Program Overview

Introduction to the Contemporary Issues in Medical Research Unit

The Contemporary Issues in Medical Research unit, coded as CAM203, is designed to consolidate and build on research skills developed in the first units within the Bachelor of Medical Research. This unit covers the principles of research design and analysis, ethics in medical research, scientific controversy, scientific critique, and scientific communication.

Unit Details

• Unit Name: Contemporary Issues in Medical Research
• Unit Code: CAM203
• Credit Points: 12.5
• College/School: Health, School of Medicine
• Discipline: Medicine
• Coordinator: Doctor Jo-Maree Courtney
• Available as an Elective: Yes
• Delivered By: University of Tasmania
• Level: Intermediate

Availability

The unit is available in the following locations and study periods:

• Hobart: Semester 1
• Launceston: Semester 1
  • Attendance options include on-campus and off-campus study.

Key Dates

• Study Period: Semester 1
• Start Date: 23/2/2026
• Census Date: 17/3/2026
• WW Date: 20/4/2026
• End Date: 14/6/2026

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

• Evaluate ethical, legal, social, and cultural issues related to medical research.
• Communicate medical research effectively to a broad audience using relevant scientific terminology.
• Evaluate scientific literature and the validity of media reporting of medical research.

Fee Information

• Field of Education:
• Commencing Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Grandfathered Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution: Not applicable
• Domestic Full Fee: $2,862.00
  • Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place.
  • HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP are available, depending on eligibility.

Requisites

Prerequisites

• CAM103 or CZZ103

Teaching

• Teaching Pattern: 3-hour workshop weekly, 3-hour independent learning weekly, 4-hour self-directed study weekly.
• Assessment:
  • Debate (oral presentation) (30%)
  • Weekly Reflection (30%)
  • Essay (40%)
• Timetable: Available through the lecture timetable and full unit timetable.

Textbooks

• Required: Readings and other resources will be provided through MyLO.
• Recommended: Accessible through MyLO or the University Library website.

Note

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities as appropriate.