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This subject requires on campus attendance. Refer to Additional Requirements for more information.

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Genetics and molecular biology

UndergraduateRMI-SCB2202018

Course information for 2018 intake View information for 2024 course intake

Zero in on the building blocks that make up organisms across the planet. Question how genes are structured and mapped. Consider concepts like inheritance and DNA repair. Look to the ethical quandaries that the study of molecular biology can raise.

Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Assessments
Subject may require attendance
Entry requirements
Prior study needed
Duration
13 weeks

Loan available
HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available

Genetics and molecular biology

About this subject

  • Students will gain knowledge capabilities through demonstrated knowledge of the key concepts of inheritance, molecular biology technologies though the application of knowledge of gene structure and function, gene regulation, microbial genetics, mutation and DNA repair, genomics, population genetics, quantitative genetics and the genetics underpinning development processes. They will specifically develop technical capabilities through the participation in a number of practical laboratory based exercises. These exercises will develop competencies in fundamental molecular biology, manipulations, including the extraction, purification, digestion, analysis and cloning of DNA fragments in prokaryotic systems. Their capabilities will be developed through their involvement in both individual problem solving exercises and in group problem based activities designed to use knowledge capabilities and technical awareness to tackle new problems in genetic and molecular systems that require in depth critical analysis and problem solving. Skills in communication will be developed during practical and laboratory based work and in the group problem based activities. Through a deeper understanding of genetics, molecular biology, aspects of the ethical perspectives in genetics and biotechnology, the student will develop an increased awareness of the environmental, social, ethical, legal and economic implications of genetics, decisions involving principles of inheritance and biotechnology.

    Overview of Learning Activities

    The learning activities included in this subject are:

    1. lectures where syllabus material will be presented and explained, and the subject will be illustrated with demonstrations and examples
    2. completion of tutorial questions and laboratory projects designed to give further practise in the application of theory and procedures, and to give feedback on student progress and understanding
    3. completion of written assignments consisting of numerical and other problems requiring an integrated understanding of the subject matter
    4. private study, working through the subject as presented learning materials, and gaining practise at solving conceptual and numerical problems.

Entry requirements

Prior study

To help set you up for success before you start this subject, we suggest completing or having equivalent knowledge in:

Others

Or equivalents before starting this subject.

Additional requirements

  • Attendance requirements - Students must attend laboratory classes at RMIT University's Bundoora Campus: More details will be provided at the commencement of the relevant Study Period and available on Blackboard.

Study load

0.125 EFTSL
This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.

Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.

Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.

Single subject FAQs

What’s a single subject?

Single subjects are the individual components that make up a degree. With Open Universities Australia, you’re able to study many of them as stand-alone subjects, including postgraduate single subjects, without having to commit to a degree.

Each of your subjects will be held over the course of a study term, and they’ll usually require 10 to 12 hours of study each week. Subjects are identified by a title and a code, for example, Developmental Psychology, PSY20007.

How can I use single subjects to get into a full degree?

First, find the degree that you would like to study on our website.

If that degree allows entry via undergraduate subjects, there will be information about this under the Entry Requirements section. You will find a list of 2-4 open enrolment subjects you need to successfully complete to qualify for admission into that qualification.

Once you pass those subjects, you will satisfy the academic requirements for the degree, and you can apply for entry.

Our student advisors are here to help you take that next step, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you’re ready! We’ve also made it easier to figure out the right way to get started on our pathways page.

Can anyone help me choose a subject?

Our student advisors are more than happy to help you plan your online study. Get in touch with an advisor by:

- Booking a free one-on-one consultation

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How do I pay for my subjects?

You can pay up front with your credit card, or you may be eligible for a HELP loan from the Australian government depending on your citizenship status and where you’ll live during your studies.

For more information about how to pay for your studies visit our fees page or contact a student advisor.

How do I enrol?

When you’ve made your choice, click ‘Enrol now’ on the relevant course page and follow the prompts to begin your enrolment. We’ll ask you to supply some supporting documentation, including proof of your identity, your tax file number, and a unique student identifier (USI) during this process.

Your university will get in touch with you via email to confirm whether or not your application has been successful.

If you get stuck at any time, reach out to us and we’ll talk you through it.

You can also take a look at our online self-service enrolling instructions.

When is the cut-off date for enrolling?

Close of enrolment times vary between universities and subjects. You can check the cut-off dates for upcoming study terms by visiting key dates.

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