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Cell Biology, Genetics and Evolution unit (KPZ164)

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Location: Hobart, Launceston

Introduction

Cell Biology, Genetics and Evolution is a core first year unit for BSc students majoring in Plant Science 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 introduce classical genetic and evolutionary theory as unifying explanations of life, 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. Laboratory practicals investigate cell properties, cytogenetics, enzyme function, genetic analysis of populations and DNA extraction.

Summary

Unit name Cell Biology, Genetics and Evolution
Unit code KPZ164
Credit points 12.5
College/School Sciences and Engineering
School of Natural Sciences
Discipline Biological Sciences
Coordinator Professor Eloise Foo
Available as an elective? Yes
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Introductory

Availability

Location Study period Attendance options Available to
Hobart Semester 2 This unit is available through on-campus delivery Available to International Students Available to Domestic Students
Launceston Semester 2 This unit is available through on-campus delivery Available to International Students Available to Domestic Students
  • Key:
  • This unit is available through on-campus delivery On-campus
  • This unit is available through off-campus delivery Off-Campus
  • Available to International Students International students
  • Available to Domestic Students Domestic students
Note

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Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 2 06/07/2026 28/07/2026 31/08/2026 25/10/2026

* 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 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Explain how genetic information determines the structure and function of cells.
  • Apply the fundamentals of classical genetics to predict biological traits.
  • Explain the key processes of evolution that inform the tree of life and how species emerge through time.
  • Conduct and analyse experiments using scientific tools that answer hypotheses.
  • Access, interpret, and present scientific ideas and data to explain cellular and genetic processes.

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
010903 $1,192.00 $1,192.00 not applicable $3,575.00
  • Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
  • HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
  • FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4

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 UniConnect 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:

XPD132

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

Weekly online modules of theoretical content with revisionary quizzes, 12 x Weekly 3-hour practical classes, 12 X weekly 1-hour tutorials

AssessmentVoluntary Unassessed Weekly quiz|Quiz 1 (16%)|Genetics Report (20%)|Quiz 2 (24%)|In class practical assessments (40%)
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.

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