Course information
The Human Biology course uses the human life cycle as a means to create a close link between personal experience and theoretical content for students. Health issues that relate to particular life cycle stages are explored in relation to the structure and function of the human body. A wide range of factors that affect the homeostatic balance of the human body are explored. These include pathogenic attacks, immune responses, hormonal imbalances, environmental factors, mental health issues and chronic disease as a result of lifestyle choices.
Post-school pathways
Do you enjoy or are you good at Biology? (pdf, 110kb).
Workload expectation
Four hours outside of class per week to complete homework and assessment tasks.
Course pattern
Available as a Minor or Major course.
Suggested Minor course
Semester | Unit |
|---|---|
1 | The Essentials of Human Life |
2 | The Aging Human Body |
Suggested Major course
Semester | Unit |
|---|---|
1 | The Essentials of Human Life |
2 | The Aging Human Body |
3 | Human Health & the Environment |
4 | Treating the Human Body |
Unit descriptions
The Essentials of Human Life
In this unit, students are introduced to the study of human embryonic tissue and its specialisation and development as well as the health implications and the latest developments in gene therapy and stem cell research. The anatomy and physiology of epithelial, connective, muscular and nervous tissues will provide a strong basis for the study of the human body.
The Aging Human Body
In this unit, students study the human body from reproduction, through foetal development and each stage of aging. The diseases and conditions which affect humans at different stages of development provide a wealth of topics to investigate.
Human Health & the Environment
In this unit, students examine the relationship between environmental conditions and human health, focussing on physical, biological, chemical and social risks. The issue of mental health is an increasingly important area of study and the variety of conditions are dealt with respectfully.
Treating the Human Body
In this unit, the students investigate the traditional methods of diagnosing illnesses and treatment regimes. Students will also examine cutting-edge techniques and new developments that will potentially allow for the treatment of a larger range of ailments.
For more detail on the course and individual units please refer to the ACT BSSS Website.