Outline

Overview

Many aspects of human health and disease contribute to human life span and quality. Recent advances in understanding human health and disease conditions, as well as improvements in treatment and management, have enabled humans to live healthier and longer. In this unit you will explore the scientific bases of human development and physiological changes across the lifespan, focusing on particular body systems, medical conditions, and treatments. Using specific examples, you will consider successful strategies and approaches to improve human health. In collaborative learning environments supported by experts, you will further develop your conceptual understanding of medical sciences, as well as skills in scientific and critical thinking.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Department of Medical Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	6 credit points of (MEDS1001 or BIOL1XX8) and 6 credit points of (MEDS1002 or BIOL1XX7 or CHEM1X11)
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Kay Double, kay.double@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final exam Written exam	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Worksheet completion Completion and submission of worksheets during scheduled workshops and practical classes	5%	Multiple weeks	2-3 hours	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Early feedback task Online quiz based on week 1 lecturette content	0%	Week 02	10 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written test	In semester test Written in-semester test in Week 7	20%	Week 07	1 hour	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Lab report Lab report based on your week 8 practical class. Your report is due on the day of your practical 2 weeks following the week 8 practical (i.e. in week 10), at 11:59pm.	15%	Week 10	1000 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Group poster presentation Poster presentation based on a topic chosen in week 2.	20%	Week 13	10 min followed by 5 min for Q&A	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Detailed information about each assessment will be available on the MEDS2011 Canvas website. Specific announcements regarding each assessment will be made available to students on this site.

Assessment criteria

Assessment grading information can be found on the University's Coursework Policy 2021

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85-100%	Work of exceptional standard: Mastery of topics showing extensive integration and ability to transfer knowledge to novel contexts; treatment of tasks shows an advanced synthesis of ideas; demonstration of initiative, complex understanding and analysis; work is very well presented; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to an outstanding level
Distinction	75-84%	Work of superior standard: Excellent achievement, consistent evidence of deep understanding and application of knowledge in medical science; treatment of tasks shows advanced understanding of topics; demonstration of initiative, complex understanding and analysis; work is well-presented; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to a superior level
Credit	65-74%	Competent work demonstrating potential for higher study: Confident in explaining medical science processes, with evidence of solid understanding and achievement; occasional lapses indicative of unresolved issues; treatment of tasks shows a good understanding of topic; work is well-presented with a minimum of errors; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to a high level
Pass	50-64%	Work of acceptable standard: Satisfactory level of engagement with and understanding of topic; some inconsistencies in understanding and knowledge of medical science; work is adequately presented, with some errors or omissions, most criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to an adequate level
Fail	49% or less	Work not of acceptable standard: Unsatisfactory achievement and engagement with the medical science discipline; inadequate understanding or fundamental misunderstanding of topics; most criteria and learning outcomes not clearly or adequately addressed or achieved; lack of effort/involvement in the unit

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

Failure to meet assessment deadlines will incur mark deductions of 5% of the maximum awardable mark available for every day past the due date (for electronic submissions, days late includes Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays). These deductions will continue for 10 calendar days, until the solutions for the assignment are released, or marked assignments are returned to other students. At that point the mark awarded will be zero. For example, on an assignment given a mark of 70/100, the penalty would be 5 marks if submitted up to 24 hours late, resulting in a final mark of 65/100. If the assignment is submitted 6 days late, the penalty would be 30 marks and the final mark would be 40/100. If the assignment is more than 10 days late, submitted after the solutions for the assignment are released, or marked assignments are returned to other students, the final mark will be 0/100.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Human physiological changes through the lifespan	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Musculoskeletal development - Conception to birth	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Musculoskeletal development - Birth to Adulthood	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Musculoskeletal changes through lifespan	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Introduction to MEDS2011 and interrogating information sources	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 02	How to build a brain - Setting up the foundations	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	How to build a brain - Building the template	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	How to build a brain - Wiring and maintaining the circuit	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Wicked problem assessment workshop	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 03	Cardiovascular system development (Heart)	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Cardiovascular system development (Vascular system)	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Cardiovascular changes through the lifespan	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	C. elegans and lifespan changes part 1	Practical (3 hr)
Week 04	Mortality and death - Change in lifespan over the years through research advances.	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	How to live longer healthier	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Pathways that control longevity	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Calorie restriction	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Optional drop-in session for C. elegans practical	Lecture (1 hr)
	Data communication	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 05	Introduction to disease	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Influence of genetics on diseases	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Disease prevention - lifestyle and nutrition	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Vulnerable populations	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Optional drop-in session on content of Module 1 lecturettes	Lecture (1 hr)
	C. elegans and lifespan changes part 2	Practical (3 hr)
Week 06	Parkinson's disease	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Neural tube defects	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Epilepsy	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Wicked problem assessment workshop and feedback on C. elegans report	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 07	Osteoporosis	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Sarcopenia	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Bone fractures	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Osteoarthritis	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
Week 08	Hypertension	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Atherosclerosis	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Infarction	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Heart failure	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Disease risk through the lifespan	Practical (3 hr)
	Optional drop-in support session for Disease risk report and Wicked problem assessment	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 09	Drugs as small molecules	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Drugs as biologicals	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Drugs as monoclonal antibodies	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Non-pharmaceutical interventions	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Exploring careers in medical sciences	Seminar (2.5 hr)
Week 10	Resistance exercise	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Hormone replacement therapies	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Pharmacological treatment of osteoporosis	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Treatment and management of osteoarthritis	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Optional drop-in session on content of Module 2 lecturettes	Lecture (1 hr)
	Disease from a patient perspective	Workshop (3 hr)
	Anatomy practical	Practical (3 hr)
Week 11	Treatment and management of Parkinson's disease	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Managing genetic and developmental nervous system disorders	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Treatment and management of epilepsy	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Disease from a patient perspective	Workshop (3 hr)
	Anatomy practical	Practical (3 hr)
Week 12	Treatment and management of hypertension	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Treatment and management of atherosclerosis	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Treatment and management of infarction	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Aerobic exercise	Self-directed learning (0.25 hr)
	Understanding devices in medicine	Workshop (3 hr)
Week 13	Optional drop-in session on content of Module 3 lecturettes	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 13	Wicked problem assessment presentations	Assessment (3 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

The University of Sydney Coursework Policy 2024 states:

68 (2) A student enrolled in a unit of study must comply with the requirements set out in the faculty resolutions, award course resolutions or unit of study outline about undertaking the unit of study, including on matters such as:

(a) attendance at and participation in lectures, seminars and tutorials; and

(b) participation in practical work.

(3) A program director may specify the circumstances under which a student who does not satisfy attendance and participation requirements may be deemed not to have completed a unit of study or award course.

The Faculty of Science Resolutions states:

9(2) Attendance and participation in a minimum number of assessment items or learning activities may be a requirement in any unit of study.

(4) Unless otherwise stated, students are expected to attend at least 80% of timetabled activities as defined in the unit of study outline.

(5) Failure to meet unit of study requirements may result in a fail grade.

Thus, attendance at a minimum of 80% of all timetabled classes is compulsory for successful completion of this unit of study. Attendance will be recorded. Absences from scheduled practical or workshop sessions must be supported by appropriate documentation.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Information on any required readings or resources will be posted on the MEDS2011 Canvas site.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Explain key processes in the human lifespan from conception and birth to ageing and death
LO2. Examine and critique health issues that occur across the human lifespan
LO3. Describe a range of possible solutions to the challenges of normal body functioning from tissue engineering to biomedical implants to calorie restriction and euthanasia
LO4. Collect, synthesise, analyse and critically evaluate data and information from a range of sources and apply this to current issues associated with the human lifespan
LO5. Demonstrate creative and innovative approaches to problem solving by working effectively, responsibly, respectfully and safely in individual and collaborative contexts associated with innovations relating to the human lifespan
LO6. Communicate observations and experimental findings in medical science and their implications through a broad variety of media to diverse audiences

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

MEDS2011 will be delivered for the second time in 2026. Based on student and staff feedback from 2025, we have redesigned some aspects of the Unit to increase alignment of content and modified some activities in accordance with feedback.

Additional information

More information relating to this unit will be communicated via the MEDS2011 Canvas site.

Additional costs

Personal Protective Equipment for the practical classes.

Site visit guidelines

N/A

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety Policy 2016 explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

There are specific Work, Health and Safety requirements for MEDS2011 in relation to the on-campus practical classes in the Charles Perkins Centre Laboratory spaces and Anatomy Laboratories on the Camperdown campus of The University of Sydney. Please see the MEDS2011 Canvas site for further information about how to complete these requirements.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
A laboratory coat, protective eyewear and closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your course materials and posted in laboratories
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

MEDS2011: The Human Lifespan

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links