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Human and Medical Genetics (GENE30005)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 2 - On Campus
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Genetics permeates all aspects of modern life, and modern genetic technologies are being developed at an unprecedented rate with impacts on our understanding of human biology and implications for medicine. This subject will expose students to a deeper understanding of human genetics including the origins of human genomes, rapidly advancing technologies to study and understand genomes, and how this can be used for understanding and improving human health, as well as the overarching ethical considerations.

This subject focuses on several key areas in contemporary human genetics: the contributions mutation and natural selection make to human populations; the genetic basis of non-communicable diseases; strategies (technologies) for identifying the genetic basis of human disease; genetics of cancer and ageing; genetic counselling and gene by environment interactions. 

Intended learning outcomes

Upon completion of this subject, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of how traits emerge from multiple interacting mechanisms at the cellular, tissue, and organismal levels (and are influenced by the environment);
  • Contrast the different approaches used to understand the genetic contribution to human traits and the impact of the limitations of these approaches;
  • Critically evaluate and debate the ethical and social implications of human genetics today, including the impact of developing technologies;
  • Apply their knowledge to the real world and contribute to public discourse as a genetically literate member of society; and
  • Effectively communicate human genetic concepts to a broad audience.

Generic skills

Upon completion of this subject, students will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate scientific literature;
  • Use conceptual understanding to critically evaluate new methodological advancements;
  • Assess ethical implications of new technologies and knowledge;
  • Articulate their knowledge and understanding to different audiences through written and oral presentation skills;
  • Successfully manage time, task planning and group collaborations.

Last updated: 19 November 2025