skills in clinical reasoning which inform provision of safe, person-centred, and evidence-based nursing practice. Unit learning activities develop your understanding of the nurse role and skills in clinical reasoning relevant to fundamental care provision. Practice reflecting the Aged Care Quality Standards is a particular focus, and this is then further explored and consolidated in subsequent nursing practice units.
NSB203 Inquiry in Clinical Practice
This unit at a developmental level of your course, explores inquiry in clinical practice by examining the role of evidence-based practice and application of research processes in nursing practice further synthesised in your final year. You will develop skills in use of digital systems and tools (GenAI) to find, appraise and synthesise information. Interpretation of evidence will be developed and an overview of various approaches to research are examined to enable students to be effective consumers of research. The relationship between research, evidence, and safety and quality in health care is explored. This knowledge is fundamental to all remaining units in the course. Contemporary nursing work requires the ability to ethically seek, interpret, analyse, synthesise, and integrate evidence into practice. The facilitation of ongoing improvement in nursing practice requires critical thinking, broader perspectives, and decision making informed by evidence.
NSB204 Mental Health: Self and others
This unit focuses on the national health priority of mental health and explores the social determinants, legislation and policies that inform nursing care provision. Mental health issues are a universal human experience across the lifespan and affect one in four Australians. In this unit, learning activities embed the concepts of recovery and cultural safety as well as trauma informed care in promoting positive messages that challenge stigma and discrimination. Emphasis is given to the development of the professional self and attributes of trust, rapport building, and a non-judgemental approach to practice. Focus is also given to developing skills in assessing and responding to people who experience symptoms of mental illness. This includes history-taking, mental state, and risk assessment, while utilising the Recovery Framework.
NSB228 Integrated Nursing Practice 2 - Off campus
This unit is a work integrated learning unit in which you complete a period (4 weeks /160 hours) of immersive learning in clinical practice in an off-campus health care context. A series of mandatory clinical practice sessions (CPS) develops your skills in safe practice. Failure to attend all mandatory CPS means you are unable to progress to clinical placement. The unit is at the developing stage of the course and builds on all preceding units. You will draw on knowledge and skills gained in previous units to incorporate into practice and further develop knowledge and skills. This unit is a co-requisite of NSB231 Integrated Nursing Practice 2 On Campus. Your knowledge of and ability to apply the NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice, Aged Care Standards, and National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards are essential to nursing practice.
NSB233 Integrated Nursing Practice 3 Off Campus
This unit is a work integrated learning unit in which you complete a period (4 weeks /160 hours) of immersive learning in clinical practice in an off-campus health care context. A series of mandatory clinical practice sessions (CPS) develops your skills in safe practice. Failure to attend all mandatory CPS means you are unable to progress to clinical placement. The unit is at the developing stage of the course and builds on all preceding units. You will draw on knowledge and skills gained in previous units to incorporate into practice and further develop knowledge and skills. This unit is a co-requisite of NSB231 Chronic Disease Management. Your knowledge of and ability to apply the NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice, Aged Care Standards, and National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards are essential to nursing practice.
NSB236 Integrated Nursing Practice 3 On Campus
This unit consolidates cognitive skills in clinical reasoning by integrating prior knowledge and skills and further develop your understanding of decisions that informs nursing practice at a developing level. Peoples’ experiences of the continuum of care in different contexts of health care are emphasised to highlight chronic and acute dimensions of illness using complex clinical cases. The critical thinking and analyses of nursing practice elements of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia Registered Nurse Standards for Practice are particularly emphasised. This unit links to subsequent integrated nursing practice units.
NSB334 Integrated Nursing Practice 4
This unit is a work integrated learning unit in which you complete a period (4 weeks /160 hours) of immersive learning in clinical practice in an off-campus health care context. A series of mandatory clinical practice sessions (CPS) develops your skills in safe practice. Failure to attend all mandatory CPS means you are unable to progress to clinical placement. The unit is at the developing stage of the course and builds on all preceding units. You will draw on knowledge and skills gained in previous units to incorporate into practice and further develop knowledge and skills. This unit is a co-requisite of NSB231 Integrated Nursing Practice 2 On Campus. Your knowledge of and ability to apply the NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice, Aged Care Standards, and National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards are essential to nursing practice. Enrolment in NSB334 will be closed from the first day of the teaching period due to on-campus assessments requirements.
NSB412 Clinical Elective
This unit offers the opportunity to undertake further clinical practicum experiences to enhance students' ability to practice competently in a range of clinical situations. Also the focus is on integrating knowledge, skills and attributes required to successfully integrate theory with clinical practice. The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) Registered Nurse Standards for Practice emphasised in this unit are: thinks critically and analyses nursing practice (ST1); comprehensively conducts assessments (ST4); develops a plan for nursing practice (ST5); provides safe, appropriate, and responsive quality nursing practice (ST6); and evaluates outcomes to inform nursing practice (ST7). This unit complements other second year units and links to Integrated Nursing Practice units.
NSB600 Introduction to Nursing Children and Childbearing Families
This unit provides an overview of the theoretical concepts and clinical application principles for practice in nursing and midwifery care for children and childbearing families. It addresses the childbearing process and the developmental stages of childhood and family dynamics, allowing the nursing role to contribute to maintenance and promotion of family health. Learning activities in this unit aim to develop your understanding of the role of the nurse or midwife as provider of care for women and their families during the normal childbearing process and during childhood. The unit is offered in blended mode and a large amount of independent study is required using online resources.
NSB606 Palliative Care Nursing
Palliative care is an increasingly important part of our healthcare system. The health and support needs of those who are dying are diverse and often change over time. To respond effectively to these needs, nurses must have knowledge and skills to provide a palliative approach to care. In this unit, you will extend your knowledge of the needs of those diagnosed with various life-limiting illnesses. This unit will enable you to develop further understanding of the core components of palliative care for these people. It will extend the understandings developed in other theoretical studies and experiences in clinical practice.
NSB608 Wound Care in Practice
Providing complex wound care to people in acute, residential and community health areas is a growing challenge for health care services. This unit provides you with an in-depth knowledge of acute and chronic wounds and specifically addresses challenges related to providing optimal nursing care for persons with wounds. Focus is given to linking existing knowledge and clinical skills from prior study to inform evidence-based practice in wound care. This unit takes an interdisciplinary approach to examining the science of wound healing, the principles and application of nursing care while also incorporating a necessary sustainable and planetary health approach to care of a person with a wound and the wider community. Learning activities assist you to respond to the challenges of assessment, management, and prevention of a range of acute and chronic wounds using an evidence-based, person-centred approach.
NSB610 Foundations of Child, Youth and Family Nursing
This unit introduces foundational concepts that underpin safe, developmentally attuned, and family‑centred nursing care for infants, children, young people and their families. Drawing on contemporary evidence from child development, parenting science, family systems theory and early relational health, the unit emphasises how these concepts translate into everyday paediatric and maternal nursing practice. You will learn how development shapes communication, behaviour, caregiving needs and family dynamics, and how nurses can use this understanding to support safety, wellbeing and nurturing care. Learning activities focus on practical clinical reasoning, developmentally informed communication, and real‑world scenario work relevant to early parenting and paediatric encounters across community, primary and acute care. The unit is offered in blended mode and a large amount of independent study is required using online resources.
NSB611 Palliative Care Nursing
Access to best‑practice, evidence‑based and culturally safe palliative care is recognised as a fundamental human right and a core component of all healthcare systems. People living with a progressive, life‑limiting illness, as well as those approaching end of life, experience complex and evolving physical, psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual needs. Nurses are required to develop foundational knowledge, clinical skills, and professional judgement to provide a comprehensive palliative approach to care that effectively responds to these needs and supports both the person and their family.
NSB612 Wound Care in Practice
Providing complex wound care to people in acute, residential and community health areas is a growing challenge for health care services. Quality wound care requires an individualised and holistic approach as impacts are seen in every aspect of a person's life. This unit provides you with knowledge of acute and chronic wounds and specifically addresses challenges related to providing optimal evidence-based wound care. This unit takes an interdisciplinary approach to examining the science of wound healing, the principles and application of nursing care while also incorporating a necessary sustainable and planetary health approach to care of an individual with a wound and the wider community. Learning activities reflect real world nursing practice and assist you to respond to the challenges of assessment, management, and prevention of a range of acute and chronic wounds using an evidence-based, person-centred approach.
NSB613 Pain Management and Nursing Practice
Making decisions about pain and its management is a key component of nursing practice across a wide variety of patient groups and health service contexts. This unit examines the experience of peoples’ pain and explores the nurse role in relation to pain assessment and management, to facilitate effective pain relief. The unit will provide you with employability skills to prepare for practice in all areas of nursing specialty however, specifically in areas where pain is a focus such as emergency departments, chronic pain, surgery or burns units.
NSN434 Evidence-based Practice and Research Design
This unit explores the relationship between research evidence and health care practice. It provides opportunities to identify and critically appraise evidence for informing best practice and clinical decision making in nursing practice. Building on foundational knowledge of research methods and processes, students will develop a research study proposal.
NSN508 Dissertation Preparation
This unit builds on existing knowledge, skills and professional experience and provides the opportunity to develop, extend, and apply these skills to the preparation of a feasible and defensible research proposal for a research dissertation. The opportunity to develop skills in advanced information retrieval and synthesis, academic writing, and critical analysis are supported as you review a body of literature relevant to your dissertation and methodology. NSN508 is a preparatory unit for HLN700 or HLN750.
Optometry and vision science
OPB550 Diseases of the Eye 1
Optometrists play a major role in the fight against eye disease. In conducting eye examinations, optometrists must also be adept at detecting systemic diseases that cause ocular signs and symptoms. This unit will enhance your knowledge of eye diseases - a critical part of optometry studies and future practice. It provides you with knowledge of diseases and conditions influencing the anterior eye, including the diagnosis and management of conditions. Knowledge from this unit will be highly relevant to future units in the Master of Optometry (OP85) course involving clinical optometric practice and therapeutic management of eye disease.
OPB556 Ocular Examination Skills 1
This unit introduces the theory and practical skills of techniques for examining patients' eyes and assessing visual functions. Subjective and objective techniques of assessing visual status are learned. The skills necessary to communicate with patients are introduced. The unit builds on prior knowledge in visual science, ophthalmic optics and communication skills.
OPB650 Diseases of the Eye 2
Optometrists play a major role in the fight against eye disease. In conducting eye examinations, optometrists must also be adept at detecting systemic diseases that cause ocular signs and symptoms. This unit will enhance your knowledge of eye diseases - a critical part of optometry studies and future practice. It provides you with knowledge of diseases and conditions influencing the posterior eye, ocular manifestations of systemic disease and neuro-ophthalmology. Knowledge from this unit will be highly relevant to future units in the Master of Optometry (OP85) course involving clinical optometric practice and therapeutic management of eye disease.
OPB656 Ocular Examination Skills 2
This unit provides the theory and practical skills knowledge in the use of advanced clinical techniques used in eye examinations to assess ocular health (slit-lamp biomicroscopy, ophthalmoscopy, tonometry, gonioscopy) and visual function (visual fields and colour vision) and the complete basic eye exam. It introduces the theory guiding these techniques, and develops the procedural and communication skills required to accurately, efficiently and safely perform these techniques. The unit develops your skills in the recording and interpretation of the clinical data obtained from these techniques to inform patient advice and management. The ability to accurately, efficiently and safely perform these clinical techniques in eye examinations is a requirement for clinical practice, forming the basis for assessment and management of patients in optometry practice.
Psychology and counselling
PYB102 The Mind and the Brain
Psychology is a broad-ranging and multifaceted discipline which encompasses the scientific study of human behaviour and the systematic application of knowledge gained from psychological research to a broad range of real-world issues. The goal of this foundational unit is to introduce you to the areas of biological (physiological) and cognitive psychology and to develop your understanding of the methods used to critically evaluate, ethically conduct, and effectively communicate psychological research. This unit will include discussion of responsible and ethical use of generative artificial intelligence technologies, which may include the critical evaluation of generative artificial intelligence capabilities, limitations, accuracy and biases.
PYB159 Alcohol and Other Drug Studies
Drug and alcohol use and abuse is of growing concern in the community. This unit introduces you to theories of prevention and treatment of alcohol and other drug problems from a range of diverse perspectives. You will be exposed to multidisciplinary learning where you can identify career pathways while considering the field in relation to ethics, values and a range of population targets. This unit provides a useful foundation for PYB360, Interventions for Addictive Behaviours. You will participate in discussions and assessment pieces designed in conjunction with industry professionals, to embed learning with current real world issues.
PYB202 Social Psychology
Humans are social beings whose thoughts, feelings and actions are influenced by the real, imagined, or implied presence of others. This unit will allow you to develop greater insight into people's behaviour through the scientific investigation of the relationship between individuals and the social settings in which they live. We will study the effects of these social settings on people, and the psychological processes people use to influence others in social settings. We will consider cultural variation in social psychological phenomena, ethical issues in social psychological research, and how social psychological perspectives can help us understand and address real world issues. This unit will help you develop your database searching and written communication skills.
PYB203 Developmental Psychology
This unit is designed to introduce the major theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of developmental psychology, and to encourage you to consider the major life issues, events, and transitions that shape the course of development throughout the lifespan. This unit aims to develop awareness of general patterns of human development and of the ways in which the development of particular individuals and diverse groups may vary from these general patterns. We will also critically examine the importance of the physical, family, socio-cultural and historical contexts within which development occurs, and a gain a sense of the interdependency of all aspects of development.
PYB204 Perception and Cognition
Cognitive psychology is a major empirical and theoretical area of psychology which explores the processes and structures involved at each stage of information processing within the brain. The structures and processes involved in perception provide the brain with basic information about both the external world and many of the current states of the individual. Higher level cognitive processes and structures provide the foundation upon which more complex aspects of behaviour are based. This unit is to build on the concepts and issues in perception and cognitive psychology, and to develop an appreciation of the major contemporary theories of how we process and perceive information. The unit is placed in second semester of second year so that students following the normal course structure have an adequate background in research design and data analysis. With this background, students will carry out experiments in tutorial classes and analyse real data.
PYB208 Counselling Theory and Practice 1
Counselling processes, skills and knowledge have broad applicability in the modern world of work. In this unit you will have the opportunity to engage with the most prominent counselling models and approaches. Through an experiential learning process, you will learn about the theories and philosophies that underpin different approaches and develop skills and techniques required to apply these models in your future work. Self-awareness is widely recognised in the health and community sector as key to effective and ethical practice. By participating in counselling exercises, group discussions and individual reflections, you will be supported to deconstruct and examine your existing beliefs and values and consider the role they will play in your work with individuals, families and groups. You will then have the opportunity to develop your practice framework that you will take forward to guide your work in the real world.
PYB210 Research Design and Data Analysis
PYB210 extends on the analytical methods you learnt in PYB110 and prepares you for the more complex research designs you will engage with in PYB350. Research design, data analysis and associated digital capabilities are core skills in the discipline of psychology and integral to the scientist-practitioner model and are skills highly valued by employers of psychology graduates. A sound understanding of research design and data analysis will build your ability to work with and interpret data from a variety of sources, enabling you to critique research, and to apply an evidence-based approach to problem solving, invaluable skills in a wide variety of careers. PYB210 will develop your knowledge of research design, data collection methods and analysis, providing you with a theoretical grounding in analysis of variance techniques, regression, and qualitative methods, the practical ability to employ analytic software to conduct analyses and to interpret and report these analyses.
PYB215 Forensic Psychology and the Law
Forensic Psychology will introduce you to the overlap between psychology and the law; assist you to understand the influence and impact of this branch of psychology within the criminal justice system; and to provide you with an overview of the practice of forensic psychology, across diverse populations, including First Nations People. The study of psychology and law draws from a multi-disciplinary base for the application of specialised knowledge. As a student of this discipline area, you will acquire an appreciation of (and a critical perspective on) psychology and the law across the three criminal justice domains of the police, the courts, and corrections.
PYB260 Psychopharmacology of Addictive Behaviour
This unit aims to develop and extend your understanding of issues relating to behavioural pharmacology with a focus on substances commonly associated with addiction. It introduces the principles of behavioural pharmacology, and critically examines prevailing theories and models of addiction, and related research methods, and how they apply to diverse perspectives. Computerised programs specifically designed for psychology experiments are examined and underlie the authentic assignment of a psychopharmacological experiment journal manuscript, as do other digital technologies (e.g., learning management system, psychology journal database searches, and data presentation and word processing software). Tutorial group activities promote collaboration and the development of knowledge and skills relevant to a research career in psychology. This unit complements and could be combined with other units of addiction (e.g. PYB159, PYB360) to constitute a minor sequence.
PYB301 Psychology in the Community: Placement
This unit enables you to develop your work-literacy and work-readiness, by providing opportunities to apply psychological knowledge in authentic workplace contexts, supported by activities that promote critical reflection on your learning and workplace practices.You will arrange a 50 hour work placement at relevant organisation. You will be supported by the teaching team, on-campus workshops and activities designed to promote critical reflection on your workplace experience. Due to mandatory attendance at the Week 1 workshop and the time required to establish placements, enrolment into PYB301 closes on Thursday of Orientation (Welcome) week. All students considering this unit are strongly encouraged to apply for a Blue Card (suitability for working with children and young people clearance) before the commencement of semester as this clearance is required by most of our host organisations.
PYB306 Psychopathology
This unit covers the principles of diagnosis and treatment for psychopathology. Disorder aetiology, treatment approaches, and the standard of evidence that underpins our knowledge of psychopathology are discussed. You will learn about the formal systems that are used to define a clinical disorder, and how to apply classification systems for the identification of psychopathology. An integrative approach to the understanding of psychopathology is emphasised, highlighting the reciprocal influence of biological, psychological, cultural and social factors on pathological functioning. This unit will provide you with a strong understanding of the evidence and scientific methods underpinning contemporary approaches for the identification, classification, and treatment of major classes of mental illness.
PYB307 Health Psychology
This unit examines the psychological dimension of physical illness, health, and health care. There is a strong focus on health psychology in an Australian context with a focus on cross-cultural and Indigenous health-related issues. The unit examines definitions of health and health psychology; the role of health psychology; the determinants of health behaviours (e.g., cognitive, attitudinal, motivational, personality, social, developmental); community health; medical settings and patient behaviour; patient and practitioner communication; stress, illness, and coping; and chronic illness.
PYB309 Individual Differences and Assessment
This unit will introduce you to key theories underpinning personality, and it will explore the extent to which key theories account for variation in personality and human behaviour. It will also cover key principles of psychological assessment, assessment methods, the relationship of assessment methods to key theories, and the ethical use of assessment tools. The unit will apply theoretical frameworks to contemporary challenges, such as depression and anxiety, work engagement, relationship distress, school achievement, and effective parenting. This unit includes a strong focus on building capability to use a mix of theory and research to inform real-world mental health problems. The unit will strengthen professional skills for those considering a future in psychology and related fields which rely on individual differences and assessment (e.g., clinical or counselling settings, educational, organisational, developmental, forensic and research settings).
PYB350 Advanced Statistical Analysis
PYB350 extends on the analytical methods you learnt in PYB210 to more complex research designs. Research design, data analysis and associated digital capabilities are core skills in the discipline of psychology and integral to the scientist-practitioner model of professional psychological practice and research. The skills are highly valued by employers of psychology graduates. A sound understanding of research design and data analysis enables you to become critical consumers of research and to apply a strong evidence based approach to problem solving. This unit will provide you with a thorough grounding in analysis of variance techniques, multiple regression, and qualitative analysis methods, data analytic tools used in a broad range of research across the social sciences. The unit is both theoretical and practical, providing you with the ability to employ analytic software to analyse quantitative and qualitative data and to appropriately interpret and report these analyses.
PYB356 Counselling Theory and Practice 2
This unit builds on Counselling Theory & Practice 1, with a deeper focus on the counsellor’s role in managing process and relational depth in therapeutic encounters. Students will explore how change occurs in counselling, and how values, theory, and technique interact in real time. Through experiential learning, in-tutorial skill development, and reflexive practice, students will strengthen their capacity to respond ethically and intentionally. A decolonising stance underpins the unit, encouraging students to question how knowledge is created and applied, and to support practice that is responsive and culturally safe. Students will begin shaping their own framework for practice, grounded in personal values, theoretical insight, and emerging professional identity. Key contemporary topics will be explored, inviting students to deconstruct dominant narratives, consider alternate perspectives, and reflect on how their framework might guide their response.
PYB359 Working with Families and Groups
In today’s health settings, counsellors and psychologists increasingly work with families, couples, and groups. In PYB359, you will explore how systemic thinking shapes therapeutic work with more than one person. Through the lens of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Narrative approaches, you’ll learn how to adapt and apply key ideas and techniques to relational and group contexts. Taught from a collaborative, practice-based perspective, the course invites multiple viewpoints and encourages critical reflection. This helps develop cultural safety, ethical sensitivity, and deeper self-awareness in your work. Experiential tutorials support skill development in group facilitation, managing group dynamics, and building meaningful relationships with multiple people. These experiences will strengthen your confidence and contribute directly to your professional practice framework.
PYB360 Interventions for Addictive Behaviours
Addictive behaviours (e.g., arising from alcohol use, tobacco use, gambling) are recognised as major problems nationally and internationally. This unit focuses predominantly on psychological aspects of addictive behaviours. The unit has a focus on the interdisciplinary nature of work within the field, including complementary treament approaches and interdisciplinary communication. To evaluate core scientific perspectives on addiction theory, classes initially review issues relating to psychological models of addiction and methods of studying addictive behaviours. Symptomatology, aetiology and assessment of addictive behaviours, as well as the theoretical underpinnings of a range of therapeutic interventions are also discussed. Following on from PYB159, this unit aims to prepare graduates for a potential career in Alcohol and Drug services.
Additional course costs
Practical off-campus placements may have some additional compulsory course costs, including vaccinations, uniforms, health tests and courses, equipment, travel and accommodation.
Enrolment restrictions
Postgraduate students can't enrol in:
- first-year undergraduate core units
- postgraduate honours-level units, which change from year to year.
Enrolment in capstone units is generally not allowed, as these units require extended knowledge gained throughout the course of a full degree.
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