Key facts
UNE unit code: LAW338
*You are viewing the 2025 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2025
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Biotechnology is an exciting and highly specialised field that stems from science and technology legal issues.
It raises multifaceted problems, most of which revolve around the genetic modification of life.
As such, it requires professionals with a broad understanding of the legal, scientific and business issues that arise out of this developing area.
Throughout this unit, you will explore a wide range of topical issues include the acceptability of patenting life forms, the monopolisation of basic food production with genetically modified foods, the risk and allocation of risk with the introduction of modified materials into the ecosystem, cloning and stem cell use.
You will also develop your ability to present clear, coherent and persuasive legal arguments as well as your critical thinking and research skills, all within the realm of complex biotechnology law issues.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a broad and coherent understanding of the current national and international legislation related to the conduct of biotechnology research and product development;
- critically review and analyse the effectiveness of domestic law governing biotechnology including theoretical underpinnings, policy directions, regulation and legal outcomes in this area;
- use initiative and judgement in identifying legal issues associated with fact based scenarios and demonstrate an ability to employ the skills of legal research and the application of legal principles governing the use of the biotechnology law to resolve complex issues for all interested parties; and
- demonstrate a well-developed ability to present clear, coherent and well-reasoned and persuasive legal arguments that are based on critical analysis, synthesise, professional judgment and research skills as solutions to complex biotechnology law issues.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Assignment 1 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Research Essay No. Words: 2500 |
Participation | No | 10% | All offerings | Online and/or class participation |
Presentation | Yes | 40% | All offerings | 30 minute presentation of research topic |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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