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Unit outline_

VETS6204: Principles of Animal Disease A

Semester 1, 2023 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

A fundamental understanding of disease and dysfunction is critical to applying principles of preventative and therapeutic interventions in veterinary practice. This unit of study provides a thorough grounding in knowledge and skills for a wide range of veterinary disciplines including veterinary pathology, veterinary clinical pathology, immunology, veterinary microbiology, veterinary parasitology, animal behaviour, veterinary pharmacology and veterinary diagnostic imaging. An integrated multi-disciplinary approach will highlight the underlying pathophysiology and aetiopathogenesis of clinical and subclinical disease affecting several major body systems. This unit will emphasise a pathobiological approach to investigations providing a logical diagnostic framework to facilitate students' understanding of disease and disease investigation. This unit of study will utilise scenarios from companion animals, production animals and wildlife to contextualise problems involving haematology, disorders of growth, dermatopathology, gastrointestinal pathology, urinary system pathology and endocrine system pathology as well as behavioural manifestations during disease. The use of case-based scenarios will motivate and direct students to develop the concepts and principles underscoring therapeutics and disease control and management programs. The unit provides the foundation for integrated parasite/pest management (IPM) strategies. In addition, vector-, water- and food- borne diseases and transboundary diseases will be included enabling students to understand their relevance to the human-animal bond, public health, trade and biosecurity. Reinforcing the development and maintenance of normal structure and function will highlight abnormalities associated with specific clinical presentations and disease entities. This unit of study integrates with the concepts and skills taught within VETS6203 (Research and Enquiry 2A) and VETS6202 (Professional skills 2A) to prepare students for the clinical units of study in DVM 3.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit School of Veterinary Science Academic Operations
Credit points 12
Prerequisites
? 
VETS6101 and VETS6102 and VETS6103 and VETS6104 and VETS6105 and VETS6106 and VETS6107 and VETS6108
Corequisites
? 
VETS6202 and VETS6203
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Rachael Gray, rachael.gray@sydney.edu.au
Type Description Weight Due Length
Supervised exam
? 
Theory Paper 1
Combination of short-answer, extended answer responses +/- MCQ.
25% Formal exam period 2 hours
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Supervised exam
? 
Theory Paper 2
MCQ, short-answer and extended answer responses in no turn back format.
25% Formal exam period 2 hours
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Supervised exam
? 
Practical Examination
Consists of MCQ, short-answer and extended answer responses.
15% Formal exam period 1 hour
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Participation Active participation in all RLAs
100% participation at Required Learning Activities (RLAs).
0% Ongoing Central timetable and canvas updates
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO7 LO6 LO5 LO4 LO3 LO2
Online task hurdle task Urinary tract & endocrine system online quiz
MCQs completed in Canvas
0% STUVAC
Due date: 25 May 2023 at 16:00

Closing date: 01 Jun 2023
60 minutes
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO7 LO6 LO5 LO4 LO3 LO2
Online task hurdle task Haematology and Disorders of growth online quiz
MCQ questions completed in Canvas
0% Week 04
Due date: 16 Mar 2023 at 16:00

Closing date: 23 Mar 2023
60 minutes
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO7 LO6 LO5 LO4 LO3 LO2
Supervised test
? 
In-semester test
Combination of short and extended answer responses +/- MCQ
15% Week 05
Due date: 03 Apr 2023 at 09:00
1 hour
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO6 LO7
Online task hurdle task Integument online quiz
MCQ questions completed in Canvas
0% Week 08
Due date: 20 Apr 2023 at 16:00

Closing date: 27 Apr 2023
60 minutes
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO7 LO6 LO5 LO4 LO3 LO2
Assignment Visual learning tool assignment
Students will research a disease and develop a visual learning tool
20% Week 10
Due date: 07 May 2023 at 23:59
This is a group assignment.
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Online task hurdle task Gastrointestinal problems online quiz
MCQ completed in Canvas
0% Week 11
Due date: 11 May 2023 at 16:00

Closing date: 18 May 2023
60 minutes
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO7 LO6 LO5 LO4 LO3 LO2
hurdle task = hurdle task ?

Assessment summary

Intra-semester online hurdle quizzes: questions on completed module content. Students must pass these hurdle tasks.

Visual learning tool assisgnment: in a group of 3 students, develop a visual learning tool about an agent of disease

Final online exam: 2 final papers – theory paper 1 is a combination of MCQ, short and extended answer questions; theory paper 2 is a no-turn back examination consisting of a combination of MCQ, short and extended answer questions.

Practical online examination: 2 components. Consists of a combination of MCQ, short and extended answer questions.

Final exam: If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.  

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a High distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a Distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

Student has an extensive understanding of animal health, welfare and disease, and disease investigation, control and management. Student demonstrates an exceptional ability to apply the relevant concepts to a wide variety of clinical scenarios.

Distinction

75 - 84

Student can analyse a case involving a disease situation in either an individual animal or herd, and demonstrates the ability to integrate key concepts to respond effectively to multifaceted situations encountered.

Credit

65 - 74

Student can demonstrate and apply their understanding of key concepts in a range of standard situations encountered in veterinary work.

Pass

50 - 64

Student can accurately describe the key concepts of health and disease in a range of standard situations encountered in veterinary work. 

Fail

0 - 49

Student demonstrates a very limited knowledge of the role of the veterinary profession in relation to human and animal health anlimited ability to apply understanding of key concepts to real world situations encountered in the management of diseases encountered in veterinary work.

For more information see guide to grades.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The Current Student website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

You may only use generative AI and automated writing tools in assessment tasks if you are permitted to by your unit coordinator. If you do use these tools, you must acknowledge this in your work, either in a footnote or an acknowledgement section. The assessment instructions or unit outline will give guidance of the types of tools that are permitted and how the tools should be used.

Your final submitted work must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of generative AI tools that have been used in the assessment, and any material that forms part of your submission must be appropriately referenced. For guidance on how to acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the AI in Education Canvas site.

The unapproved use of these tools or unacknowledged use will be considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and penalties may apply.

Studiosity is permitted unless otherwise indicated by the unit coordinator. The use of this service must be acknowledged in your submission as detailed on the Learning Hub’s Canvas page.

Outside assessment tasks, generative AI tools may be used to support your learning. The AI in Education Canvas site contains a number of productive ways that students are using AI to improve their learning.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week -01 Introduction to Principles of Animal Disease A Lecture (1 hr) LO3 LO4
Introduction to veterinary haematology and clinical pathology Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Germs to worms 1- prions to fungi Lecture (1 hr)  
Germs to worms 2- protozoa to worms Lecture (1 hr) LO3 LO5 LO6 LO7
Using haematology and clinical pathology to diagnose disease 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Using haematology and clinical pathology to diagnose disease 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Fundamental concepts in pharmacology Lecture (2 hr) LO4 LO7
Haematological case studies Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Parasitologic techniques Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO6 LO7
Week 01 Introduction to disorders of growth: congenital vs acquired; controlled vs uncontrolled Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2
Key stages of embryo / foetus development Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO6
Germs to worms Practical (2 hr) LO3 LO6 LO7
Identifying gross and microscopic lesions Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2
Concepts of congenital anomalies Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Week 02 Controlled disorders of growth-diagnostic pathology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Molecular basis of neoplasia- initiation / progression Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Molecular basis of neoplasia- viral oncogenesis Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Development and congenital disorders of growth - case studies - anatomical basis Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Uncontrolled disorders of growth Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Congenital disorders of growth Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO7
Diagnostic pathology and the management of neoplasia Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Uncontrolled disorders of growth-neoplasia Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Molecular basis of neoplasia-understanding metastasis Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Neoplasia-diagnostic pathology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Week 03 Pathogenesis of neoplasia-case studies Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Diagnostic pathology in assessing intervention in neoplasia -case studies Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Neoplasia: case studies Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Module summary and discussions across disciplines. Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Haematology revisited Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Microbial causes of skin ulceration, crusting and alopecia Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Parasitic agents causing ulceration and crusting-introduction to ectoparasites Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO7
Microbial agents of skin disease Practical (3 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Week 04 The dermatologic exam, review of skin structure and defences and clinical investigation of common skin diseases L1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
The dermatologic exam, review of skin structure and defences and clinical investigation of common skin diseases L2 Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Role of microbes in skin disease Lecture (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO6
Introduction to dermopathology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
What's bugging you? Parasitic agents of skin disease Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO7
Otitis externa Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
The pruritis threshold Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Developing a diagnostic framework for skin ulceration and crusting Lecture (1 hr)  
Introduction to skin therapeutic agents Lecture (2 hr) LO4 LO7
Week 05 Fleas-Introduction to Flea tutorial 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Fleas-Introduction to Flea tutorial 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Pruritic skin disease-FLEAS: Introduction to ectoparasites and intergrated parasite management Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Ulcerative and crusting skin diseases-parasitic agents of disease Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Other agents causing ulceration and alopecia (burns, mycobacterium, acral lick) Tutorial (2 hr) LO4 LO7
Assignment Information Session Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Microbial agents of skin disease Practical (3 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Parasitic agents causing alopecia (mites) Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO4 LO7
Overarching framework for skin masses Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Week 06 Large animal ectoparasites-flies, ticks, flystrike Lecture (1 hr) LO4 LO7
Other causes of ulceration and alopecia (pemphigus, DLE, demodicosis, deep pyoderma) Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Infectious agents causing skin masses 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Infectious agents causing skin masses 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Gross and histopathology of masses Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Case studies - Alopecia and aetiologies Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO4 LO7
Pharmacology of otitic and topical preparations Lecture (1 hr) LO4 LO7
Module summary and discussions across disciplines Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Intrasemester exam feedback session Lecture (1 hr)  
Week 09 Introduction to problems of gastrointestinal tract Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Pathology of GIT Lecture (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Clinical pathology of GIT Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Pathology of GIT Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Pathophysiology of vomiting & regurgitation Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2
Microbial causes of gastric and abdominal cavity disease - Part 1 - Viruses Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Non-infectious causes of GIT pain in small animals Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO6
Microbial causes of gastric and abdominal cavity disease - Part 2 - Bacteria Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Week 10 Disorders of prehension caused by infectious disease 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Battle of the bugs - case studies Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Pathophysiology of GIT pain Lecture (1 hr) LO1
Clinical pathology of small animal pain Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Non-infectious causes of GIT pain in large animals 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO5 LO6 LO7
Infections and GIT pain in large animals Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6 LO7
Large animal pain-colic bloat Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO6 LO7
Pathogens and GIT pain -Small animals Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO6 LO7
Malabsorption Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Small animal gastrointestinal nemotodes (roudworm, hookworm, whipworm) Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6 LO7
Clin Path of the GIT Tutorial (2 hr)  
Week 11 Development of GIT & related developmental abnormalities Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2
Pharmacology of drug absorption GIT focus Lecture (1 hr) LO4 LO7
Liver pathology Lecture (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Pathophysiology of diarrhoea Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Microbial causes of pain and diarrhoea - Bacteria L1 and L2 Lecture (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Full monty on the motions (techniques) Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO6 LO7
Microbial causes of diarrhoea - Viruses Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Diarrhoea - Protozoa introduction and coccidiosis (poultry + Eimeria/Cystoisospora spp.) Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Full monty on the motions-faecal panel Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO6 LO7
Diarrhoea - SA parasites and protozoa (Scoop on poop) Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4 LO6 LO7
Diarrhoea - Cryptosporidium, Giardia - water-borne diseases and public health (and Tritrichomonas) Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Microbial pathogens causing diarrhoea Tutorial (2 hr)  
Week 12 Cestodes Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
LA-GIN Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6 LO7
Trematodes/flukes: Understanding the life cycle as your key to diagnosis and control Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6 LO7
GIT parasites and flukes Practical (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Integrated control of viral pathogens of GIT Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Integrated parasite management Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Pharmacology of the GIT tract Tutorial (2 hr) LO4 LO7
IPM cases Tutorial (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Histopathology - Liver/pancreas Practical (2 hr)  
Scoop on poop Tutorial (2 hr)  
Case based clin path interpretation practice Lecture (1 hr)  
Week 13 Introduction to module/revision of urinary tract anatomy/physiology Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Urinary tract pathology Lectures 1-2 Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Urinary tract clinical pathology L1-3 Lecture (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Urinary tract pathology-gross and histology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Clinical pathology case studies Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Developmental abnormalities of the urinary system Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2
Host defences of UT; principles of sample collection and transport Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO6
Pathogens of the Urinary tract - Lecture 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Urinalysis (USG, biochemistry, microscopy, emphasis on wet preps, demonstration of urinary culture) Practical (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Pathogens of the Urinary tract - Lecture 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Week 14 (STUVAC) Imaging of the urinary tract Lecture (1 hr) LO1
Leptospirosis- Urinary, Systemic Disease, Zoonotic disease Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO7
Endocrine abnormalities Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO5 LO6
Pharmacology - Antibacterials Lectures 1-2 Lecture (2 hr) LO4 LO7
Endocrine pathophysiology and pathogenesis Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO5 LO6
Inappropriate urination (ddx behavioural problems) Lecture (1 hr) LO5 LO7
Endocrine clinical pathology cases Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Discussion of UA practical, principles of antimicrobial therapy Tutorial (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
No turn back cases - examination approach Lecture (2 hr)  
Urinary and endocrine modules wrap up Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5

Attendance and class requirements

Referencing Guidelines: The referencing style required for the Faculty of Veterinary Science is Harvard-Flinders.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 12 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 240-300 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed on the Library eReserve link available on Canvas.

  • Beveridge I & Emery D (2015) Australasian Animal Parasites Inside and Out. Australian Society for Parasitology. Zachary & McGavin (2012) Pathologic Basis of Veterinary Disease. 5th Ed. Mosby.
  • A complete list of reading materials for Clinical Pathology and other disciplines are provided in the relevant teaching resources on CANVAS

 

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. integrate their knowledge of the normal development of body systems, the microscopic, gross and diagnostic imaging appearance of disease, general pathological processes and likely pathogenesis, particularly the principles of inflammation, repair, circulatory disturbances and abnormalities of growth (including neoplasia) and apply these concepts to disease investigation
  • LO2. apply the concepts of embryology, pathophysiology, host immune response and the properties of common agents of disease (including parasitic, fungal, bacterial and viral) affecting growth and development and the major body systems, into investigative and prognostic frameworks
  • LO3. integrate the important features of agents of disease and their pathogenic effects to identify and discuss key diseases and syndromes affecting individuals and populations
  • LO4. apply an understanding of host-pathogen-environment interactions, and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles to important diseases of domesticated animals and wildlife to formulate rational therapeutic, preventative and management strategies
  • LO5. integrate an understanding of normal development and biological fitness, abnormal behaviours and compromised welfare, and consider these within diagnostic and therapeutic approaches
  • LO6. plan appropriate collection, storage and dispatch of biological specimens to diagnose disease. This includes ante-mortem samples taken in the clinic and necropsy samples
  • LO7. utilise the principles and concepts in pathobiology, epidemiology, pharmacology and animal behaviour to direct therapeutic or management interventions for endemic and transboundary diseases, including zoonoses.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Attributes - AVBC
1. Scientific method at a level adequate to provide a rational basis for present veterinary practice, and to assimiliate the advances in knowledge which will occur over their working life
10. To collect, organise and analyse information in relation to specific problems, assessing its validity and reaching probabilistic judgements
11. To perform basic diagnostic and therapeutic procedures
2. The normal structure, function and development of animals, their interactions with their environment and the factors which may disturb these
3. The underlying basis of health and disease in a broad range of species
5. The principles of epidemiology, of diseases and zoonoses and their impacts on the environment
American Veterinary Medical Association - AVMA
1. comprehensive patient diagnosis (problem solving skills), appropriate use of diagnostic testing, and record management
European Coordination Committee for Veterinary Training (EECVT) Day One Competencies - ECCVT
2.5. The aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of the common diseases and disorders that occur in the common domestic species.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.1. Epidemiology
2.5. Disease prevention and control programs
3.3. Management of contagious diseases
LO2
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Attributes - AVBC
1. Scientific method at a level adequate to provide a rational basis for present veterinary practice, and to assimiliate the advances in knowledge which will occur over their working life
10. To collect, organise and analyse information in relation to specific problems, assessing its validity and reaching probabilistic judgements
3. The underlying basis of health and disease in a broad range of species
5. The principles of epidemiology, of diseases and zoonoses and their impacts on the environment
American Veterinary Medical Association - AVMA
1. comprehensive patient diagnosis (problem solving skills), appropriate use of diagnostic testing, and record management
European Coordination Committee for Veterinary Training (EECVT) Day One Competencies - ECCVT
2.5. The aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of the common diseases and disorders that occur in the common domestic species.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.1. Epidemiology
2.5. Disease prevention and control programs
3.3. Management of contagious diseases
LO3
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Attributes - AVBC
1. Scientific method at a level adequate to provide a rational basis for present veterinary practice, and to assimiliate the advances in knowledge which will occur over their working life
10. To collect, organise and analyse information in relation to specific problems, assessing its validity and reaching probabilistic judgements
12. To work and communicate effectively and empathetically with colleagues and clients through a range of media with compassion, courtesy, respect, honesty and without discrimination
3. The underlying basis of health and disease in a broad range of species
5. The principles of epidemiology, of diseases and zoonoses and their impacts on the environment
American Veterinary Medical Association - AVMA
1. comprehensive patient diagnosis (problem solving skills), appropriate use of diagnostic testing, and record management
7. understanding of health promotion, and biosecurity, prevention and control of disease including zoonoses and principles of food safety
European Coordination Committee for Veterinary Training (EECVT) Day One Competencies - ECCVT
2.5. The aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of the common diseases and disorders that occur in the common domestic species.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.1. Epidemiology
2.2. Transboundary animal diseases
2.3. Zoonoses
2.4. Emerging and reemerging diseases
2.5. Disease prevention and control programs
LO4
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Attributes - AVBC
1. Scientific method at a level adequate to provide a rational basis for present veterinary practice, and to assimiliate the advances in knowledge which will occur over their working life
10. To collect, organise and analyse information in relation to specific problems, assessing its validity and reaching probabilistic judgements
11. To perform basic diagnostic and therapeutic procedures
3. The underlying basis of health and disease in a broad range of species
5. The principles of epidemiology, of diseases and zoonoses and their impacts on the environment
American Veterinary Medical Association - AVMA
1. comprehensive patient diagnosis (problem solving skills), appropriate use of diagnostic testing, and record management
2. comprehensive treatment planning including patient referral when indicated
3. anesthesia and pain management, patient welfare
5. basic medicine skills and case management
European Coordination Committee for Veterinary Training (EECVT) Day One Competencies - ECCVT
2.5. The aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of the common diseases and disorders that occur in the common domestic species.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.5. Disease prevention and control programs
3.3. Management of contagious diseases
LO5
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Attributes - AVBC
10. To collect, organise and analyse information in relation to specific problems, assessing its validity and reaching probabilistic judgements
16. A desire to promote animal welfare
2. The normal structure, function and development of animals, their interactions with their environment and the factors which may disturb these
3. The underlying basis of health and disease in a broad range of species
American Veterinary Medical Association - AVMA
1. comprehensive patient diagnosis (problem solving skills), appropriate use of diagnostic testing, and record management
2. comprehensive treatment planning including patient referral when indicated
5. basic medicine skills and case management
European Coordination Committee for Veterinary Training (EECVT) Day One Competencies - ECCVT
1.18. Develop appropriate treatment plans and administer treatment in the interests of the patients and with regard to the resources available.
2.3. The structure, function and behaviour of animals and their physiological and welfare needs, including healthy domestic animals, captive wildlife and laboratory-housed animals.
2.5. The aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of the common diseases and disorders that occur in the common domestic species.
2.8. Medicines legislation and guidelines on responsible use of medicines, including responsible use of antimicrobials and anthelmintics.
2.9. The principles of disease prevention and the promotion of health and welfare.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.5. Disease prevention and control programs
2.8. Animal welfare
LO6
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Attributes - AVBC
10. To collect, organise and analyse information in relation to specific problems, assessing its validity and reaching probabilistic judgements
11. To perform basic diagnostic and therapeutic procedures
American Veterinary Medical Association - AVMA
1. comprehensive patient diagnosis (problem solving skills), appropriate use of diagnostic testing, and record management
European Coordination Committee for Veterinary Training (EECVT) Day One Competencies - ECCVT
1.21. Collect, preserve and transport samples, select appropriate diagnostic tests, interpret and understand the limitations of the test results.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.1. Epidemiology
LO7
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Attributes - AVBC
10. To collect, organise and analyse information in relation to specific problems, assessing its validity and reaching probabilistic judgements
11. To perform basic diagnostic and therapeutic procedures
21. Recognition of the critical role of veterinarians in biosecurity and in the management of veterinary issues that have national and international implications
3. The underlying basis of health and disease in a broad range of species
5. The principles of epidemiology, of diseases and zoonoses and their impacts on the environment
6. Public health and food safety
American Veterinary Medical Association - AVMA
1. comprehensive patient diagnosis (problem solving skills), appropriate use of diagnostic testing, and record management
7. understanding of health promotion, and biosecurity, prevention and control of disease including zoonoses and principles of food safety
8. ethical and professional conduct; communication skills including those that demonstrate an understanding and sensitivity to how clients’ diversity and individual circumstance can impact health care
European Coordination Committee for Veterinary Training (EECVT) Day One Competencies - ECCVT
1.24. Recognise suspicious signs of possible notifiable, reportable and zoonotic diseases and take appropriate action, including notifying the relevant authorities.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.1. Epidemiology
2.11. Communication skills
2.2. Transboundary animal diseases
2.3. Zoonoses
2.4. Emerging and reemerging diseases
2.5. Disease prevention and control programs
2.8. Animal welfare

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Improvements in response to student feedback: • Revision of content to reduce volume overload • More timely intrasemester feedback • Arrangement of learning tasks on Canvas – teaching resources organised by week with weekly timetable. • Academics will endeavour to complete teaching activities within the time-tabled period, particularly for lectures and to provide teaching resources prior to each teaching activity. Your teachers are working on these issues both within their disciplines and as a teaching team.

Work, health and safety

Q-fever vaccination and completion of the Canvas module “Zoonosis Awareness” is compulsory.

All students must abide by the University’s workplace health and safety restrictions during all classes. This will be outlined at the beginning of semester but includes compulsory use of personal protective clothing (lab coat, waterproof shoes that cover the entire foot and gloves/safety glasses if required in certain laboratories). Eating or drinking in any laboratory is not permitted under any circumstances.

All students must complete the online Laboratory Induction Module prior to commencing practical classes in university laboratories.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.