This unit contains mature or sensitive content and may not be suitable for some students.
This subject requires on campus attendance. Refer to Additional Requirements for more information.
Human Biology
UndergraduateMAQ-BIOX12102025
Previously MAQ-BIOX108
Develop your knowledge of human biology, and gain understanding of current scientific and social issues including DNA technology, genetic engineering and cloning. Designed for students who are new to biology, but applicable for all biology students.
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
- Start dates
- 24 Feb 2025
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Human Biology
About this subject
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding and working knowledge of key biological terms
- Explain physiological processes in the human body starting at the genetic level and working through the biochemistry, cell and tissue functions to a physical outcome
- Outline the complex interactions between organ systems that result in homeostasis
- Apply biological concepts to a range of contemporary issues
- Find scientific articles and critically evaluate the design and conclusions of biological experiments
- Summarise key findings related to complex biological topics
- A week-by-week guide to the topics you will explore in this subject will be provided in your study materials.
This unit is for anyone interested in humans, and how humans interact with the rest of the living world. BIOX1210 will give you an introductory overview of several fundamental topics essential for understanding the structure, function, and processes within the human body. The subjects covered in the course include basic introductions to anatomy and physiology, cellular metabolism, reproduction, genetics, disease, and human evolution. To understand issues such as genetic engineering, cloning, assisted reproductive technologies, antibiotic resistance or the emergence of new human diseases requires a familiarity with modern biological knowledge. We aim to equip you with this knowledge and help to unlock a journey of self-discovery about incredible mysteries within your own body. The unit content is dealt with in such a way that students without prior studies in biology will not be at a disadvantage, however biology students are also encouraged to take this unit.
- Reference List (20%)
- Lab book portfolio (30%)
- Final exam (50%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
Learn more about Macquarie University.
Explore Macquarie courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 11
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 10
Entry requirements
Equivalent subjects
You should not enrol in this subject if you have successfully completed any of the following subject(s) because they are considered academically equivalent:
MAQ-BIOX108 (Not currently available)
Others
NCCW (pre-2020 units): BIOX108, BIOL108
NCCW (2020 and onwards): BIOL1210 Human Biology
Additional requirements
- Attendance requirements - 5 x 1 hour workshops at the North Ryde campus. These workshops help expand the student knowledge in a few key topics from the course e.g. Reflective Writing; Cell Biology; Genetics; Metabolism; Chemistry. 3 x 3 hour practical classes at the North Ryde campus, covering basic science lab techniques relevant to human biology. Microscopy for Beginners; Pipetting Basics; Foundations in Anatomy and Aseptic Technique
- Other requirements - Students who have an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion under Macquarie University's Academic Progression Policy are not permitted to enrol in OUA units offered by Macquarie University. Students with an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion who have enrolled in units through OUA will be withdrawn.
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.
What to study next?
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
UndergraduateMAQ-BSC-DEG
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