Coordinator: Associate Professor Nigel Wreford (Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology)
The
disciplines 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 units 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.
Units are taught through a range of modalities. Core teaching in gross anatomy
is centred 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.
Students entering second year have an option of commencing a sequence of
studies in gross anatomy, which will commence with the limbs in ANT2311 (Human
anatomy 1) (semester one), followed by the thorax, abdomen and pelvis in
ANT2342 (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 in ANT3031 (Human anatomy 4) at level three. 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 unit, ANT2331 (Introduction to human anatomy and medical
terminology), in which gross anatomy is covered comprehensively but at a basic
level in one semester, is also offered in first semester. This unit is
recommended for students planning a future in biomedical science or who are
looking for a stand-alone six-point unit.
The functional understanding of gross anatomy depends on an integrated
knowledge of the microscopic structure of organs and tissues. Two complementary
units covering the microscopic anatomy of tissues and organs: ANT2321 (Human
anatomy 2) (semester one) and CEL2012 (Cell biology) (semester two), which
covers the dynamic aspects of cell processes allow students to build a fully
integrated program of up to 24 points in anatomy at level two.
Students commencing level three who have completed ANT2321 (Human anatomy 2)
will have gained a firm foundation for studying HUP3011 (Human pathology 1)
(semester one) and HUP3022 (Human pathology 2) (semester two). ANT3032 (Medical
laboratory technology) introduces students to the theoretical and practical
foundations of techniques used for studying cells and tissues.
ANT3052 (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.
ANT3042 (Introduction to anatomy and cell biology research) gives students the
opportunity to spend a semester working in a modern research laboratory.
Students who have completed appropriate studies at level three may be offered
the opportunity to pursue a fourth year at honours level involving laboratory
research in the areas of cell and/or organ biology under the supervision of a
staff member.
Details of units can be found at http://www.med.monash.edu.au/anatom
y/teaching/
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