University of Sydney Handbooks - 2017 Archive

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Veterinary Studies

Students are advised to take note of the mode of instruction. In the Faculty of Veterinary Science, postgraduate coursework units of study are offered in four modes:

Supervised units of study are typically on campus with very few students. Enrolment in these units is dependent on agreement from a suitable supervisor. Some supervised units of study, e.g. research project units of study, may be taken by distance students with an approved internal or external supervisor.

Online units of study are offered online and may be taken by distance and involve regular participation in an online classroom. These units of study are subject to class size limitations.

International students living in Australia on a student visa must ensure that no more than 25 per cent of their course load consists of online units of study. There are no restrictions on enrolment in online units by international offshore students.

Residential intensive units of study require attendance for short periods, usually 3-5 days. These units are usually combined with further instruction online.

On campus units of study are typically offered in conjunction with honours-level undergraduate students, but may consist of small postgraduate classes on campus. Many of these classes are conducted at the faculty's Camden Campus, and students must be prepared to travel to or live at this campus at various times during their candidature.

Unit of study descriptions

Graduate Certificate in Veterinary Studies

To qualify for the award of the graduate certificate a candidate must complete 24 credit points of approved coursework.

Graduate Diploma in Veterinary Studies

To qualify for the award of the graduate diploma a candidate must complete 48 credit points of approved coursework.

Master of Veterinary Studies

To qualify for the award of master a candidate must complete 72 credit points of approved coursework including:
48 credit points of coursework units of study;
and
24 credit points of case report or research project units of study.

Electives

Candidates will choose from the following Elective units of study. Some units of study may require permission from the unit of study coordinator for enrolment.
VETS7004 Veterinary Epidemiology I

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Session: Semester 1b Classes: Online (Sem 1, weeks 8-14) Assessment: Participation in online class (15%), Group assignment (35%), Quiz (10%), Individual report (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
After completing the Veterinary Epidemiology I unit students will be able to- discuss epidemiology and the work of epidemiologists in relation to other disciplines; apply the concepts of epidemic theory and herd immunity appropriately to animal disease control issues; contribute to investigations of disease outbreaks and low productivity in animal populations; calculate and interpret the measures of disease frequency and measures of association; select an appropriate epidemiological study design for a specific research question; identify and minimise sources of bias and error in study designs; select appropriate diagnostic tests and interpret their results (at individual and herd level).
Textbooks
Veterinary Epidemiology Thrusfield, M. 3E06, 2007 Blackwell Science, Oxford, UK.
VETS7005 Veterinary Epidemiology II

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Session: Semester 2b Classes: Online (Sem 2, weeks 8 - 14) Prerequisites: VETS7004 Veterinary Epidemiology 1 Assessment: Participation in online class (15%), Group assignment (35%), On-line quiz (10%), Individual assignment (40%). Mode of delivery: Online
After completing Veterinary Epidemiology 2, students will be able to design an appropriate epidemiology study to investigate a specific research question, including: sampling procedure; data collection tools; database for data storage and manipulation; statistical procedures; methods to manage confounders, clustering and collinearity.
Textbooks
Veterinary Epidemiologic Research Dohoo, I., Martin, W. and Stryhn, H. 2nd edition (2009) AVC, Canada
VETS7008 Hazards to Human and Animal Health

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor: Prof Michael Ward Instructor(s): Siobhan Mor Session: Semester 1a Classes: Online (Sem 1, weeks 1 - 7) Assessment: Individual report (45%); Article Review (10%); Group Assignment (30%); Participation (15%). Mode of delivery: Online
After completing Hazards to Human and Animal Health, students will be able to: Describe the key elements of risk assessment and the concepts of hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) intervention; List sources of chemical contamination of food of animal origin and describe how to detect, monitor and prevent these; Explain how the national residue survey works; Discuss the microbial hazards in food of animal origin and the means by which they affect humans, and identify critical control points; Summarise key points of the current antibiotic resistance debate concerning the implications for public health of antibiotic use in animals; Describe critical aspects of important zoonotic diseases acquired by humans by ingestion of animal products and other routes of exposure and identify possible means of prevention; Analyse the factors that influence the emergence of new diseases and discuss changes that need to be implemented in animal and human health surveillance; List the notifiable animal diseases (endemic and emergency) in Australia and discuss the rationale and process for notification and control; describe global trends in livestock disease distribution - both in time and space; Describe the disease control programs for a range of current animal diseases and discuss their health, welfare and political ramifications.
Textbooks
No specific textbook is essential for this unit of study.
VETS7009 Animal Health Economics

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Session: Semester 2b Classes: Online Semester 2 Weeks 8-14 Assessment: Student participation in weekly online discussions and other learning activities in the online classroom (15%); online quizzes (45%); report, done in pairs (40%). Mode of delivery: Online
After completing Animal Health Economics, participants will be able to: Discuss the importance of animal diseases in efficiency of animal production, consumers' perceptions of animals and animal products, and global trade; Analyse economic problems using basic methods such as partial budgeting, cost-benefit analysis and decision analysis; Detail the critical steps in systems analysis and choose appropriate modelling types and techniques; Describe the uses of linear and dynamic programming, and Markov chain and Monte Carlo simulations; Discuss the basic principles of risk analysis; Explain the basic steps in the decision-making process and the role of risk analysis in this process; Explain the role of decision support systems in animal health management and demonstrate their profitability; Build and interpret spreadsheet models for economic analyses in MS EXCEL; Discuss the importance of Animal Health Economics in decision making, implementation and evaluation of animal health programs, and policy development and implementation processes.
Textbooks
J. Rushton The Economics of Animal Health and Production. CAB International, Oxford, 2009.
VETS7010 Animal Health Policy Development

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio, Instructor: Duncan Rowland Session: Semester 2a Classes: Online (Semester 2 Weeks 1-7) Assessment: Semester 2, weeks 1-7) Assessment: Individual report (45%); Group report (40%); Participation (15%) Mode of delivery: Online
After studying the Principles of Animal Health Policy Development unit, students will be able to: Describe the structure and role of Australia's Veterinary Service; Outline the process of law making and policy development in relation to public health and animal health in Australia; Outline current policy issues relating to veterinary public health and animal health in Australia; Discuss strategies used to resolve conflicts among stakeholders and to address the economic, political, technical and social issues that may arise; Discuss the means whereby veterinary public health and animal health policy is monitored and enforced; Discuss evaluation and improvement strategies for animal health policy.
Textbooks
Colebatch HK. Policy. 3rd Edition 2009, Open University Press (McGraw-Hill) Policy Concepts in the Social Sciences series.
VETS7011 Data Analysis for Policy Making

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio, Instructor: Kathrin Schemann Session: Semester 2a Classes: Online (Semester 2 Weeks 1-7) Assessment: Participation in weekly online discussions and learning activities (15%); individual assignment (85%) Mode of delivery: Online
In this course, students will work with existing data. Issues of developing a study design will not be dealt with. students will however consider the impact of a particular study design on the interpretation of the data generated. after studying this unit students will be able to: identify potential sources of data and their strengths and weaknesses; identify and apply appropriate descriptive and analytical and statistical methods for different purposes; perform some analysis on data using commonly available software programs; Identify and manage potential bias and confounding in data; describe and interpret the results of data analysis; incorporate the outcomes of data analysis in policy development.
Textbooks
Veterinary Epidemiology Thrusfield, M. 3E06, 2007 Blackwell Science, Oxford, UK.
VETS7012 Wildlife Epidemiology

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor: Prof Michael Ward Instructor: Colleen Duncan Session: Semester 1b Classes: Online (Semester 1 Weeks 8-14) Prerequisites: VETS7004 Assessment: Individual assignment (45%); Group assignment (40%); Participation (15%). Mode of delivery: Online
Note: Elective Units of Study offered online will not normally be run with less than 6 participants and are usually only offered every second year. All units offered are subject to class size limitations.
After studying the Wildlife Epidemiology unit, you will be able to: Apply epidemiological concepts to wildlife populations. Explain the concept of disease ecology. Discuss issues relevant to disease determination in wildlife populations and explain the associated diagnostic challenges. Discuss alternate study methodologies and design a valid observational study for a wildlife population. Discuss design and analysis issues relevant to wildlife disease studies. Identify sources of wildlife animal health data and discuss wildlife health information systems. Critically review published literature on wildlife disease studies.
This unit is offered in alternate years to VETS7014 Aquatic Animal Epidemiology.
Textbooks
Thrusfield M. Veterinary Epidemiology. 3rd Edition. Oxford: Blackwell Science 2007
VETS7013 Risk Analysis

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Academic Supervisor: Michael Ward Session: Semester 2a Classes: Online (Sem 2, weeks 1-7) Assessment: Participation in weekly online discussions (15%) on-line quiz (15%); group assignment (30%); individual assignment (40%). Mode of delivery: Online
After studying Risk Analysis you will be able to: apply the terminology and major concepts, principles, tools and techniques used in risk management in an animal health context; analyse and evaluate the main approaches to risk management in animal health (including veterinary public health) and trade; evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of some of the tools used in risk management; synthesise the tasks and issues associated with risk management with your knowledge of animal and public health; approach risk communication with an understanding of the different methods of good risk communication and the relationship between risk perception and risk communication.
Textbooks
There is no single textbook that covers all of the topics explored in this unit. The unit does, however, draw heavily on the Australian and International Standard for Risk Management, AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 and it is recommended that you are familiar with this document. The unit also draws on the OIE Handbook on Import Risk Analysis for Animals and Animal Products: Volumes 1 and 2 (2004).
VETS7014 Aquatic Animal Epidemiology

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor: Prof Michael Ward Instructor(s): Ed Peeler & Carol McClure Session: Semester 1b Classes: Online (Semester 1 Weeks 8-14) Corequisites: VETS7005 Assessment: Participation in weekly online discussions (15%), group assignment (40%); individual assignment (45%). Mode of delivery: Online
Note: Elective Units of Study offered online will not normally be run with less than 6 participants. All units offered are subject to class size limitations.
After studying this unit, you will be able to: apply epidemiological concepts to farmed and wild aquatic animals; explain the requirements of import risk analysis for aquatic animals and identify sources of aquatic animal health data; explain the requirements of aquatic animal disease surveillance and targeted surveys; design analytic epidemiological studies; explain sources of bias in aquatic animal systems; contribute to investigations of fish kills.
Textbooks
Veterinary Epidemiology, Thrusfield, M., 3E06, 2007
VETS7015 Surveillance, Preparedness and Response

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor: Prof Michael Ward Instructor: Mike Nunn and Sam Hamilton Session: Semester 2a Classes: Online (Semester 2 Weeks 1-7) Assessment: Participation in weekly online discussions (15%) ; online quiz (15%) ; group assignment (35%); individual assignment (35%) Mode of delivery: Online
After studying Surveillance, Preparedness and Response you will be able to: explain how surveillance contributes to the assessment and management of risks that affect public health, animal health, or trade; provide advice on the development of a surveillance strategy to meet defined objectives; describe a preferred framework for managing animal health emergencies.
Textbooks
Veterinary Epidemiology Thrusfield, M. 3E06, 2007 Blackwell Science, Oxford, UK.
VETS7016 Animal Health Data Management

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor: Prof Michael Ward Instructor: John Morton Session: Semester 1b Classes: Online (Semester 1 Weeks 8-14) Assessment: Participation in weekly online discussions and learning activities (15%); group assignment (30%); individual assignment (55%) Mode of delivery: Online
After studying this unit students will be able to: Describe the important characteristics of the main epidemiological data types; Develop a data-collection form for an epidemiological study; Design a simple relational database for recording animal health-related data; Manage data in a computer spreadsheet, including importing, exporting, recoding, transforming and summarising data; Undertake descriptive analysis of data using computer spreadsheets or other appropriate software; Undertake descriptive analysis of data using computer spreadsheets or other appropriate software.
Textbooks
Data management for animal health. Cameron A. Sergeant ESG. Baldock FC AusVet Animal Health Services, Brisbane 2004
VETS7017 Food Safety

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Session: Semester 1a Classes: Online (Sem 1, weeks 1 - 7) Assessment: Participation in weekly online discussions and learning activities (15%); group assignment (40%); individual assignment (45%). Mode of delivery: Online
After completing Food Safety participants will be able to describe the respective roles and recent initiatives in food safety of the various government and industry organisations that make up the global, national and regional regulatory system for the safety of food of animal origin; Describe and critically analyse the key elements in food safety risk assessment and management and critically apply this to the analysis of a total quality management food safety system; Describe the critical aspects of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, management and prevention of the well-recognised bacterial food-borne pathogens; Identify emerging food-borne pathogens of animal origin and describe the critical aspects of the epidemiology that make them a particular public health concern; Describe the principles used in newer microbiological diagnostic tests and their application in food safety programs; Discuss the elements required for an effective national antimicrobial resistance management program; List the potential sources of and critically assess the potential public health threats posed by the presence of natural toxins and environmental contaminants in food of animal origin.
Textbooks
Torrence M. E. and Isaacson R.E. (eds) (2003) Microbial Food Safety in Animal Agriculture Current Topics, Iowa Stat Press, Ames, Iowa, USA.
VETS7018 Research Paper A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor and Research Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Instructor(s): Supervisors on arrangement Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervised project. Online seminar. Corequisites: VETS7005 Assessment: Dissertation (90%); Participation in online seminar (5%); Progress Reports (5%). Mode of delivery: Supervision
Completing the research project will enable you to execute research in a professional and ethical manner. A six credit point project should equate to at least 150 hours work.
VETS7019 Research Paper B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor and Research Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Instructor(s): Supervisors on arrangement Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervised project. Online seminar. Corequisites: VETS7018 Assessment: Dissertation (90%); Participation in online seminar (5%); Progress Reports (5%). Mode of delivery: Supervision
Completing the research project will enable you to execute research in a professional and ethical manner. A 12 credit point project should equate to at least 300 hours work.
VETS7020 Diagnostic Tests

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor: Prof Michael Ward Instructor: Ian Gardner Session: Semester 1a Classes: Online (Semester 1 Weeks 1-7) Prerequisites: VETS7005 Veterinary Epidemiology 2 Assessment: Participation in online class (15%); Group assignment (40%); Individual assignment (45%). Mode of delivery: Online
After completing this unit, students will be able to: Understand and describe the biologic principles of common tests and how their inherent characteristics affect their accuracy and precision; Analyse and summarise data from a test evaluation or test comparison study; Critique published test evaluation studies and describe their strengths and weaknesses considering design and analysis guidelines in the veterinary medical literature; Incorporate quantitative test results in clinical decision making about an individual animal's disease status; Interpret test results from prevalence estimation studies involving single and multiple animal; opulations, from risk factor studies and from disease surveillance systems; Plan a disease surveillance system or disease survey and select a diagnostic test(s) (considering its strengths and weaknesses) to meet specified surveillance or survey objectives.
Textbooks
Dohoo, I., Martin, W. and Stryhn, H. Veterinary Epidemiologic Research 2nd edition (2009) AVC, Canada
VETS7021 Data Analysis for Epidemiology Research

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor: Michael Ward, Instructor: Navneet Dhand Session: Semester 2b Classes: Online (Sem 2, weeks 8-14) Assessment: Participation in online discussions (15%), 2 Written assignments (85%) Mode of delivery: Online
This Unit of Study, delivered by distance education using an online classroom, will use four case studies to introduce students to the application of three statistical procedures (linear regression, logistic regression, survival analysis) in epidemiological research for animal health and public health. Approaches to account for the impact of confounding, effect modification and clustering suitable for these statistical procedures will be discussed. After completing this unit, students will be able to: identify an appropriate statistical method for testing associations with a categorical and a continuous outcome; conduct descriptive and univariable regression analyses using standard statistical software; build multivariable linear and logistic models for measuring association of a variable with an outcome after accounting for other variables and confounders; interpret the output of regression analyses from standard statistical software and present the results in research papers and project reports; evaluate statistical results presented in epidemiology journals (such as Preventive Veterinary Medicine) and identify clustering in epidemiological data and have basic skills to account for clustering while analysing hierarchical data.
Textbooks
Veterinary Epidemiologic Research Dohoo, I., Martin, W. and Stryhn, H. 2nd edition (2009) AVC, Canada
VETS7025 Leadership, People and Organisations

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Instructor: Residential facilitator: Karen Rodrigues On-line facilitator: Greg Cartan Session: Semester 1 Classes: Residential and Online. 5-day Residential session in February, Online classes (Semester 1, 1-14) Assessment: Residential (10%), Learning Journals (40%) Online participation (20%), Group Assignment (30%) Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
The Leadership, People and Organisations unit will aim to raise awareness of the need for leadership and management skills amongst veterinary public health professionals. Through experiential learning activities, group case study analysis and scenario based problem-solving activities, students will identify how they can develop effective management and leadership skills at the residential session. In the online classroom, students will use independent study and group learning to further explore aspects of leadership and working successfully within organisations.
After completing the Leadership, People and Organisations unit, students will be able to: explain the importance and principles of leadership in the context of animal health management and veterinary public health: discuss aspects of leadership such as personality, intelligence, values, cultural differences, motivations, self efficacy and perception: identify their own skill requirements: use and explain the principles of action learning: explain the effects of group dynamics in work teams: discuss how power and influence impact on success at work: analyse and develop their own leadership skills: explain how work design can affect organizational and team success: discuss organizational behaviour and culture: recommend strategies to transform organizations.
Textbooks
Organisational Behaviour: Emerging Knowledge. Global Insights. McShane, S., Olekalns, M & Travaglione, T 2013 4 Ed, McGraw Hill Australia Pty Limited: North Ryde: Australia
VETS7026 Leadership: Managing Change

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: Program Academic Supervisor: Prof Michael Ward Instructor: Shashanna Evans Session: Semester 1a Classes: 3-day Residential session in February, Online classes (Semester 1 Weeks 1-7) Prerequisites: VETS7025 Assessment: Case analysis (15%), individual assignments (70%), online participation (15%) Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
The Leadership: Managing Change unit of study will cover advanced leadership and management issues in veterinary public health. A key role for managers and leaders is managing change. The aims of this course are to: introduce you to selected theories and concepts which underpin the practice of change management; explore the roles that you and others play in initiating and facilitating organisations to change; provide you with frameworks for analysing and understanding your own experience of change in organisations; identify the range of key skills you need to effectively lead and implement change; assess your own change skills and recognise the special abilities you have already developed.
This unit looks at change on many levels, beginning with a micro focus on the individual and culminating with a more macro view of the whole organisational system. It balances practical skill building with a solid foundation of theoretical understanding. In this unit of study students will explore managing change around three central concepts: the change agent; change perspectives; change and organisations.
Textbooks
Organizational Change Senior, B. and Fleming, J. (2010), 4th Edition, Prentice Hall, Essex.
VETS7027 Project Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Lecturer: Juergen Oschadleus Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3-day Residential session in July, Online classes Assessment: Individual Assignments (35%) Online Participation: (15%) Residential Presentation (10%) Group Project (40%) either individual assignments or a combination of a group and individual assignment. Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
This unit of study is an introduction to project management for students whose main objective is to develop a range of skills in the field of Veterinary Public Health Management. The unit of study is composed of a 3-day residential and distance education, together totalling 150 hours. As a result, not every area of project management can be covered in depth. The unit concentrates on the project management processes and deliverables in order to give the student a solid grounding in project management. Obviously project management also involves other areas such as leadership, "soft skills" and the strategic aspects of projects. While some soft skills specific to project management are covered, other leadership and team management aspects are not covered in this unit of study. They are however covered in the Leadership units of study that are core to the Veterinary Public Health Management Program.
After completing Project Management, students will be able to: define project context, project phases and project knowledge areas; use common project management terminology; define project initiation stage processes and deliverables; define the processes required to execute and control the project plan; define project closing processes and to create a project review report (PRR) as part of a process to continually improve their understanding of project management; discuss the complexities and challenges of project management; propose effective strategies to deal with these complexities and challenges.
Students will also be able to define project planning stage processes and create a project plan including a: Stakeholder Management Plan; Scope Management Plan; Time Management Plan; Cost Management Plan; Quality Management Plan; Communications Management Plan; HR Management Plan; Risk Management Plan.
Textbooks
Revised: An Introduction to Project Management, With Brief Guides to Microsoft Project 2010 and @task Schwalbe K., 3rd ed. CreateSpace, 2010 (ISBN: 978-1451551648)
VETS7028 Leadership Skills

Credit points: 3 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio, Instructor(s): Shashanna Evans Session: Semester 1b Classes: Online (Semester 1 weeks 8-14) Assessment: Online participation (15%); individual assignments (85%). Mode of delivery: Online
This unit of study seeks to enable the development of key managerial skills.Topic areas include: social intelligence and communication skills; strategy and decision making skills; ethics; management systems and organisational design; You will also be taught how to lead teams, manage yourselves and your careers, and also how to engage your stakeholders in the process of developing these skills.
Textbooks
No prescribed textbook.
VETS7030 Special Topics in Veterinary Public Hlth

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jenny-Ann Toribio Instructor(s):Supervisors on arrangement Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervised. Tutorials, seminars, essays and directed reading Assessment: Tutorial-seminar period involving 1 assessment task (20%), supervised self-study with assessment task/tasks of one written piece of work, 4800 words or equivalent (80%) Mode of delivery: Supervision
This unit will allow students to be supervised in specific areas of study that are not covered in any existing postgraduate units. The purpose of this unit may include: interest in specific practical skill area, allowing greater depth of skill development following from core units of study at Graduate Certificate level; interest in enhanced knowledge of a particular subject matter; additional learning required to support a research project. Students must discuss learning outcomes, methods for achieving them, assessment and assessment criteria with their supervisor and submit documentation to the Associate Dean, Postgraduate Coursework by the census date of the relevant semester.
At the end of this Unit of Study, students will be able to: discuss the major issues associated with their subject area; interpret and critically evaluate scientific material or information in their subject area; make informed decisions in their subject area and implement them; clearly communicate understanding of their subject area.
VETS7038 Research Paper C

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sanaa Zaki Instructor(s): Supervisors on arrangement Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervision Corequisites: VETS7018 and VETS7019 Assessment: Dissertation (90%); Participation in online seminar (5%); Progress Reports (5%). Mode of delivery: Supervision
Completing the research project will enable you to execute research in a professional and ethical manner. Each six credit points should equate to at least 150 hours work. This unit of study is for candidates of the MVPHMgt and the MVPH who wish to complete further research towards honours (honours is only available to students enrolled in either of these degrees prior to 2011).
VETS7039 Research Paper D

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sanaa Zaki Instructor(s): Supervisors on arrangement Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervision Corequisites: VETS7018, VETS7019 and VETS7038 Assessment: Dissertation (90%); Participation in online seminar (5%); Progress Reports (5%). Mode of delivery: Supervision
Completing the research project will enable you to execute research in a professional and ethical manner. Each six credit points should equate to at least 150 hours work. This unit of study is for candidates of the MVPHMgt and the MVPH who wish to complete further research towards honours (honours is only available to students enrolled in either of these degrees prior to 2011).
VETS8004 Advanced Animal Genetics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Claire Wade Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 hrs/wk in weeks where there are no on-line modules. Up to eight weeks of semester will be conducted as on-line learning modules. Students requiring extra assistance are encouraged to make an appointment with Prof Wade. Prohibitions: ANSC3107 Assumed knowledge: GENE2001 or MBLG2072 or MBLG2972 or equivalent Assessment: Practicals with associated reports and on-line quizzes (25%), Mid Semester on-line examination (25%), Final Examination (50%) Practical field work: 2hrs/wk Mode of delivery: Online
Advanced Animal Genetics VETS8004 is an exciting course that explores the technologies used by geneticists in practical situations involving domestic animals. We will expand on concepts learned in earlier years to learn more about genome sequencing, variant discovery, phylogenomics, bioinformatics, epigenetics, association mapping, gene therapy and forensic genetics.
Textbooks
There is no prescribed text for this subject.Books that may be useful:
VETS8005 Advanced Animal Biotechnology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Peter Williamson Session: Semester 2 Classes: On-campus lectures 2 hrs/wk, tutorials 1 hr/wk, laboratories 2-3 hrs/wk Prohibitions: ANSC3105 Assessment: Practicals and quizzes (30%), essay and seminar (30%), 2 hr exam (40%) Practical field work: laboratory practical classes Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Lectures, tutorials, laboratories, seminars and supervised reading and directed learning instruction will cover the application of biotechnology to animal health, animal production and veterinary biosciences. The course is organised around modules that consider the methodologies, ethical and technical issues in application of veterinary regenerative technology (gene therapy; stem cell therapy), transgenic technologies, antibody & antigen receptor engineering, molecular diagnostics, and mining molecular bioactives, all discussed in contexts relevant to domestic animals. The course also integrates an introduction to the emerging field of animal biosystems, which covers the application of big data in animal biotechnology.
Textbooks
No set textbook for this unit of study.
VETS8006 Advanced Animal Nutrition

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Alex Chaves Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures 2-3 h/week, lecture recording 1-2h/week and in situ and/or online laboratories 2-3 h/week Prohibitions: ANSC3101, ANSC3001 Assumed knowledge: Fundamentals of Biochemistry Assessment: 3 individual problem based-learning (PBL) reports (Total of 50%); 1 literature review; 1 video presentation (15%); 1 individual PBL creation (15%); and 1 online end term exam (20%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This Unit of Study builds upon principles discussed in ANSC1002 (Concepts of Animal Management). The Unit is broadly divided into four sections, namely: estimating the nutritive characteristics of feeds; defining the nutrient requirements of animals; diet formulation; errors in feeding. The focus is on coming to an understanding of the assessment of nutritional adequacy and the avoidance and solving of nutritional problems, with a particular emphasis on animals used in agricultural production systems and wildlife. The principles discussed in this course will be expanded in the following year, in which species-specific systems will be described. The basis of successful feeding management is an understanding of the following: the composition of feeds; the digestibility and efficiency of utilisation of nutrients by the animal; the nutrient requirements of the animal; interactions between nutrients that influence health and production. And following from this, students will have the ability to formulate diets to meet animal requirements for a variety of purposes and under a variety of constraints; identify deficiencies, excesses and imbalances in diets and so avoid a decline in productive efficiency and/or a decline in health.
Textbooks
Students are encouraged to have an individual tablet PC or laptop with wireless connectivity (e.g.: ipad; Galaxy Note, etc.) during all classes. There is no required text for the course. A number of textbooks are available on reserve at the library. These include:
VETS8008 Advanced Animal Reproduction

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Simon de Graaf Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures 2 hrs/week, tutorials 1 hr/week, practicals 3 hrs/week. Prohibitions: ANSC3002, ANSC3102 Assumed knowledge: ANSC3104 or equivalent Assessment: Written and oral assignments (30%), mid-semester written exam (15%), end of semester written exam (55%) Practical field work: There will be several half day practical classes held at the Camden Campus. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study provides a comprehensive programme on basic and applied aspects of male and female reproductive biology, with particular emphasis on livestock and domestic animals. The fundamental topics include reproductive cycles, sexual differentiation, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, gestation and parturition. An understanding of the applications of advanced reproductive technologies is developed through lectures, tutorials and the assignments. In addition, practical instruction is given on semen collection and processing, manipulation of the reproductive cycle, artificial insemination, and pregnancy diagnosis in sheep and pigs. Classes are held at the Camperdown Campus in Sydney and at the Camden Campus Animal Reproduction Unit and Mayfarm piggery.
Textbooks
Senger, PL 2013, Pathways to pregnancy & parturition 3rd ed., Current Conceptions Inc.
VETS8013 Special Topics in Animal Science

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Alex Chaves Instructor(s): Supervisors on arrangement. Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervised. Tutorials, seminars, essays and directed reading. Assessment: Assessment negotiated under supervision - 6,000 words or equivalent. Mode of delivery: Supervision
This unit will allow students to be supervised in specific areas of study that are not covered in any existing postgraduate units. The purpose of this unit may include: interest in specific practical skill area, allowing greater depth of skill development following from core units of study; interest in enhanced knowledge of a particular subject matter; additional learning required to support a research project. Students must discuss learning outcomes, methods for achieving them, assessment and assessment criteria with their supervisor and submit documentation to the Sub Dean for Postgraduate Coursework by the census date of the relevant semester.
At the end of this Unit of Study, students will be able to: discuss the major issues associated with their subject area; interpret and critically evaluate scientific material or information in their subject area; make informed decisions in their subject area and implement them; clearly communicate understanding of their subject area.
Textbooks
No prescribed text.
VETS8014 Advanced Anatomy and Physiology A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Peter White Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures 3hrs/wk, laboratories/tutorials 2hrs/wk (note these will vary depending upon the week) Prerequisites: 12 credit points of junior Biology Prohibitions: ANSC3003, ANSC3103 Assumed knowledge: AVBS1002 or equivalent Assessment: Assignments and examinations (100%) Practical field work: This unit involves dissection of animal cadavers Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Animal Structure and Function A will develop an understanding of the role of the body systems in maintaining homeostasis in an animal's internal environment. In ASFA the structure and function of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and urinary integumentary systems of the body are explored in depth particularly with reference to the maintenance of homeostasis. The developed understanding of the normal functioning of these systems allows identification of the impact on the animal of abnormal function of these systems. A study of the structure and function of muscle will include its role in movement and as meat in a production setting. The overall goals of the Unit are (i) to enable students to develop a rich understanding of the relationships between body systems and structures (to be continued in ASFB). (ii) to develop generic skills particularly in group work and oral presentation,(iii) to develop an appreciation of the links between structure and function and their relevance to animal disease and production.
Textbooks
For the animal structure component of the unit:
VETS8017 Technologies of Animal Reproduction

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Chris Grupen Session: Intensive March Classes: Residential: One month intensive starting approximately one week before Semester 1 to week 3. About 50% practical tuition at the Camden campus, and a practical field trip to Arthursleigh, with the remainder a mix of self-directed (on-line) learning, case studies and presentations at the Camden and Camperdown campuses Assumed knowledge: Anatomy and physiology of the reproductive tract in males and females; Reproductive endocrinology. Competent in the safe handling of sheep and cattle. Assessment: Written report (max. 2,500 words) (60%), Oral presentation (20%), Practical report (20%) Practical field work: Approximately 50% practical tuition at Camden and a practical field trip to Arthursleigh Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
Note: Students undertaking this unit should be competent in aseptic technique and minor surgical procedures, and should be competent in the safe handling of sheep and cattle.
This Unit of Study is designed specifically for students wishing to extend their skills and knowledge of artificial breeding technologies, and will particularly suit students intending to work in the artificial breeding (AB) industries, or in rural mixed practice, and students interested in pursuing research in reproduction and biotechnology. The practical work will primarily focus on sheep and cattle, but the Unit of Study will be of interest to those wishing to work with other species, including companion animals, pigs, laboratory animals and wildlife. The Unit of Study will integrate the disciplines of quantitative and molecular genetics, animal health, nutrition, and reproduction, including advanced reproductive technologies as applied to managed breeding and assisted reproduction programs. Students will gain practical skills in artificial insemination, embryo transfer, gamete preservation and banking, pregnancy diagnosis, molecular genetics (proof of parentage, marker assisted selection), selection of breeding stock, and management of breeding programs. By the end of this unit students will be able to: Advise on implementation and management of artificial breeding programs in production animals, companion animals, and wildlife; Demonstrate proficiency in the legal, ethical and animal welfare aspects in managing artificial breeding programs; Design and manage an artificial breeding program in sheep or cattle, including appropriate selection of breeding stock; Perform breeding soundness examinations on sheep and cattle; Perform artificial insemination, embryo recovery and transfer, and pregnancy diagnosis in sheep and cattle; Advise on appropriate nutritional regimes for breeding stock; Advise on health requirements and management for breeding stock, and on the international transfer of semen and embryos; Students will also be able to describe: Artificial breeding techniques applicable to pigs, companion animals and wildlife; Techniques of gamete and embryo preservation and banking; Advanced biotechnology techniques applicable to the AB industries.
VETS8018 Advanced Anatomy and Physiology B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Hamutal Mazrier Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures 3 hrs/wk, laboratories/tutorials 2 hrs/wk, group work and/or independent learning activities 1 hr/wk, activities will vary on a weekly basis Prerequisites: VETS8014 Prohibitions: ANSC3004, ANSC3104 Assessment: Anatomy dissection project (20%), topic essay (10%), critical review (20%), mid-semester and final examinations (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
In this Unit students will complete the study of the structure and function of organ systems in animals started in VETS8014. The role of the immune system will be investigated in relation to maintenance of internal homeostasis. An introduction to the nervous system and male and female reproductive anatomy and physiology will form the basis for further applied studies in these areas in MAnSci or MVetStud Units of Study in Animal Health and Disease, and Animal Reproduction, and Animal Breeding. There will be development of the generic skills of critically reading and writing.
Textbooks
For Animal Structure: Dyce, KM, Sack, WO & Wensing, CJG 2010, Textbook of veterinary anatomy, 4th edn, W.B.Saunders, Philadelphia
VETS8031 Animal Health and Disease Advanced

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Muir Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3..5 hrs/wk lectures, 0.5 hr/wk tutorials, 2 hrs/wk practical (on average) Prohibitions: AVBS4001 Assumed knowledge: ANSC3104, AVBS3001, (Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3 OR Bachelor of Science in Agriculture years 1-3) or equivalent Assessment: Participation in field trips (pass/fail), assignments (60%), 2 hr exam (40%) Practical field work: 2 day field trip to Arthursleigh farm Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This Unit of Study extends your understanding of animal health from knowledge gained in units completed in earlier study. In particular we look at general aspects of animal health and disease in terms of epidemiology, exotic/emergency diseases of risk to Australia and principles of vaccines and vaccinations. Health and disease issues relevant to various species, including sheep, cattle, pigs, poultry, fish and wildlife are presented by experts in these fields. A range of management and interventional strategies that are currently in use to minimise the impact of disease are also discussed. After completing this Unit of Study, students will demonstrate an understanding of:
the principles of animal management that are implemented to optimise health and to reduce the incidence and severity of disease; the fundamental principles of disease in animal populations; specific infectious diseases of consequence for growth, reproduction and for the production of meat, wool, milk and eggs; approaches to their control and prevention through environmental and nutritional management, and interventional techniques such as vaccination programmes. These are considered in the context of commercial animal production and the health of wildlife animals. A two day overnight field trip to Arthursleigh University of Sydney property which focuses on the management of sheep, cattle and wildlife, and a visit to the research and development field station of an international animal health company reiterate many aspects of the unit of study.
Textbooks
Students are advised to consult lecturers for recommended texts
VETS8032 Advanced Dairy Production and Technology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Sergio (Yani) Garcia, Other Participating staff: Assoc. Prof. Kendra Kerrisk, Dr Cameron Clark, Assoc. Prof. John House, Nicolas Lyons, Juan Molfino Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures up to 3 hrs/wk, practicals 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Whole farm professional report (30%), Pracs assessments, (30%), 1 hr exam (40%). In addition to the requirements of Level04, Level07 students will be required to research and discuss topics relevant to dairy production. Details to be provided during the course. Practical field work: At least 2 half day field trips and 1 or 2 full day trips/excursions including commercial farms and a milk processing plant Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit will explore the various aspects of dairy farming and the dairy industry from a scientific point of view. The lectures are a mix of the principles on which sound dairy farming is based and practical examples of how this operates in practice. Focus is placed on integrating knowledge to gain understanding on the system of production as a whole.
At the end of this unit of study, students will demonstrate a solid understanding of: the characteristics of the dairy industry in Australia and in a world wide context; the key components of pasture-based dairy systems; principles and practices of pasture and feeding management; the application of new technologies to improve efficiency and productivity (particularly automatic milking).
In addition, students will demonstrate an appreciation of key aspects of reproduction and lactation physiology; the integration of knowledge of genetics and reproduction into the type of herd improvement structure set up in the dairy industry; the application of ruminant physiology knowledge to developing feeding programs for dairy cows; the extension of basic reproductive physiology onto the dairy farm using case studies as examples; the economics of the dairy farm business. Practical classes include milking cows; grazing and feeding management of dairy cows; calf rearing; and visits to commercial farms ranging from small pasture-based dairy farms to a feed-lot operation milking over 2,000 cows.
Textbooks
There is no single text that adequately covers the course content and for this reason no formal text is required. However, the following books can be used as basic bibliography for consultation during the course:
VETS8034 Food Safety Assessment and Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Gary Muscatello Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures 3 hrs/wk, tutorial/practicals 2 hrs/wk Prohibitions: AVBS4004 Assumed knowledge: All core Units of Study in Years 1, 2 and 3 of BAnVetBioSc degree or equivalent. Assessment: Assessment: 1000wd individual report (20%), 1000wd group assignment (20%), 2hr exam (50%), MCQ (10%) Practical field work: 2 field trips (compulsory) 16 hrs total Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This Unit of Study focuses on the issues and practices in the animal industry relevant to food safety and zoonotic disease. This unit will cover general food safety issues, including risk assessment and hazard analysis of microbes and chemicals. Food-borne diseases of animal origin and their impact on public heath will be explored through the examination of zoonotic diseases in scenario-based learning activities. In these processes diagnostic and strategic methods of investigating, controlling and preventing food-borne disease outbreaks will be explored. Students will be introduced to national and international animal and human health policy pertaining to food safety regulations and surveillance initiatives and strategies that underpin these policies. Students in this unit will be introduced to the issues regarding emerging food-borne pathogens and current industry driven topics. By the end of the unit, students should have global and local perspective on the major food-borne diseases, surveillance and control programs. This unit is located at the Camden Campus.
Textbooks
Torrence ME & Isaacson RE (eds) 2003, Microbial food safety in animal agriculture current topics, Iowa State Press, Ames, Iowa
VETS8035 Feed Technology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Cormac O'Shea Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures 3 hrs/wk Prohibitions: AVBS4005 Assumed knowledge: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3 OR Bachelor of Science in Agriculture years 1-3 or equivalent. Assessment: Debate (10%), one page argument (10%), article (15%), lab book and feed formulation exercises (25%), two hour written exam (40%) Practical field work: Practicals/field work 3hrs/wk Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Feed accounts for approximately 70% of the input costs associated with animal industries, including both monogastric (poultry and pigs, laboratory animals) ruminants (feedlot cattle and sheep) and caecal fermenters (horses, rabbits). The "feed industry" is described as the largest supporting industry for animal agriculture and is a major employer of graduates (undergraduate and postgraduate). Feed technology is a broad topic and includes aspects of feed ingredient characteristics, feed manufacturing, feed additive biotechnology and applied nutrition. The course will provide in-depth understanding of the feed industry, factors influencing ingredient variability and availability (physical and economic), methods and applications of processing of ingredients to increase nutritional value, assessment of digestibility, and feed additives and supplements. All facets of the production and regulation of feed production will be discussed relative to their importance in animal agriculture and food production. Expect applied practical information as well as fairly detailed nutritional biochemistry.
Textbooks
No textbook required.
VETS8039 Aquatic Animal Health

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Joy Becker Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures 2hrs/wk, tutorials 1hr/wk, practicals 3hrs/wk Assumed knowledge: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3 OR Bachelor of Science in Agriculture years 1-3 or equivalent. Assessment: Written and/or oral assignments (50%), exam 2.5 hrs (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The Unit of Study explores in detail aspects of commercial aquaculture, including global trends in aquaculture development. Other topics include water quality, feeding, management, health and disease, genetics and reproduction, environmental impact and economic constraints to production. The unit of study emphasises methods to improve aquacultural productivity. It builds on basic principles of anatomy, physiology, nutrition, genetics and health and disease presented in your undergraduate study. At the end of this Unit of Study, students will demonstrate an understanding of the principles of: the context of aquaculture in global food production; husbandry, management and welfare of aquaculture species; comparative aspects of husbandry in aquaria, domestic, commercial; health and disease relevant to aquaculture; nutrition of aquaculture species; reproduction and genetics of species in aquaculture; water quality and environmental impact of aquaculture; economics and marketing of aquaculture products.
VETS8042 Advanced Sheep and Beef Production

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Russell Bush Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures 3hrs/wk, practicals 3hrs/wk Prohibitions: AVBS4012 Assumed knowledge: and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3 OR Bachelor of Science in Agriculture years 1-3 or equivalent. Assessment: Case study (10%), practical report (15%), meat grading (15%), excursion report (20%) and written exam (40%) Practical field work: 5 day study tour to the Riverina Practical field work: 5 day study tour to the Riverina Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit introduces the concepts of sheep (wool and meat) and beef cattle production in the Australian environment within the context of world food and fibre consumption and production. The key products as well as domestic and export markets for these are presented. The course provides an historical perspective of the basis for each of these industries and describes each of the production systems designed to meet the demand for these products.
Production in both the tropical and temperate regions of Australia will be covered and include the key elements of extensive grazing and intensive feedlot systems. Major issues will include breeds and breeding systems, basic nutrition and production practices and animal welfare issues as they affect the quality and quantity of product marketed.
The concepts of first stage processing of both meat and fibre products in abattoirs and top-making plants respectively will be presented. The major factors that influence the quality of product and therefore grading and market demand will be presented.
Lecture material will be supported with appropriate practical classes and a 5 day study tour to the Riverina to evaluate different commercial production systems. Students will also have an opportunity to compete in the annual Inter Collegiate Meat Judging (ICMJ) competition as a member of the University of Sydney team. This competition involves teams from numerous universities throughout Australia as well as Japan and the USA.
Textbooks
Anderson RS, Edney ATB 1991 Practical animal handling, Pergamon Press
VETS8043 Advanced Pig and Poultry Production

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Academic Supervisor: Assoc Prof Alex Chaves Session: Semester 2 Classes: 6 hrs/wk Prohibitions: AVBS4008 Assumed knowledge: (Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3) OR (Bachelor of Science in Agriculture years 1-3) or equivalent Assessment: Written exam (50%) (Poultry and Pigs 50:50), in course evaluations and case study - Pigs (25%), Broiler growth study report and in course evaluations - Poultry (25%) Practical field work: Visits to an intensive pig/poultry farm, feed mill and poultry production and processing units when biosecurity restrictions allow Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is composed of two parts, a Poultry Production component and a Pig Production component. The course will provide students with a comprehensive overview of the production of eggs and poultry meat and pork. The individual components examine various aspects of the poultry and pig production systems important in maintaining efficiency and profitability. It investigates aspects of breeding, nutrition, housing, growth performance, heath, welfare, reproductive capability, waste management, marketing and current industry issues. This unit will expand on some aspects of previous year 3 units of study in animal structure and function, nutrition and reproduction. There is a broiler growth study which comprises a significant part of the practical work in the Poultry component. There is a strong emphasis on assessment being built into the course work as this is considered to be more relevant to learning in the final year.
Textbooks
There is no single text that adequately covers the Australian pig industry and for this reason no formal text is required. There are many sites (industry, academic institutions and government departments) on the Web which provide excellent information. Links to these will be provided. Where appropriate, relevant reference material will be identified for specific areas of the course. Often poultry specific text books are obsolete very quickly, it would be important to use trade information. The library subscribes to breeder management guides and general poultry production journals as well as specific poultry scientific journals.
VETS8044 Advanced Animal Behaviour and Welfare Sci

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Greg Cronin Session: Semester 2 Classes: Classes: 6 hrs/wk (including lectures, demonstrations, discussions and practical activities); classes will be held at the Camden campus Prerequisites: AVBS1002 or equivalent Prohibitions: VETS3018 Assessment: Scientific essay (30%); oral presentations (15%); practical reports based on class activities (55%). Practical field work: Practical class activities will be held at the May Farm pig unit and Camden poultry research unit, and there will be a full day excursion to Symbio wildlife zoo Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Advanced Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science builds on the understanding of animal form and operation that students have developed in prior Units. In Advanced Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science, the behavioural and physiological responses of mammals, birds and fish to stressors related to husbandry, housing, transport, slaughter, training and performance are explored in some detail. This Unit enables students to develop a three-dimensional appreciation of the responses of animals to common interventions that arise in the context of interacting with humans, including the domestication of livestock species and the management of wildlife. The principles of animal responses to stress are illustrated with production species as the main examples.
Contemporary approaches to the scientific measurement of animal stress and welfare, based on an appropriate selection of scientific disciplines including ethology, psychology, physiology and neuroscience, are assessed with an emphasis on livestock species. Genetic, environmental and evolutionary determinants of pain, stress and fear responses in animals are considered in the light of what is known about cognition and motivation in animals. Methods for assessing and enhancing animal environments and husbandry systems are examined and the impact on animal welfare of stockmanship is explored in the context of human-animal interactions. Finally, the design and conduct of scientific experiments are assessed with a focus on animal ethics and current welfare issues.
Advanced Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science includes a compulsory library-based assignment that provides students with an opportunity to select one species on which they report a summary of scientific advances that may contribute to animal welfare.
Other assessment tasks involve the preparation of written or oral reports of the practical class activities
Textbooks
The recommended textbook for the animal structure component of the unit is:
VETS9001 MVetStud Research Project A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Academic Supervisor: Dr Sanaa Zaki Instructor(s): Supervisor(s) in relevant discipline. Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervision. Assessment: Dissertation (70%) Supervisor assessment (20%) Progress Reports (10%) Mode of delivery: Supervision
To conduct and communicate the results of scientific veterinary investigation in a professional and ethical manner. Conduct of this research project may require veterinary qualifications registrable in NSW.
VETS9002 MVetStud Research Project B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Academic Supervisor: Dr Sanaa Zaki Instructor(s): Supervisor(s) in relevant discipline. Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervision Corequisites: VETS9001 Assessment: Dissertation (70%) Supervisor assessment (20%) Progress Reports (10%) Mode of delivery: Supervision
To conduct and communicate the results of scientific veterinary investigation in a professional and ethical manner. Conduct of this research project may require veterinary qualifications registrable in NSW.
VETS9003 Special Topics in Veterinary Studies

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Academic Supervisor: Dr Sanaa Zaki Instructor(s): Supervisor(s) in relevant discipline. Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervised Assessment: Written assignment 6,000 words or equivalent (100%) Mode of delivery: Supervision
This unit will allow students to be supervised in specific areas of study that are not covered in any existing postgraduate units in veterinary studies. The purpose of this unit may include: interest in specific practical or clinical subject area, allowing greater depth of learning following from core units of study at Graduate Certificate level; interest in enhanced knowledge of a particular discipline/species; additional learning required to support a research project or case report. Students must discuss learning outcomes, methods for achieving them, assessment and assessment criteria with their supervisor and submit documentation to the Associate Dean for Postgraduate Studies by the census date of the relevant semester.
Learning outcomes: At the end of this Unit of Study, students will be able to: Discuss the major issues associated with their subject area; Interpret and critically evaluate scientific material or information in their subject area; Make informed decisions in their subject area and implement them; Clearly communicate understanding of their subject area.
VETS9004 Case Report in Veterinary Studies

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Academic Supervisor: Dr Sanaa Zaki Instructor(s): Supervisor(s) in relevant discipline. Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Supervision. Assessment: Written assignment 6,000 words or equivalent (100%) Mode of delivery: Supervision
Note: This unit generally requires that students possess a degree which is registrable for veterinary practice in NSW, Australia. It is usually only available to students who are enrolled in a clinical residency or internship program at the University Veterinary Teaching Hospitals.
This unit will require the investigation and preparation of a case report suitable for publication in a scientific journal. The case chosen should make a novel contribution to the veterinary literature. The length of the case report will vary according to journal requirements. Oral presentation(s) will form a part of the assessment for this unit, varying according to the required length of the report. Students should discuss the case regularly with their supervisor and complete a student/supervisor agreement form early to submit to the Sub Dean of Postgraduate Coursework
At the end of this Unit of Study, students will be able to: Identify, locate and critically analyse information resources relevant to the case; Identify and communicate major issues; Accurately describe the features of a case; Communicate the interventions and outcomes of the case; Discuss the implications of the case for future cases and/or research and what aspects of the case have made a novel contribution to veterinary science in the field of study; Demonstrate technical expertise within an ethical and professional approach. Conduct of this case report may require veterinary qualifications registrable in NSW.
WILD5001 Australasian Wildlife: Introduction

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Kellie Leigh, A/Prof David Phalen Session: Intensive July Classes: Intensively taught unit, the remainder of the unit will involve personal study and project activity. See the Wildlife Health and Population Management website for dates (http://sydney.edu.au/vetscience/wildlife_masters/program/index.shtml) Assessment: Assessments for each unit may include practical work, field studies, student presentations and written reports (100%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit of study provides an introduction to the wildlife of Australasia, an overview of the present status of that wildlife, and an understanding of both conservation problems and management solutions. Issues in wildlife management are exemplified using a broad range of vertebrate species occupying different environments. Emphasis is placed on providing students with a coordinated and interdisciplinary approach to wildlife health and management, and on developing expertise in recognising and solving a broad range of problems in field populations. The unit integrates lectures, practical work and supervised study, and offers students the opportunity to work through real-world wildlife conservation problems relevant to their individual backgrounds.
WILD5002 Australasian Wildlife: Field Studies

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof David Phalen Session: Intensive September Classes: Intensively taught unit. See the Wildlife Health and Population Management website for dates. (http://sydney.edu.au/vetscience/wildlife_masters/program/index.shtml) Assessment: There are two assessments. Assessment 1 is a journal that is kept during the week (20%). Assessment 2 is a report on the current status of one animal or group of animals in the Gardens (80%). Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit of study provides a first-hand introduction to the wildlife of Australasia, a practical overview of the present status of that wildlife, and an understanding of both conservation problems and management solutions. Issues in wildlife management are exemplified using sampling and diagnostic methods on a broad range of vertebrate species occupying different environments. The unit follows on from WILD5001 and provides practical experience via a seven day field trip, 5 days at Mt. Annan Botanical Gardens and two days "Arthursleigh" near Marulan NSW. Students stay overnight at both locations. Survey methods for frogs, reptiles, birds, small mammals, bats and macropods are introduced and all students participate in these activities. There are multiple opportunities to work with the staff at the Gardens and to see how a natural reserve serves to preserve biodiversity in the face of surrounding urbanization.
WILD5003 Wildlife Health

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof David Phalen Session: Intensive August Classes: August intensive: 6 days on the Camden campus, one day on the Sydney Campus. Please see the Wildlife Masters website for the date. (http://sydney.edu.au/vetscience/wildlife_masters/program/index.shtml). Assessment: The assessment of this unit occurs both in the full-time week and in individual written assignments done in the student's own time. The full-time week contributes (40%) of the total mark through a group project ending in a presentation to the class. The remaining (60%) comes from a written assignment of 5,000 word essay due 4 weeks after the end of class. Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit of study provides an introduction to the health issues confronting wildlife in Australasia, an overview of the health status of that wildlife, and an understanding of both the investigation of health problems and the effective management of these. Issues in wildlife disease management are exemplified using a broad range of vertebrate species occupying different environments. Emphasis is placed on providing students with a coordinated and interdisciplinary approach to wildlife health, and on developing expertise in recognising and solving a broad range of health problems in field populations. There is also a focus on the use of molecular tools as diagnostic assays and for use in population management. The unit is taught intensively in a full-time week on the Camden campus (4-6 days) and the Sydney Campus (1day). The unit integrates lectures, practical work and supervised study, and offer students the opportunity to work through real-world wildlife conservation problems relevant to their individual backgrounds.
Textbooks
There are no set textbooks for this unit of study.
WILD5004 Vertebrate Pest Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof David Phalen Session: Intensive April Classes: The Unit is taught in a full-time week at the university farm "Arthursleigh" near Marulan NSW. There are lectures, tutorials, and a variety of practical classes. Please see the Wildlife Masters Website for the timing of this course (http://sydney.edu.au/vetscience/wildlife_masters/program/index.shtml). Assessment: The assessment of this unit occurs both in the full-time week and in individual written assignments done in the student's own time. The full-time week contributes (40%) of the total mark through a number of individual and syndicate tasks, with presentations to the group. The remaining 60% comes from two written assignments of 3000 words (20%) and 5000 words (40%) respectively. Mode of delivery: Block mode
Vertebrate pests occur in many parts of the world, and can pose significant problems for management of habitat, agricultural productivity, human and wildlife health. This unit focuses on vertebrates that have been introduced to new environments, and considers in detail the impacts and management of pest vertebrates in Australia. Steps in pest management are reviewed, from problem analysis to acceptable levels of control, using case studies of multiple vertebrate pests. Traditional mortality methods as well as emerging management tools are reviewed. The Unit is taught full-time over 7 days at the university farm "Arthursleigh" near Marulan NSW. There are lectures, tutorials, and a variety of practical classes.
Textbooks
Unit of Study Handbook is the primary reference.
WILD5005 In Situ Wildlife Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Kellie Leigh, A/Prof David Phalen Session: Intensive October Classes: Intensively taught unit. See the Wildlife Health and Population Management website for dates: (http://sydney.edu.au/vetscience/wildlife_masters/program/index.shtml). Assessment: Assessments for each unit may include practical work, field studies, student presentations and written reports (100%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Wildlife populations do not remain static, but change in size and composition over both time and space. The challenge for managers is to recognise when change in target populations exceeds acceptable limits and intervention is necessary. This unit of study develops skills in assessing population status and recognising differences between 'small populations' and 'declining populations'. It introduces methods used in population pattern analysis, demographic analysis, threat and resource assessment, and determination of health, emphasising the value of a coordinated and interdisciplinary approach to problem recognition and resolution. This course is taught in the Blue Mountains, the Royal National Park and the main campus of the University of Sydney.
WILD5006 Ex Situ Wildlife Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Derek Spielman Session: Intensive February Classes: The Unit is taught in a full-time week in February at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, NSW. Please see the Masters of Wildlife Health and Population Management website for the specific dates (http://sydney.edu.au/vetscience/wildlife_masters/program/index.shtml) Assessment: The assessment of this unit occurs both in the full-time week and in an individual written assignment done in the students' own time. The full-time week contributes (40%) of the total mark through a group presentation on the status in the wild and in captivity of a species in the Taronga Western Plains Zoo. The remaining (60%) comes from a written assignment of 5,000 words on a successful species survival plan that involves a significant ex situ component. Mode of delivery: Block mode
Wildlife populations are under a variety of threats, most of which result from human activities. Modern conservation biology seeks practical solutions to these problems using a wide range of options. These options can include captive breeding and re-introduction programs, provided that a range of biological, ethical and politico-economic issues are addressed. This unit of study provides students with the tools to evaluate the likely cost-effectiveness of such programs. It also develops knowledge of the technologies available to capture and translocate wildlife, and of the planning required to maximise the chance of success. The unit is taught in a full-time week at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, NSW. The unit integrates lectures, tutorials, practical work and site visits and offers students the opportunity to examine real problems in the conservation and management of threatened wildlife populations using relevant case studies.
Textbooks
There is no text book available. Recommended reading:
In addition to the coursework units of study offered by the faculty, students may enrol in the following electives from other faculties. Some units of study may require permission from the unit of study coordinator for enrollment.
BETH5000 Critical Concepts in Bioethics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Robert Irvine Session: Semester 2 Classes: 13x2hr seminars or Distance Education (online). Attendance is compulsory if enrolled in face-to-face mode Assessment: 1x 750wd review (15%) and 1x 1500wd essay (30%) and 1x 2000-2500wd essay (45%) and 1x online work/class participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) evening, Online
Note: This is a capstone Unit for the Master of Bioethics. If an insufficient number of students opt to attend seminars on campus, the co-ordinator may choose to teach this Unit of Study in online mode only. Students will be contacted if this occurs.
This unit of study offers a critical review of the field of bioethics. The course canvasses different ways that bioethics is 'made-up' in discourse, thought and practice, and the meaning of 'bioethics' historically and in contemporary society. Mapping some of the key literature on current on-going debates and contentions, the seminars explore different perspectives that people have of bioethics from points within and outside of the discipline and why bioethics and bioethical dilemmas have become important objects of popular and professional concern. Topics include the moral and ethical dimensions of advances in biomedical science and biotechnology, the virtuous bioethicist, narrative in bioethics, going public in bioethics, bioethics across cultures, feminist bioethics, bioethics and non-human animals, and, climate change and environmental bioethics. Learning activities will include seminars and small group discussion.
Textbooks
Students are provided with a book of readings (in digital format). Supplementary readings can be accessed through the library or online.
BETH5202 Human and Animal Research Ethics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Professor Ainsley Newson Session: Semester 2 Classes: 4x8hr intensive or Distance Education (online). Attendance is compulsory if enrolled in face-to-face mode Prohibitions: BETH5208 Assessment: Continuous assessment (short weekly tasks) (10%); 2x400wd short tasks (10%); 1x1500wd essay (30%); 1x2500wd essay (50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
Note: If an insufficient number of students opt to attend seminars on campus, the co-ordinator may choose to teach this Unit of Study in online mode only. Students will be contacted if this occurs.
This unit of study critically examines research ethics in its wider context, from how research is structured to its dissemination. It explores the ethical underpinnings of a variety of research methods and their uses in humans and non-human animals including the justifications for engaging in research, key concepts in research ethics and research integrity. The unit also briefly examines the history of research and the impact of research abuse on participants, both human and non-human animal.
Textbooks
All readings are made available via elearning.
BETH5203 Ethics and Public Health

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Professor Stacy Carter Session: Semester 2 Classes: 5x7hour intensives; or Distance Education (online). Prohibitions: BETH5206 Assessment: 5xOnline Quiz (50%); 1x2500wd essay (50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
This unit provides students with an overview of the ethical and political issues that underlie public health and public health research. The unit begins with some fundamentals: the nature of ethics, of public health (and how it might be different to clinical medicine) and of public health ethics. It introduces key concepts in public health ethics including liberty, utility, justice, solidarity and reciprocity, and introduces students to different ways of reasoning about the ethics of public health. A range of practical public health problems and issues will be considered, including ethical dimensions of communicable and non-communicable diseases in populations, and the ethical challenges of public health research. Throughout, the emphasis is on learning to make sound arguments about the ethical aspects of public health policy, practice and research. Most learning occurs in the context of five teaching intensives, which are highly interactive and focus on the development and application of reasoning skills.
Textbooks
Students are provided with a list of readings (in digital format).