This course covers the principles of molecular genetics, introducing the molecular mechanisms involved in the storage and expression of genetic information in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Topics to be covered include: genome structure and evolution, DNA structure and packaging; DNA replication and repair; transcription; regulation of gene expression; RNA processing; protein synthesis and the genetic code. These processes will be illustrated with case studies, focussing especially on the human genome and genetic disease.
The course includes a lab project that reinforces lecture material and introduces students to key strategies and techniques of molecular genetics.
Honours pathway option (HPO)
The honours pathway option is open to all students and involves participation in PeerWise, a web-based activity where students create, answer, rate and discuss multiple choice questions based on the course content. To qualify for the HPO, a minimum number of questions and comments must be posted.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Explain the basic processes involved in the expression of genetic information (DNA replication; mutagenesis and DNA repair; mRNA transcription and processing; gene regulation; protein synthesis; genome structure and evolution)
- Apply knowledge of the roles and functions of these processes to a range of problems and examples
- Predict outcomes when these processes are perturbed by mutation (genetic disease) or the use of inhibitors and drugs
- Elucidate differences in gene organization between prokaryotes and eukaryotes
- Interpret and analyse experimental and theoretical problems involving these processes
- Communicate experimental results and conclusions in a scientific manner.
Indicative Assessment
Assessment will be based on:
- Laboratory reports to apply knowledge to experimental/theoretical problem (35%; LO 2, 3, 5,6)
- Tutorial tests to demonstrate mastery and understanding of content (20%; LO 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Final exam to demonstrate understanding,
interpretation and problem solving (45%; LO 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6)
In response to COVID-19: Please note that Semester 2 Class Summary information (available under the classes tab) is as up to date as possible. Changes to Class Summaries not captured by this publication will be available to enrolled students via Wattle.
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Workload
Three lectures per week; six laboratory sessions of up to four hours each.
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Genetics: a conceptual approach. (2017) Pierce, B. 6th edition
Specialisations
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $4050 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $5760 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3663 | 24 Feb 2020 | 02 Mar 2020 | 08 May 2020 | 05 Jun 2020 | In Person | View |