The
discipline of anatomy is a major biological science which is concerned with the
structure, function and development of the human body extending from the cell
to the whole organism. The teaching program incorporates elements of gross
anatomy, embryology, developmental biology, organ and tissue biology, cell
biology and principles of neurobiology. These subjects are not only important
in the context of a complete scientific training in human biology but also
provide an important structural basis for the study of physiology,
biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology and psychology.
Subjects are taught with a range of modalities. Core teaching in gross anatomy
is centered on active dissection and/or the study of prosected human material.
This is complemented by the study of living anatomy and the use of a range of
imaging techniques including computerised tomography (CT) and magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI). The emphasis at all times is on the relationship
between structure and function. The functional understanding of gross anatomy
depends on an integrated knowledge of the microscopic structure of organs and
tissues. Students are therefore strongly advised to complement their study of
gross anatomy by completing Human anatomy 2 (organs, tissues and body systems)
in semester one of second year.
Students entering second year in 2000 have an option of commencing a sequence
of studies in gross anatomy, which will commence with the limbs (Human anatomy
1, semester one), followed by the thorax, abdomen and pelvis (Human anatomy 3,
semester two). The gross anatomy program will be completed with the study of
the head and neck together with the brain and spinal cord (Human anatomy 4) in
third year. This program is recommended for students planning future studies in
medical or paramedical areas. It is also recommended for students who are
uncertain about their future career as it allows for maximum flexibility in
career choice.
An alternative subject (Introduction to human anatomy and medical terminology),
in which gross anatomy is covered comprehensively but at a basic level in one
semester, will also be offered in first semester. This subject is recommended
for students planning a future in biomedical science or who are looking for a
stand-alone six-point unit.
Two complementary subjects covering the microscopic anatomy of tissues and
organs (Human anatomy 2, semester one, and Cell biology 1, semester two), which
covers the dynamic aspects of cell processes together with the methods used to
study them, will allow students to build a fully integrated program of up to 24
points in second year anatomy.
Students entering third year in 2001 having completed Human anatomy 2 will have
gained a firm foundation for studying Human anatomical pathology 1 (semester
one) and Human anatomical pathology 2 (semester two). Additional options in
Medical laboratory Technology and developmental biology are also planned.
Career direction |
Second year |
Third year (in 2001) |
Medical or paramedical |
Semester
1 |
Human
anatomy 4* |
Biomedical science |
Semester
1 |
Cell
biology 2 * |
Students who have passed ANT2011 and ANT2022 may complete their study of
Anatomy in third year in the year 2000. The first-semester program (ANT3011)
includes topographic anatomy of the head and neck together with the relevant
histology. Part of this program is also devoted to neuroanatomy and a
discussion of methods used in the study of cells and tissues. The
second-semester program (ANT3022) includes topographic anatomy of the upper
limb together with a series of themes related to contemporary aspects of
development, reproduction, hematology, neuroscience and forensic science.
Students who have completed an appropriate third year of study may be offered
the opportunity to pursue a fourth year of study (honours) involving laboratory
research in the areas of cell and or organ biology under the supervision of a
staff member.