Accelerated biomedical science program
The Accelerated Biomedical Science (ABMS) program aims to provide high achieving Year 11 students with a coordinated and rigorous, streamlined program that will lead them to guaranteed enrolment in the Bachelor of Biomedical Science program at the University of Southern Queensland.
Advantages of the program
The advantages of participation in this program include :
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Early achievement and tertiary completion
Students will complete their Bachelor of Biomedical Science program in two years instead of three, allowing faster entry into postgraduate degrees (or the workplace). They will also have access to extension learning environments.
Over the period of a standard format degree(s), this provides the potential for an additional $37,000 to $50,000 in salary earnings by allowing students to enter into the workplace one year earlier.
In the short term, students will save a substantial part of SCC (student contribution charges) for 4 courses as part of an award program, providing a saving of several thousand dollars.
Eligibility
Students who are Australian citizens, permanent residents or New Zealand citizens who are currently in Year 11 at ABMS participating schools are eligible to apply for entry. Students must demonstrate that they have achieved well in their Year 11 studies. A useful guide to the level of achievement required is a B grade at the time of application - in English and Mathematics B and a B grade in relevant courses such as Biological Science, Chemistry, Physics or Multi-strand science. There are a limited number of places so an interview process will also take place after written applications have been submitted.
Cost
Students will not be charged full tuition fees for their first four ABMS program courses (ASC1101, ASC1102, ASC2101 & ASC2102). Instead students will pay only $250 per course which will equate to $500 for each of the two semesters of the ABMS program. Students will be charged a reduced domestic tuition fee for BIO1203 undertaken in S3. Students will be expected to meet the costs normally incurred with the course in which they are enrolled, including books/materials.
Application procedure
Applications will close on Friday 28 May 2010 to commence the program in semester 2, 2010. Late applications may be accepted subject to availability.
Applicants must discuss their application with their School/College's Head of Science prior to completing an application form.
Contact details
All enquiries should be directed to the Program Coordinator Dr Kerry Withers.
Frequently asked questions
Which students are best suited to the ABMS program?
Students should have a strong interest in science and need to be considered capable of undertaking the study successfully in addition to their current workload. They will also need the support of their school and their parents/guardians.
Will students who successfully pass the program be eligible for entry into a Bachelor of Biomedical Science Program at USQ upon completion of year 12?
Yes, students completing the ABMS program requirements will gain direct entry into the second year of a Bachelor of Biomedical Science program at USQ.
Does USQ have special classes for high school students in the ABMS program?
Yes, there is a weekly 3 hour workshop run especially for ABMS students.
When do ABMS students begin the program?
In 2010 ABMS students will begin the program in the week commencing 12 July.
What if a student finds the ABMS program too difficult?
If a high school student is having difficulty with a program they should contact the ABMS Coordinator as early as possible so that an attempt can be made to work through the issues.
If it is necessary for a student to withdraw from the program, there will be no financial or academic penalties incurred.