Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) is a four-year undergraduate degree that prepares laboratory scientists to perform diagnostic testing across all major laboratory disciplines, including biochemistry, haematology, histopathology, microbiology, immunology, and parasitology. The program is designed to meet the critical need for qualified laboratory professionals in Papua New Guinea's public and private health sectors.
Years 2 through 4 deliver a comprehensive curriculum spanning biochemistry and molecular biology, human physiology, immunohaematology, clinical biochemistry, histopathology, haematology, and medical microbiology. Year 4 advances into research methods, biomedical statistics, laboratory management, and a major research project in a chosen specialty. Students select one year-long major elective from Clinical Biochemistry, Histopathology, Haematology, Medical Microbiology, Immunohaematology, or Cytopathology.
Entry Requirements
Applicants for the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science must meet the following requirements:
- Successful completion of the Science Foundation Year at UPNG or an equivalent institution.
- Passes in Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics at Science Foundation level.
- Achieve the University's minimum matriculation GPA.
- Applicants with a relevant health sciences certificate or diploma may apply for advanced standing subject to School approval.
Career Opportunities
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science graduates work across a broad range of settings:
- Public and private hospital laboratories
- The Red Cross blood transfusion service
- The Institute of Medical Research
- Veterinary laboratories
- University and government departments
- The food and drinks manufacturing industry (quality control and microbiology testing)
Experienced laboratory scientists may pursue overseas postgraduate study to advance into specialised or research roles.
Course Structure
Year 2
Semester 1
- 2.24801Biochemistry & Molecular Biology I
- 2.24804Introduction to Immunology
- 2.24810Human Physiology I
- 2.24812Medical Parasitology
- 2.34801Histopathology I
- 2.34803Clinical Biochemistry I
- 2.34811Haematology I
- 2.34813Medical Microbiology I
Semester 2
- 2.24802Biochemistry & Molecular Biology II
- 2.24803Histology
- 2.24811Human Physiology II
- 2.24813Immunohaematology I
- 2.34802Histopathology II
- 2.34804Clinical Biochemistry II
- 2.34812Haematology II
- 2.34814Medical Microbiology II
Year 4
Semester 1
- 2.44801Introduction to Pharmacology & Toxicology
- 2.44806Research Methods & Techniques
- 2.44817Biomedical Statistics
Semester 2
- 2.44802Advances in Biomedical Sciences
- 2.44805Laboratory Management & Quality Assurance
- 2.44818Clinical Laboratory Practice
Course codes shown are indicative. Please contact the School directly for official course codes and credit information.