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ANA-10003 - Module Specification
School of Medicine
Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences

For academic year: 2025/26 Last Updated: 04 December 2025

ANA-10003 - History of Anatomy
Coordinator: Luke Welsh Tel: +44 1782 7 33633
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 4
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 733928

Programme/Approved Electives for 2025/26

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2025/26

In this module you will dive into the captivating world of anatomical science with a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of anatomical knowledge from ancient civilizations to modern-day advancements.
As you progress, you’ll uncover the significant milestones and key developments that have shaped our understanding of the human body. From the first descriptions of the circulatory system to the development of modern imaging techniques, this course provides a thorough understanding of how anatomical knowledge has evolved.
Through engaging lectures, hands-on workshops and interactive discussions, you will gain a deep appreciation for the historical context of anatomical discoveries and their impact on contemporary medicine.

Aims
This module aims to provide students with the historical contexts relevant to the study of anatomy. As part of the Human Anatomy BSc (Hons), the module will allow students to understand the development of anatomical terminology, how approaches to anatomical study have evolved, and appraise issues of decolonisation, equality, diversity and inclusion within anatomy.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Describe key historical milestones in the study of human anatomy in different contexts and explain how failures in the historical acquisition and contemporary management of cadaveric materials have led to regulation of the anatomical sciences.: 1
Chart the compilation of anatomical knowledge across different populations, considering the cultural, religious and ethical factors that influence the study of anatomy.: 1
Summarise the contributions of major figures in the history of anatomy and their impact on modern anatomical science.: 1

Study hours

Lecture/interactive lecture: 15
Tutorials: 15
Seminars: 10
Guided Independent Study: 110
- Researching/reading 60
- Consolidation of lecture material (note taking, practice questions): 15
- Consolidation of tutorial and seminar work (ethics, reflection, EDI, decolonisation of anatomical terminology): 10
- Preparation for assessment: 25

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Presentation weighted 100%
Poster presentation
Students will produce a poster highlighting the approach and discoveries of two historical anatomists, at least one of whom must be from outside Europe. Students will have a maximum of 10 minutes to present the poster to their peers, which will allow more depth for them to place these discoveries in a modern context and hypothesise what role the findings may play in future practice. The poster design and presentation will be assessed against a marking rubric that will be available to students in advance. Students will be provided significant opportunity to develop the skills required for this assessment through both formative group and individual work. Feedback will be given at these points and all students will have the opportunity to discuss their feedback with staff.

The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/

Last Updated: 04 December 2025