Units / BMA1901
BMA1901 · Human structure and function 1
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 1School of Biomedical Sciences
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit is the first in a sequence of two biomedical science units that provides foundation knowledge of human anatomy and physiology relevant for allied health professions. This unit develops skills in the critical evaluation of evidence and promotes an awareness of the changing nature of medical knowledge. The major themes of study are the structural levels of body organisation, communication via the nervous and endocrine systems, the reproductive system and early stages of human development. Topics include the chemical and cellular basis of human life; integration of body functions and homeostasis; the structure and function of the integumentary system; the nervous system; the endocrine system; and the reproductive system.
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Peninsula | First semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | In-semester quizzes (MCQs) | Quiz / Test | 10% | — |
| 2 | Mid-semester test (MCQs) | Quiz / Test | 20% | — |
| 3 | End-of-semester test (MCQs) | Quiz / Test | 20% | — |
| 4 | Final examination (MCQ and/or EMQ, plus SAQ - 100 minutes) | Examination | 50% | — |
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
prohibitions
- BMA1011 — Foundations of anatomy and physiology for health practice 1
- BMA1012 — Foundations of anatomy and physiology for health practice 2
- BMS2011 — Structure of the human body: An evolutionary and functional perspective
- BMS2021 — Human molecular cell biology
- BMS2031 — Body systems
- NUR1112 — Fundamental skills and knowledge for nursing and midwifery practice 1
- PHY2011 — Neuroscience of communication, sensory and control systems
- PHY2032 — Endocrine control systems
- PHY2042 — Body systems physiology
Joined by AND.
Learning outcomes
- Identify levels of structural organisation within the body and discuss how primary tissue types cooperate to form organ systems using integumentary system as an example;
- Describe and explain homeostatic control mechanisms and how they maintain conditions in the internal environment necessary for optimal organ system function;
- Outline the structure and function of the nervous and endocrine systems, and explain how they facilitate the integration of organ system function and homeostasis;
- Delineate the processes of gametogenesis and fertilisation in the context of male and female reproductive structures;
- Analyse and interpret data utilising an evidenced-based approach to understand patient symptoms.
Workload
5 hours of contact per week (lectures, tutorials, and practicals). 6 hours of student-directed study per week (including pre- and post-class activities).
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Applied sessions | 4 hours |
| Practical activities | 10 hours |
| Tutorials | 24 hours |
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