Medical Scientist (WA)

State/Territory Specific Information

Education and Training:

To become a medical scientist you usually have to study medical or biomedical science at university. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your WACE at Stages 2 and 3. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, geology, physics and psychology are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in medical or biomedical science. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information:

Graduates from accredited courses may be eligible for membership of the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists. Membership is not compulsory. Visit their website for a list of available accredited courses.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

  1. Bachelor of Biomedical Science
  2. Bachelor of Biomedical Science / Bachelor of Arts
  3. Bachelor of Biomedical Science / Bachelor of Preventive Health
  4. Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Biomedical Science
  5. Bachelor of Science *
  6. Bachelor of Science - Biomedical Science *
  7. Bachelor of Science - Human Biology

Employment Opportunities:

Most medical scientists work in the health industry, especially in hospitals. There are also employment opportunities in universities and research organisations and in the private sector. There is a relatively stable employment base.

Factors that may affect employment include the number and type of tests required to research, diagnose and treat diseases, and the incidence of new diseases.

For Further Information:

Australian Institute of Medical Scientists (National Office)

(07) 3876 2988
www.aims.org.au

Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

(08) 9224 2444
www.rph.wa.gov.au

PathWest

(08) 9346 3000
www.pathwest.com.au

Information for other states and territories: