Anatomy: Body Systems module (CA51010)

Understanding human anatomy is essential for medical artists. The discipline requires a deep grasp of skeletal, muscular, and organ systems

Credits

20

Module code

CA51010

From September 2025 this module will change name to Gross Anatomy for Artists and become 40 credits

The description on this page is for the new version of this module.

Understanding human anatomy is essential for medical artists. The discipline requires a deep grasp of skeletal, muscular, and organ systems.

This knowledge enables artists to produce detailed, scientifically accurate illustrations and models. These serve essential roles in medical education, patient information, and public health communication.

In this module, you will learn an overview of human anatomy, focusing on body systems.

You will learn a variety of anatomical terminology, concepts, and theories. You will study anatomy through practical sessions on campus.

You will also undertake workshops in anatomical illustration skills. By the end of the module, you should understand the structure and function of the human body. You should also be able to create anatomical illustrations in both traditional and digital media.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

  • learn anatomical terminology and concepts
  • learn to identify various anatomical structures
  • learn the function of various anatomical structures
  • undertake a series of anatomical drawing skills workshops

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • discuss the Anatomy Act. You will be able to relate it to your experience and behaviour towards human material
  • recall the basic form and function of the human body
  • identify important soft and hard tissue systems and structures
  • identify important soft tissue systems and the main bony structures
  • explain the interaction of the different systems.
  • produce a portfolio of anatomical illustrations in a variety of media
  • create anatomical illustrations using a range of references including specimens, books and models

Assignments / assessment

Assessment for this module is split between exams (60%) and coursework (40%):

  • exams
    • anatomy spot test (30%)
    • multiple-choice exam (30%)
  • coursework
    • portfolio of anatomical illustrations (40%)

Teaching methods / timetable

  • videos and online content
    • These will provide the basis for the theoretical content
  • practical anatomy sessions
    • These will consist of hands-on sessions in the anatomy facilities
  • workshops
    • In these, you will learn how to create anatomical illustrations in a range of traditional and digital media

Courses

This module is available on following courses: