Biology - 2008

Biology of Cells and Organisms and Genetics and the Evolution of Life

Introduction

The two Biology subjects in this program introduce the student to the unity which exists between living things, so that an appreciation of the fundamental similarities between organisms develops, whether it be humans, fish, flies, seaweed, mushrooms or bacteria. At the same time the two subjects provide an impressive display of the diversity of life on earth, both in the lecture material and practical classes. The practical component of the subjects provides the students with the opportunity to perform techniques such as gel electrophoresis, dissection, setting up and interpreting genetic crosses, microscopic analysis and many other activities which improve observational skills, data analysis and an appreciation of the unity and diversity of the living world. Integrated into the course are Independent Learning Tasks which are computer-based activities.

Career Opportunities

The biological sciences include a wide range of disciplines: from genetics to zoology, and biotechnology to medical science. Graduates find career opportunities in medical diagnostic laboratories, biomedical and biotechnology or pharmaceutical research and development. Some graduates proceed to further studies in allied health science, medicine or medical research.

VCE Prerequisites

Completion of Biology 3/4 in Year 11; or enrolment in the same in Year 12 after completion of Biology 1/2. Students must obtain an A/A+ average in Biology, and a B+ average across non prerequisite subjects.

Teaching Locations

Students attend lectures at a School Centre and practical classes at the University of Melbourne. Students must choose a School Centre for lectures.

Contact Hours

• Total class hours per week: 6
• Practical requirements: a 3-hour practical class which may be a computer-based independent learning task in some weeks.
• Total days per week: 1 at University and 1-2 at School Centre (depending on School Centre).

Credit Arrangements

See Credit Policy for further information.

Subject Descriptions

Both subjects must be successfully completed in order to obtain the ENTER increment.

Semester 1

650-141 Biology of Cells and Organisms

Semester 2

650-142 Genetics and the Evolution of Life

For More Information

Assoc Prof Dawn Gleeson
Tel: 8344 4881

Biology General Office
Level 5, Redmond Barry Building
The University of Melbourne VIC 3010

Web: www.biology.unimelb.edu.au