Bachelor of Health Sciences

School of Health Sciences

Do you wish to be prepared for the evolving health sector? The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Bachelor of Health Sciences is a 3-year program designed to prepare graduates for successful careers in health. The program can be studied on campus or online, covering essential topics including anatomy, pathophysiology, evidence-based practice, psychology, health promotion and advocacy, interprofessional learning, health management, and leadership skills.

Our Health Sciences program allows students to select four electives in areas of personal interest, or to meet pre-requisite requirements for our suite of postgraduate entry to practice offerings such as the Masters of Physiotherapy, Speech Pathology, Paramedicine, Counselling, or Social Work. Graduates will have a strong foundation in human health, equipping them to either embark on a rewarding career or pursue further studies in areas such as our allied health disciplines or paramedicine.

• Why study this degree?

  If you are interested in health, the human body and science, but don't have your heart set on a specific career, the Bachelor of Health Sciences is the perfect way to ensure you have lots of options once you graduate. This degree will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of key concepts in human health, disease prevention, research and health promotion.

  At Notre Dame, students receive a balanced delivery of theoretical knowledge with practical experience. You will graduate equipped for professional opportunities as well as postgraduate study in areas such as medicine and allied health fields, such as counselling, paramedicine, physiotherapy, social work or speech pathology.

• Program summary

  Year One

  • HLTH1000 Human Structure and Function
  • HLTH1006 Introduction to Health
  • HLTH1150 Academic Research Writing in Health Sciences
  • ABOR1000 Aboriginal People
  • HLTH1030 Anatomy and Physiology of Body Systems
  • PHTY1007 Pathophysiology in Allied Health
  • BESC1003 Psychosocial Determinants of Health

  Year Two

  • PHTY2000 Evidence Based Practice
  • HLTH2007 Population Approaches to Health Promotion
  • HLTH2XXX Mental Health Advocacy
  • HLTH2XXX Digital Health
  • HLTH2XXX Exercise for Health
  • HLTH2XXX Interprofessional Health Approaches
  • HLTH3610 Community and Advocacy Approaches to Health

  Year Three

  • HLTH3022 Behaviour Change and Lifestyle Counselling
  • HLTH3XXX Project Management for Health
  • BUSN3020 Leadership Theory and Practice
  • HLTH3XXX Experiential Learning for Health

  Four electives

  • Four courses chosen from the School of Health Sciences. Courses from the Schools of Business and Arts & Sciences are available, providing the pre-requisite courses have been completed.

  Core Curriculum

  • CORE I: Foundations of Wisdom
  • CORE II: Elective
    • Electives in philosophy and\or theology
    • Professional embedded electives that integrate studies in a profession with philosophy and\or theology
    • An option to undertake a pilgrimage embedded in the study of the philosophy and theology of pilgrimage, e.g., World Youth Day
    • An option to undertake a course that integrates philosophy & theology with community service and charity work
    • An option to undertake an elective in philosophy, theology, and the liberal arts contained within an international experience

  Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions pages Fremantle Sydney.

  Please note: the availability of these courses is indicative only and may be subject to change.

• Study mode and assessment

  The Bachelor of Health Sciences can be studied either on campus or online. The online option may require face to face engagement for the work integrated learning components in the third year of study. Students have the option to attend campus for their chosen elective courses in the third year of study (including introductory courses in postgraduate programs such as physiotherapy, speech pathology, social work or counselling as a pathway to further study). There are also electives available for students seeking to complete the program online.

• Entry requirements

  Entry requirements WA

  Academic requirements for this program are outlined below. In addition, to be eligible for admission, all applicants need to satisfy the Minimum University Admission Requirements outlined. These include those relating to minimum age and English Language Proficiency. We also consider your application more broadly – your non-academic achievements (such as any previous leadership roles, volunteering, work, church and/or community involvement) as well as personal qualities - your aspirations and interests and your capacity to complete your chosen program. See Individual Factors for further details regarding this.

  Applicants with recent Secondary Education

  • Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank* of 70

  OR

  • International Baccalaureate (IB) score of 25

  *Selection Ranks include ATAR plus Adjustment Factors.

  Applicants with Higher Education

  • Successful completion of 4 subjects at an undergraduate level or higher*

  OR

  • Successful completion of the Notre Dame Tertiary Pathway Program (TPP), or a tertiary preparation program from another institution that is deemed to be of a similar academic rigour to the Notre Dame TPP

  * Applicants who have successfully completed subjects at another University, which are relevant to the selected program of study, may be eligible for credit (Advanced Standing).

  Applicants with Vocational Education and Training (VET) study

  • Successful completion of AQF Certificate IV or higher from an accredited provider such as TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)

  Applicants with Work and Life Experience

  Applicants who left secondary education more than two years previously and who have not undertaken VET or higher education study since may be considered for direct entry. This includes applicants who have completed Steiner, Montessori or home school curriculums. To qualify, applicants must be 20 years of age as at 1 March in the year of intake and meet one or more of the following:

  • Applicants who have completed at least two years of relevant work experience may be considered for direct entry. Applicants must provide evidence of their work experience, including duties undertaken and years of experience, and they must demonstrate that they have the academic capability to undertake undergraduate studies. The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) may be required*.

  OR

  • Completion of STAT with scores of at least 135 in the Multiple Choice section and 140 in the Written English section*.

  OR

  • Completion of two Year 12 WACE, HSC or equivalent exams, with a result equivalent to the Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank listed under Secondary Education section above.

  *STAT results must have been obtained within the last three calendar years in order to be considered (e.g. for 2024 admission, STAT results obtained in 2023, 2022 or 2021 can be considered).

  Entry requirements NSW

  Academic requirements for this program are outlined below. In addition, to be eligible for admission, all applicants need to satisfy the Minimum University Admission Requirements outlined. These include those relating to minimum age and English Language Proficiency. We also consider your application more broadly – your non-academic achievements (such as any previous leadership roles, volunteering, work, church and/or community involvement) as well as personal qualities - your aspirations and interests and your capacity to complete your chosen program. See Individual Factors for further details regarding this.

  Applicants with recent Secondary Education

  • Prescribed ATAR/Selection Rank*

  OR

  • Equivalent International Baccalaureate (IB) score

  *Selection Ranks include ATAR plus Adjustment Factors.

  Applicants with Higher Education

  • Successful completion of 4 subjects at an undergraduate level or higher*

  OR

  • Successful completion of the Notre Dame Tertiary Pathway Program (TPP), or a tertiary preparation program from another institution that is deemed to be of a similar academic rigour to the Notre Dame TPP

  *Applicants who have successfully completed subjects at another University, which are relevant to the selected program of study, may be eligible for credit (Advanced Standing).

  Applicants with Vocational Education and Training (VET) study

  • Successful completion of AQF Certificate IV or higher from an accredited provider such as TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)

  Applicants with Work and Life Experience

  Applicants who left secondary education more than two years previously and who have not undertaken VET or higher education study since may be considered for direct entry. This includes applicants who have completed Steiner, Montessori or home school curriculums. To qualify, applicants must be 20 years of age as at 1 March in the year of intake and meet one or more of the following:

  • Applicants who have completed at least two years of relevant work experience may be considered for direct entry. Applicants must provide evidence of their work experience, including duties undertaken and years of experience, and they must demonstrate that they have the academic capability to undertake undergraduate studies. The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) may be required*.

  OR

  • Completion of STAT with scores of at least 150 in the Multiple Choice section and 150 in the Written English section*.

  OR

  • Completion of two Year 12 WACE, HSC or equivalent exams, with a result equivalent to the Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank listed under Secondary Education section above.

  *STAT results must have been obtained within the last three calendar years in order to be considered (e.g. for 2024 admission, STAT results obtained in 2023, 2022 or 2021 can be considered).

• Learning outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Health Sciences graduates will be able to:

  1. Apply their broad and coherent theoretical knowledge of key concepts in human health, disease prevention, and health promotion for professional work and/or further learning.
  2. Apply evidence-based research methods to appraise health information and uphold a commitment to lifelong learning in the field of human health.
  3. Communicate effectively with diverse audiences using multiple formats, ensuring clarity and comprehension while delivering accurate health information.
  4. Work both independently and collaboratively within inter-professional teams, contributing to a cohesive approach to health care practice.
  5. Implement personal, professional and social responsibility as engaged global citizens, understanding their role in promoting health, health equity and enhancing community well-being.
  6. Exhibit cultural competence and recognition of Indigenous health perspectives, effectively addressing the health needs and challenges of diverse populations while fostering respectful partnerships.
  7. Advocate for dignity of all individuals and promote holistic care that reflects a commitment to compassion, service and justice in the health care environment.

• Practical component

  Students are required to complete HLTH3XXX Experiential Learning in Health that may include an industry placement or related project.

• Career outcomes

  Graduates with a Bachelor of Health Sciences may enter a wide range of public health roles, such as in health administration, health information, health policy, community education officers, health promotion, Indigenous health and health management.

  You will also be well prepared for postgraduate study in specialist or allied health fields, such as counselling, paramedicine, physiotherapy, social work or speech pathology.

• Real-world experience

  Students are required to complete the course Experiential Learning in Health that may include an industry placement or related project to provide real-world experience.

• Opportunities and experiences

  At the University of Notre Dame, we believe that gaining a global perspective is an important part of your university education.

  Students can immerse themselves in other cultures with Study abroad, through our international exchange programs, study tours, and professional placements. These experiences provide valuable academic and personal growth while earning credit toward your degree.

  You can also engage with the world through Global experiences, volunteer opportunities and cross-cultural initiatives designed to develop your global citizenship and broaden your understanding of international communities.

  Visit Opportunities and experiences to find out more.

• Scholarships

  Scholarships provide financial support to students while they are completing their studies. There are various scholarships available to prospective and current students, across all study levels and campuses.

  These can be funded by Notre Dame, industry, individuals and non-profit organisations, to provide financial assistance to students to support costs associated with study. This could include buying food, paying rent, transport, and household bills, raising children as single parents, being a single-income household, becoming unemployed or caring for a sick loved one.

  Please visit the Scholarships Finder to see which scholarships are available to Undergraduate students.

• Fees and costs

  This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

  Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
  A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place at a university where the Australian Government pays part of your fees. This part is a subsidy, not a loan, and you don’t have to pay it back. However, this subsidy does not cover the entire cost of your study. Students must pay the rest, which is called the ‘student contribution amount’.

  In a Commonwealth Supported Place, your fees are subsidised by the Australian Government. Your fees will be split into two portions:

  The Commonwealth contribution, which is the portion paid by the Australian Government.

  The student contribution, which is the portion you pay. You may choose to pay upfront or defer your student contribution with a HECS-HELP Loan. The HECS-HELP loan scheme assists eligible students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your HECS-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.

  Eligible students will be offered a CSP – you do not need to apply.

  For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.

• More information

  Considering your uni options?
  Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process.

  If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, the Prospective Students Office can help. Book a 1-on-1 advice session with a career advisor or call us on 1800 878 916.

  Fremantle and Broome
  Email: future@nd.edu.au
  Address: 23 High St, Fremantle, WA 6160

  Sydney and Melbourne
  Email: sydney@nd.edu.au
  Address: 128-140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008

What is a Bachelor of Health Science and how is it different from other health degrees?

A Bachelor of Health Sciences is a flexible degree that gives you a broad foundation in health, science and wellbeing. You’ll study areas such as human biology, health promotion, public health and health research, while building the skills needed to work across Australia’s growing health sector with practical experience and work placements.

What makes it different from other health degrees is its versatility. Unlike specialised courses such as biomedical science, allied health or nursing, a Bachelor of Health Sciences lets you explore multiple areas of health before deciding on a career or postgraduate pathway. It’s a great choice if you want options – from community health, disease prevention and health policy to further study in physiotherapy, medicine or other allied health fields.

What careers and study pathways can a Bachelor of Health Science lead in to?

A Bachelor of Health Sciences prepares you for a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates may work in public health, health promotion, research, policy, health administration and community programs. It’s also a strong pathway if you’re aiming for further study.

Students may use the degree to gain entry into postgraduate physiotherapy, medicine, occupational therapy or other allied health professions. With Australia’s healthcare sector continuing to grow, a Bachelor of Health Sciences gives you both immediate job opportunities and long-term career flexibility.

What Year 12 subjects should I take to study a Bachelor of Health Science?

There are no specific ATAR subjects required but you will benefit from Year 12 English and at least one science subject. In WA this might be Human Biology, Psychology or Health Studies. In NSW, Community and Family Studies, Personal Development or Health and Physical Education. If you’re interested in a pathway to physiotherapy or medicine, taking a biology subject and Chemistry is especially helpful, along with Mathematics.

You may also be eligible for the Bachelor of Health Sciences if you complete the University's Tertiary Pathway Program.