Medicinal Chemistry
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry
Length
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time.
Campuses
Melbourne
Course description
Medicinal chemistry is the design, synthesis and development of pharmaceutical drugs. It is a rapidly growing field that explores chemistry, biochemsitry, molecular biology, and how they work together to design and produce medicinal drugs. This course has been specifically developed to support the growing biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries in Australia and internationally. The Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a wide range of science-based industries, research laboratories, and emerging biotechnology industries. Students can major in chemistry, biochemistry or microbiology, with an additional specialisation in drug design.
La Trobe is one of the fastest-growing science research organisations in Australia, with work currently underway to build AgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience a $288 million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) at the Melbourne campus. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe's science students.
Course structure
First-year subjects include chemistry and biology, and electives from other science or non-science areas.
Later-year studies can include biochemistry and molecular biology, microbiology, chemistry, molecular design, pharmacology for medicinal chemists, human and molecular genetics, spectroscopy, and medicinal chemistry.
Contact hours
24 hours a week (average) in first year
Subject details
Major areas of study
Biochemistry, microbiology, chemistry, drug design, medicinal chemistry, molecular biology, organic chemistry, physiology, pharmacology.
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
VTAC
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Scholarships
Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/future-undergraduatesAdditional costs (AUD)
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30, and a dissecting kit - A$40. Prices are approximate and subject to change. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
Middle Band
Successful completion of Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points. Performance in prerequisite studies is also considered.
Selection
ATAR 70.60
Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 75 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes.
Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. They may also be asked to complete a maths test.
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any), Chemistry, and either Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (March)
Career opportunities
Graduates should be fully qualified for employment in a wide range of science-based industries and research laboratories, and will be able to participate in the emerging biotechnology industries. They are likely to find opportunities in medicinal chemistry, research and development, biochemistry-based organisations, and the chemical industries.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).