Anatomy

Study the structure of the human body

The word ‘anatomy’ comes from the Greek verb 'anatomein', which means ‘cutting up’ or ‘dissection’. However, anatomy today is much more than the descriptive study of the dissected body, although dissected specimens are still used for research and instruction. The study of anatomy now embraces the following disciplines:

• gross anatomy: form, arrangement and function of the bones, joints, muscles and internal organs - including their blood and nerve supply
• histology: microscopic structure of tissues and cells
• embryology: development of the embryo and foetus from conception to birth and mechanisms of development and malformations
• neuroanatomy: internal organisation and functions of the brain and spinal cord
• biological anthropology: applying biological principles and approaches to the study of humans and non-human primates.

We're ranked 49th in the world for anatomy and physiology.* In all of our anatomy courses, strong emphasis is given to the functional significance of the structures in health and disease. 

Prepare for career success

Careers in anatomy include medical research and allied health therapies, such as massage therapy. You could pursue a career as a forensic anthropologist, medical technician or clinical coder. Studying anatomy can also prepare candidates for careers in medicine and surgery. Anatomy can be combined with units of study from other disciplines such as biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, pathology or psychology to further enhance career options. 

Our programs

^{*QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023}