Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

In this unit students will gain an understanding of the fundamentals of two key disciplines of the biomedical sciences, Haematology (the study of blood and blood pathologies) and Pharmacology (the study of drugs and how they interact with our bodies), and an insight into how in some instances these disciplines may crossover (e.g. pharmacologic treatment of blood disorders).

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 core unit in the Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice; Integrated Dental Sciences; Podiatric Health and Medical Sciences major sequences
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) define basic pharmacodynamics, drug-receptor interactions and molecular mechanisms of drug action; (2) understand the mechanisms of pharmacokinetics, drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion; (3) discuss the pharmacology of the autonomic nervous system; (4) understand pharmacokinetics in antimicrobial therapy; (5) describe adverse drug reactions; (6) understand the process of toxicology; (7) describe pharmacogenomics; (8) discuss blood and common blood pathologies, including haematopoiesis and related disorders; (9) define plasma lipoproteins, HDL and cholesterol; (10) understand red blood cell structure and function, including blood group typing; (11) describe leucocyte structure and function; (12) describe haemostasis; (13) describe the generation and effects of thrombi, embolism and infarction; (14) describe and discuss anticoagulant, antiplatelet and thrombolytic drugs; (15) define full blood count; (16) describe common tissue pathology and cytology; (17) understand the importance of health care professional interaction with the Pharmaceutical industry; and (18) gain an understanding of randomised and control drug trials.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) final examination; (2) in-semester tests; and (3) practical and tutorial session assessment. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Ricky Chen
Unit rules
Prerequisites
IMED1003 Cell Survival and Communication
and IMED1004 Understanding Health and Disease in People and Populations
Co-requisites
IMED2001 Body Defences
Approved quota: 400—a place in the unit is determined on a first-come, first-served basis. Selection is based on time of enrolment with first places given to students enrolled in this major as a degree-specific and second to students enrolled as a second major. Any remaining places are given to those students according to when they enrol until all places are filled.
Contact hours
lectures: 3 hours per week
tutorials: 6 hours per semester
practical sessions: 20 hours per semester
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.