Key facts
UNE unit code: NEUR540
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
This unit provides you with an introduction to the neurological pathophysiology of depression, plus an evaluation of treatments based on neurobiological processes.
You will examine a range of topics including ‘subtypes’ of depression, alongside genetic, neurochemical, endocrine, immunological, neuroanatomical and behavioural factors in the development of depression.
Furthermore, you will explore how these combine to form a multifactorial model of depression, as well as consider treatments based on these factors.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an advanced understanding of the sub-types of depression;
- demonstrate an advanced understanding of the neurobiological factors and processes associated with depression;
- demonstrate an advanced understanding of how genetic, neurochemical, endocrine, immunological, neuroanatomical, and behavioural factors combine to form a model of depression;
- demonstrate an advanced understanding of treatments for depression that are based upon these neurobiological factors; and
- demonstrate an advanced understanding of particular neurological ‘pathways’ and specific treatment needs for depression sub-types.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Literature review of neurobiological and environmental contributors to depression and its sub-types. 3500 word equivalent |
| Interactive online presentation - Assurance Task | Yes | 35% | All offerings | Students must create a 10-minute presentation discussing neurobiologically-based treatment approaches for a depression case study. The approaches must be arranged in a hierarchy according to the empirical evidence of treatment efficacy. The student will present to the assessor live online via zoom. The presentation will be followed by 5 minutes of questions based on the marking criteria. Student identification is verified at the commencement of the presentation. It is mandatory to pass the Presentation. 1500 word equivalent |
| Online Quiz | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Students complete two (2) online quizzes worth 10%. Each quiz is comprised of 10 questions. 1000 word equivalent. |
| Viva Voce - Assurance Task | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Students participate in a 10 minute interactive online interview with the assessor where they discuss their assessment 2 literature review. The assessor will ask questions to evaluate the student’s understanding of the research. Student identification is verified at the commencement of the interview. It is mandatory to pass the Oral Examination. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Understanding and Treating Depression Biological, Psychological and Behavioural Perspectives
CF Sharpley, Tilde 2013
Text refers to: All offerings
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