Human Biology
Suggested Electives BSc (Human Biology)
Units that would be of benefit to students studying BSc Human Biology
For more units refer to the ECU Handbook
ABB1113 Introduction to Computer Applications
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
The unit is introductory and requires no prerequisite knowledge of computers and is designed to develop an understanding on the basic use of personal computers and the Internet. The various ways in which the Internet can support the learning process will be explored. This unit also introduces students to the use of software packages (such as word-processing). Students will be taught searching techniques on the Internet and the use of e-mail for communication purposes. The unit encourages students to look upon the computer as a tool for the application of information technology in both personal study and social environments.
CSI1121 Personal Computing
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
The unit provides an introduction to computer systems, computer networks and the digital society. Students are also introduced to a range of software packages that define information literacy in an information age and are commonly used in the office environment. Applications of information technology in the modern world and the social and economic implications of computer networks are also considered. Students can obtain credit for only one of the units CSI1121, CSI4105.
HST1124 Health Communication
HECS Band: 1
Points: 15
This unit is an introduction to communication strategies essential to working in the health professions. It examines written, verbal and group communication strategies in various settings.
IAS1105 Introduction to Computer Applications
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
This unit introduces students to the use of personal computers and a range of software packages such as word-processing, spreadsheet application and endnote software. As a supplement to the learning process students will also be taught the searching techniques through the use of electronic databases (including the library catalogue and the WWW) and the use of e-mail. The unit encourages students to look upon the computer as a tool for the application of information technology in both personal and social environments.
MAT1114 Introductory Statistics
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
This unit deals with the methods and skills of organising, summarising and presenting numerical data. The concepts of estimation and hypothesis testing are studied, with the emphasis on analysing real data. Calculators and the computer packages EXCEL and MINITAB are used throughout the unit.
MAT1184 Problem-Solving and Modelling
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
Introduction of some basic techniques for problem-solving and mathematical modelling including problem analysis, generalisation, cross-checking, goal modification and interpretation of solutions. Problems will be drawn from a wide range of areas including applied geometry, biomechanics, business management, operations research, medicine and physical sciences.
NUT1121 Human Nutrition
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
This unit sets a foundation for the study of food and its components. Each of the known nutrients and its biological pathways in digestion and absorption is examined. Food energy and energy expenditure are focii for the study of individual dietary patterns and the application of a nutrient analysis software package. Group intakes of nutrients are analysed in relation to Recommended Dietary Intakes, Dietary Guidelines and the major Food Selection Guidance systems used in Australia.
SCC1123 Chemistry for the Life Sciences
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
This broadly based unit will introduce you to important chemical concepts and principles. The unit will give you the essential chemistry background required for courses in the biological, environmental and health sciences. A TEE chemistry background is not assumed.
SCH2131 Drugs in Society
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
This unit will introduce students to basic concepts of pharmacology of many drugs including those most commonly used or abused in human society. The general mechanisms of drugs will be explained in such a way that little biological knowledge is required, but sufficient detail will be included to permit the student to understand the beneficial and harmful effects of many drugs. The course will include an overview of drug metabolism as well as the effects of drugs on the nervous system. One aspect of the course will be the study of drug addiction with specific attention will be focused on the current use of illicit drugs and the psychology of drug dependence. Lecturers will also encompass the current use of drugs to enhance sporting performance.
PHR1102 Critical Thinking
HECS Band: 1
Points: 15
This unit provides an introduction to critical thinking both in university study and in professional employment. Clear logical thought is enhanced and the skills of argument interpretation and evaluation are developed.
SCH2226 Human Molecular Genetics
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
Prerequisite: SCH1133 Human Genetics
This unit has three sections which bring together our rapidly expanding understanding of the structure and organisation and expression of the human genome, human gene mutation and human genome evolution.
SCH3145 Biomedical Ethics
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
Prerequisite: SCH1133 Human Genetics
In every area of health based professional activity ethics has assumed an increasingly important status. This unit is focused on developing a critical awareness among prospective health care professionals and student researchers as to the nature, function and importance of ethical issues across a broad range of health, biomedical and health care issues. The unit combines the study of the theoretical bases of ethics in the context of health related areas with discussion of real-life moral dilemmas through a case-study approach.
SCH2233 Medical Genetics
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
Prerequisite: SCH2226 Human Molecular Genetics or equivalent
This unit is designed to give students an appreciation of the achievements and pace of development in genetics, and how it will significantly impact on medicine over the coming decade. Lectures tutorials and seminars will give an overview of the significance of genetic factors in determining human morbidity and mortality. Important examples of human genetic disorders and the current strategies for their diagnosis and prevention will be discussed, and an insight into ongoing research in the field of human and medical genetics will be provided.
SCH3236 Pharmacology
HECS Band: 2
Points: 15
Prerequisite: SCH1134 Human Structure and Function
Basic pharmacology is presented in such a way that students with little background in physiology or biochemistry will be able to understand the principles of drug actions, reactions and interactions. All commonly used drugs will be described with regard to their use, mechanism of action, side effects and abuse potential. Brief descriptions of pathophysiological processes will be given where appropriate.
