View Specification DocumentDiverse Anatomy 4Y option BIOL4299
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Medicine Dentistry and Nursing
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Semester 1
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
Not all human bodies are identical, yet our understanding of this diversity is limited, and the application of this knowledge is often overlooked. For example, Black women are twice as likely to experience infertility as White women, yet it is not understood if this is due to anatomical or cultural differences. Understanding and application of equality, diversity and inclusion issues is becoming increasingly important in healthcare and science as well as in wider society and in the workplace.
This course will allow students to investigate anatomical diversity within the human body, discussing the relevance within society, biomedical research, and clinical practice.
Timetable
There will normally be 3 hours of teaching each week (Semester 1 - Fridays) which may be split over more than one session.
Requirements of Entry
Normally, only available to final-year Life Sciences students in a Human Life Sciences programme. Visiting students may be allowed to enrol, at the discretion of the Life Sciences Chief Adviser and the Course Coordinator.
Excluded Courses
None
Assessment
The course will be assessed by a 90-minute written examination paper (50%) and in-course assessment consisting of a grant proposal (50%). The exam will focus on critique of a published research paper with a focus on the equality, diversity, and inclusion aspects of the study.
Main Assessment In: April/May
Course Aims
This course aims to investigate diversity in human anatomy, considering the clinical and biomedical importance of this knowledge. Students will have the opportunity to research topics such as how race affects different body systems and the importance of equality and diversity in forensics. The course will focus on the science of the anatomical diversity rather than the political or social implications surrounding this sensitive topic.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
■ Critically investigate diversity of the human body considering different protected characteristics;
■ Critique current research and clinical practices surrounding anatomical diversity;
■ Propose future research to address current limitations in understanding of the role for equality, diversity, and inclusion in anatomical research and/or clinical practice.