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ABOUT

As long as new strains of diseases emerge, causing a detrimental effect on the health of our communities, biomedical science will play an important role in healthcare delivery.

Correct diagnosis of disease is imperative. Patients’ lives rely greatly on the results of clinical laboratory investigations conducted by capable biomedical scientists.

Biomedical Science Degree

Similarly, biomedical scientists are essential in the field of biomedical research, a sector at the forefront of the Malaysian government’s push into developed nation status. It is also a field of endeavour that first world nations put a premium on.

As such, biomedical science is a profession that will continue to expand especially in Malaysia where there has been rapid growth in the healthcare system.

At IMU, the biomedical science degree programme is mapped to the international standards set by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency and accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), UK.

The competencies required for a successful career are mapped out and students are able to track their progress as they advance.

This biomedical science degree from IMU is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), UK. All graduates with an IBMS-accredited degree are eligible to apply for registration as a biomedical scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK upon completion the IBMS Certificate of Competence training portfolio. Accreditation also provides eligibility for the Institution to become a member of HUCBMS (Heads of University Centres of Biomedical Science).

Key Facts

DEGREE

  • Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Biomedical Science (IMU)
  • Biomedical Science degree from Partner Universities

Commencement

  • July and September

total duration

  • 3 years (Degree from IMU)
  • 3 – 4 years (Degree from Partner Universities)

Why Study Biomedical Science at IMU?

An Established Private Healthcare University

IMU is Malaysia’s first and most established private medical and healthcare university with over 30 years of dedicated focus in healthcare education.

IMU achieved the SETARA-2018/19 Tier 6 status (Outstanding) under the Mature University category.

Build Your Future Healthcare Professional Network

As IMU offers the widest range of healthcare programmes, our students are fully immersed in a vibrant community of students and practitioners from all healthcare fields.

This allows for the development of strong friendship amongst peers that will be the foundation of an extensive healthcare professional network upon graduation.

Curriculum Benchmarked to International Standards

IMU’s Biomedical Science curriculum has been developed to meet high international standards and is accepted by University of Newcastle, Australia, University of Otago, New Zealand and University of Strathclyde, Scotland, England for credit transfer into their medical laboratory science and biomedical science programmes.

Better Exposure to Practical Training

Students will have many hours of hands-on practical sessions where every student has the opportunity to hone his / her skills in the microbiology lab, pathology lab, etc. This will be an advantage to the students in their future careers.

Better Preparation to be a Biomedical Scientist

With exposure to industrial attachment and research, students will be better prepared to be a competent biomedical scientist, upon graduation.

Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science in UK

The IMU Biomedical Science programme has been accredited by the prestigious Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), UK. Getting an IBMS-accredited Biomedical Science honours degree from the IMU will give you all the necessary scientific knowledge, skills and training to begin a career in biomedical science and be eligible for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK.

Programme Structure

Semester Contents

MPU SHORT SEMESTER Semester 1 Semester 2
  • MPU1 (2 compulsory modules)
    • Penghayatan Etika and Peradaban Falsafah dan Isu Semasa OR
    • Philosophy and Current Issues Bahasa Melayu Komunikasi 2
  • MPU2 (English for Health Sciences)
  • MPU3 (Choose 1 below)
    • History of Health Professionals
    • Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror
    • Survey of Asian Literature
    • Introduction to Media Literacy
  • Principles of Biology and Genetics
  • General Biochemistry
  • Laboratory Instrumentation and Management
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • General Pathology
  • Statistics for Biomedical Scientists
  • Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems
  • General Pharmacology
  • Haematology and Transfusion Science
  • Microbiology
  • Metabolic Biochemistry
  • Medical Epidemiology and Public Health
Semester 3 Semester 4 Semester 5
  • Musculoskeletal and Central Nervous Systems
  • Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
  • Management & Experimentation on Animals
  • Histopathology and Cytopathology
  • Biomedical Informatics
  • MPU4
  • Selective
    • Immunology
    • Clinical Biochemistry
    • Parasitology and Entomology
    • Gastrointestinal and Renal Systems
    • Genomics and Molecular Diagnostics
    • Current Trends in Biomedical Science
    • Research Methodology
  • Reproductive and Endocrine Systems
  • Biomedical Toxicology
  • Forensic Science and Pathology
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Research Project
  • Professional Practice for
    Biomedical Scientists
SHORT SEMESTER Semester 6
  • Practical Attachment – The Apprentice (Industry)
  • Practical Attachment – The Apprentice (Diagnostic Laboratory)

Entry Requirement

Examinations Requirements
A- Levels CDD (Including 2 subjects from:
Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
STPM Overall cGPA 2.50
(cGPA 2.33 In 2 subjects from:
Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
Australian Matriculation ATAR 70 (Including 2 subjects from:
Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
NCEA Level 3 65% aggregate
(with 60% in 2 subjects from Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
Canadian Grade 12/13 70% aggregate in 6 subjects
(with an average of 60% in 2 subjects from: Biology and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) B in 5 subjects (Including 2 subjects from:
Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
Australian University Foundation Programmes 70% aggregate or TER / UAI / ENTER / ATAR 70
(with 60% in 2 subjects from Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
Indian Pre-University 65% aggregate
(minimum 60% in 2 subjects from Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
Ministry of Education Matriculation # Overall cGPA 2.50
(cGPA 2.33 In 2 subjects from: Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
International Baccalaureate (IB) 26 points (Including 2 subjects from:
Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
American High School Diploma with Advanced Placement (AP) Overall cGPA 2.50
(cGPA 2.33 in 2 subjects from Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics / Mathematics)
Foundation Studies # IMU Foundation in Science/ Foundation in Biosciences / Foundation in Engineering or equivalent
Overall cGPA 2.50
(cGPA 2.33 In 2 subjects from: Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/ or Physics / Mathematics)
Degree BSc in related field :
cGPA 2.00
Diploma Diploma in Science (including 2 science subjects) ; Diploma in related field – cGPA 2.75
Diploma in related field with a cGPA less than 2.75 and minimum 3 years of working experience in the same field

# The duration of this programme must be a minimum of 1 year in the same accredited institution and foundation in other disciplines are accepted.

Foundation in Science
  • Foundation in Science qualifications from other higher education institutions will be considered on a case by case basis for admission into the local IMU programmes.
  • Students with IMU Foundation in Science can apply into IMU programmes and programmes with selected credit transfer options, upon meeting the entry requirement eligibility. **
    (Please refer to IMU Foundation in Science brochure for more details)
For admissions into the IMU Foundation in Science programme, students will need:
  • Pass SPM / O-Levels with minimum 5 credits in Mathematics, 2 Science subjects and 2 other subjects.
    Note: Specific SPM / O-Levels requirements may be needed for admissions into IMU programmes.

English Language Requirement

MUET* Band score of 3; or
(For Malaysian students)
IELTS Overall band score of 5.5; or
TOEFL iBT* Overall score of 46; or
Cambridge English : Advanced (CAE)* Overall score of 162; or
Cambridge English : Proficiency (CPE)* Overall score of 162; or
Cambridge Linguaskill* Overall score of 160; or
Pearson Test of English (PTE)* Overall score of 51; or
Credit Transfer IELTS Overall band score of 7.0

The following categories of students* are exempted from the English requirements:
Students who graduated from other institutions where the curriculum is delivered in English Language for example: Advanced Levels / Australian Matriculation / Australian University Foundation Year / Canadian Matriculation / International Baccalaureate / Foundation in Science / Other Pre-University/  Programmes from Local Higher Education Institutions

 

* ONLY applicable for those who are completing the entire degree at IMU, Malaysia

Note

Please note that achieving the minimum Entry and English requirements as stated does not guarantee you admission into any of IMU’s programmes.

Please refer to our Student Admissions Policy for more information.

Application and Registration Fees

Fee Malaysian Student (RM) International Student (RM)
Application Fee 150 500
Registration Fee 850 2,000
Refundable Caution Deposit 1,000 1,000
  • Application fee is payable upon submission of application.
  • Registration fee and refundable caution deposit is payable upon acceptance of the offer letter issued by the IMU Admissions Office.
  • All students who are applying for the NHEF loans are required to pay their semester fees in FULL by the due date stated in the invoice.
  • The fees quoted for partner universities are current estimates only
  • Student must adhere to the Policy on Payment of Fees
  • All tuition and ancillary fees are subject to annual increases, currency exchange rates, and exclusive of levy and bridging fees (if any).
  • All students are required to pay Student Association Fees of RM40 per semester.
  • * Overseas fees are indicative and subject to annual increase and currency exchange rate. Fees are exclusive of levy and bridging fee.
  • ** Fees shown is before 15% bursary for IMU students.
  • As stipulated by Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education, international students are required to pay Student Visa Application fee of RM2,500 AND personal bond (depending on nationality) upon registration.

Fee Structure

malaysian student

Total Duration (years) At International Medical University (IMU) At Partner University (PU)
Years Total Semesters Tuition Fee (RM) Estimated Tuition Fees at Partner University
Per Semester Per Year Years Semesters Tuition Fee Per Year *
Bachelor of Science (Hons) Biomedical Science 3 3 6 21,000 42,000
– Credit Transfer to University of Newcastle
Bachelor of Biomedical Science
3 3 21,000 42,000 3 A$44,425
– Credit Transfer to University of Otago
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
4 2 4 21,000 42,000 2 4 NZ$46,295
– Credit Transfer to University of Strathclyde
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
4 2 4 21,000 42,000 2 4 £25,250**
– Credit Transfer to University of Strathclyde
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
3 ** 1 2 21,000 42,000 2 4 £25,250**
– Credit Transfer to University
of Strathclyde
MSc Forensic Science
4 3 6 21,000 42,000 1 2 £28,950**

International Student

Total Duration (years) At International Medical University (IMU) At Partner University (PU)
Years Total Semesters Tuition Fee (RM) Estimated Tuition Fees at Partner University
Per Semester Per Year Years Semesters Tuition Fee Per Year *
Bachelor of Science (Hons) Biomedical Science 3 3 6 22,000 44,000
– Credit Transfer to University of Newcastle
Bachelor of Biomedical Science
3 3 22,000 44,000 3 A$44,425
– Credit Transfer to University of Otago
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
4 2 4 22,000 44,000 2 4 NZ$46,295
– Credit Transfer to University of Strathclyde
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
4 2 4 22,000 44,000 2 4 £25,250**
– Credit Transfer to University of Strathclyde
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
3 ** 1 2 22,000 44,000 2 4 £25,250**
– Credit Transfer to University
of Strathclyde
MSc Forensic Science
4 3 6 22,000 44,000 1 2 £28,950**
Country Estimated Living Costs
(Per Year)
Exchange Rate
(As of Dec 2023)
Estimated Living Cost (Per Year) Australia AUD 21,000 – AUD 30,000 ≈ RM 65,900 – RM 94,200 AUD 1 ≈ RM3.14
Canada CAD 28,000 ≈ RM 98,000 CAD 1 ≈ RM3.50
China RMB 85,000 ≈ RM 56,100 RMB 1 ≈ RM0.66
Ireland EUR 12,000 ≈ RM 62,000 EUR 1 ≈ RM5.17
New Zealand NZD 22,000 – NZD 26,000 ≈ RM 64,500 – RM 76,200 NZD 1 ≈ RM2.93
United Kingdom GBP 10,000 – 22,700 ≈ RM60,000 – RM 136,200 GBP 1 ≈ RM6.00
United States of America USD 16,000 ≈ RM 75,800 USD 1 ≈ RM4.74
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia RM36,000 RM36,000

Partner Universities

As an assurance of a total commitment towards quality education in biomedical science, the IMU maintains its relationship with many partner universities in Australia, New Zealand and United Kingdom.

Industrial Partners

The curriculum structure is constantly updated to meet the ever-changing industries’ needs and includes research-led teaching to deliver evidence-based knowledge and practice in the industry. Students will have the opportunity to undergo industrial training in the related sectors in their final semester. They will also be able to collaborate with industry or/and researcher in related project in their final year. The organisations involved in these internships are:

Our Alumni

Our alumni today have embarked on diverse and promising career paths across various industries. They are a true testament to the versatility of their education, as they continue to excel in a wide range of professional healthcare fields.

  • Academia Sinica (Taiwan) (post-doctoral fellow)
  • AGTC Genomics
  • AIA insurance
  • Alpha IVF and Women’s Specialists
  • Beacon Hospital
  • EP Plus Group
  • Eppendorf Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd
  • Roche Diagnostics Sdn Bhd
  • Subang Jaya Medical Centre
  • Sunfert International Fertility Center
  • Sunway Medical Centre
  • University of Newcastle (Australia) (post-doctoral fellow)

Views from Our Community

Vinoshini a/p Wiswannadan

Student, Biomedical Science

Biomedical Science shows us how, in this dynamic world, modern healthcare is important and is a major issue that is needed. As the world is advancing to a brighter future, understanding of the human body, effects of drugs and diseases needs to be approached in a better way. The IMU Biomedical Science programme has a great curriculum with research-based teaching and problem-based learning. Learning from the experienced lecturers has provided us with lots of scientific knowledge and practical skills that are valuable to us currently and for the future. We were given ample opportunities to visit potential workplaces to experience work life in diagnostic laboratories, research labs and many more.

Teng Jet Shee

Student, Biomedical Science

After going through this journey with Biomedical Science in the past few years, what I have learnt is not merely the basic knowledge in human biology and laboratory work but it also eminently built up my interpersonal and leadership skills via the organisation of events and activities. As self-directed learning played an important role in our programme, it indirectly encourages us to be independent, improves stress endurance and enhances self-discipline since we have to manage time effectively to get our assignments done despite participating in campus activities. The career options are not only restricted to laboratory, it provides wide career pathways and industries which I could engage in. Hence, choosing this programme is one of the decisions that I will never regret and I cannot wait for the next chapter of my life.

Chok Kian Chung

Alumnus, Biomedical Science

IMU Biomedical Science programme has prepared me with comprehensive medical knowledge and practical skills. I was trained with transferable management and interpersonal skills for future career and work environment. The excellent quality of IMU’s Biomedical Science programme provides students with an advantage to pursue our profession competently and internationally.

Hossein Jahedi

Alumnus, Biomedical Science

Biomedical science is about understanding the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the human body while acquiring techniques for investigations. Biomedical Science at IMU provides an environment in which independence, self-learning, student lecturer discussions, and exploring the science world within and outside of the university are encouraged. Plus, the faculty members are always there to guide you in the direction that you want to go! Graduating from IMU has allowed me to get multiple offers to pursue my PhD studies.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the aims of the programme?

Biomedical science is the study of basic sciences that relate to medicine including biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, parasitology, pharmacology, haematology, immunology, histopathology and cytopathology.

The IMU Biomedical Science programme has been designed for students who wish to gain an understanding of the basic sciences that are related to medicine and to develop skills in different biomedical areas.

The aim of this programme is to provide training for undergraduate biomedical science students that would prepare them to work effectively in healthcare services which includes diagnostics, therapeutics, determining the nature of diseases, quality control, prevention, control and treatment of diseases.

This programme also aims to provide the students with technical and analytical skills to carry out biomedical research. Furthermore, the programme also prepares them to pursue postgraduate studies in a range of disciplines.

What are the key features of the programme?

The programme has incorporated key features to prepare the modern biomedical scientist. These features offer an appreciable advantage by enabling students:

        • To have a sound knowledge of the functioning of the human body in physiological and pathological states via the body-organ systems courses.
        • To develop knowledge, skills and attitudes through a structured in-house learning experience. The learning experience will be delivered through various teaching-learning approaches. In-house practical sessions will be conducted using simulated and clinical specimens.
        • To gain practical experience while working under close supervision alongside experts in the respective biomedical science disciplines, through attachments at appropriate hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, university and/or research laboratories.
        • To develop further laboratory experience and expertise while working as an apprentice, under minimal supervision. This period of attachment as an apprentice provides an opportunity to demonstrate the trainee’s expertise in a prospective employment environment and a long-term career prospect.
        • To acquire knowledge, skills and attitudes relating to the biomedical science disciplines which would prepare the graduate for further training in postgraduate biomedical science programmes, and where feasible, medicine and allied health sciences.
        • To develop professionalism. Opportunities will be given to the students to put theory into practice in their development as an effective member of the healthcare team.
        • To develop their curiosity and enthusiasm for the biomedical sciences through student-centred learning activities including Portfolios of Learning, Problem-Based Learning and Research Projects.

What are the teaching/learning approaches used?

In addition to didactic large group teaching sessions (Plenaries), the programme is also delivered through small group teaching sessions (Problem-based learning, Laboratory practicals, Workshops, Computer-aided learning, Tutorials, Seminars, Presentations and Attachments / Placements). Such small group teaching sessions will provide opportunities for the development of a range of skills necessary for the biomedical scientist. The projects in Semester 6 will provide opportunity for the student to conduct studies in biomedical field and it is hoped that students will acquire critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for postgraduate training later.

What are the semester contents?

Semester contents are available in the programme brochure [Download Brochure]

Who will award the degree?

The Bachelor of Science (Hons) Biomedical Science degree is awarded by IMU. The partner universities will award their respective degrees to students who transfer to their school.

How will I be assessed?

Students will be assessed through their class tests, practical reports, workshops, portfolios, projects, logbooks, written reports, presentations, dissertations and end-of-semester examinations.

Are there any industrial placements?

There will be 9 weeks of industry attachment and 17 weeks of diagnostic lab attachment.

What is the medium of instruction?

The medium of instruction is English. Students who come from a system of education in which the medium of instruction is not English are strongly recommended to improve their proficiency in English by making their own arrangements to attend additional English Language classes before entering IMU.

What sort of jobs/careers can be undertaken with this degree?

Biomedical scientists may be employed by public and private hospital laboratories, public health laboratories and private pathology laboratories. Biomedical scientists analyse specimens of blood and body fluid, enabling diagnosis of illness and evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment. Their nature of work includes performing chemical analysis of body fluids and haematological analysis of blood samples, isolating micro-organisms and matching the blood of donors to recipient to ensure compatibility.

Biomedical scientists may be involved in medical, veterinary and agricultural research in universities and research/health institutions. Industries employing biomedical scientists for research and development include pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, chemicals, cosmetics and toiletries. Examples of biomedical science research include research on causes and cures of diseases for example, cancer, AIDS and hepatitis, animal cloning, gene therapy as well as discovery, development and production of biopharmaceuticals, diagnostic products and chemicals.

Biomedical science graduates can undertake postgraduate degrees in any of the related disciplines. They could also pursue a career in education. The biomedical science degree can be used as graduate entry into medicine. Biomedical science graduates can also enter the police force in the area of forensics or enter scientific journalism.

When do I apply for a placement in IMU?

You can apply as soon as you have your forecast or actual results.

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INTERESTED IN APPLYING FOR ONE OF OUR PROGRAMMES?

You will need to prepare the following documents for your application:

  • Verified copies of your academic qualifications
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
  • A copy of your MyKad or the identification page of your passport

These supporting documents needs to be attached electronically to your application. Please note that all of our programmes require payment of a non-refundable application fee after the application has been submitted. Application will only be processed once the payment for application fee has been made.

We wish you all the best with your application, and hope we will be welcoming you into one of our programmes soon!

A Word from the Programme Director

DR SHAMALA SALVAMANI

Senior Lecturer and Programme Director
BSc (Hons) (UNISEL), MSc (UPM), PhD (UPM)

“IMU’s Biomedical Science programme is designed to cultivate highly proficient and job-ready graduates by providing them with a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The programme empowers students to stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field, fostering analytical and critical thinking while honing their communication abilities. Moreover, the inclusion of internships offers students hands-on experience, bridging the gap between academia and the professional sphere. The faculty, comprised of experienced and dedicated experts in the field, plays a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring students throughout their academic journey. Besides, the students gain ample invaluable experiences through participation and organisation of various educational activities. The curriculum ensures that graduates are fully prepared to excel in the profession, making them highly sought after both locally and internationally.”

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