MSc in Human Anatomy

Our MSc in Human Anatomy is a 12-month full-time programme that is uniquely designed to provide advanced training in clinically applied human anatomy.

While different pedagogies are used as part of this programme, cadaveric dissection is a crucial component of the course situated at our state-of-art FLAME laboratory. The FLAME laboratory takes its name from the sculpture Flame which was commissioned in recognition of the altruism of those who donate their bodies for medical education and research.

This MSc programme is designed to reinforce and advance the anatomical knowledge and dissection skills of the participants. Core modules cover different anatomical sciences such as gross anatomy, neuroanatomy and human embryology and elective modules are designed to accommodate students with different interests.

Participants will have opportunities to develop radiological skills and experience in the Radiological Imaging module (AN6009). In addition to the theoretical knowledge learned, participants will have access to practical experience in a range of radiological modalities e.g. CT, MRI, ultrasound, and PET. Students do not need prior experience in this type of imaging.

Why Choose This Course

This is the first taught MSc in Human Anatomy in the Republic of Ireland. It has a large cadaver-based dissection component which will provide participants with a unique and exceptional opportunity to develop their dissection and anatomical knowledge on human material. It will be based in the FLAME Laboratory, the department's newly constructed human anatomy research facility. Students will develop and deliver innovative teaching methods, will receive hands-on practical experience in radiological modalities, will design and implement an independent anatomy-related research project. The variety of assessment methods experienced in this course will provide students with skills they can employ in future careers.

The programme is full-time over three semesters. Students take taught modules to the value of 60 credits and complete a research dissertation (AN6010) to the value of 30 credits.

Modules

Part I

Students take 55 credits from core modules and choose 5 credits from elective modules.

Core Modules

• AN6002 Human Gross Anatomy I (15 credits)
• AN6003 Human Gross Anatomy II (15 credits)
• AN6004 Neuroanatomy (10 credits)
• AN6009 Radiological Imaging (5 credits)
• AN6011 Learning and Teaching in Anatomy Education (10 credits)

Elective Modules*

• AN6008 Biomechanics of Human Movement (5 credits)
• AN6012 Human Embryological Development (5 credits)

Part II

• AN6010 Research Dissertation (30 credits)

*Elective modules will run based on meeting the requirement for the minimum number of students.

Please refer to the University Calendar MSc (Human Anatomy) for more information.

This programme is full-time over three semesters. Students should expect to attend a mixture of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and laboratories from 9am to 5pm daily, with some time dedicated to independent learning, during Semesters 1 & 2. In each semester, students will attend 5-8 hours of lectures, 2-3 hours of tutorials, 6-9 hours of lab practical work and 1-2 hours of seminars per week. During Semester 3, students will need to complete a short research proposal and complete a research project of limited scope.

Our Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience staff keep in mind the different learning styles of course participants. We incorporate assessment techniques and methods that will complement our teaching style and varied participant preferences as well as enhance learning. Modules will be assessed using a combination of continuous assessment and written exams.

Connected Curriculum

Our learning approach reflects our commitment to the Connected Curriculum where we emphasise the connection between students, learning, research and leadership through our vision for a Connected University. Our staff are at the forefront of this integrative approach to learning and will support you in making meaningful connections within and between topics such as medicine, anatomy, science, and leadership.

• What can I do after I graduate with an MSc in Human Anatomy?

The MSc in Human Anatomy will enhance the application profile of graduates furthering their career paths. Graduates will be equipped with skills that enable them to excel in careers in anatomical sciences including teaching and technical positions. Applications by medical graduates seeking positions on clinical schemes will be enhanced by the advanced skills and knowledge gained in this course.

• Occupations associated with an MSc in Human Anatomy.

Occupations of graduates with an MSc in Human Anatomy will pursue a career within academic /allied health settings as a medical demonstrator, instructor, teaching fellow, prosector, technician. Also, lab-based careers in the medical device industry, as well as medical illustrator, are also potential occupations. This MSc is also suitable for those in medical or surgical fields to further their career as well as providing opportunities for those having completed a relevant undergraduate degree.