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Recommended Study Sequence

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Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 240 credit points which include the units listed in the recommended sequence below.

Recommended Sequence

Full-time

Year 1

Introduction to Anatomy and Histology

This unit provides a basic understanding of human anatomy and histology. It undertakes this by utilising a systems approach (as against a regional approach), emphasising the special relationship between form and function at every level of tissue organisation.

Introduction to Human Physiology

This unit uses a body-systems approach to examine the physiology of tissues, organs and systems in order to develop an integrated view of the regulated functioning of the human body. The unit concludes with a critical examination of the concept of homeostasis.

Plus one unit from each of the following combinations:

Choose one of

Cell Biology

Cells are the foundations of life, and an understanding of cell structure and function is required for anyone working in the medical science field. Most diseases result from or lead to malfunctioning of some aspect of cellular processes such as transport across membranes or cell replication. Underlying normal cell function, however, are the molecules of which cells are composed. Consequently, the unit will introduce lipids, carbohydrates, amino and nucleic acids, then study the processes by which these molecules are manipulated to build and recycle organelles, store and transport energy and transmit genetic information in both the prokaryote and eukaryote domains. Accordingly, the unit will include cell replication, sex cell formation, Mendelian genetics as well as cellular respiration and DNA replication, transcription and translation. The role of DNA technology in biomolecular science will be an important component of the unit and will unify the several topics listed above.

Biology 1

The cell is the basic unit of life and some basic processes, such as membrane function and the reactions involving DNA, occur in cells of all living organisms. This unit introduces the important biological chemicals involved in those processes and the study of the processes themselves. The unit also examines phenomena such as cell replication, sex cell formation, inheritance, and cell metabolism that are shared by all eukaryotes (animals, protistans, fungi and plants). The biochemical capture of the sun's energy (photosynthesis) is also studied. The evolutionary links between these cellular processes form a framework for the unit, and students consider the origin of life and their own evolution. In addition, students are introduced to the immense potential of recombinant DNA technology.

Choose one of

Principles of Chemistry

This unit provides an introduction to the principles fundamental to all branches of chemistry. It focuses on atomic structure, periodicity, electronic configuration, structure and bonding, chemical equations, stoichiometry, the mole concept, gas laws, states of matter, intermolecular forces and properties of solutions, chemical thermodynamics, chemical equilibria, electrochemistry, scientific notation, and nomenclature. The unit will emphasise their application to biomedical science, but it is intended to provide a broad, rigorous foundation for studies in all areas of chemistry.

Chemistry 1

This unit provides a broad introduction to the fundamental principles common to all branches of chemistry. The unit is intended to serve the needs not only of chemistry majors, but also those intending to specialise in other related disciplines. The unit focuses on scientific notation, nomenclature, chemical equations, stoichiometry, the mole concept, atomic structure, periodicity, electronic configuration, structure and bonding, states of matter, intermolecular forces, properties of solutions, chemical thermodynamics, chemical equilibria, and electrochemistry.

Choose one of

Biodiversity

This unit demonstrates the diversity of living organisms and viruses, with particular emphasis on those that affect human health. Students will discover how these organisms are classified, and how they have evolved. Besides exploring the breadth of biodiversity, the unit also examines the links between organisms. Evolutionary advances made by different taxonomic groups to develop mechanisms for reproduction and growth, respiration, maintaining water balance, excretion, digestion, and coordination will be compared. Ultimately human health depends on a sustainable environment and the study of ecosystems will link the biodiversity components of the unit.

Biology 2

This unit examines the diversity of living organisms, how these organisms are classified, and how evolutionary processes resulted in such diversity. The unit also addresses the role of cells, tissues and organs in the structure and function of living whole organisms, how these organisms acquire and assimilate the resources necessary for growth, and how they excrete waste, maintain function and coordinate growth and reproduction. The role of ecosystems in maintaining life is also studied. Students conduct basic investigations using techniques such as microscopy, sectioning, staining and dissection.

Choose one of

Medicinal Chemistry

This unit uses medicinal chemistry to continue the development of students' understanding of the basic foundations of chemistry begun in Principles of Chemistry. The unit focuses on introductory chemical and pharmacological kinetics, introduces coordination compounds such as haemoglobin, and goes on to an in-depth treatment of the structure, reactivity and nomenclature of the principal organic functional groups. These are discussed in the context of their role in life, medicine and disease. The unit provides a necessary foundation for subsequent studies in chemistry, biochemistry, and related areas.

Chemistry 2

This unit is designed to continue the development of students' understanding of the basic principles of chemistry, with an emphasis on the chemistry of carbon compounds. The unit focuses on introductory chemical dynamics, together with an in-depth treatment of the structure, nomenclature and reactivity of the principal organic functional groups. The unit provides a necessary foundation for subsequent related studies in chemistry, biochemistry, food chemistry, nutrition science, toxicology, environmental science, and related biological sciences and technologies.

And two Alternate units (Note 1)

Note 1

Choose one of

Physics 1

This unit provides an introduction to physics for science and medical science students as well as providing a basis for further study of more advanced physics for students pursuing courses in nanotechnology, chemical, physical and mathematical sciences. It provides a foundation to understand the physical principles which underlay scientific instrumentation and analysis Topics covered include systems of units; Introductory mechanics, Newton’s laws, work, conservation of energy and momentum; Electricity, electrostatics, DC and AC circuits and components, introductory electromagnetism; Waves and optics, electromagnetic radiation, reflection, refraction, image formation, polarisation, interference and diffraction.

Introduction to Information Technology

This introductory unit gives students an insight into the history, structure, operations and uses of computers, and their impact on society. This will be complemented by hands-on use of computers and popular application software packages in a graphical user interface environment. Students gain a basic understanding of the uses of computers, and the skills necessary to use popular applications software, including word processing, spreadsheet and database packages, and Internet tools and services.

Only one of the following mathematics/statistics units may be selected

Biometry

This unit introduces students to various statistical techniques necessary in scientific endeavours. Presentation of the content will emphasize the correct principles and procedures for collecting and analysing scientific data, using a ‘hands-on’ approach. Topics include effective methods of gathering data, statistical principles of designing experiments, error analysis, describing different sets of data, probability distributions, statistical inference, non-parametric methods, and simple linear regression and correlation.

Concepts of Mathematics

This level one hundred unit provides a solid foundation in the theory and applications of differential and integral calculus, as well as some introductory work on complex numbers and matrix algebra. This unit provides the necessary preparation for many of the later-stage mathematics units.

Fundamentals of Mathematics

This unit is designed to assist in the transition from secondary school mathematics to university first year level mathematics, and gradually bring students to the required standard. It provides a sound foundation in basic mathematical tools in the areas of algebra, probability and calculus, which are particularly relevant to first year mathematics and statistics core subjects. The algebra section revises basic arithmetic manipulation before introducing series, functions, logarithmic and exponential functions, solving equations, matrix manipulation and applications. The probability section covers basic concepts of probability, including permutations, combinations and probability calculations. The calculus section includes limits, differentiation, maximum and minimum values, graphing and integration. These mathematical methods and simple concepts are illustrated using practical examples derived from many different subject areas. Students entering without assumed knowledge of 2 Unit Mathematics are recommended to take this unit as an elective.

Statistics for Science

This Level 1 unit introduces the basic concepts and techniques of statistics that are particularly relevant to problem solving in science and technology. It also provides a sound base for more advanced study in statistics in subsequent sessions. Topics include: presentation of data; descriptive statistics; the role of uncertainty in decision making; hypothesis testing; and simple linear regression.

Year 2

Pathological Basis of Disease

This unit builds on the human anatomy and physiology studied in first and second year, equipping students with detailed knowledge of the pathological basis of disease. The study of pathology integrates many previously learned scientific principles (physical, chemical and biological) into the context of disease.

Choose one of

Proteins and Genes

This unit investigates protein structure, function, synthesis and degradation in both health and disease. Students will analyse how proteins fold and how this relates to function, illustrated by proteins such as oxygen carriers, enzymes, and gene regulators. The importance of bioinformatics for analysing protein structure, function and evolution will be emphasised. Discussion of enzyme structure and catalytic mechanisms will provide a deeper understanding of how catalytic proteins work. DNA, gene structure and gene expression (transcription and translation) will be investigated in some detail at the molecular level, including the impact of mutation on protein function. The relevance of post-translational modification, protein targeting and protein degradation for healthy cell function will also be discussed.

Biochemistry 1

This unit develops understanding of the structure, function and synthesis of proteins, principles of enzyme function and regulation, and the structures and roles of nucleic acids, chromosomes and genes. Topics include the characteristic features of the four levels of protein structure and their significance for protein function; protein denaturation; enzyme function, kinetics and inhibition, allosteric enzymes, and mechanisms of enzyme regulation; structure of DNA, RNA, chromosomes, genes; the molecular events in transcription and translation in bacteria and eukaryotes, and protein modification and targeting. Some campus specific topics, such as complex carbohydrate biochemistry and protein glycosylation at Parramatta may be included.

And four Major units

And two electives

Year 3

Four Major units

And four electives

Majors

Biomedical Science Major

Year 2

Microbiology 1

Microorganisms are important in all aspects of our lives. In this unit students will explore the diversity of microorganisms and their significance in the environment, in foods and industry as well as in health and disease. Students will be introduced to the structure, reproduction, classification, cultivation and enumeration of bacteria, viruses and fungi. The conditions required for growth and survival of microorganisms will be studied as well as physical and chemical methods of control. Students will conduct laboratory exercises designed to develop their skills in culturing and observing microorganisms.

Microbiology 2

This unit discusses the origins of genetic variation in prokaryotes and explores the structure and metabolic diversity of microorganisms from a variety of habitats including extreme environments. Studies of the biochemistry of prokaryotes focus on metabolic strategies for energy generation and growth in various natural environments. Students are introduced to the applications of microbial metabolism in food, wine and other industries. The principles of classification and identification of bacteria and yeasts are developed. This includes an introduction to molecular systematics and its impact on the classification of living organisms and in areas such as molecular diagnostics and epidemiology. The unit also addresses the principles and applications of recombinant DNA techniques in biotechnology and in the study of microbial physiology and genetics. Laboratory classes introduce students to techniques used to study microbial identification, physiology and genetics.

Choose one of

Human Metabolism and Disease

Understanding human metabolism at a molecular level underpins our understanding of human health and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. Kinetics and regulation of enzymes will be studied as a preliminary to learning how metabolic pathways work. The central pathways of energy metabolism, their control and inter-relationships will be analysed in detail, including carbohydrate and fat metabolism; ATP synthesis involving electron transport and ATP synthase; and nitrogen metabolism, including aspects of amino acid degradation and urea synthesis. Emphasis will be placed on enzyme and hormonal regulations, the roles of different tissues in metabolic homeostasis; and the consequences for human health when enzymes or their regulations are defective.

Biochemistry 2

This unit develops understanding of the metabolic processes by which an organism degrades food molecules to generate energy and converts excess food molecules into internal fuel stores. Topics include: bioenergetics; structures of key molecules; glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis and breakdown; fatty acid oxidation and synthesis; amino acid catabolism; urea synthesis; citric acid cycle; electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation. Emphasis is on regulation and integration of the pathways, including their responses to hormonal regulation. The effects of altered dietary and hormonal status on metabolic pathways and their consequences for the organism will be discussed.

And one unit from Schedule A

Year 3

Medical Microbiology

This unit has a modern approach to the study of the interaction between the human host, micro-organisms and parasites. Students will embark on a journey into the world of pathogenic micro-organisms exploring the molecular mechanisms by which these override host defences leading to disease. Topics include: Non-specific and specific defences (immune system) of the human body. Host-parasite interaction and pathogenesis of disease. Types of infection and epidemiology. Infectious diseases of the human body systems and associated aetiological agents. This will be supported with laboratory experience representing modern laboratory diagnostic procedures including molecular biology for the identification of infectious disease agents and how this information is applied to epidemiology.

Choose one of

Human Molecular Biology

This unit concentrates on the Molecular Biology of eukaryotic cells (human) and studies gene regulation at an advanced level, leading into the processes and practical applications of DNA technology. Students gain a thorough grounding in major techniques involved in gene cloning, such as DNA manipulation using restriction enzymes, PCR, DNA fingerprinting. Cloning vectors, DNA libraries, genetic engineering in different types of eukaryotic cells and organisms and are studied. Students are introduced to functional genomics, bioinformatics and issues in biosafety and ethics relating to gene technology.

Molecular Biology

This unit studies gene regulation at an advanced level, leading into the processes and practical applications of DNA technology. Students gain a thorough grounding in major techniques such as restriction mapping, DNA sequencing, PCR, DNA fingerprinting, southern blotting and gene cloning. Cloning vectors, DNA libraries, genetic engineering in different types of cells and organisms and functional genomics are studied. Students are introduced to bioinformatics and issues in biosafety and ethics relating to gene technology.

And two units from Schedule A

Schedule A Units:

Analytical Microbiology

This unit in analytical microbiology aims to introduce students to analytical techniques for the detection, identification and enumeration of microorganisms in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and environmental materials.

Topics in Physiology

This unit is an extension of ‘Human Physiology 1: Introduction to Human Physiology’. It provides greater depth and breadth of understanding of aspects of whole-body physiology. Topics may include, but are not limited to, locomotion, sleep, reproductive technology, psychoneuroimmunology, interactions with others or the environment, the life cycle.

Mammalian Molecular Medicine

This unit focuses on the science that is critical to our understanding of the basic biology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic diseases. This unit prepares students for future innovations in prevention, management and cure of catastrophic diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, fatigue illnesses, rheumatic diseases, cancer and infectious and genetic diseases.

Mammalian Cell Biology and Biotechnology

This unit deals with the molecular mechanisms within cells that co-operate to create a system that feeds, moves, responds to stimuli, grows and divides. The unit will initially build on existing knowledge of the properties that are common to most eukaryotic cells and that are necessary to an understanding of how any individual cells live, reproduce and form mammalian tissue.

Pharmacology

This unit will be on offer from 2007. Pharmacology is the study of the therapeutic interactions of drugs with the human body, focusing on the drug's mechanisms of action at the biochemical and cellular level, on adverse reactions and on clinical applications. The aim of this unit is to provide students with a sound understanding of fundamental aspects of this field to prepare for further study of advanced pharmacology or other biomedical sciences. The general principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics will be discussed in detail. This will be followed by the discussions of the major drug categories that affect different organ systems. Research methods in pharmacology and drug development process will also be introduced.

Molecular Biology of the Immune System

The immune system relies on a complex interplay between cells, receptors and signalling molecules for its effective operation. Antibody- and cell-mediated immune responses will be examined from a molecular and biochemical perspective. Topics include B- and T-cell receptor gene expression, antibody structure, function, maturation; MHC genes and proteins; differentiation and activation of B and T cells; antigen processing and presentation; the roles of cytokines. The relevance of this knowledge for understanding disorders of the immune system will be emphasised throughout. Medical and diagnostic applications of hybridoma technology, antibody engineering and advances in vaccine development will be discussed. The laboratory course will develop technical and interpretative skills in relevant techniques.

Analytical Protein Science

This unit covers a range of biochemical techniques and methodologies used for both analysis and purification of biological molecules. It includes advanced aspects of spectroscopy, centrifugation, radioisotopes; RNA isolation and detection, chromatographic principles and methods (gel filtration, ion exchange, affinity, hydrophobic interaction, chromatofocusing); electrophoresis principles and methods (SDS-PAGE, isoelectric focusing, pore gradient, two-dimensional, capillary); protein extraction and separation strategies. The methods and applications of proteomic research are included. The laboratory work parallels lecture material, and students gain hands-on experience in many of these techniques. The importance of quality control is emphasised and quality control programs are carried out concurrently with other laboratory work.

Human Physiology 3.1

This unit complements the 200 Level unit, Human Physiology 2.2, and provides the student with a deeper and broader understanding of the physiological systems. The nervous system, including the senses of taste and smell, and muscle physiology are studied in depth.

Genetics 2.2

The scientific study of heredity is called genetics and this unit is designed to introduce the student to a wide range of genetic concepts. To begin, the principles of heredity will be introduced. The student will investigate the nature and organisation of heredity; the various levels and mechanisms of expression of inheritance, the basis of variation within populations and the genetic basis of biological evolution. Modern genetics underlies such diverse fields of study as biotechnology, agriculture, plant and animal breeding, biodiversity and ecosystem management and accordingly, the unit will include a series of case studies that demonstrate the importance and diversity of genetics as a discipline.

Laboratory Quality Management

This unit is directed towards the accreditation of a laboratory for chemical or microbiological testing. Throughout their undergraduate studies, students will have acquired and developed a wide range of practical skills. Competency in the laboratory, however, encompasses much more than the ability to demonstrate a range of manipulative skills. This unit focuses upon the importance and coordination of good laboratory management, teamwork, calibration, record keeping and laboratory manuals. Students are required to develop, establish and operate a Laboratory Quality Management system designed for a specific class of chemical or microbiological test. The quality system is then subjected to a mock accreditation following the guidelines laid down by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA). Students will staff the laboratory system under evaluation while academic staff and visitors act as the assessors.

Medicinal Chemistry Major

(This major only offered at Campbelltown)

Year 2

Human Metabolism and Disease

Understanding human metabolism at a molecular level underpins our understanding of human health and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. Kinetics and regulation of enzymes will be studied as a preliminary to learning how metabolic pathways work. The central pathways of energy metabolism, their control and inter-relationships will be analysed in detail, including carbohydrate and fat metabolism; ATP synthesis involving electron transport and ATP synthase; and nitrogen metabolism, including aspects of amino acid degradation and urea synthesis. Emphasis will be placed on enzyme and hormonal regulations, the roles of different tissues in metabolic homeostasis; and the consequences for human health when enzymes or their regulations are defective.

Molecules of Life: Synthesis and Reactivity

This unit introduces organic chemistry from a biological and pharmaceutical perspective, emphasising the structure & reactivity of biological molecules as organic molecules and functional group manipulation as a tool for drug design and synthesis. Appropriate practical skills to achieve this are learnt in the associated practical work.

Analytical Chemistry 2

This unit will aim to develop within the student an understanding of, and an appreciation for, the fundamentals of analytical chemistry. The student will be exposed to the theory and practice of a range of chemical analyses with emphasis on ‘wet’ or ‘classical’ methods, and an introduction to some instrumental methods. An important component of this unit is to develop within the student laboratory skills in chemical analysis. Topics covered in this unit include: the evaluation of analytical data; sampling and sample preparation; unit operations in analytical chemistry; stoichiometry and equilibrium; gravimetric analysis; volumetric analysis; separation methods; spectroscopic methods of analysis; electrochemical methods of analysis; analysis of real samples.

Choose one of

Coordination Chemistry

This unit introduces students to a thorough study of coordination chemistry (discussing complexes, ligands, structure, isomerism, stability, reaction mechanisms, oxidation states, elements in the first transition series, and trends in the periodic table). That foundation is then used to study applications of coordination chemistry in biological systems, in medicine and in areas such as radiopharmaceuticals. The unit then moves on to areas of fundamental inorganic chemistry, including bonding, solution chemistry, and solid state chemistry. This unit also introduces many of the laboratory techniques and equipment that are used in synthetic procedures in coordination chemistry.

Biomolecular Dynamics

The unit provides the understanding of the chemical principles as applied to biological molecules (biomolecules). Chemical and electrochemical energy transformations approaching equilibria and rates of biological processes are studied and further explored for useful experimental and data-analysis skills. Selected areas including enzyme kinetics or membrane equilibria will be studied.

Year 3

Drug Design and Synthesis

This unit introduces selected areas of more advanced organic chemistry, targeted largely on the tools to synthesise and identify organic molecules of biological and medicinal interest. The practical skills required are learnt through laboratory exercises which complement the theory.

Advanced Chemical Analysis

This unit provides the student with skills to carry out the more advanced wet chemical analysis and provides an understanding of the principles of instrumental analysis, covering the areas of spectroscopy, chromatography, electrochemistry, thermal methods and automated methods of analysis. The techniques of analytical method development, inorganic and organic residue analysis, herbal analysis and forensic toxicology analysis will be discussed. Aspects of quality control and quality assurance will also be included.

Pharmacological Chemistry

Contemporary medicinal chemistry relies upon a rigorously planned and rational design of drugs based upon a full understanding of both chemistry and biology. An ability to determine and define the chemical structure of the drug, its target system, its site of action and its destruction mechanisms, has allowed the scientist to systematically tailor a drug to its specific purpose using quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR) and this methodology is emphasised within the unit. With the accelerating development of computer-based technologies this capability has been extended further. Drugs such as cimetidine and other histamine antagonists are used to illustrate the achievement and future uses of structure-activity relationships in rational drug design, whilst the laboratory work leads to a simulated quantitative structure-activity determination relating to antimicrobials.

Choose one of

Advanced Inorganic Chemistry

Advanced Inorganic Chemistry is based on the foundations laid in the unit Coordination Chemistry. It covers structure and bonding in inorganic chemistry, higher coordination numbers, lanthanide and actinides, followed by the bioinorganic chemistry of zinc and iron in mammalian and microbial systems. Kinetics and mechanism of inorganic reactions are examined. The important area of organo-transition metal chemistry and catalysis is introduced. Students build on their familiarity with the literature of inorganic chemistry and are introduced to several advanced databases of chemical information. The laboratory sessions develop knowledge of advanced techniques such as anaerobic syntheses and instrumental techniques of characterisation such as NMR, IR and electronic spectra. This is also used to develop an appreciation of the role of computer-based molecular modelling in inorganic chemistry.

Molecular Pharmacokinetics

This unit investigates the mechanisms and pathways of degradation of introduced compounds within the body and of their removal from the body; the relationship between chemical structure and stability of compounds within the body, including quantitative structure-stability relationships; the physical, metabolic and chemical stability within the body of representatives of each of the major types of drug class, relating this stability to molecular structure; the influence of the stability of drug compounds within the body upon the choice of drug delivery system used.

Human Bioscience Major

(This major only offered at Campbelltown.)

Year 2

Human Metabolism and Disease

Understanding human metabolism at a molecular level underpins our understanding of human health and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. Kinetics and regulation of enzymes will be studied as a preliminary to learning how metabolic pathways work. The central pathways of energy metabolism, their control and inter-relationships will be analysed in detail, including carbohydrate and fat metabolism; ATP synthesis involving electron transport and ATP synthase; and nitrogen metabolism, including aspects of amino acid degradation and urea synthesis. Emphasis will be placed on enzyme and hormonal regulations, the roles of different tissues in metabolic homeostasis; and the consequences for human health when enzymes or their regulations are defective.

Anatomy of the Thorax and Abdomen

This unit provides a thorough understanding of the topographic anatomy of the human thorax and abdomen. It undertakes this by utilising a regional approach (as against a systems approach), emphasising the interplay of the different body systems within this part of the axial skeleton. The relationship between form and function, at a topographical level, will underpin all teaching of this unit.

The Appendicular Skeleton

This unit provides a thorough understanding of the topographic anatomy of the human upper and lower limbs, including their respective girdles. It undertakes this by utilising a regional approach (as against a systems approach), emphasising the interplay of the different body systems within the appendicular. The relationship between form and function at a topographic level, will underpin all teaching of this unit.

Pharmacology

This unit will be on offer from 2007. Pharmacology is the study of the therapeutic interactions of drugs with the human body, focusing on the drug's mechanisms of action at the biochemical and cellular level, on adverse reactions and on clinical applications. The aim of this unit is to provide students with a sound understanding of fundamental aspects of this field to prepare for further study of advanced pharmacology or other biomedical sciences. The general principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics will be discussed in detail. This will be followed by the discussions of the major drug categories that affect different organ systems. Research methods in pharmacology and drug development process will also be introduced.

Year 3

Neuroanatomy

This unit builds on the human anatomy and physiology studied in first and second year, equipping students with detailed knowledge of functional neuroanatomy, with particular emphasis on the central nervous system. Cadaver specimens are used to facilitate the learning of spatial relationships between structures.

Three units from Schedule B

Schedule B Units:

Medical Microbiology

This unit has a modern approach to the study of the interaction between the human host, micro-organisms and parasites. Students will embark on a journey into the world of pathogenic micro-organisms exploring the molecular mechanisms by which these override host defences leading to disease. Topics include: Non-specific and specific defences (immune system) of the human body. Host-parasite interaction and pathogenesis of disease. Types of infection and epidemiology. Infectious diseases of the human body systems and associated aetiological agents. This will be supported with laboratory experience representing modern laboratory diagnostic procedures including molecular biology for the identification of infectious disease agents and how this information is applied to epidemiology.

Analytical Microbiology

This unit in analytical microbiology aims to introduce students to analytical techniques for the detection, identification and enumeration of microorganisms in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and environmental materials.

Anatomy of the Head and Neck

This unit provides a thorough understanding of the topographic anatomy of the human head and neck areas. It undertakes this by utilising a regional approach (as against a systems approach), emphasising the interplay of the different body systems. Cadaver specimens are used to facilitate the learning of spatial relationships between bony and soft tissues.

Microbiology 2

This unit discusses the origins of genetic variation in prokaryotes and explores the structure and metabolic diversity of microorganisms from a variety of habitats including extreme environments. Studies of the biochemistry of prokaryotes focus on metabolic strategies for energy generation and growth in various natural environments. Students are introduced to the applications of microbial metabolism in food, wine and other industries. The principles of classification and identification of bacteria and yeasts are developed. This includes an introduction to molecular systematics and its impact on the classification of living organisms and in areas such as molecular diagnostics and epidemiology. The unit also addresses the principles and applications of recombinant DNA techniques in biotechnology and in the study of microbial physiology and genetics. Laboratory classes introduce students to techniques used to study microbial identification, physiology and genetics.

Human Molecular Biology

This unit concentrates on the Molecular Biology of eukaryotic cells (human) and studies gene regulation at an advanced level, leading into the processes and practical applications of DNA technology. Students gain a thorough grounding in major techniques involved in gene cloning, such as DNA manipulation using restriction enzymes, PCR, DNA fingerprinting. Cloning vectors, DNA libraries, genetic engineering in different types of eukaryotic cells and organisms and are studied. Students are introduced to functional genomics, bioinformatics and issues in biosafety and ethics relating to gene technology.

Pathophysiology 1

This unit will equip students with detailed knowledge of pathology and pathophysiology. The lectures and tutorials apply a systemic approach to the study of a range of disease categories, providing a foundation of pathophysiological knowledge for Osteopathy, TCM, podiatry, OT, and TR students. This unit aims at preparing the future practitioner with: an in-depth knowledge base of diseases; the ability to prescribe the most accurate response as a result of a diagnosis made, and making appropriate referral if necessary.

Pathophysiology 2

This unit extends the scope of topics that were explored in Pathophysiology I. The lectures and tutorials in this unit, apply a systemic approach to the study of a range of disease categories, providing a foundation of pathophysiological knowledge for Osteopathy, Chinese Medicine, and Naturopathy students. This unit aims at preparing the future practitioner with: an in-depth knowledge base of diseases; to be able to anticipate and safeguard the patient from potential harm by exercising accurate judgement, and making appropriate referrals, if necessary.

Choose one of

Topics in Physiology

This unit is an extension of ‘Human Physiology 1: Introduction to Human Physiology’. It provides greater depth and breadth of understanding of aspects of whole-body physiology. Topics may include, but are not limited to, locomotion, sleep, reproductive technology, psychoneuroimmunology, interactions with others or the environment, the life cycle.

Human Physiology 3.1

This unit complements the 200 Level unit, Human Physiology 2.2, and provides the student with a deeper and broader understanding of the physiological systems. The nervous system, including the senses of taste and smell, and muscle physiology are studied in depth.

Bachelor of Medical Science

 

If you’re fascinated by the underlying science of medicine, and you’d like to pursue a career in medical research, hospital or pathology laboratories, the pharmaceutical or cosmetics industries, scientific sales or quality assurance, you should definitely consider the UWS Medical Science program.

Covering a range of scientific disciplines, the Medical Science degree allows you to choose subjects which suit your career goals. Specialisations include biomedical science, medicinal chemistry and human bioscience, and you can choose electives from science or other disciplines.

  • The biomedical science major includes medical microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology and introductory physiology and anatomy.
  • The medicinal chemistry major focuses on chemistry, pharmacology, biochemistry and aspects of physiology and anatomy.
  • The human bioscience major allows students to study advanced anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology and pathophysiology.

As a graduate of this program, you’ll also be well placed to apply for a graduate medicine degree or to become a secondary school teacher with further study.

Course Details

UAC Code Campus UAI 2008
706525 Campbelltown  70.05
706550 Hawkesbury  70.25

Duration

3 years full-time or equivalent part-time.

Note: ‘part-time’ refers to study load,
not to timetabling of evening classes.

Professional Recognition

Depending on your chosen major and electives, you may satisfy the requirements for admission to various professional bodies. Graduates with the Medicinal Chemistry major qualify for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.

A Career in Medical Science

As a UWS Medical Science graduate, you’ll have a variety of career options to choose from, including roles in:

  • medical research
  • hospitals
  • pathology laboratories
  • veterinary pathology laboratories
  • the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries
  • government health departments
  • medical sales
  • research and laboratory positions with organisations such as the CSIRO and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)

Some graduates choose to go into secondary school science teaching after completion of an appropriate educational qualification. Others might apply for entry into a graduate entry degree in medicine, or further studies and research in medical science.

Assumed Knowledge

At least two of the following subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics.

Application Information

To lodge an application for the course of your choice check the Application Information.

Honours

An Honours option is available as an additional year to high-achieving students.

Do you need more information?

Request a course and application information pack:
Course Enquiry Form
International Course Enquiry Form

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