Anatomy and cell biology

• The discipline
• A guide to subject selections in anatomy and cell biology
  • Bachelor of Science: recommended subject sequences
  • Subjects offered

The discipline

The discipline of anatomy and cell biology are major biological sciences 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). All aspects are further complemented by self-directed study using a variety of computer based teaching tools. 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 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, is 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 allow students to build a fully integrated program of up to 24 points in second year anatomy.
Students entering third year having completed ´Human anatomy 2' will have gained a firm foundation for studying ´Human pathology 1' (semester one) and ´Human pathology 2' (semester two). ´Medical laboratory technology' introduces students to the theoretical and practical foundations of techniques used for studying cells and tissues.
´Human development from conception to birth' covers classical human embryology as well as the latest findings on the genetic and molecular regulation of human development.
´Introduction to anatomy and cell biology research' gives students the opportunity to spend a semester working in a modern research laboratory.

A guide to subject selections in anatomy and cell biology

Bachelor of Science: recommended subject sequences

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

• ANT2311 Human anatomy 1: musculo-skeletal system
• ANT2321 Human anatomy 2: organs, tissues and body systems
• ANT2331 Introduction to human anatomy and medical terminology
• ANT2342 Human anatomy 3: thorax, abdomen and pelvis
• CEL2012 Cell biology 1
• ANT3031 Human anatomy 4: head, neck and brain
• CEL3011 Cell biology 2
• HUP3011 Human pathology 1: understanding disease processes
• HUP3022 Human pathology 2: pathology of human diseases
• ANT3032 Medical laboratory technology
• ANT3042 Introduction to anatomy and cell biology research
• ANT3052 Human development from conception to birth
• ANT4000 Anatomy (honours)

Previous page | Next page | Section contents | Title and contents