This foundations unit will give students a framework on which to base their undergraduate medical studies. This includes the structural and functional organisation of the human body, beginning with the study of biomolecules and cells, the classification and types of human tissues and their functions, and a general description of structure and function of organ systems. This unit also explores the normal constitution and function of the integumentary system (skin) and immune system, and introduces microbiology and cellular responses to stress, injury and ageing. Students will learn and develop communication skills for medical practice and become familiar with clinical diagnostic processes including vital signs.

Students will discuss the range of patient populations and explore meanings and determinants of health, and understand the role that a medical practitioner plays in the Australian health care system and the wider Australian community, including ethical considerations. Students will learn how to practice self-care, and acquire and develop the skills needed to engage in an active learning environment, including scoping, locating, synthesizing and managing information.

In order for students to undertake Professional Experience Placements (PEPs), there are mandatory requirements to be completed before students can enter a PEP venue. These are outlined in the Safety in Practice Agreement. The Safety in Practice disclosure (Section 8 in the Safety in Practice Agreement), requires the student to establish, with the University, their capacity to perform the functional requirements of the course in which they are enrolled. The Safety in Practice Agreement also requires that student agree to the Code of Professional and Ethical Conduct, agree to undertake a police (criminal record) check and to gaining evidence of their immunisation and infectious disease status. Students enrolled in the School of Medicine are required to comply with these requirements prior to the allocation of, and student participation, in learning placements and clinical rotations in health care settings. Students who do not comply will not be placed or will be removed from placements and therefore will not meet the requirements of the unit with regard to Professional Experience Placements. Further information is available at the 'Professional Experience Placement' website of the University of Tasmania Faculty of Health, http://www.utas.edu.au/health/professional-experience-placement. Students who have not complied or are unsure of the policies should seek guidance from the School.