Key facts
UNE unit code: NEUR531
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Build a foundation of knowledge that will allow you to keep pace with rapid innovation in neuroscience. This unit introduces you to neurobiology, exploring the molecular, cellular and physiological underpinnings of the nervous system.
Studying this unit, you will focus on key principles in neurobiology. Drawing on your understanding of key concepts in neuroscience, you will develop a deeper understanding of the neurophysiological basis of sensory perception and movement.
Topics examined include resting membrane and action potentials, synaptic transmission, and neurotransmitters and molecular signalling.
You will investigate the sensory systems, including chemical sensors, vision, hearing and somatic sensation before exploring the spinal and brain control of movement.
This unit also offers opportunities to refine your critical thinking, communication and technical skills.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| 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:
- exhibit an advanced and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge of neuroscience with depth in the concepts and ideas underlying molecular, cellular, and physiological underpinnings of the nervous system;
- apply critical thinking and analytic skills to the evaluation of information regarding the molecular, cellular, and physiological underpinnings of the nervous system;
- transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to others both verbally and in written formats;
- demonstrate extensive and well-developed cognitive and current technical skills in the field of molecular, cellular, and physiological neuroscience;
- demonstrate an extended autonomy and judgement to exhibit a sound knowledge of molecular, cellular, and physiological neuroscience; and
- demonstrate self-directed learning in the fields of molecular, cellular, and physiological neuroscience.
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 1 -Online Quiz | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Online quiz. Assessment of knowledge, evaluation and analysis of molecular, cellular, and physiological neuroscience. No. Words: 100 |
| Assessment 2 -Essay | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Essay. Critical evaluation of current research in the field of molecular, cellular, and physiological neuroscience. It is mandatory to pass this assessment in order to pass this unit. No. Words: 3500 |
| Assessment 3 Online Quiz | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Online quiz. Assessment of knowledge, evaluation and analysis of molecular, cellular, and physiological neuroscience. No. Words: 100 |
| Assessment 4 - Online Quiz | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Online quiz. Assessment of knowledge, evaluation and analysis of molecular, cellular, and physiological neuroscience. No. Words: 100 |
| Assessment 5 - Online Quiz | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Online quiz. Assessment of knowledge, evaluation and analysis of molecular, cellular, and physiological neuroscience. No. Words: 100 |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | It is mandatory to pass this examination in order to pass this unit. |
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.
Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain, Enhanced Edition
ISBN: 9781284286878
Bear, M.F., Connors, B.W. and Paradiso, M.A., Jones & Bartlett Learning 5th ed. 2025
Text refers to: All offerings
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