Key facts
UNE unit code: LAW343
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Health is a changing landscape which generates profound ethical and legal quandaries. Significant developments in biotechnology over the last three decades, such as assisted reproductive technology, genetic manipulation, organ transplantation and stem cell research, generate wide interest and raise important bioethic questions.
As such, legal regulation must respond to such innovations in a measured and ethical manner.
This unit explores current issues that arise in the fields of health and biotechnology to consider the legal implications and responses to emerging technology. You will explore these issues and gain valuable insights into the legal issues that are triggered by new technology and ethics in health.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
This unit follows on from issues taught in LAW342. It is recommended that students undertake LAW342 prior to undertaking LAW343.
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 a broad and coherent understanding of current health innovations and the implications for law and legal process;
- use cognitive and creative skills to evaluate and review the capacity of orthodox legal rules to consider complex moral and legal questions generated by health innovations;
- use initiative and judgement to identify and critically evaluate the legal implications of innovations in health and medicine, and the possible responses of legal institutions, using the skills of legal research and reasoning; and
- present advanced communication and cognitive skills that articulate clear, and well-reasoned legal arguments that are based on critical thinking and analysis, synthesis, professional judgment and research skills to develop complex legal outcomes for all interested parties.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment 1 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Short answer questions No. Words: 2000 |
| Assignment 2 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Research essay No. Words: 2000 |
| Assignment 3 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 1500 |
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.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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