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Students science lab

Diploma of Health Science

Key Information

Duration

Year 1: 8 units (8 to 12 months)*
Year 2: 8 units (8 to 12 months)*

*Part-time students who are enrolled in less than 4 units per trimester are expected to take additional trimesters to complete.

Intakes

Year 1: February, June, October
Year 2: February, June, October

Location

ECU Sri Lanka Campus

Kandy Campus

Domestic Fees

Year 1: 74,000.00 per unit
Year 2: 112,450.00 per unit

2026 Domestic Unit Price (LKR)

International Fees

Year 1: 495.00 per unit
Year 2: 725.00 per unit

2026 International Unit Price (USD)

Overview

Diploma of Health Science (Year 1) is designed to enhance your learning experience, and provide you with the underpinning knowledge necessary to prepare you for studies health related fields at university level.

Diploma of Health Science (Year 2) introduces you to the biological, social and cultural elements involved in healthcare and provides foundation concepts to progress in your chosen program. After completing the ECC diploma, students can enter a Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science) degree in ECU Sri Lanka. ECU will grant exemptions for the first year of study (120 credit points). Our on-campus pathway Diplomas provide a direct route into Edith Cowan University, with programs equivalent to first year university and guaranteed progression into second year upon successful completion.

A minimum of 50% pass in all units is required for progression to ECU.

Course Structure

Diploma Year 01

COM210 – Communication Skills

This unit introduces the foundations of academic writing – from library research using databases, selection of approved academic resources, to writing paragraphs and essays, using the APA referencing system and delivering oral presentations using multi-media.  The unit also includes essential study skills to assist with time management, note-taking and the use of memory aids for study purposes.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Class

Credits: 15

CPT107 - Introductory Computing

This unit develops knowledge and skills in computing systems – software, hardware, digital security, communication networks, internet, information and data management. Students will develop their digital literacy and gain practical skills in specific computing applications from the Microsoft Office Suite. Students will also be introduced to some basic hands-on skills in program design using Pseudocode.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Class

Credits: 15

CHE100 – Introductory Chemistry

This Chemistry unit is designed for students who wish to study engineering, physical sciences or health sciences at a tertiary level. It covers the study of matter and its interactions (chemical quantities, atoms, states, chemical bonding, chemical calculations, electronic and molecular structures, organic and inorganic chemistry).   Students will develop skills in organising, analysing and interpreting information and use simulated activities to prepare for future laboratory work.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Class

Credits: 15

MTH104 - Introductory Mathematics

This unit is designed for students who require a general mathematics background suitable for studies in business, health sciences and computing/IT courses.  Students will learn to use a scientific calculator and develop critical thinking skills to identify, analyse, synthesize and solve mathematical calculations in arithmetic, statistics, algebra, functions and their graphs, optimisation, sequences, series, growth and decay, trigonometry, geometric sequences, series, set theory and interest.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Class

Credits: 15

ELE100 - English Language Enhancement

This English language unit aims to enable you to improve your ability to communicate in English to participate effectively in academic and professional environments. A balance of receptive (reading, listening) and productive (speaking, writing) skills are developed through communicative classes and self-study. The unit will also provide language awareness tools to enable self-directed and ongoing learning.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Class

Credits: 15

COM220 - Workplace Communication - Employability

Students will identify, analyse and apply communication, social and intercultural skills for effective interpersonal and workplace relationships.  This unit develops written skills, oral presentation skills and research skills, to prepare students for academic or professional environments.  Students will make connections between learning and future employability through topics such as effective workplace relationships, negotiation, managing conflict, and skills for teamwork and leadership.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Class

Credits: 15

ICS100 - Intercultural Studies

The unit introduces students to intercultural interaction in the contemporary world, focusing on multiple and diverse audiences, modalities, globalisation, cultural symbols and values, language, and interpretations of intercultural sites. Accounting for the international students’ experiences, they are given a practical introduction to relevant processes leading to expanding their cultural knowledge. Global citizenship, including intercultural communication skills, is introduced and enhanced, focusing on cultural diversity and contemporary implications for professional practice. Students will explore, report and present on their intercultural communication journey, and its’ relevance to their discipline / professional interests.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Class

Credits: 15

HBI100 - Human Biology

This module investigates the physiology and anatomy of the human body. This knowledge and understanding of the main body system with the associated biological concepts will promote a scientific awareness and appreciation of the human body in a personal, social and media context.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Class

Credits: 15

Page Section

Diploma Year 02

MAT1114D – Introductory Statistics

This units deals with the methods and skills or organising, summarising and presenting numerical data. The concepts of estimation and hypothesis testing are studied, with the emphasis on analysing real data. Students will learn to use statistical software packages and be expected to work through the tutorial worksheets.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Laboratory

Credits: 15

MHS1101D – Anatomy and Physiology - 1

This unit provides a comprehensive introduction to foundational concepts in human anatomy and physiology. The unit investigates core concepts in the cellular, chemical and biochemical structure and functions of the body. It then examines the developmental, anatomical and physiological features of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems.

Students evaluate and submit a written response to a case scenario involving a range of anatomical and physiological deviations from normal. Students will be assessed on their ability to analyse relationships in order to solve problems, communicate ideas through written discussion, apply appropriate scientific terminology, and demonstrate academic integrity.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Laboratory

Credits: 15

SCH1133D - Human Genetics

This unit provides students with information about genetic issues they could encounter during their lives. It begins with classical genetics – cell division, transmission of traits, cytogenetics, and developmental genetics. Emphasis then shifts to DNA structure, gene expression, and recombinant DNA technology before the genetic nature of cancer is introduced. The unit concludes with an analysis of the social, legal and ethical issues arising from genetic testing and screening, genetic counselling, reproductive technology, gene therapy, genetic treatment and the role of biotechnology in society.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 2hr class and Weekly 2hr Laboratory

Credits: 15

SCC1123D – Chemistry for the Life Sciences

This broadly based unit will introduce the student to important chemical concepts and principles. The unit will provide the essential chemistry background required for courses in the biological, environmental and health sciences.

This unit introduces students to the foundations of chemistry. The unit uses technology enhanced learning, such as chemical simulations, videos, podcasts and online tutorial support with a mix of lectures and laboratory sessions. The laboratory sessions support the theory covered in lectures and provide students with skills in dealing with chemicals, laboratory safety, data collection and analysis. Student participation in laboratory classes is compulsory.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Laboratory

Credits: 15

SCH1104D - Introduction to Pathophysiology

This unit examines the concepts of health and disease in human populations and the principles and mechanisms of the disease processes. The various components and interactions of the body’s defence system and the relationship of environmental factors to the disease process are considered. The morphology, pathogenesis and clinical course of diseases are considered in detail.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 2hr Class and Weekly 2hr Laboratory

Credits: 15

MHS1102D – Anatomy and Physiology - 2

This unit examines the anatomy and physiology of the major organ systems within the body. The systems will be investigated both with respect to their individual structure and function, as well as their roles as part of an integrated whole. Students undertake basic research and submit a written report on a clinical case scenario that requires anatomical and physiological knowledge. Students will be assessed on their ability to analyse relationships in order to solve problems, communicate ideas through written discussion, use scientific terminology correctly and demonstrate academic integrity.

Pre-Requisite Units: MHS1101D – Anatomy & Physiology 1

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Laboratory

Credits: 15

SCC1226D – Introduction to Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry

This unit provides an introduction to organic chemistry and biochemistry. It covers the structure and reactions of important classes of organic compounds and biomolecules including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids. Various important applications will be described, including polymers, medicinals, soaps and detergents.

Pre-Requisite Units: SCC1123D – Chemistry for the Life Sciences

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Laboratory

Credits: 15

SCH1101D – Cultural Studies

This unit explores cross-cultural understanding through development of lifelong learning principles informed by professional and ethical considerations within health systems. Students will build culturally reflexive awareness by practising critical reflection of health practitioner knowledge, skills, attitudes, behaviours and power differentials to establish culturally safe environments for all concerned. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health will be the primary focus of the unit, however, cultural safety and cultural capability will be applied in several additional contexts including the significance of: individualism and collectivism, gender and sexuality, spirituality and religion, and attitudes toward mortality.

Pre-Requisite Units: None

Tuition Pattern: Weekly 4hr Laboratory

Credits: 15

Prerequisites

  • MHS1101D is a pre-requisite of MHS1102D
  • SCC1123D is a pre-rerquisite of SCC1226D

Entry into 2nd Year

Students can also enter into many universities in Australia or Navitas-partnered Universities for the 2nd year in health related majors such as Biomedical, Sports Science, Psychology, Nutrition Bioscience etc.

Transfer to ECU

Completion of the University Foundation Program and the ECC Diploma Year 01 program can lead into the first year undergraduate degrees at ECU.

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