Units / NUT1103
NUT1103 · Human biology for nutrition
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 1Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit takes a scientific approach to growth and development of the human body with an emphasis on a case based learning approach to knowledge application. Specifically this unit covers basic anatomy and physiology of the human body and goes on to explore the functions of individual cell types and their role in diversification into tissues and major organs. The major organ systems under examination include the nervous, muscular, skeletal, respiratory, biliary and renal system. Special attention will be directed to those systems where nutrition has a significant impact including cardiovascular, biliary and immune system. Student centred teaching and learning methods will be used to support the delivery of the unit content. Practical and analytical skills will be developed through a series of laboratory classes
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton | Second semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mid-semester exam (1 hour and 10 mins) | Examination | 25% | — |
| 2 | Group case study presentation (15 minutes) | Presentation | 20% | — |
| 3 | 4 x Practical laboratory reports (500 words each) | Written | 30% | — |
| 4 | Final examination (1 hours and 10 minutes) | Examination | 25% | — |
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
prerequisite
- NUT1101 — Science foundations
Learning outcomes
- Describe the structure and function of cells and their diversification into tissues and major organ systems.
- Explain the human anatomical and physiological functions of major organ systems and their relationship with nutrition science
- Discuss the process of homeostasis, whereby physiological systems are regulated to maintain a relatively constant internal environment for maintenance of health
- Explain the physiology of body systems
- Perform laboratory techniques integral to the study of nutrition science and analyse and interpret results in consultation with research literature.
Workload
3 x 1 hour lectures 1 x 1 hour weekly tutorial 1 x 3 hour practical on 4 occasions over the 12 week semester
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Workshops | 24 hours |
| Practical activities | 13.5 hours |
| Lectures | 36 hours |
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