Human Biology MBiol (Integrated Masters)

Course content What will you study?

Here is an overview of current modules available on this course. Regular updates may mean that exact module titles may differ.

Year 1

Mandatory

• Cell Biology
• Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Introduction to Human Biology and Disease

Optional

• Introduction to Nutrition in Humans
• Comparative Animal Physiology
• Introduction to Forensic Biology
• Animal Diversity
• Introduction to Biological Chemistry
• Human Origins

Year 2

Mandatory

• Human Genetics
• Human Systems Physiology
• ProjectandCareer Development

Optional

• Microbiology
• Animal Behaviour
• Applied Human Metabolism
• Medical Forensic Science
• Molecular Genetics
• Infectious Agents And Allergens
• Molecular & Cellular Biology
• Comparative Animal Digestion and Nutrition
• Work Experience

Year 3

Mandatory

• Independent Study
• Mammalian Reproduction
• Advanced Systems Physiology

Optional

• Pharmacology
• Parasitology
• Animal Movement
• Forensic DNA Analysis
• Biological Indicators for Crime Reporting
• The Biochemistry of Cancer
• Research Methods and Research Project
• Extension Module
• Work Experience

Year 4

Mandatory

• Research Methods
• Applied and Commercial Research
• Integrated Masters Thesis/Project in Biology

In your first year you will develop a comprehensive understanding of the structure and functions of living organisms appropriate to the course. In Years 2 and 3 the modules become more specialised. Subjects central to Human Biology such as Cell Biology are delivered in double modules to allow for suitable development of the subject and for the delivery of important subject specific and generic skills.

In your final year you will undertake an Independent Study or Biosciences Research Project, which is a double module and must demonstrate original data. The Independent Study will have been designed in theProject and Career Development module in Year 2. Past topics have included amplification of ancient human DNA, relationship between the ACTN3 gene, 577SNP allele variations and speed/strength performance phenotypes,and the antimicrobial effects of curry spices.

Year 4 modules are common to a range of Biological Science Integrated masters courses but each subject specialisation will be achieved by students varying their selection of topics from within menus of material within each module. For example, a Human Biology student will undertake an appropriate research project which will differ from the choices available to a Plant Scienctist. Although there will be generic material, the individual skills delivered within the Applied and Commercial Research and Research Methods modules will also be tailored to deliver the individual needs of each Integrated Masters course.

Applied and Commercial Research is a unique aspect of our Integrated Masters programme compared with other institutions. It will offer students valuable insights into applied and commercial rather than just pure research. Most of this module will take advantage of current commercial and applied research expertise in our Charles Darwin Laboratories including the .