Course Overview

Introduction to Human Anatomy

This course provides an in-depth study of the microscopic and gross anatomical structure of the human body, including relevant pathology. It is designed for students preparing for careers in nursing, physical therapy, kinesiology, occupational therapy, and related fields. Laboratory work includes examination of anatomical models, histological specimens, and animal dissections.

• Course Units: 5 (Lecture: 3 units, Lab: 2 units)

• Modality: Hybrid (in-person and online instruction)

• Textbook: Human Anatomy, Marieb et al., 9th Edition (Pearson)

• Lab Manual: Human Anatomy Lab Manual, Kelly Neary (Mission College)

Course Structure and Topics

Lecture and Laboratory Topics

The course is organized into modules that closely follow the structure of a standard Anatomy & Physiology curriculum. Each module covers specific chapters and laboratory activities:

• Module 1: Introduction to the Human Body, Cells, Tissues, Integumentary System

• Module 2: Skeletal System (Bones, Axial and Appendicular Skeleton, Joints)

• Module 3: Muscular System, Nervous System (CNS, PNS, ANS)

• Module 4: Special Senses, Blood, Cardiovascular System, Respiratory System

• Module 5: Digestive, Urinary, Reproductive, and Endocrine Systems

Laboratory sessions reinforce lecture concepts through hands-on activities, including microscopy, model identification, and animal dissections.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Use anatomical terms to describe body planes, sections, cavities, and regions

• Describe the structure and function of cellular organelles

• Describe the structure and function of the different tissue types

• List the components of all eleven body systems and describe the gross and microscopic structure of each

Course Objectives

• Demonstrate knowledge of regional and systemic anatomy

• Describe the hierarchical organization of the body

• Identify major body systems and the detailed structure of their organs

• Give examples of anatomical changes that produce disease

• Use a microscope to distinguish major tissue types

• Explain the interrelationships between structure and function of organs

Assessment and Grading

Grading Breakdown

• Lecture Exams (5): 250 points (50 points each)

• Lab Practical Exams (5): 250 points (50 points each)

• Assignments (5): 150 points (30 points each)

• Class Participation: 75 points

• Total: 725 points

Letter Grades:

• A: 90–100% (725–652.5 points)

• B: 80–89.9% (651.5–580 points)

• C: 70–79.9% (579–507.5 points)

• D: 60–69.9% (506.5–435 points)

• F: Below 60% (below 435 points)

Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance at all sessions is required; excessive unexcused absences may result in being dropped from the course.

• Active participation in laboratory activities and timely completion of assignments are essential for success.

Academic Honesty

• Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited and will result in a zero score and possible disciplinary action.

• AI-generated submissions are not permitted.

Study Skills and Success Strategies

• Stay organized and check Canvas regularly for updates.

• Prepare before class by reading assigned chapters.

• Review material soon after class and rewrite notes for reinforcement.

• Use study partners and campus resources such as tutoring and counseling.

• Ask for help when needed.

Course Schedule Overview

The course schedule follows the sequence of major Anatomy & Physiology topics, including:

• Ch. 1: The Human Body: An Orientation

• Ch. 2: Cells: The Living Units

• Ch. 4: Tissues

• Ch. 5: The Integumentary System

• Ch. 6–8: Bones and Skeletal System

• Ch. 9: Joints

• Ch. 10–11: Muscular System

• Ch. 12–15: Nervous System

• Ch. 16: Special Senses

• Ch. 17: Endocrine System

• Ch. 18–20: Blood, Heart, Blood Vessels

• Ch. 21–25: Lymphatic, Respiratory, Digestive, Urinary, and Reproductive Systems

Required and Recommended Materials

• Textbook: Human Anatomy, Marieb et al., 9th Edition

• Lab Manual: Human Anatomy Lab Manual, Kelly Neary

• Atlas: A Brief Atlas of the Human Body (recommended)

• Visual Guide: A Visual Analogy Guide to Human Anatomy (recommended)

• Apps: Complete Anatomy, BioDigital 3D Human Anatomy, Essential Anatomy 5, Visual Anatomy

• Other: Scantron forms, #2 pencils, colored pencils, clipboard

Support and Resources

• Student Health and Mental Health Counseling

• Disability Support Program (DSPS)

• Academic Support Center (tutoring)

• Basic Needs and Student Services

Important Dates

• Drop without grade: 09/13/2026

• Drop with "W": 11/20/2026

• Final Exam: 12/14/2026, 6:00 pm

Instructor Contact

• Instructor: Mehdi Moossavi

• Email: Mehdi.Moossavi@wvm.edu

• Office: GC-114

• Office Hours: Mondays 5:25–5:55 PM