Course Catalogue

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In this course, you will explore the scientific principles that underlie investigations into the function of the human body from a molecular and cellular level to a whole body level. Human Life Sciences 3A is intended to build on the Level-2 Life Sciences courses, developing a balanced understanding of the integrated processes that sustain health, whilst also exploring the impacts of ageing and disease. Underpinning the courses are laboratory practical sessions and discussions on the relevance of human biology and physiology to society, including topics such as current research advancements, clinical applications, and inter-disciplinary connections.

This course will consist of five teaching blocks, each consisting of approximately 10 one-hour lectures and supporting labs and workshops, lasting 2-3 hours in most cases. Five one-hour tutorials, and some sessions on scientific skills and graduate attributes will also run throughout the semester. The timetable will vary week to week to accommodate staff and resource availability and to meet the educational needs of the block.

Normally, this course is only open to students admitted to Level-3 of a programme for which this is a compulsory course. The course may also be available to visiting students, at the discretion of the Life Sciences Study Abroad Coordinators and the Course Coordinator.

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The course will be assessed by means of a 3-hour examination (50%) and in-course assessments (50%) including a laboratory report (10%), a group work assignment (10%) and a reflective portfolio (30%).

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non-Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

The aims of the course are:

■ To provide a broad-based knowledge and understanding of Human Biology and Physiology; 

■ To develop basic practical skills relevant to techniques used in human biology research;

■ To develop skills relating to the systematic acquisition and analysis of factual information and data;

■ To develop the ability to solve problems and to critically analyse, interpret and discuss factual information and data; 

■ To provide opportunities to practise and improve written and oral communication skills.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

■ Discuss the fundamental concepts and experimental findings in human biology and physiology.

■ Explain the application of basic laboratory techniques, including physiological measurements, to studying human biology and physiology.

■ Apply statistical methods to analyse experimental data effectively.

■ Communicate scientific concepts, experimental results, and ethical considerations using oral presentations, written work, and information technology.

■ Identify and critically evaluate relevant scientific literature in human biology & physiology.

■ Demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team setting.

Reflect on learning experiences, critically evaluate personal growth, and develop strategies for continuous improvement in understanding human biology and physiology.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.