Cell Pathology

Cell pathology is the study of disease by the techniques used in modern cell biology. The aim is to understand how cellular and molecular mechanisms interact during disease processes. Cell pathology is also an introduction to the world of biomedical research. By studying scientific papers, and discussing them in tutorials, you will discover the scientific approach to a problem.

You will study various experimental approaches and learn to criticise assumptions made by the great experimenters while investigating the milestones of scientific discovery. During the experimental component of the major, you will learn to apply this knowledge. Some experiments carried out during the course are closely modelled on certain classic studies that significantly advanced scientific knowledge. Others are related to the current research interests of departmental staff, and may never have been carried out before.

Discipline of Pathology website

What will you study?

Cell pathology is offered as an option in the third year of the Science and Medical Science degrees. Students attend a combination of small group tutorials and practical classes based around diseased organs preserved in bottles and on microscopic slides.

What will you study?

Cell pathology is offered as an option in the third year. When you study cell pathology, you attend a combination of small group tutorials and practical classes based around diseased organs preserved in bottles and on microscopic slides.

The major emphasises mechanisms of disease pathogenesis, including the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie cancer, inflammatory and infectious diseases. These pathological mechanisms are illustrated by considering specific diseases in a range of systems, including the neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine and gastrointestinal systems.

Majoring in cell pathology is appropriate if you intend to proceed to honours research, to professional courses such as medicine, dentistry or physiotherapy or to careers in biomedical research areas such as hospital science. It fulfils the pathology requirements of the Centre for Chiropractic at Macquarie University.

Honours

A one-year honours course is available in pathology, allowing you to develop closer links with academic and technical staff, the opportunity to attend various seminars and participate in national conferences. Honours is a unique opportunity for you to explore your research potential by designing an independent project and producing a thesis of work.