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An introduction to the biology of humans. The course is particularly recommended for students wishing to advance in topics in health and sport, as well as those students advancing in science subjects.
Understanding human biology is essential not only for pursuing diverse careers in health sciences but also for enhancing your personal health and health literacy. In this course, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Through engaging lectures organised into six key themes, you’ll uncover the intricate systems that keep us alive and functioning while connecting this knowledge to real-world applications.1. Levels of organisation - including chemical, cellular and tissue levels2. Support and movement – skin, bones, skeletons, joints and muscles3. Regulation, integration and control – all about the nervous system, including develop-ment and regulation4. Fluids and transport – cardiovascular, lymphatic and immune system5. Energy, maintenance and environmental exchange – respiratory, digestive and urinary systems6. Human development and continuity of life – reproductive systems, development and in-heritanceThis course delves into the fascinating structures and mechanisms that make human life possible, blending core concepts of anatomy and physiology with real-world case studies of diseases and disorders. By exploring cutting-edge research in health sciences, we’ll illuminate practical applications of the knowledge gained and uncover pathways to exciting careers in healthcare, research, and beyond. Join us to connect classroom learning with real-world impact.
As a student in this course, I will develop the ability to:1. Explain the fundamental principles of human biology – Describe the chemical, cellular, and tissue-level organization of the human body and how these structures contribute to overall function.Assessment task: Mid-course test, assignments, end of year examRelated graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP52. Analyse the interdependence of human body systems – Evaluate how major physiologi-cal systems (e.g., cardiovascular, nervous, endocrine) work together to maintain homeo-stasis and respond to internal and external changes.Assessment task: Mid-course test, end of year examRelated graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP53. Evaluate the impact of lifestyle and environment on human health – Assess how fac-tors such as nutrition, exercise, stress, and exposure to toxins influence biological pro-cesses and disease development.Assessment task: Mid-course test, assignments, end of year examRelated graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP54. Interpret scientific research and apply biological concepts to real-world issues – Criti-cally assess current human biology-related topics, such as biotechnology, reproductive technologies, and emerging health concerns.Assessment task: Mid-course test, assignments, end of year examRelated graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP4, GP55. Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method and its role in human biolo-gy – Apply scientific inquiry to investigate biological questions, interpret data, and dif-ferentiate between evidence-based science and misinformation.Assessment task: Tutorials, assignmentsRelated graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP4, GP5Pūkenga Ngaio | Transferable Skills As a student in this course, I will develop the following skills:1. Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving – Analysing biological concepts, evaluating evi-dence, and applying logical reasoning to health-related issues.Related graduate attributes: GP1, GP22. Scientific Literacy – Understanding and interpreting scientific data, research findings, and evidence-based arguments in human biology.Related graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP53. Data Analysis & Interpretation – Assessing biological information, including genetics, physiology, and epidemiological studies, to make informed conclusions.Related graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP54. Communication Skills – Explaining complex biological processes clearly in both written and verbal formats, useful for science communication, health fields, and education.Related graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP4, GP55. Research & Information Literacy – Locating, evaluating, and synthesizing scientific lit-erature and distinguishing credible sources from misinformation.Related graduate attributes: GP1, GP2, GP5
Students must attend one activity from each section.
Amy Osborne
Maartin Strauss and Melissa Bird
Michael D. Johnson; Human Biology: Concepts and Current Issues ; 8th; Pearson, 2016 (See the full course outline for the website details).
It is the School of Biological Science’s policy that every test or exam will have a substantial and unavoidable component that is based on the assigned readings for courses. Some of these assigned readings may be in textbooks such as Campbell and Reece “Biology A Global Approach”, others may be provided by the lecturer.
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Domestic fee $1,036.00
International fee $5,188.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see School of Biological Sciences .