Applied Biomedical Science deals with the study of the underlying anatomy, physiology and pathology of disease and the techniques and procedures involved in the collection and analysis of samples taken from the human body to enable the identification of pathological conditions. Applied Biomedical Science provides the diagnostic tools for medical care within the laboratory.

Applied Biomedical Science is a vast and multidisciplinary area of health care. A sound knowledge of biology is a prerequisite for this programme of studies.

The course is composed of a theoretical component as well as a very strong practical component. Both components cover the 5 major areas of study described below. Practical laboratory sessions are held throughout the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years course, with placements in the pathology labs of Mater Dei Hospital (called Advanced Practicals in the course programme) held during 3rd year and 4th year. You will also engage in a small research project in one of the major areas of study.

Communication and Academic Skills Programme
The communication and academic skills programme complements students’ main course of study. It introduces them to writing and presenting as situated within academic contexts sensitive to specific disciplines and develops their competences for future careers.

The following are the major areas of study in Applied Biomedical Science:

• Cellular Pathology
• the study and identification of pathological conditions of cells and tissues;
• Clinical Biochemistry and Genetics
• the study of the levels of biochemical compounds in the body and the study of genetics, genomics and molecular biology to understand the inherited basis of disease;
• Haematology
• the study of both the cellular and a soluble components of blood;
• Medical Microbiology/Virology
• the study of microorganisms that cause disease;
• Transfusion Medicine
• the study of the methodology involved in the collection, preservation, storage, testing and administration of blood and blood products; and
• Immunology ֠the study of the diseases and disorders of the immune system.

Applicants must satisfy the General Entry Requirements for admission, namely, the Matriculation Certificate and Secondary Education Certificate passes at Grade 5 or better in Maltese, English Language and Mathematics.

Applicants must also satisfy the following Special Course Requirements:

Passes at Advanced Level at Grade C or better in Biology and Chemistry and a pass at Intermediate Level in one of the following subjects: Applied Mathematics, Computing, Information Technology, Physics and Pure Mathematics.

The number of students shall be limited to 24 students.

During the first year of the Course, students are also required to undergo an occupational health assessment so as to ascertain that they are fit for the duties related to their proposed studies. Students who do not fulfil this requirement may be barred from progressing with their studies. Failure to disclose information about a physical or mental health problem that could affect patient safety is considered to be a serious breach of the University Suitability to Practise Regulations.

Requires the submission of a Police Certificate of Conduct.

Further information regarding admission.

The admission requirements are applicable for courses commencing in October 2023.

For more detailed information pertaining to admission and progression requirements please refer to the bye-laws for the course available here.