module specification

SP4053 - Fundamentals of Musculoskeletal Anatomy (2026/27)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2026/27
Module title Fundamentals of Musculoskeletal Anatomy
Module level Certificate (04)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Human Sciences
Total study hours 150
 
6 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
114 hours Guided independent study
30 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 50%   Online multiple choice exam - Lower Limb (30 minutes)
Coursework 50%   Online multiple choice exam - Upper Limb & Spine (30 minutes)
Running in 2026/27

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)		 No instances running in the year

Module summary

This module aims to provide an introduction to human anatomy and basic human movement. It is a broadly-based introduction to anatomy of the musculoskeletal system and human movement, and the isolation of specific muscle groups that produce these movements.

You will have the ability to learn and explore the anatomy of the musculoskeletal system and human movement of the lower limb, upper limb and trunk. Thus, among other topics, you will learn to identify and name structures such as bones, joints, muscles, and other relevant soft tissue structures found in the human body using appropriate terminology. You will also learn to describe the function of these structures and understand their relevance to movement and exercise.

The teaching methods include lectures, seminars and practicals. The seminar sessions involve group discussions based on directed learning, which is supported by material available on Weblearn.

Prior learning requirements

N/A
Available for Study Abroad? NO

Syllabus

Musculoskeletal anatomy including names, locations and classifications of bones, joints, muscles, ligaments (LO1, LO2)
Muscle contractions (LO3)
Axes, planes (LO3)
Osteokinematics (LO3)
Basic movement description (LO1, LO2, LO3)

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

The module is devoted to a practical appreciation of human anatomy of the musculoskeletal system and underpinning basic biomechanics, to be able to recognise relevant anatomical structures and describe fundamental human movement.

The material is delivered by a combination of lecture, seminar and practical sessions. Seminar sessions will involve group discussions based on directed learning. Worksheets and online quizzes will be used each week to guide independent study.

The University’s virtual learning platform will be used extensively to provide the students with appropriate learning materials, as well as learning checks and video resources to enhance students learning and engagement. Guided independent study is supported by material on Weblearn. Anatomy teaching benefits from availability of specialised software. Students are encouraged to reflect on their learning throughout the module and particularly in periodic independent-study weeks.

Learning outcomes

LO1: Recall a knowledge of the gross anatomy of the human skeletal and muscular systems.
LO2: Identify and label key anatomical structures using appropriate anatomical terminology.
LO3: Recall and describe basic movements of the human body, including osteokinematics.

Bibliography