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Bachelor of Science (Molecular and Drug Design)

Campus North Terrace Campus

Degree Type Bachelor

Duration 3 years full-time or part-time? equiv.

SATAC Code 324161

2011
ATAR 78.7

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  • Program Outline

    Rapid advances are currently being made in new areas of science such as structure-based drug design, proteomics, and pharmaco-genetics. Now that the mapping of the human genome has been completed, characterising the function of every protein encoded in the human genome is the next challenge. Students will gain an understanding of how these proteins work, and how their function can be influenced and this knowledge will place graduates at the forefront of this innovative field. The investigation of protein-protein and small molecule-protein interactions has become a significant area of research that promises to provide new approaches to the development of safe and effective drugs to treat a range of human diseases. 

  • Program Structure
    This program consists of core training in chemistry and biochemistry that will provide students with expertise in understanding how proteins interact with each other and with other small molecules, such as enzyme inhibitors and pharmaceuticals (drugs). A number of case studies will be considered to help understand the process of drug development within the pharmaceutical industry. A focus of the program is to develop an understanding of the molecular aspects of these processes. Students will develop an advanced understanding of chemical synthesis and areas of chemistry that impact on biological systems.
  • Assessment

    Varies with individual courses and includes a combination of assignments, presentations, practical work, tutorial work and exams.

  • Related Programs

    Bachelor of Science with a Major in Chemistry

  • Admission and Fee Information

    Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
    I am a:

    Domestic applicants

    Not a domestic applicant? ?

    SATAC Code 324161
    2011 CSP ATAR 78.7
    Adelaide Approved Score ? 75
    2011 CSP IB 26
    Annual tuition fees ?
    Commonwealth-supported place: $4,520
    Mid-year entry? Yes
    Deferment? Yes - 2 year
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria ?
    Year 12 applicants
    You must not have completed more than 2 years full time equivalent (48 units) university study. You compete for a place with your Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR). Applicants who have studied Chemistry 1 and/or Molecular and Cell Biology 1 at the University of Adelaide (or equivalent) must have achieved at least a credit grade average for these courses.
    Prerequisites ?
    SACE Stage 2: Chemistry plus one of Physics, Mathematical Studies, Specialist Mathematics, Mathematical Methods, Biology, Geology, Psychology .

    IB: Chemistry (SL grade 4/HL grade 3) and one other Science subject (SL grade 4/HL grade 3) or Mathematics (SL grade 4/HL grade 3).

    Assumed Knowledge ?
    SACE Stage 2 Mathematical Studies, Physics
    Alternative entry pathways
    • Higher Education applicants
      You must have completed at least half a year full time equivalent university study. Applicants who have studied Level I Chemistry and/or Level I Biology at the University of Adelaide (or equivalent) must have achieved at least a credit grade average for these courses. A Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated for each separate program you have undertaken (apart from some double degree programs where the GPA is combined). You are ranked on the basis of your best GPA.
    • Special Entry applicants
      You must be 18 years or over before February 1st of the year that you will be studying. If you have studied a higher education program within the last two years, you must not have studied more than 2 years full-time equivalent in that program and you must not hold a completed higher education level award. If you meet this criteria, you will be ranked according to your result in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Personal Competencies (PC) and Employment Experience (EE) statements may also contribute to your rank. Your STAT result is not weighted between verbal and quantitative components. If you submit a PC or EE statement, and one of these ranks higher than your STAT score, then the highest ranking statement will contribute 50% to your overall rank and the STAT will contribute the remaining 50%. If you do not submit a PC or EE statement, or if the statements have a lower rank than the STAT, then you will compete for a place on the basis of your STAT result only. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Scheme. See Wilto Yerlo for further information.
    • Without formal qualifications?
      You may be eligible for our special access schemes.
    How to Apply ?
    SATAC Code: 324161

    International applicants

    Not an international applicant? ?

    International ATAR 80
    IELTS Overall 6 [more info]
    Annual tuition fees ? International student place: $25,500
    Mid-year entry? Subject to availability
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria ?
    Prerequisites ?
    Chemistry and one other science subject chosen from Mathematics, Physics, Biology or Geology. Mathematics and Physics an advantage.
    Equivalent Scores
    International ATAR 80
    IELTS
    Overall
    Reading
    Listening
    Speaking
    Writing
    6
    5.5
    5.5
    6
    6
    How to Apply ?

    International applicants applying with Australian year 12 results

    Not an international applicant applying with Australian year 12 results? ?

    International ATAR 80
    Annual tuition fees ? International student place: $25,500
    Mid-year entry? Subject to availability
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria ?
    Prerequisites ?
    SACE Stage 2: Chemistry plus one of Physics, Mathematical Studies, Specialist Mathematics, Mathematical Methods, Biology, Geology, Psychology .

    IB: Chemistry (SL grade 4/HL grade 3) and one other Science subject (SL grade 4/HL grade 3) or Mathematics (SL grade 4/HL grade 3).

    Assumed Knowledge ?
    SACE Stage 2 Mathematical Studies, Physics
  • Study Plans

    The study plans ? given are examples of pathways through this degree for students that commenced their program in 2012 (refer to the program rules). Students that commenced in previous years should refer to the tabs above(referring to years) or consult their Faculty for advice.

    Level I

    Semester 1 (core courses)

    • BIOLOGY 1101: Biology I: Molecules, Genes & Cells
    • Plus one of the following

    Semester 2 (core courses)

    • BIOLOGY 1201: Biology I: Human Perspectives
    • STATS 1004: Statistical Practice I (Life Sciences)*(see note below)
    • Plus one of the following

    NOTE: *STATS 1004: Statistical Practice I (Life Sciences) may be taken in EITHER semester 1 or 2 

    Plus level 1 courses to the value of 9 units selected in consultation with the Program Coordinator and in accordance with Academic Program Rules 4.2, 4.5.1 and 4.5.2 for the degree of Bachelor of Science.
    Level II

    Semester 1 (core courses)

    • BIOCHEM 2500: Biochemistry II: Molecular & Cell Biology
    • CHEM 2514: Chemistry IIA (Molecular Drug Design)
    • CHEM 2530: Environmental & Analytical Chemistry II

    Semester 2 (core courses)

    Plus level 11 courses to the value of 6 units selected in consultation with the Program Coordinator and in accordance with Academic Program Rules 4.5.3 for the degree of Bachelor of Science.

    Level III

    Semester 1 (core courses)

    Semester 2 (core courses)

    • CHEM 3213: Advanced Synthetic Methods III
    • CHEM 3214: Medicinal & Biological Chemistry III

    Plus additional Level III courses to the value of 6 units selected in consultation with the Program Coordinator and in accordance with Academic Program Rules 4.5.5 for the degree of Bachelor of Science.

     
  • Career Opportunities

    Employment opportunities exist for graduates in:

    • Biotechnology
    • Medical research
    • Pharmaceutical industries
    • Universities

    Potential careers

    Lecturer, Biochemist, Chemist, Research Assistant, Research Associates, Research Scientist, Science Communicators, Science Educators, Scientific Data Analyst, Scientific Officer, Journalist (Science Communications), Laboratory Manager, Analytical Chemist, Pharmaceutical and Medical Supplies Representative, Pharmaceutical and Scientific Equipment Sales Representative, Geochemist, Pharmaceutical Scientist

  • Graduate Attributes

    Students are encouraged to take responsibility for developing the following attributes:

    • Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised.
    • The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner.
    • An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems.
    • Skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication.
    • A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies.
    • A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life.
    • A commitment to the highest standards of professional endeavour and the ability to take a leadership role in the community.
    • An awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities.
  • Program Rules
  • Further Information

    Please direct enquiries to the University Contact Centre
    Phone: +61 8 8313 7335 (toll free 1800 061 459)

    The annual Open Day and Information Night events provide an excellent opportunity to see our campus, meet with academics, and discuss your study options.

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The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Wednesday, 4 Apr 2012

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