Musculoskeletal Anatomy
Overview
This unit enables students to understand the core principles of gross anatomy as they relate to the function of the human musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems, as well as exploring concepts of related adaptive change across the lifespan. Students will use anatomical models, radiographic and clinical diagnostic images, applied anatomy techniques, traditional learning tools and virtual laboratory environments to understand the anatomy of the upper and lower limbs, vertebral column and head/neck with an emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, as well as relevant parts of the nervous system and advanced functional aspects of joint anatomy.
Requisites
02-November-2025
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Identify the components of the neuro-musculoskeletal system of the human body, and describe the role of the bony segments, joint-related connective tissue structures, muscles and the external forces applied to these structures during the typical aging process
- Locate and identify the components of the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory system and their key parts and describe the operation of the musculoskeletal system in detail
- Describe how the mechanisms of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems integrate and how they relate to health and common pathologies
- Identify musculoskeletal structures from surface anatomy
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Online Lecture | 2.00 | 12 weeks | 24 |
| On-campus Class | 2.00 | 12 weeks | 24 |
| Specified Activities Various | 3.00 | 12 weeks | 36 |
| Unspecified Activities Independent Learning | 5.50 | 12 weeks | 66 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examination | Individual | 40% | 1,2,4 |
| Laboratory Tutorial Quizzes | Individual | 40% | 1,2,3,4 |
| Mid-Semester Test | Individual | 20% | 1,2,4 |
Content
- Growth and development across the lifespan
- Structure and function of the human body, including bones, muscles and joints
- Neurological, biological and physiological basis for movement
- Musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory anatomy and physiology
- Surface and gross anatomy of musculoskeletal systems
- Graduate Attribute – Digital Literacies: Information literacy
- Graduate Attribute – Digital Literacies: Technical literacy
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.