Courses & Units

Cell Biology, Genetics and Evolution XPD132

Introduction

Cell Biology, Genetics & Evolution is a core first year unit for BSc students majoring in Plant Science or Genetics, and important for any student studying Biological Sciences. Cell biology, genetics and evolution are fundamental to an understanding of the processes of life. In this unit, we examine the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including a discussion of the energy flow in photosynthesis, respiration and metabolism. We introduce DNA structure and function from molecular to organism levels, and current applications of DNA technology. We also introduce classical genetic and evolutionary theory as unifying explanations of life. Laboratory practicals investigate enzyme function, cytogenetics, gene expression, and the genetic analysis of populations.
Handbook Entry – Unit Details

Summary

Unit name Cell Biology, Genetics and Evolution
Unit code XPD132
Credit points 12.5
College/School Academic Division
Provost
Discipline University Pathways
Coordinator Amanda Henry
Available as an elective?
Delivered By Delivered wholly by the provider
Level Introductory

Availability

This unit is currently unavailable.

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2021 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2021 will be available from the 1st October 2020. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

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Learning Outcomes

  • Describe the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cell organelles, and membranes,
  • Understand how biological information is encoded in DNA, how DNA is replicated from cell to cell (mitosis) and from generation to generation (meiosis), the behaviour of chromosomes in the cell cycles, and how that genetic information is transcribed into RNA and translated into proteins – the building blocks of life,
  • Understand the flow of energy in cells, the roles of enzymes and the processes of respiration,
  • Apply the principles of classical genetics in model systems to develop hypotheses and use basic statistical techniques to test those hypotheses,
  • Describe how DNA technology is being used in many aspects of life (agriculture, forensics, health, personal genomics and gene therapy),
  • Understand the processes of evolution and to have gained an appreciation of the broad pattern of history of life on Earth, and phylogenetic relationships that links living things.
  • Develop scientific communication skills in the accession, interpretation, and expression of scientific ideas.

Fee Information

Field of Education Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 Domestic Full Fee 4
not applicable

1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

KPZ164

Teaching

AssessmentOnline Quiz (10%)|Examination (50%)|Eight Assessment Tasks (20%)|Essay (20%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.
LinksBooktopia textbook finder

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