Undergraduate 

Anatomy BSc/MSci

Anatomy 3A BIOL4230

  • Academic Session: 2023-24
  • School: School of Medicine Dentistry and Nursing
  • Credits: 60
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes

Short Description

In this course, you will explore the scientific principles which underlie investigations into the form, function and development of the human body from early embryological stages into adulthood. Anatomy 3A & 3B build on the Level 2 Life Sciences courses, developing an in-depth understanding of the structure and function of the human body, underpinned by a programme of laboratory practicals and discussion of current research and clinical implications.

Timetable

This course will consist of five teaching blocks, each consisting of approximately 12 one-hour lectures and supporting labs and workshops, lasting 2-3 hours in most cases. Five one-hour tutorials sessions and 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.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None.

Assessment

The course will be assessed by a 1-hour examination (10%) in the December diet, a 3-hour examination (50%) in the April/May diet and in-course assessment including an essay (10%) and lab report (15%) as well as a portfolio (10%) and practical spot test (5%)

Main Assessment In: December and April/May

Are reassessment opportunities available for all summative assessments? Not applicable for Honours courses

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. 

Course Aims

The aims of the course are:

■ To provide a broad-based knowledge and understanding of anatomy;

■ To develop basic practical skills relevant to anatomy-focused laboratory techniques;

■ 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.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ discuss the central facts and the experimental basis of modern Anatomy, including neuroanatomy and upper limb biology; 

■ appraise the use of modern technologies for the study of anatomy, including histological techniques;

■ demonstrate practical skills in fundamental anatomical techniques including dissection and histology;

■ explain legislation and health and safety issues relevant to a human anatomy laboratory;

■ communicate experimental, interpretative and ethical aspects of science, using oral presentations, written work and information technology;

■ plan an experiment and apply appropriate methods, including statistics, to analyse experimental data;

■ identify and critically evaluate relevant scientific literature.  

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

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