Units / GNA2042
GNA2042 · Human genetics
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 2School of Biomedical Sciences
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit introduces the basic genetic principles underlying modern human genetics. Topics include: the central role of genes in the inheritance of traits, and the complex variation in inheritance patterns that arise due to interactions of genes with each other and the environment; the identification, characterisation and mapping of human genes; the value of model organisms in genetics; chromosome variation and its role in both evolution and human disease; how genes function and how genetic malfunction can lead to genetic disease; how an understanding of such diseases at the genetic level may assist in diagnosis, prevention and therapy; the genetic control of development; genetic counselling and calculating risk for genetic diseases; human evolutionary genetics.
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton | Second semester | Activities scheduled as a mix of on-campus and online activities (BLENDED) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | In-semester applied scenario test (1.5 hours) | Quiz / Test | 15% | — |
| 2 | Case study (1,500 words) | Written | 30% | — |
| 3 | Team oral presentation (20-25 mins + 2 x 250 words reflective piece) | Presentation | 20% | — |
| 4 | Applied scenario examination (2 hours and 10 mins) | Examination | 35% | — |
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
Learning outcomes
- Apply your knowledge of genes, their inheritance and their interactions, to scenarios involving genetic disease, phenotypic variation and evolution.
- Critically analyse tools commonly used in genetic research including molecular techniques and model organisms, propose relevant applications of them and contrast their strengths and weaknesses.
- Analyse and interpret genetic observations and data using problem solving and mathematical skills.
- Communicate genetic concepts, research and data to diverse audiences in a professional manner, in written and/or audio-visual formats as an individual and in teams.
- Develop arguments that consider the ethical implications of genetic research and testing in public health.
Workload
An average of 6 hours of directed study per week, including 2 hours of lectures, 2.5 hours of lab and 1.5 hours of online activities. An average of 6 hours per week of self-directed study. Total per week = 12 hours.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 28 hours |
| Laboratories | 26 hours |
| Assessments | — |
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