PHR1031 - How the Body Works - 2018

12 points, SCA Band 2, 0.250 EFTSL

Undergraduate - Unit



Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Betty Exintaris


Dr Sab Ventura
Dr Anton Dolzhenko (Malaysia)

Unit guides



  • First semester 2018 (On-campus)


  • First semester 2018 (On-campus)


This unit will provide students with the foundational understanding and knowledge of the human body, including how cells, molecules and organs ensure proper functioning of the body. This will include studies of anatomy, physiology and biochemistry relevant to pharmacists. Students will be able to predict the outcome of cell and organ dysfunction, as well as effectively communicate aspects of how the body works.


At the end of this unit, students can be expected to:

In the context of a person:

  1. Explain how molecules, cells and organs ensure homeostasis and functioning of the body
  2. Compare and contrast how macromolecules (lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, DNA) contribute to cell structure and function
  3. Relate the structure and the function between and within organs and organ systems
  4. Predict the physiological and clinical consequences of molecular, cellular and organ dysfunction
  5. Analyse a clinical situation and logically articulate the underlying pathophysiology
  6. Effectively communicate (verbal and written) aspects of how the body works to peers
  7. Demonstrate skills to ensure effective teamwork


Final Exam (two 2 hour exams): 30%; In-semester assessment 70%

Workload requirements

  • One hundred and forty-four hours of independent study
  • Forty-eight hours of pre-learning activities (up to 4 hours per week)
  • Forty-eight hours of active learning lectures (4 hours a week)
  • Forty-eight hours of small group classes including assessment (4 hours per week)
  • One 3-hour written examination

See also Unit timetable information

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at: