University of Sydney Handbooks - 2017 Archive

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Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience

Unit of study descriptions

Year 1

Year 1 has the following 48 credit point structure:
AGEN1001 Shaping our Landscapes

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Peter Ampt Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1hr lect, 1x2hr tut, 4x1 day (6.5hr) field (ave 2hrs/week) Prohibitions: AFNR1001 Assessment: 1x 2hr exam (40%), Field class reports (10%), Group work participation (10%), Journal (10%), Problem based learning project (30%) Practical field work: Preparation, revision and private study 3hrs/week Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is designed to help students develop understanding of our non-urban landscapes and the physical, biological, economic and cultural factors that have shaped them, with particular emphasis on the interaction between production and environment. It is a core first year unit for students in BScAgr, BEnvSys, BAgrEc, BResEc and BAnVetBioSc. The unit begins with a review of the current global issues around population, food, agriculture and environment and the place of Australia in this global context. Australia's current production (plant and animal based) and environmental systems and landscapes are described with an emphasis on the physical, biological, economic and cultural factors that have shaped them, concluding with an account of future production and environment scenarios. At the end of this unit, students should be able to describe global production and environment issues and key Australian landscapes and production systems, explain the factors that have shaped them and apply this understanding to a specific location and production system. They should analyse the situation of natural resource managers and evaluate the options available to them to maintain or improve profitable production and achieve sustainability. The students will gain research and inquiry skills through research-based group projects, information literacy and communication skills through on-line discussion postings, tutorial discussions and presentations and personal and intellectual autonomy through working in groups and individually.
Textbooks
To be advised during semester.
AVBS1002 Concepts of Animal Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Cameron Clark Session: Semester 2 Classes: On average 6 h/week (lectures and practicals) but will vary from week to week alongside scheduled practicals. Prerequisites: 6 credit points of Junior Biology Assessment: practical skills assessment (20%), written assignment (20%), quizzes (20%), end of semester examination (40%) Practical field work: There will be several whole day practical classes at the Camden campus Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit will explore the management of animals in natural and man-made environments. At the end of this unit of study, students will understand: the characteristics of the management systems of the major domestic species used for production in Australia and in a world wide context; the characteristics and principles underpinning sustainable management of native animals in natural and man-made environments; an appreciation of the dependence of living organisms upon their environment; an appreciation of indigenous land management and the husbandry practices and innovations that have been adopted by the production industries to retain their competitive advantage; a demonstrated capability in handling and husbandry of the major domestic production animal species, and an appreciation of the application of these skills to non-domestic species; a demonstrated understanding of the importance of high standards of animal welfare practice in the management of animals.
Textbooks
There is no single text that adequately covers the unit content and for this reason no formal text is required. Where appropriate, relevant reference material will be identified for specific areas of the course.
BIOL1006 Life and Evolution

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Charlotte Taylor Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 lectures per week and online material and 12x3hr practicals Prohibitions: BIOL1001 or BIOL1911 or BIOL1991 or BIOL1906 or BIOL1996 Assumed knowledge: HSC Biology. Students who have not completed HSC Biology (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Biology Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: practical eportfolio (10%), during semester exams (20%), communication (30%), summative final exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Biology is an immensely diverse science. Biologists study life at all levels, from the fundamental building blocks (genes, proteins) to whole ecosystems in which myriads of species interact. Evolution is the unifying concept that runs through the life sciences, from the origin and diversification of life to understanding behaviour, to dealing with disease. Evolution through natural selection is the framework in biology in which specific details make sense.Science builds and organises knowledge of life and evolution in the form of testable hypotheses. This unit will explore how new species, diseases and parasites continue to arise while others go extinct and discuss the role of mutations as the raw material on which selection acts. It will also explain how information is transferred between generations through DNA, RNA and proteins, transformations which affect all aspects of biological form and function. You will participate in inquiry-led practical classes integrating Life and Evolution concepts. By doing this unit of study, you will develop the ability to examine novel biological systems and understand the complex processes that have shaped those systems and organisms into what they are today.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
or
BIOL1906 Life and Evolution (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Charlotte Taylor Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 lectures per week and online material and 12x3hr practicals Prohibitions: BIOL1001 or BIOL1911 or BIOL1991 or BIOL1006 or BIOL1996 Assumed knowledge: 85 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent. Assessment: practical eportfolio (10%), during semester exams (20%), communication (30%), summative final exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Biology is an immensely diverse science. Biologists study life at all levels, from the fundamental building blocks (genes, proteins) to whole ecosystems in which myriads of species interact. Evolution is the unifying concept that runs through the life sciences, from the origin and diversification of life to understanding behaviour, to dealing with disease. Evolution through natural selection is the framework in biology in which specific details make sense.Science builds and organises knowledge of life and evolution in the form of testable hypotheses. This unit will explore how new species, diseases and parasites continue to arise while others go extinct and discuss the role of mutations as the raw material on which selection acts. It will also explain how information is transferred between generations through DNA, RNA and proteins, transformations which affect all aspects of biological form and function. Life and Evolution (Advanced) has the same overall structure as BIOL1006 but material is discussed in greater detail and at a more advanced level. Students enrolled in BIOL1906 participate in alternative components. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
or
BIOL1996 Life and Evolution (SSP)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Nathan Lo and A/Prof Simon Ho Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 lectures per week and online material and 30-36 hours of practicals Prohibitions: BIOL1001 or BIOL1911 or BIOL1991 or BIOL1006 or BIOL1906 Assumed knowledge: 90 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent Assessment: practical 60% (comprised of two practical reports, laboratory note book and seminar presentation), 40% final summative exam as per biol1906 Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Biology is an immensely diverse science. Biologists study life at all levels, from the fundamental building blocks (genes, proteins) to whole ecosystems in which myriads of species interact. Evolution is the unifying concept that runs through the life sciences, from the origin and diversification of life to understanding behaviour, to dealing with disease. Evolution through natural selection is the framework in biology in which specific details make sense.Science builds and organises knowledge of life and evolution in the form of testable hypotheses. The practical work syllabus for BIOL1996 is different to BIOL1906 (Advanced) and consists of a special project based laboratory.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
BIOL1007 From Molecules to Ecosystems

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Pauline Ross Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lectures per week and online material and 12x3hr practicals Prohibitions: BIOL1907 or BIOL1997 Assumed knowledge: HSC Biology. Students who have not completed HSC Biology (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Biology Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: practical (50%), summative final exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Paradigm shifts in biology have changed the emphasis from single biomolecule studies to complex systems of biomolecules, cells and their interrelationships in ecosystems of life. Such an integrated understanding of cells, biomolecules and ecosystems is key to innovations in biology. Life relies on organisation, communication, responsiveness and regulation at every level. Understanding biological mechanisms, improving human health and addressing the impact of human activity are the great challenges of the 21st century. This unit will investigate life at levels ranging from cells, and biomolecule ecosystems, through to complex natural and human ecosystems. You will explore the importance of homeostasis in health and the triggers that lead to disease and death. You will learn the methods of cellular, biomolecular, microbial and ecological investigation that allow us to understand life and discover how expanding tools have improved our capacity to manage and intervene in ecosystems for our own health and organisms in the environment that surround and support us . You will participate in inquiry-led practicals that reinforce the concepts in the unit. By doing this unit you will develop knowledge and skills that will enable you to play a role in finding global solutions that will impact our lives.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
or
BIOL1907 From Molecules to Ecosystems (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Pauline Ross Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lectures per week and online material and 12x3hr practicals Prohibitions: BIOL1007 or BIOL1997 Assumed knowledge: 85 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent Assessment: summative exam (50%), practical component which may include independent or group project (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Paradigm shifts in biology have changed the emphasis from single biomolecule studies to complex systems of biomolecules, cells and their interrelationships in ecosystems of life. Such an integrated understanding of cells, biomolecules and ecosystems is key to innovations in biology. Life relies on organisation, communication, responsiveness and regulation at every level. Understanding biological mechanisms, improving human health and addressing the impact of human activity are the great challenges of the 21st century. This unit will investigate life at levels ranging from cells, and biomolecule ecosystems, through to complex natural and human ecosystems. You will explore the importance of homeostasis in health and the triggers that lead to disease and death. You will learn the methods of cellular, biomolecular, microbial and ecological investigation that allow us to understand life and discover how expanding tools have improved our capacity to manage and intervene in ecosystems for our own health and organisms in the environment that surround and support us . This unit of study has the same overall structure as BIOL1007 but material is discussed in greater detail and at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
or
BIOL1997 From Molecules to Ecosystems (SSP)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Pauline Ross Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lectures per week and online material Prohibitions: BIOL1007 or BIOL1907 Assumed knowledge: 90 or above in HSC Biology or equivalent Assessment: one 2-hour exam (50%), project report (50%) which includes written report and presentation Practical field work: As advised and required by the project - approximately 30-36 hours of research project in the laboratory or field Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Paradigm shifts in biology have changed the emphasis from single biomolecule studies to complex systems of biomolecules, cells and their interrelationships in ecosystems of life. Such an integrated understanding of cells, biomolecules and ecosystems is key to innovations in biology. Life relies on organisation, communication, responsiveness and regulation at every level. Understanding biological mechanisms, improving human health and addressing the impact of human activity are the great challenges of the 21st century. This unit will investigate life at levels ranging from cells, and biomolecule ecosystems, through to complex natural and human ecosystems. You will explore the importance of homeostasis in health and the triggers that lead to disease and death. You will learn the methods of cellular, biomolecular, microbial and ecological investigation that allow us to understand life and intervene in ecosystems to improve health. The same theory will be covered as in the advanced stream but in this Special Studies Unit, the practical component is a research project. The research will be either a synthetic biology project investigating genetically engineered organisms or organismal/ecosystems biology. Students will have the opportunity to develop higher level generic skills in computing, communication, critical analysis, problem solving, data analysis and experimental design.
Textbooks
Please see unit outline on LMS
CHEM1001 Fundamentals of Chemistry 1A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week; one 3 hour practical per week for 9 weeks. Prohibitions: CHEM1101 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1903 or CHEM1909 or CHEM1109 Assumed knowledge: There is no assumed knowledge of chemistry for this unit of study but students who have not completed HSC Chemistry (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Chemistry Bridging Course (offered in February). Assessment: Theory examination (60%), laboratory work (15%), online assignments (10%) and continuous assessment quizzes (15%) Practical field work: A series of 9 three-hour laboratory sessions, one per week for 9 weeks of the semester. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students who have not completed HSC Chemistry (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Chemistry Bridging Course (offered in February, see http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/bridging-course.shtml).
The aim of the unit of study is to provide those students whose chemical background is weak (or non-existent) with a good grounding in fundamental chemical principles together with an overview of the relevance of chemistry. There is no prerequisite or assumed knowledge for entry to this unit of study. Lectures: A series of 39 lectures, three per week throughout the semester.
Textbooks
A booklist is available from the First Year Chemistry website. http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/firstyear
or
CHEM1101 Chemistry 1A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1,Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week; one 3 hour practical per week for 9 weeks. Prohibitions: CHEM1001 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1903 or CHEM1909 or CHEM1109 Assumed knowledge: HSC Chemistry and Mathematics. Students who have not completed HSC Chemistry (or equivalent) and HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Chemistry and Mathematics Bridging Courses (offered in February). Assessment: Theory examination (60%), laboratory work (15%), online assignment (10%) and continuous assessment quizzes (15%) Practical field work: A series of 9 three-hour laboratory sessions, one per week for 9 weeks of the semester. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students who have not completed HSC Chemistry (or equivalent) and HSC Mathematics (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Chemistry and Mathematics Bridging Courses (offered in February, http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/studying-chemistry/bridging-course.shtml).
Chemistry 1A is built on a satisfactory prior knowledge of the HSC Chemistry course. Chemistry 1A covers chemical theory and physical chemistry. Lectures: A series of 39 lectures, three per week throughout the semester.
Textbooks
A booklist is available from the First Year Chemistry website. http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/firstyear
or
CHEM1901 Chemistry 1A (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures and one 1-hour tutorial per week; one 3-hour practical per week for 9 weeks. Prohibitions: CHEM1001 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1903 or CHEM1909 or CHEM1109 Assumed knowledge: 85 or above in HSC Chemistry or equivalent Assessment: Theory examination (60%), laboratory work (15%), online assignment (10%) and continuous assessment quizzes (15%) Practical field work: A series of 9 three-hour laboratory sessions, one per week for 9 weeks of the semester. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Chemistry 1A (Advanced) is available to students with a very good HSC performance as well as a very good school record in chemistry or science. Students in this category are expected to do Chemistry 1A (Advanced) rather than Chemistry 1A.
The theory and practical work syllabuses for Chemistry 1A and Chemistry 1A (Advanced) are similar, though the level of treatment in the latter unit of study is more advanced, presupposing a very good grounding in the subject at secondary level. Chemistry 1A (Advanced) covers chemical theory and physical chemistry. Lectures: A series of about 39 lectures, three per week throughout the semester.
Textbooks
A booklist is available from the First Year Chemistry website. http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/firstyear
or
CHEM1903 Chemistry 1A (Special Studies Program)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial per week and one 3 hour practical per week for 11 weeks. Prohibitions: CHEM1001 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1901 or CHEM1909 or CHEM1109 Assumed knowledge: 90 or above in HSC Chemistry or equivalent Assessment: Theory examination (60%), laboratory work (15%), online assignment (10%) and continuous assessment quizzes (15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Entry to Chemistry 1A (Special Studies Program) is restricted to students with an excellent school record in Chemistry. The practical work syllabus for Chemistry 1A (Special Studies Program) is very different from that for Chemistry 1A and Chemistry 1A (Advanced) and consists of special project-based laboratory exercises. All other unit of study details are the same as those for Chemistry 1A (Advanced). A Distinction in Chemistry 1A (Special Studies Program) is an acceptable prerequisite for entry into Chemistry 1B (Special Studies Program).
Textbooks
A booklist is available from the First Year Chemistry website. http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/firstyear
CHEM1002 Fundamentals of Chemistry 1B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week; one 3 hour practical per week for 9 weeks. Prerequisites: CHEM1001 or CHEM1101 Prohibitions: CHEM1102 or CHEM1902 or CHEM1904 or CHEM1108 Assessment: Theory examination (55%), laboratory work (15%), online assignments (20%) and continuous assessment quizzes (10%) Practical field work: A series of 9 three-hour laboratory sessions, one per week for 9 weeks of the semester. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
CHEM1002 builds on CHEM1001 to provide a sound coverage of inorganic and organic chemistry. Lectures: A series of 39 lectures, three per week throughout the semester.
Textbooks
A booklist is available from the First Year Chemistry website. http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/firstyear
or
CHEM1102 Chemistry 1B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 1,Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: One 3 hour lecture and 1 hour tutorial per week; one 3 hour practical per week for 9 weeks. Prerequisites: CHEM1101 or CHEM1901, or a Distinction in CHEM1001 Prohibitions: CHEM1002 or CHEM1902 or CHEM1904 or CHEM1108 Assessment: Theory examination (55%), laboratory work (15%), online assignments (20%) and continuous assessment quizzes (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Chemistry 1B is built on a satisfactory prior knowledge of Chemistry 1A and covers inorganic and organic chemistry. Successful completion of Chemistry 1B is an acceptable prerequisite for entry into Intermediate Chemistry units of study. Lectures: A series of 39 lectures, three per week throughout the semester.
Textbooks
A booklist is available from the First Year Chemistry website. http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/firstyear
or
CHEM1902 Chemistry 1B (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three 1-hour lectures and one 1-hour tutorial per week; one 3-hour practical per week for 9 weeks. Prerequisites: CHEM1901 OR CHEM1903 OR (75 or above in CHEM1101) Prohibitions: CHEM1002 or CHEM1102 or CHEM1904 or CHEM1108 Assessment: Theory examination (55%), laboratory work (15%), online assignments (20%) and continuous assessment quizzes (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Chemistry 1B (Advanced) is built on a satisfactory prior knowledge of Chemistry 1A (Advanced) and covers inorganic and organic chemistry. Successful completion of Chemistry 1B (Advanced) is an acceptable prerequisite for entry into Intermediate Chemistry units of study. Lectures: A series of about 39 lectures, three per week throughout the semester.
Textbooks
A booklist is available from the First Year Chemistry website. http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/firstyear
or
CHEM1904 Chemistry 1B (Special Studies Program)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Toby Hudson Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3x1-hour lectures, 1x1-hour tutorial per week, 1x3-hour practical per week for 12 weeks. Prerequisites: 75 or above in CHEM1903 Prohibitions: CHEM1002 or CHEM1102 or CHEM1902 or CHEM1108 Assessment: Theory examination (55%), laboratory work (15%), online assignments (20%) and continuous assessment quizzes (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Entry is by invitation. This unit of study is deemed to be an Advanced unit of study.
Entry to Chemistry 1B (Special Studies Program) is restricted to students who have gained a Distinction in Chemistry 1A (Special Studies Program) or by invitation. The practical work syllabus for Chemistry 1B (Special Studies Program) is very different from that for Chemistry 1B and Chemistry 1B (Advanced) and consists of special project-based laboratory exercises. All other unit of study details are the same as those for Chemistry 1B (Advanced). Successful completion of Chemistry 1B (Special Studies Program) is an acceptable prerequisite for entry into Intermediate Chemistry units of study.
Textbooks
A booklist is available from the First Year Chemistry website. http://sydney.edu.au/science/chemistry/firstyear
ENVX1002 Introduction to Statistical Methods

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Thomas Bishop Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1 hr lectures/wk, 1x1 hr tutorial/wk, 1x2 hr computer practical/wk Prohibitions: ENVX1001 Assessment: 1 × Exam during the Exam period (50%), 2 × Practical Tests (10% each), 2 × Assessment Tasks (10% each) and 8 Online Quizzes (1.25% each). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This is a core first year unit for the BEnvSys, BScAgr, BFoodAgrib, BVetBiol and BAnVetBioSc degrees. It provides the foundation quantitative and statistical skills that are needed in other units in the degrees and for further study in applied statistics. In the first portion of the unit the emphasis is on the role of statistics in scientific research, describing data and its variability, and probability. In the second part the focus is on sample designs and framing scientific hypotheses; estimating a single treatment mean via a confidence interval and testing for a particular mean via a z-test or t-test; estimating or testing the difference between two treatment means. The final part of the unit is on the use of calculus for modelling biological and environmental data, for example the use of linear and non-linear functions. In the practicals the emphasis is on applying theory to analysing real datasets using the spreadsheet package Excel and the statistical package Genstat.
Textbooks
Recommended readings: -Mead R, Curnow RN, Hasted AM (2002) 'Statistical methods in agriculture and experimental biology.' (Chapman & Hall: Boca Raton). -Quinn GP, Keough MJ (2002) 'Experimental design and data analysis for biologists.' (Cambridge University Press: Cambridge, UK).
VETS1018 Animal Bioscience

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Paul Sheehy Session: Semester 2 Classes: 33 hours of lectures per semester, 9 hours of practicals per semester, 1 hour tutorial per semester Prerequisites: 6cp from (VETS1032, BIOL1XXX) Assessment: Group Learning Activity (15%), Mid Semester Exam (25%), Final exam (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The interaction of organic molecules, facilitated by cellular structure and driven by the ability to harness energy from the environment, constitutes the basis of life. The co-ordination and facilitation of these events is due primarily to proteins, which fulfill a variety of roles including the catalysis of chemical reactions (enzymes), as cell structural components and in the transport of signals and solutes. The blueprints for the myriad of protein structures and hence cellular function are stored in the cell nucleus in the form of DNA, as a series of information-carrying segments, or genes.
It is the co-ordinated expression of these genes and the mechanisms that enable the genetic code to be read and interpreted which form the basis of Cell Biology 1B. Of similar importance are the processes of DNA copying for the duplication of cells (mitosis/meiosis) and how these processes may be manipulated to diagnose or alleviate disease (recombinant DNA technology, DNA diagnosis, molecular immunology, cancer etc).
To gain an understanding of the underlying cellular and biochemical principles of disease, therapy and performance of animals and to depict the relevance of these fundamental cellular processes in an applied veterinary and animal science context is also a major goal of Cell Biology 1B.
Textbooks
VETS1018 Animal Bioscience Unit of Study Guide and Practical manual

Year 2

Year 2 has the following 48 credit point structure:
AGEC1006 Economic Environment of Agriculture

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x1hr lectures/week, 1x1hr tutorial/week Prohibitions: AGEC1003 or AGEC1004 Assumed knowledge: HSC Mathematics Assessment: 1x2hr exam (55%) and 1x50 min mid-semester exam (25%) and workshop papers (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is designed to give an understanding of some basic economic principles and to introduce the characteristics of the economic environment in which Australian agriculture operates. Topics to be covered include the structure, nature and history of the agricultural industries in Australia; agricultural adjustment in the world economy; introductory principles of production economics and farm management; elementary price theory and the factors affecting the demand, supply and prices of agricultural commodities.
Textbooks
HE Drummond and JW Goodwin, Agricultural Economics, 3rd edn (Prentice-Hall, 2011)
ANSC2005 Australia's Biodiversity in a Changing Envrmnt

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Catherine Herbert Session: Semester 2 Classes: Variable: Lectures 3hr/week, Tutorials/practicals: up to 3hr/week (consult timetable) Prerequisites: 12cp from BIOL1XXX and 6cp from AGEN1001 and 6cp from (GENE2001, GENE2002) Prohibitions: ANSC2004 or VETS2015 Assumed knowledge: Basic anatomy and physiology Assessment: Group and individual assignments (50%); Final exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The unit of study examines the diversity of wild vertebrates in Australia and how they have adapted anatomically, physiologically and behaviorally to the various challenges of Australia¿s diverse environments. We will also explore how these vertebrate species are being impacted by the changing environment with special reference to the impact of invasive animals, the development of transportation infrastructure, urbanization, mining, climate change, emerging infectious diseases and globalization. A strong emphasis will be placed on the one health concept of the interrelatedness of biodiversity to ecosystem, conservation, human-wildlife interactions and human health. Finally this unit of study will demonstrate how traditional, multidisciplinary and novel approaches are being applied to unravel the secrets of these species that will enable better management and conservation actions.
Textbooks
Please contact the lecturer for recommended reading
ENVX2001 Applied Statistical Methods

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Thomas Bishop (Coordinator), A/Prof Willem Vervoort, A/Prof Peter Thomson Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1 hr lectures/wk, 1x1 hr tutorial/wk, 1x2 hr computer practical/wk Prerequisites: ENVX1001 or ENVX1002 or BIOM1003 or MATH1011 or MATH1015 Assessment: 1 × Exam during the Exam period (50%), 2 × Practical Tests (2x10%), 2 × Assessment Tasks (2x10%) and 8 Online Quizzes (8x1.25%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is a core 2nd year unit for students in the BEnvSys, BScAgr and BAVBSc degrees. It consists of two parts. In the first part students will learn the basics of experimental design and investigate how to use an ANOVA to analyse experiments with more than 2 treatment levels, multiple factors and different blocking designs. In the second part an introduction to a branch of mathematics called linear algebra is given with an emphasis on the applications to statistics and modelling. In this part the students will learn to model relationships between response and predictor variables using regression, and find patterns in datasets with many variables using principal components. During the practicals two software packages; Genstat and Excel, will be used to analyse real datasets. At the end of this unit, students will have learnt how to design and experiment and how to analyse data using ANOVA, regression and principal components, the basic methods needed for their future studies and careers.
Textbooks
No textbooks are recommended but useful reference books are:
GENE2002 Veterinary and Agricultural Genetics 2

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Peter Sharp Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3 lec/wk, 3 prac/fortnightly and 1 tut/fortnightly Prerequisites: 6cp from (VETS1018, BIOL1XXX (except BIOL1XX3)) Prohibitions: GENE2001 Assumed knowledge: Knowledge of biology, chemistry and statistics from, or equivalent to that in, the 1st year Units of Study in the degrees in which this Unit is available. Assessment: 1x 2hr final exam (60%), 4x on-line quizzes (10%), assignment(s) (30%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study provides an introduction to the genetics and breeding of plants and animals, especially domesticated or managed "wild" species and populations. It provides an understanding for parallel and following courses. Lectures cover the basics of gene transmission and interaction, cytogenetics, molecular genetics, genomics, population and quantitative genetics, as well as the more applied aspects of plant and animal breeding and biotechnology. Practicals and tutorials emphasize, with agricultural (plant and animal), and veterinary examples, the procedures of genetic and cytogenetic analysis. Computer simulation is used to illustrate the principles of population genetics, quantitative inheritance and selection programs. The unit of study also provides exposure to current plant and animal breeding and biotechnology practices and creates awareness of ethical issues relating to these developments.
Textbooks
Essential Cell Biology - Bruce Alberts, Dennis Bray, Karen Hopkin, Alexander D Johnson, Julian Lewis, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter, Edition: 4th Garland Science, Introduction to Veterinary Genetics, 3rd Edition, Frank W. Nicholas, ©2010, Wiley-Blackwell
ANSC3103 Animal Structure and Function 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: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, VETS1032, AGEN2001) Assumed knowledge: AVBS1002 Assessment: assignments/online quiz and examinations 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, urinary and 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 that will be further developed in Veterinary Pathogenesis as well as in advanced, applied studies in Behaviour in third year and in 4th year Animal Production.
Textbooks
For the animal structure component of the unit: Dyce, KM, Sack, WO & Wensing, CJG 2002, Textbook of veterinary anatomy, 3rd edn, W.B.Saunders, Philadelphia
ANSC3104 Animal Structure and Function 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/week, activities will vary on a weekly basis Prerequisites: ANSC3103 Assessment: Anatomy dissection project (25%), critical review (25%), 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 ANSC3103. 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 third year Units of Study in Animal Health and Disease and Animal Reproduction. 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
AVBS2001 Introductory Veterinary Pathogenesis

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Damien Higgins Session: Semester 2 Classes: 6 hrs/week (lectures and practicals) Prerequisites: 12cp from BIOL1XXX and 6cp from ANSC3103 Corequisites: ANSC3104 Assumed knowledge: (CHEM1101 or CHEM1001 or CHEM1901) and (CHEM1102 or CHEM1002 or CHEM1902) Assessment: Prac class exercises (15%), mid-semester exam (20%), practical exam (15%), written exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The overarching theme for this unit of study is the concept of the interaction between the host (or the animal), the agent of disease (genetics, physical, chemical and infectious agents) and environmental factors. In disease states, the host responds to the aetiological agent of disease and the environment through one of the basic five pathological processes that occur in tissues. These include inflammation and repair, degeneration and necrosis, circulatory disturbances, tissue deposits and pigments, and disorders of growth. A case based approach will be used whenever possible to illustrate these principles and enable the student to develop a problem solving approach and the skills of critical thinking.
Textbooks
McGavin, MD & Zachary JF 2007, Pathologic Basis of Disease 4th ed., Mosby
VETS1032 Animal Energetics and Homeostasis

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Paul Sheehy Session: Semester 1 Classes: 39 hours of lectures per semester, 7 hrs of practicals per semester, 4 hours of tutorials per semester Assumed knowledge: HSC level chemistry and/or biology would be an advantage Assessment: intra-semester: 1 x exam (25%) end of semester: 1 x 2 hr written exam (60%) other: 1 x Cytology Group Learning Exercise (15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit will further develop student's understanding of animal cells and how they interact in whole animals and how energy from food is used to facilitate cellular function. Further investigation of cellular structure that facilitates this function will form as an introduction to the focus of the unit which is to develop understanding of metabolism in cells and whole animals. An introduction to the contribution of the endocrine system to homeostasis of animals via their effects on animal metabolism and physiology will also be described. An understanding of commonly occurring disturbances to the production or action of hormones will be developed with clinical material being used to illustrate normal structure and function. The ultimate objective of this unit is to enable students to utilise biochemical, observational and animal pathology to propose the underlying basis of metabolic or other non-infectious disease and consider opportunities for intervention to restore homeostasis.
Textbooks
VETS1032 Animal Energetics and Homeostasis of Study Guide and practical class manual

Year 3

Year 3 has the following 48 credit point structure:

Core

All students complete:
AVBS3000 Professional Development

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 6 preparatory workshops/seminars (throughout years 1-3), 4x1 hour industry seminars for case studies (year 3) Assessment: professional experience reports (65%), case studies (20%), essay on current animal issues (15%) Practical field work: 60 days of professional work experience to be completed by the commencement of fourth year Mode of delivery: Professional practice
Students are required to undertake professional development in University vacations as an integral and essential part of their overall training in the degree of Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience. Students will complete 60 days of professional work experience throughout their program by the commencement of fourth year, including a minimum of 20 days spent on commercial animal production enterprises. Students will visit at least two different farming enterprises in the major and emerging animal production industries. The remaining 40 days will include at least one placement with an animal-related business or service provider, and experience in either a scientific research organisation or short scientific volunteer position. Students will undertake additional placements at relevant animal or animal-related businesses, farms or organisations as required to complete 60 days. A professional consultant-style report must be submitted after each placement. Seminars to promote awareness of career options and current issues in animal science will be provided on a regular basis by past graduates and other professionals working in the animal industries. Students are encouraged to attend as many of these as possible throughout their degree program, and are required to submit four case studies based on material presented in these seminars. Attendance at seminars is compulsory during third year. Students will also submit an essay on a current issue in the animal science area of their choice.
Textbooks
On-line resource material will be available
The core 24 credit points for each major are listed in the relevent table. Core units may be taken in either Year 3 or Year 4 depending on prerequisite requirements.
One major may be taken in:
* Animal Genetics and Biotechnology (see list of required core units of study in Table 1)
* Animal Health and Disease (see list of required core units of study in Table 2)
* Animal Production Systems (see list of required core units of study in Table 3)
* Wildlife Conservation (see list of required core units of study in Table 4)

Elective units

Enrolment in elective units is subject to prerequisite and corequisite requirements, prohibitions and timetabling constraints. Special permission may be required to enrol in some units.
AGCH3025 Chemistry and Biochemistry of Foods

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Thomas Roberts (Coordinator), Prof Les Copeland Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1-hr lectures/week, 1x4-hr practical fortnightly Prohibitions: AFNR5102 or AGCH3017 or AGCH3024 Assumed knowledge: 6 credit points of Intermediate Biochemistry or Chemistry Assessment: 1x2hr exam (40%) and 6 x lab reports (6x10%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study aims to give students an understanding of the properties of food constituents, and the interactions between these constituents during food processing, storage and digestion. The unit will develop an understanding of the relationship between form and functionality of constituents and the concept of fitness-for-purpose (i.e., quality) in converting agricultural products into foods. Students will gain an appreciation of the relationship between chemical composition and properties of macroconstituents (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids) and microconstituents (vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, flavour and anti-nutritional chemicals) and their functions in plant- and animal-based foods. The material presented in lectures and practical classes will enable students to develop research and inquiry skills and an analytical approach in understanding the biochemistry of foods, food processing and storage. On completing this unit, students will be able to describe the chemical and biochemical properties of major food constituents, and demonstrate an understanding of the functionality of these constituents in food processing and nutrition. Students will have gained experience in laboratory techniques used in industry for the analysis of some food products, and information literacy and communication skills from the preparation of practical reports.
Textbooks
Lecture and laboratory notes will be made available through Blackboard. There is no recommended textbook.
AGCH3033 Environmental Chemistry

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr. Feike Dijkstra (Coordinator); Prof. Balwant Singh; A/Prof. Michael Kertesz Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lec & 3hr prac/wk Prerequisites: 12 cp Junior Chemistry (CHEM1001 or CHEM1101 or CHEM1901) and (CHEM1002 or CHEM1102 or CHEM1902 or AGEN1006) Prohibitions: CHEM2404 Assumed knowledge: SOIL2003 and LWSC2002 Assessment: Research Proposal (35%), Prac Reports (50%), Presentation and Peer Review (15%) Practical field work: Practical reports and essay writing. Preparation reading for practical or field trips, preparation for group presentation, exam preparation. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This course provides basic concepts in environmental chemistry underpinning many of the environmental problems humans are faced with, with a focus on agricultural and natural ecosystems.

AGCH3033 is a core unit for the BEnvSys degree and an elective unit suitable for the BScAgr, BResEc and BAnVetBioSc degrees, building on intermediate units in chemistry and biology.
Sources, reactions and fate of chemical species will be investigated in air, water, soil and biota. Case studies about human impacts on the environment will be integrated in the lectures, laboratory classes and field trip.
At the end students have an understanding of chemical concepts that are at the root of many environmental problems in agricultural and natural ecosystems. This unit will provide students with tools to identify and assess the chemistry behind environmental problems and will guide students in developing methods to manage these problems.
Students will enhance their skills in problem definition, assessing sources of information, team-work and effectively communicating environmental issues from a chemical perspective through laboratory reports and oral presentation.
Textbooks
Reference Books: Andrews et al. 2004. An Introduction to Environmental Chemistry.
AGEC2102 Agribusiness Marketing

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1hr lectures/week, 1x1hr tutorial/week Prerequisites: AGEC1006 or AGEC1102 or RSEC1031 Assessment: Group presentation (15%), 1x2000wd case study (25%), and 1x2hr exam (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is designed to provide an introductory understanding of agribusiness marketing in a modern context. The unit will provide students in the Sciences degrees with an understanding of how the economic theory taught in first year in AGEC1006 can be treated in an applied context. For BAgrEc students, it is an intermediate level unit in the Agribusiness major.
Students will study the theory relating to the firm-level marketing mix and marketing strategy. The emphasis will be on the organisation and trends of agribusiness marketing including value-adding and market power in the supply chain, market efficiency and international marketing by agribusiness firms.
The unit content is analytical, and draws on applied microeconomics to demonstrate how marketing decisions are made along the marketing chain. At the end of this unit students will be able to use marketing theory to analyse the steps in the marketing chain and be aware of the forces for change within that chain.
By completing this unit, students should have improved their ability to master key theories, identify and frame problems, organise knowledge, carry out individual and group research, and synthesise information. They should also have improved their information literacy skills, and communication skills through group presentations and individual research.
ANSC3105 Animal Biotechnology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc. Prof. Peter Williamson Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures 3hrs/wk; Tutorials 1hr/wk, Practicals 2-3hr/wk(x7) Assessment: Practicals and quizzes (30%) Essay and seminars (30%) 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 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.
ANSC3107 Animal Genetics 3

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Claire Wade Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 hrs of classes per week where there are no on-line modules, 2hrs/wk practicals. 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. Prerequisites: GENE2001 or GENE2002 or MBLG2072 or MBLG2972 Assessment: Practicals with associated reports and on-line quizzes (25%), Mid Semester on-line examination (25%), Final Examination (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Animal Genetics ANSC3107 is an exciting course that explores the technologies used by geneticists in practical situations involving domestic animals. We will expand on concepts learned in GENE2001 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:
AREC3001 Production Modelling and Management

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x2hr lecture/week, 1x1hr tutorial/week Prerequisites: AREC2001 or AGEC2103 or ECOS2001 or ECOS2901 Assessment: 1x2hr Final Exam (60%), 1x50min Mid-semester Test (15%), 1x1500wd Assignment (25%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit builds on the principles of biological production economics and introduces optimisation methods to solve decision making problems encountered by agribusiness and natural resource firms and managers in public agencies. The principle focus is on the application of linear programming techniques, and students learn to consider solving decision making problems where the outcomes are not known with certainty, and where the timing of decisions is of essence.
AREC3002 Agricultural Markets

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x2hr lecture/week, 1x1hr tutorial/week Prerequisites: AREC2001 or AGEC2103 or ECOS2001 or ECOS2901 Assessment: 1000wd equivalent problem sets (30%), 1x1500wd essay (30%), 1x2hr final exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is designed to provide an understanding of the underlying forces driving agricultural markets. It addresses price analysis and efficiency, including aspects of form, time and space in agricultural marketing; information and contracts; changing consumer concerns (food safety, ethical production); futures market and other risk sharing devices. Building on the application of microeconomic theory to both production and consumption in agricultural markets, its content is analytical. The unit also investigates some of the forces which prevent the efficient operation of world agricultural markets, including impediments to trade, imperfect markets for inputs and outputs and market power along the agricultural supply chain.
AVBS3001 Agents of Disease

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Gary Muscatello Session: Semester 1 Classes: lectures 3hrs/wk, laboratories/tutorials 2hrs/wk, group work 1hr/wk Prerequisites: AVBS2001 Assumed knowledge: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-2 Assessment: 1500wd individual review (25%), 1000wd scenario-based group assignment (15%), 2hr exam (50%), MCQ (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The aim of this unit is to examine and appreciate the diversity of various disease causing agents (microbiological and parasitological) of significance to animal industries and the various strategies employed by those agents in the host-pathogen-environment interaction. This study is based on an understanding of the physical, chemical and genetic characteristics of infectious agents of disease and builds on the pathological and immunological processes taught in AVBS2001 Introductory Veterinary Pathogenesis. A scenario/case based approach will be used whenever possible to enable the students to develop problem solving approaches and skills in critical thinking. Cases selected will be those that best illustrate particular concepts and/or are of particular significance to the animal/veterinary industry. Research and industry focus activities will infuse the subject content and student learning outcomes of this unit. This unit is located at the Camperdown campus.
Textbooks
A unit of study handbook and CE6 e-learning site will contain detailed information and notes for this unit.
AVBS3002 Laboratory Disease Investigation

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc Prof Jan Slapeta Session: Semester 2 Classes: lectures 2 hrs/wk, laboratories/tutorials 4 hrs/wk (note these will vary depending upon the week) Prerequisites: AVBS2001 and AVBS3001 Assumed knowledge: 6cp from CHEM1XX1 and 6cp from CHEM1XX2 and 12cp from BIOL1XXX and 6cp from ANSC3103 and 6cp from ANSC3104 and 6cp from (BIOM2001, ENVX2001) Assessment: assignments (60%), quiz (15%), theory exam (25%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The aim of this unit is to develop an investigative approach and familiarity with laboratory techniques, ethics and safety in preparation for honours or postgraduate training in disease research or disease investigation. Students will work through actual disease research or investigation scenarios via directed and self-directed, individual and group tasks.
Textbooks
There is no set text for this unit. Students will use primary literature and source various library texts as required for their investigations.
AVBS3003 Wildlife Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Catherine Herbert Session: Semester 1 Classes: Variable: Lectures 3hr/week, Tutorials 2hr/week on average (consult timetable) Prerequisites: 24 credit points from second year core units of study Assumed knowledge: All core Units of Study in Year 1 and 2 of BAnVetBioSc degree Assessment: Group assignment (20%); individual assignments and tutorial participation (40%); Final exam (40%) Practical field work: Up to 2 days of field excursions Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study describes and evaluates key contemporary challenges faced by wildlife management professionals and conservation biologists. A key component of the course is to give students an appreciation of different stakeholder perspectives in wildlife management and how rigorous scientific method can be used to inform wildlife management decisions, using contemporary examples. This unit of study also explores the techniques and methods for undertaking wildlife research, with an emphasis on terrestrial vertebrate species. On completion of this unit, students will have experience in articulating and acknowledging various stakeholder views, both orally and in written form, and understand the processes involved in formulating an evidence-based management approach to contentious wildlife management scenarios.
Textbooks
Students should consult lecturers for recommended reading
BIOL3007 Ecology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dieter Hochuli Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: 12 credit points of Intermediate BIOL, or (6 credit points of Intermediate BIOL and (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3907 Assessment: One 2-hour exam, group presentations, one essay, one project report (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit explores the dynamics of ecological systems, and considers the interactions between individual organisms and populations, organisms and the environment, and ecological processes. Lectures are grouped around four dominant themes: Interactions, Evolutionary Ecology, The Nature of Communities, and Conservation and Management. Emphasis is placed throughout on the importance of quantitative methods in ecology, including sound planning and experimental designs, and on the role of ecological science in the conservation, management, exploitation and control of populations. Relevant case studies and examples of ecological processes are drawn from marine, freshwater and terrestrial systems, with plants, animals, fungi and other life forms considered as required. Students will have some opportunity to undertake short term ecological projects, and to take part in discussions of important and emerging ideas in the ecological literature.
Textbooks
Begon M, Townsend CR, Harper JL (2005) Ecology, From individuals to ecosystems. Wiley-Blackwell.
BIOL3010 Tropical Wildlife Biology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Matthew Greenless Session: Intensive February Classes: One week intensive field trip to the Northern Territory plus one week intensive lecture and prac session at Sydney University. Prerequisites: 12 credit points of Intermediate BIOL, or (6 credit points of Intermediate BIOL and (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3910 or BIOL2010 or BIOL2910 Assessment: One 2-hour theory exam, one 1-hour practical exam, one 1500-word report, one 2000-word paper, one 15-minute oral presentation (100%). Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: This unit runs in February. It cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any senior BIOL units of study may also be considered. The unit is only available in ODD years (2017, 2019) but students may apply for entry into an alternative Intermediate field unit in EVEN years.
Australia has a unique terrestrial vertebrate fauna, but also has the worst record of recent mammalian extinctions. Because of Australia's unusual climate, landforms, and the rarity of many species, the management of our native wildlife presents special challenges for biologists, conservationists and land managers. This unit of study addresses the biogeography, ecology and management of Australia's terrestrial fauna. The subject comprises of a five-day field course at Mary River Park in the Northern Territory. During the course, students will learn how to carry out wildlife surveys, how to identify animals, how to track wildlife, and how to design and complete a field experiment. The field trip will be complemented by guest lectures from experts in the fields of evolution, ecology and wildlife management. A one day field trip to Litchfield National Park will be held on the last day of the field course.
BIOL3013 Marine Biology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Will Figueira Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures and one 4-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: 12 credit points of Intermediate BIOL, or (6 credit points of Intermediate BIOL and (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3913 Assessment: Practical reports, data exercises and exams (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
We will examine in detail processes that are important for the establishment and maintenance of marine communities. Lectures will expose students to the key ideas, researchers and methodologies within selected fields of marine biology. Laboratory sessions and field excursions will complement the lectures by providing students with hands-on experience with the organisms and the processes that affect them. Students will develop critical analysis and scientific writing skills while examining the current literature.
BIOL3018 Gene Technology and Genomics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Mary Byrne Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972) and 6 credit points from (MBLG2071 or MBLG2971 or BIOL2XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL3918 Assessment: One 2-hour exam (60%), assignments (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
A unit of study with lectures, practicals and tutorials on the application of recombinant DNA technology and the genetic manipulation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Lectures cover the applications of molecular genetics in biotechnology and consider the regulation, impact and implications of genetic engineering and genomics. Topics include biological sequence data and databases, comparative genomics, the cloning and expression of foreign genes in bacteria, yeast, animal and plant cells, novel human and animal therapeutics and vaccines, new diagnostic techniques for human and veterinary disease, and the genetic engineering of animals and plants. Practical work may include nucleic acid isolation and manipulation, gene cloning and PCR amplification, DNA sequencing and bioinformatics, immunological detection of proteins, and the genetic transformation and assay of plants.
ENTO2001 Introductory Entomology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Tanya Latty Session: Semester 2 Classes: (2x1hour lecture, 1x3hour practical, 1x1hour insect collection)/week, commencing week 1. Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, AGEN1004) Assessment: 1 x 2hr exam (20%), 2 x lab quizzes (20%), 1 x insect collection (40%), group project (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit is an introduction to insects, the most abundant group of organisms. The course explores insect biodiversity, evolution, phsyiology, anatomy and ecology. Real world examples are used to demonstrate the ecological roles insects play in natural and agricultural ecosystems (e.g. pollinators, herbivores, predators, parasitoids, disease vectors). This knowledge is then linked to aspects of applied entomology: integrated pest management, bioinspired technologies, medical entomology and insect conservation. Practical sessions focus on insect morphology and taxonomy, so that students learn to identify common insect orders and families. Students must make a representative insect collection. This course forms the basis of students' entomological knowledge for BScAgr and BHortSc degrees and lays the foundation for future study in entomology.
Textbooks
Recommended: Gullan, P.J. & Cranston, P.S. 2005. The Insects: an outline of entomology. 3rd edition, Blackwell Publishing, Malden, MA. 505 pp.
ENVX3002 Statistics in the Natural Sciences

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Thomas Bishop (Coordinator), Dr Floris Van Ogtrop (Coordinator). A/Prof Peter Thompson Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x2 hr workshop/wk, 1x3 hr computer practical/wk Prerequisites: ENVX2001 or BIOM2001 or STAT2012 or STAT2912 or BIOL2022 or BIOL2922 Assessment: 1 × Exam during the Exam period (50%), 5 × Assessment Tasks (5x10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is designed to introduce students to the analysis of data they may face in their future careers, in particular data that are not well behaved, they may be non-normal, there may be missing observations or they may be correlated in space and time. In the first part, students will learn how to analyse and design experiments based on the general linear model. In the second part, they will learn about the generalisation of the general linear model to accommodate non-normal data with a particular emphasis on the binomial and poisson distributions, in addition to modelling non-linear relationships. In the third part linear mixed models will be introduced which provide the means to analyse datasets that do not meet the assumptions of independent and equal errors, for example data that is correlated in space and time. At the end of this unit, students will have learnt a range of advanced statistical methods and be equipped to apply this knowledge to analyse data that they may encounter in their future studies and careers.
Textbooks
Recommended readings:

Year 4

Coursework

Enrolment in elective units is subject to prerequisite and corequisite requirements, prohibitions and timetabling constraints.
AGRO4005 Livestock Production Systems

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Professor Luciano A. Gonzalez Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 x 3hr lecture followed by 1 x 3hr practical per week at Camden Campus Prerequisites: 6cp from BIOL1XXX Assumed knowledge: Junior plant and animal biology (or equivalent), junior chemistry biology, intermediate crop and animal production, nutrition and physiology (or equivalent). Assessment: Mid-term exam (15%), final exam (30%), practical reports (10%), case study assignment (40%), seminar presentation (5%). Practical field work: Farm consultancy case study, computer lab and field Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit examines livestock production following a whole system approach by integrating animals, vegetation, environment (soil, water, air and climate) and management, and analysing the interactions between them. The unit builds on principles delivered in core (AGEN1001, AGEN1004 and AGEN2006) and elective (ANSC3101, AVBS4012) units of study for those students interested in pursuing a career in Animal Science. The focus of this unit is on farm business planning and consulting for beef cattle and sheep. Particularities and commonalities of these livestock systems will be presented.
The pasture/grassland section examines the relationship between livestock production, forage quality and quantity in both native and sown pastures, impact of weeds, and grazing management. Interactions between climate, forage and animal production are also addressed. The animal component of this unit integrates concepts in grazing ecology, nutrition, reproduction, animal behaviour and welfare, and economics to develop skills in managing the production process for improved productivity, production efficiency and environmental stewardship. A special characteristic of this unit is the strong focus on simulation models, decision support systems, and new technologies. Computer-based and field classes will provide direct experience in business management of livestock production systems and skills in record keeping and data handling. Students completing this unit will acquire skills to examine and manage livestock enterprises following a whole-system approach required in roles as consultants, advisors or managers of sustainable livestock enterprises.
AGRO4006 New and Emerging Tech in Animal Science

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Luciano Gonzalez Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1 x 3hr lecture followed by 1 x 3hr practical per week at Camden Campus (practicals include demonstraton and hands-on with remote sensing, recording and ICT technologies) Prerequisites: 6cp from BIOL1XXX Assessment: 1x mid-semester exam (15%), 1x 2 hr final exam (30%), Assignments (40%), Practical reports (computer labs and field classes, 15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is designed to provide students with an advanced understanding of new and emerging livestock technologies in Australia and overseas. Examples of these technologies include (1) next-generation infrared and laser scanning to determine physiological status and whole body composition, (2) diet formulation to enhance the nutritional and eating quality of livestock food products, (3) new vaccines and other therapeutics to regulate fertility, growth and behaviour whilst enhancing welfare and wellbeing, (4) microRNA technology to influence cellular, endocrine and physiological processes, (5) new genomics and laboratory-based reproductive technologies for advanced livestock breeding, (6) technologies to monitor and control animal behaviour, (7) unmanned ground and aerial vehicles to monitor livestock and the environment, (8) sensors and advanced image-capture technology to record the attributes of soil, air and the feedbase, (9) data-fusion science to integrate, analyse and interpret collected data, and (10) modelling of livestock systems. Students will gain research and inquiry skills through research based group projects, information literacy and communication skills through on-line discussion postings, laboratory reports and presentations, and personal and intellectual autonomy through working in groups. At successful completion of the unit students will have a sound knowledge of new and emerging technologies that will shape the livestock industries in Australia and overseas. This will provide valuable grounding for students preparing for postgraduate study and other learning and career paths.
Textbooks
No prescribed text but referral to references listed from library
AGEN5001 Agricultural and Environmental Extension

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Peter Ampt Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1 lec/wk (2hr), 1 tut/wk (2 hr), 1 field (3 day) Assessment: 1500w essay (20%), Tutorial/workshop participation (30%), 3000w problem based learning project (30%), Field trip report (20%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study will develop knowledge, skills and understanding for engaging effectively with the people whose decisions shape innovation in agricultural production and environmental management. The role of extension in agricultural and environmental management is a crucial aspect of sustainability, as extension agents provide the main conduit between scientists, economists and policymakers and the people who live and work in the landscape.
It develops key graduate competencies in communication and soft systems for careers including consulting, agribusiness, agricultural extension, environmental management, policy, participatory research and natural resource management. It covers integrative aspects of extension theory and practice, social learning, sustainable agriculture, knowledge domains, participatory action research, human geography, soft systems thinking and adaptive natural resource management. It is relevant to students pursuing agricultural and environmental streams and majors at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Students will learn to: describe and discuss the theoretical and practical underpinnings of extension; describe and analyse factors influencing the behaviours, attitudes and beliefs of natural resource managers; discuss and design effective extension programs/projects; conduct, analyse and evaluate simple surveys, focus groups and semi-structured interviews; critically evaluate the integration of conservation and production in the landscape; facilitate sustainable change.
Textbooks
Recommended reading, Jennings, J., Packham R. and Woodside, D.(eds) (2001) Shaping Change APEN; Hay, I (2012) Communicating in Geography and the Environmental Sciences, Oxford
ANSC3106 Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science 3

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Greg Cronin Session: Semester 2 Classes: 6 hrs/wk (including lectures, demonstrations, discussions and practical activities); classes will be held at the Camden campus Prerequisites: AVBS1002 Assessment: assignments/presentations (50%), theory exam (50%) 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
Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science 3 builds on the understanding of animal form and operation that students have developed in prior Units. In Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science 3, 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.
Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science 3 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. Students are expected to be familiar with press articles and scientific papers on the topic of animal welfare and to contribute to classroom discussions.
Textbooks
The recommended textbook for the animal structure component of the unit is:
AVBS4001 Animal Health and Disease

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) Prerequisites: AVBS2001 and AVBS3001 Assessment: participation in field trips (pass/fail), assignments (60%), 2 hr exam (40%) Practical field work: 2 day overnight field trip to Arthursleigh, University of Sydney property 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 years, including AVBS2001 Introduction to Veterinary Pathogenesis and AVBS3001 Agents of disease. 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 field trip to Arthursleigh farm 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
AVBS4002 Dairy Production and Technology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: UoS Coordinator: Professor Sergio (Yani) Garcia; Participating Lecturers: A/Prof. Kendra Kerrisk, Dr Cameron Clark, Dr Nicolas Lyons, Dr Luke Ingenhoff, Dr Jennie Mohler, Juan Molfino, Dr Mark Hazelton Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures up to 3 hrs/wk, practicals 3 hrs/wk Assumed knowledge: Enrolled students are expected to have some understanding of key components of the dairy production system, including basic knowledge of animal physiology and nutrition. Assessment: Assignment (report or lit review) (30%), Pracs assessments, (30%), 1 hr exam (40%) 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
Students are advised to consult lecturers for recommended text, scientific and professional articles, technotes for advisors and industry-generated information for farmers
AVBS4003 Wildlife and Evolutionary Genetics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Jaime Gongora Session: Semester 2 Classes: Variable consisting of up to 6hrs/week (students advised to consult weekly timetable) of lectures, tutorials, computer simulations and practical classes. This unit will be taught at the Camperdown campus Assessment: written and oral assignment (30%), practical reports/class contribution (20%), final written exam (50%) Practical field work: Laboratory practicals, bioinformatic analyses and fieldtrip to a park in the Sydney or NSW areas Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study focuses on the role and animal and veterinary biosciences in the field of wildlife management management and diseases using project-based, open learning space and research-led teaching approaches. The unit encourages an approach that spans management, wildlife biology and laboratory sciences. In recognition of the power of genetics as a tool in wildlife management and research, a large component of this course reviews fundamental genetic, genomic and immunogenetic principals and their application to understanding, managing and conserving wildlife. This unit also covers themes in Indigenous knowledges related to animal management and conservation as well as cultural competence. At the end of this unit of study, students will demonstrate an understanding of: important issues in wildlife management in Australia and the Asia-pacific region; project management as it applies to multifaceted wildlife research and management issues; application of a range of genetic and physiological methods to the study of ecological issues; the use of appropriate analytical methods and molecular markers in wildlife conservation and management; the underlying genetic structural design of the natural world and how this reflects and influences evolutionary processes in healthy and diseased populations; the use of molecular information to test hypotheses about evolutionary, ecological and social structure of species; how to critically review the ways in which genetic principals are applied to the management and conservation of species; the use of appropriate analytical methods and molecular markers in wildlife conservation and management; how to conduct an investigation into a management problem in wildlife including project design and management recommendations. Students are expected to immerse themselves into the field of conservation, evolutionary genetics and wildlife to develop the ability to critically evaluate the subject. There will be a substantial amount of reading required for the course. There is no formal text; students will be directed to a recommended reading list of both primary and secondary literature.
Textbooks
Primary reading material (Journals):
AVBS4004 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 Prerequisites: AVBS3001 and AVBS4001 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
AVBS4005 Feed Technology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Cormac O¿Shea Session: Semester 1 Classes: lectures 3 hrs/wk Prerequisites: ANSC3101 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
AVBS4008 Intensive Animal Industries

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 6 hrs/wk Prerequisites: (Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3) OR (Bachelor of Science in Agriculture years 1-3) 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.
AVBS4009 Aquaculture

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Joy Becker Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures 2hrs/wk, tutorials 1hr/wk, practicals 3hrs/wk Prerequisites: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3 OR Bachelor of Science in Agriculture years 1-3 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 other units of study in BAnVetBioSc. 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.
AVBS4012 Extensive Animal Industries

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Russell Bush Session: Semester 1 Classes: lectures 3hrs/wk, practicals 3hrs/wk Prerequisites: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3 OR Bachelor of Science in Agriculture years 1-3 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 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.
AVBS4019 Equine Science and Industry

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Natasha Hamilton Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 day a week, varies Assessment: Assignments (60%), mid-semester and final examinations (40%) Practical field work: 2 offsite excursions to a racetrack and a commecrial horse stud Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This Unit of Study will give students wishing to work in the equine industries a strong scientifically based grounding in this field. The emphasis is on developing the students' basic knowledge of equine management, including day to day care, nutrition, reproduction, behaviour and training, and exercise physiology. Students will be introduced to the structure of equine industries in Australia, and basic horse handling and husbandry skills will be taught.
Textbooks
Equine Science, Pillner & Davies
BIOL3018 Gene Technology and Genomics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Mary Byrne Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972) and 6 credit points from (MBLG2071 or MBLG2971 or BIOL2XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL3918 Assessment: One 2-hour exam (60%), assignments (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
A unit of study with lectures, practicals and tutorials on the application of recombinant DNA technology and the genetic manipulation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Lectures cover the applications of molecular genetics in biotechnology and consider the regulation, impact and implications of genetic engineering and genomics. Topics include biological sequence data and databases, comparative genomics, the cloning and expression of foreign genes in bacteria, yeast, animal and plant cells, novel human and animal therapeutics and vaccines, new diagnostic techniques for human and veterinary disease, and the genetic engineering of animals and plants. Practical work may include nucleic acid isolation and manipulation, gene cloning and PCR amplification, DNA sequencing and bioinformatics, immunological detection of proteins, and the genetic transformation and assay of plants.
BIOM4003 Matrix Algebra and Linear Models

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Thomas Bishop (Coordinator), A/Prof Peter Thomson Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x3 hr workshop/wk, 3x1 day workshops (exam period) Prerequisites: ENVX3002 Assessment: 2 × Data Analysis Projects (50% each) Mode of delivery: Block mode
In order to obtain a deeper understanding of statistics it is necessary to learn more about matrices as used to develop and explain statistical and mathematical concepts. Matrices are not just used in statistics: they find use in mathematical models in biology (e.g. age structured population growth models), engineering (e.g. structural perturbation analysis), and economic models (e.g. decision analysis). There are three aims to this unit. Firstly, we will revise matrices learnt in earlier units and then introduce new concepts such as special matrices (symmetric, orthogonal, idempotent), rank, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, as well as some matrix and vector calculus. The second aim is to apply these techniques to the formulation of linear models and linear mixed models which have been introduced in earlier units. The underlying theory will be developed along with more advanced applications. The third aim is to provide an introduction to key application areas for the future; (i) the analysis of big datasets, ones with many predictor variables, and (ii) the analysis of spatial data. Furthermore, the students will be introduced to R, an open source statistical software package.
Textbooks
Textbooks: None. Many reference books such as:
GENE4015 Cytogenetics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Peter Sharp; animal component coordinator, Dr Jaime Gongora Session: Intensive July Classes: Equivalent of 2 lecture/tutorials & 3 practicals/week Prerequisites: (BIOM2001 or ENVX2001) and (GENE2001 or GENE2002) Assessment: 1x1500wd Essay (25%), 1x750wd Practical report (10%) and 1x1000wd Fact Sheet (15%) 1x1200wd Laboratory report (20%), 1x2000wd Assignment (30%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This is a final year elective in the two degrees, BScAgr, and BAnVetBiosci. Approximately a half of the face-to-face contact hours will be given as an intensive, and this section of the unit will be held during the mid-year break before semester 2. Lecture and practical work in cytogenetics, especially of plant and animal species of applied interest in plant agriculture, animal agriculture and other applied interest in animal genetics, such as companion, native and endangered species. The lecture component covers the molecular nature of chromosomes and their transmission, variation in chromosome behaviour, both normal and disease related. In addition, the uses of chromosome engineering to produce variation in plants and animals will also be covered. The practical component covers the technologies used to study chromosomes or both plants and animals, both mitotic and meiotic chromosomes, and molecular techniques such as in situ hybridisation, gene activity and chromosomal protein localisation. On completion, students will be able to apply cytogenetic knowledge and technologies to species of eukaryotes of economic significance, and know how cytogenetic processes have affected the development of these species.

Honours

Students in the Honours program enrol in 24 credit points of year 4 coursework units (including any major units), and the following four units of study:
AVBS4015 Research Project A1

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Muir Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Students must attend the compulsory course "Introduction to Animal Research (ITAR)" which is usually held in the week prior to the start of semester. There is no regular face-to-face teaching. The equivalent of 6 hours per week will be allocated from the course work timetable for research project activity. Relevant workshops, for example on scientific writing and statistical analysis will be completed during the sessions when the student is enrolled in AVBS4015, AVBS4016, AVBS4017 and AVBS4018. Prerequisites: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3. Students need to have obtained a second/third year WAM commensurate with obtaining honours; and must have the approval of the faculty to enrol. Corequisites: AVBS4016 and AVBS4017 and AVBS4018 Prohibitions: AVBS4013 or AVBS4014 Assessment: written preliminary research proposal, literature review on the research topic, oral presentation on the research proposal, oral presentation on the research at the end of the project, research capabilities, written manuscript (assessment tasks scheduled throughout the four units comprising Research Project A (AVBS4015, AVBS4016, AVBS4017, ABVS4018) with the final grade averaged over all four units) Practical field work: Dependent on the particular research project Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Research Project A is composed of 24 credit points and consists of units AVBS4015 (Research Project A1), AVBS4016 (Research Project A2), AVBS4017 (Research Project A3) and AVBS4018 (Research Project A4). The units need to be taken in chronological order, commencing with enrolment in unit AVBS4015, which must be completed in a semester prior to unit AVBS4018. All four units are connected to the overall completion of the research project. Prior to start of this unit of study, students after consultation with an academic(s) and/or researcher(s) choose an area of research interest and this will form the basis of the entire Research Project A program (24 credit points in total). In unit AVBS4015 students will be required to undertake assessment tasks and conduct research activities.
At the end of this Unit of Study, students will:
Identify a research area, define a problem that impacts on animals and analyse this problem using information from various sources; critically evaluate current research (experimental design, statistical analysis, technical limitations) and identify where the present knowledge limiting for the chosen research topic; assimilate and manage information from within and across disciples to provide new concepts or understanding in the area of research; become familiar with scientific principles of research and the ethical use of animals in research; undertake research related to the project; meet set assessment tasks designed to develop written and oral presentation skills; apply the range of interpersonal skills necessary to work with peers and other researchers; meet deadlines and maintain accurate records related to the project.
Textbooks
No textbooks are required
AVBS4016 Research Project A2

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Muir Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: There is no regular face-to-face teaching. The equivalent of 6 hours per week will be allocated from the course work timetable for research project activity. Relevant workshops, for example on scientific writing and statistical analysis will be completed during the sessions when the student is enrolled in AVBS4015, AVBS4016, AVBS4017 and AVBS4018. Prerequisites: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3. Students need to have obtained a second/third year WAM commensurate with obtaining honours; and must have the approval of the faculty to enrol. Corequisites: AVBS4015 and AVBS4017 and AVBS4018 Prohibitions: AVBS4013 or AVBS4014 Assessment: See AVBS4015 Practical field work: Dependent on the particular research project Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Students will actively work on the research projects identified at the start of unit AVBS4015. This is will include, where appropriate, undertaking animal and laboratory studies, collection and analysis of samples and data, recording of data, continue to evaluate information from various sources and meet set assessment deadlines.
See under AVBS4015 for further information.
AVBS4017 Research Project A3

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Muir Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: The equivalent of 6 hours per week will be allocated from the coursework timetable for research project activity. Relevant workshops, for example on scientific writing and statistical analysis will be completed during the sessions when the student is enrolled in AVBS4015, AVBS4016, AVBS4017 and AVBS4018 Prerequisites: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3. Students need to have obtained a second/third year WAM commensurate with obtaining honours; and must have the approval of the faculty to enrol. Corequisites: AVBS4015 and AVBS4016 and AVBS4018 Prohibitions: AVBS4013 or AVBS4014 Assessment: See AVBS4015 Practical field work: Dependent on the particular research project Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
See under AVBS4015 and AVBS4016.
AVBS4018 Research Project A4

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Muir Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: There is no regular face-to-face teaching. The equivalent of 6 hours per week will be allocated from the coursework timetable for research project activity. Relevant workshops, for example on scientific writing and statistical analysis will be completed during the sessions when the student is enrolled in AVBS4015, AVBS4016, AVBS4017 and AVBS4018. Prerequisites: Animal and Veterinary Bioscience years 1-3. Students need to have obtained a second/third year WAM commensurate with obtaining honours; and must have the approval of the faculty to enrol. Corequisites: AVBS4015 and AVBS4016 and AVBS4017 Prohibitions: AVBS4013 or AVBS4014 Assessment: See AVBS4015 Practical field work: Dependent on the particular research project Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
See under AVBS4015 and AVBS4016. Students must complete unit AVBS4018 in a separate semester to unit AVBS4015, and AVBS4015 must be completed prior to AVBS4018.