Key facts
UNE unit code: GENE210
*You are viewing the 2027 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

Genetics is a rapidly evolving field with diverse practical implications. From agriculture and livestock production, to medicine and the emerging field of personalised healthcare, genetics presents us with exciting opportunities for innovation and discovery.
This unit provides you with an introduction to the principles of genetics. From the molecular level up to the population level, you will learn about basic concepts in genetics.
Delving into structure, the function and mutation of DNA, gene expression, transmission of genes, and genetic control of development, you will be equipped to understand problems involving genetic linkage, gene interactions and inheritance of quantitative traits.
Building your knowledge of the ways in which DNA changes and is inherited, you will also explore the genetic structure of populations, and factors that lead to the evolution of populations over time.
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:
- analyse specific information in order to solve problems that involve the effect of gene interactions, linkage, variations on dominance, cytoplasmic inheritance and sex-linkage on the inheritance of traits;
- demonstrate an understanding of the three steps in the expression of eukaryotic genes (transcription, RNA processing and translation) and describe one mechanism by which gene expression can be regulated;
- demonstrate broad theoretical knowledge of ways in which gene expression can be regulated;
- explain the different types of mutations, their causes and mechanisms for repairing mutations;
- describe the factors that can lead to changes in the allele frequencies in a population; and
- define quantitative traits and explain how quantitative traits can be improved through selection (breeding) programs.
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 Quizzes | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Four (4) online multiple choice quizzes worth 5% each
|
| Assessment 2 - Critical Evaluation | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Critical Evaluation No. Words: 2500 |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Students must pass the final examination in order to pass the 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.
Vpack: Essentials of Genetics
ISBN: 9780655797227
Klug, W.S. and Cummings, M.R., Pearson 10th ed. 2020
Text refers to: All offerings
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