Anatomy


The discipline

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.

Recommended sequences (* denotes core components)

Career direction

Second year

Third year (in 2001)

Medical or paramedical

Semester 1
Human anatomy 1 (ANT2311)*
Human anatomy 2 (ANT2321)*
Semester 2
Human anatomy 3
(ANT2342)*
Cell biology 1
(CEL2012)

Human anatomy 4*
Human anatomical pathology 1*
Human anatomical pathology 2*
Cell biology 2
Medical laboratory technology

Biomedical science

Semester 1
Introduction to human anatomy and medical terminology
(ANT2331)*
Human anatomy 2
(ANT2321)*
Semester 2
Cell biology 1
(CEL2012)*

Cell biology 2 *
Developmental biology*
Medical laboratory technology*
Human anatomical pathology 1
Human anatomical pathology 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.

Subjects offered