Outline

Overview

In this unit, the basic gross anatomy, histology (microscopic anatomy) and physiology of the integumentary, musculoskeletal, digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems of domestic mammals are considered. The dog is used as the main anatomical exemplar, although some comparative anatomical detail, particularly for the digestive system, is included. Clinical material is used both to illustrate normal structure and function, and to provide the anatomical, histological and physiological knowledge that underpins the clinical examination and investigative techniques of these systems, such as auscultation, palpation and haematology. The material in this unit will underpin the acquisition of relevant skills in the unit of study Professional Skills 1A. Examples of disease in animals created by structural abnormalities and dysfunction are used to illustrate the application of this knowledge. This unit will provide a thorough basis for more advanced applied, regional and comparative anatomical and physiological learning in later years of the DVM in paraclinical and clinical disciplines. The body systems studied in this unit provide a framework of the mammalian body that will be further developed in Foundations of Veterinary Science B.

Unit details and rules

Unit code	VETS6104
Academic unit	School of Veterinary Science Academic Operations
Credit points	12
Prohibitions ?	None
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	One semester of study in each of general chemistry (physical and inorganic), organic chemistry, biology and biochemistry
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Peter White (Vet Science), p.white@sydney.edu.au

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length
Supervised exam ?	End of semester exam - Theory Written Exam	50%	Formal exam period	2 hours
Outcomes assessed:
Participation	Active participation in all RLAs 100% participation with Required Learning Activities (RLAs)	0%	Ongoing	See Canvas
Outcomes assessed:
Small continuous assessment	In class test Written test	5%	Week 04	30 minutes
Outcomes assessed:
Assignment	Case Based Learning Report Report	10%	Week 07 Due date: 12 Apr 2024 at 23:00	2 pages Maximum
Outcomes assessed:
Supervised test ?	In semester test Written test	25%	Week 10 Due date: 02 May 2024 at 10:00	1 hour
Outcomes assessed:
Assignment	Histology Description Report	10%	Week 11 Due date: 10 May 2024 at 23:59	2 pages maximum
Outcomes assessed:

Assessment summary

One small in class quiz (5%) and one in semester test (25%) will be held in class time. Each test, which will cover all material taught in the unit up to the test time..
There is a final theory examination for the unit of study, which will cover the entire unit including practical class content. This will be a two-hour written exam worth 50% of the final mark.
Thereare two written assignments worth 10% each due during semester. More detaikls will be orovided in Canvas.
NOTE: If a second replacement final exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.

Note: A result >50% overall is required to pass this unit of study.

Note: In alignment with the DVM Attendance Provisions 2018 at the University of Sydney students are required to complete all Required Learning Activities (RLA’s) and assessment tasks as detailed in Canvas

Assessment criteria

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates a flair for the subject as well as a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates the ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding to produce original solutions for novel or highly complex problems and/or comprehensive critical discussions of theoretical concepts.
Distinction	75 - 84	At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the unit material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding of the subject to produce good solutions for challenging problems and/or a reasonably well-developed critical analysis of theoretical concepts.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad general understanding of the unit material and can solve routine problems and/or identify and superficially discuss theoretical concepts.
Pass	50 - 64	At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the unit material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory achievement and is awarded to a student who has threshold knowledge.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Late submission

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

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

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

In accordance with the University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date: 1) Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date. 2) After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

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

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

You may only use artificial intelligence and writing assistance tools in assessment tasks if you are permitted to by your unit coordinator, and if you do use them, you must also acknowledge this in your work, either in a footnote or an acknowledgement section.

Studiosity is permitted for postgraduate units unless otherwise indicated by the unit coordinator. The use of this service must be acknowledged in your submission.

Learning support

Simple extensions

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

Special consideration

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

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

Using AI responsibly

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

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy 2023 reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy 2023. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week -01	Introduction to anatomy 1	Lecture (1 hr)
Week -01	Introduction to anatomy 2	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 01	Bone structure/remodelling 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Muscle	Lecture (1 hr)
	Fundamentals of histology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Fundamentals of microscopy (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Epithelium	Lecture (1 hr)
	Extrinsic muscles of pectoral limb (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Bone structure/remodelling 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Epithelium (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Physiology. Introduction to homeostasis	Lecture (1 hr)
	Intrinsic muscles of proximal pectoral limb/shoulder (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 02	Body water and homeostasis	Lecture (1 hr)
	Connective tissue	Lecture (1 hr)
	Joints	Lecture (1 hr)
	Connective tissue (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Thermoregulation	Lecture (1 hr)
	Distal pectoral limb/elbow (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Introduction to skeleton virtual reality	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Hip	Lecture (1 hr)
	Proximal pelvic limb/hip joint (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Integument histology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Dehydration and thermoregulation tutorial (Group A1)	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 03	Stifle	Lecture (1 hr)
	Imaging	Lecture (1 hr)
	Muscle histology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Distal pelvic limb/stifle joint (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Integument anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Integument histology (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Integument (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Excitable tissues	Lecture (1 hr)
	Muscle histology (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 04	Muscle physiology 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Muscle physiology 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cartilage and bone histology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Skull and neck (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Muscle physiology 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cartilage/bone histology (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Introduction to imaging technology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vertebral column (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Exam preparation lecture	Lecture (1 hr)
	Muscle physiology tutorial (Group A1)	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 05	Oral cavity	Lecture (1 hr)
	Salivary glands/pharynx`	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of mouth/teeth	Lecture (1 hr)
	Abdominal wall, diaphragm, inguinal canal (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Dentition	Lecture (1 hr)
	Peritoneum (Group A1)	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Oesophagus/monogastric stomach	Lecture (1 hr)
	Ruminant stomach (Group A1)	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Histology of oesophagus/stomach	Lecture (1 hr)
	Head and neck (carnivore) (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 06	Carnivore intestines	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of intestines	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of mouth/teeth (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Horse intestines	Lecture (1 hr)
	Head and neck (comparative) (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Physiology of GIT 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of oesophagus/stomach (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Physiology of GIT 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Dentition (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 07	Ox/pig intestine	Lecture (1 hr)
	GIT imaging	Lecture (1 hr)
	Physiology of GIT 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	GIT carnivore (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Liver/pancreas histology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of intestines (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 08	Liver pancreas tutorial (Group A)	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular anatomy 1(introduction to CVA)	Lecture (1 hr)
	GIT ruminant/pig (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Cardiovascular anatomy 2 (heart)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Liver/pancreas histology (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Exam feedback session	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular anatomy 3 (embryology of heart and major vessels)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Liver/pancreas/horse intestines (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Physiology of GIT tutorial (Group A1)	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 09	Cardiovascular histology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular anatomy 4 (vessels of GIT)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular physiology 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular histology (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Introduction to lymphatics	Lecture (1 hr)
	Heart (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Cardiovascular physiology 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vessels of thorax (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Cardiovascular physiology 3	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 10	Haematology 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Haematology 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vessels of abdomen (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Introduction to the vessels of the limbs	Lecture (1 hr)
	Haematology (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory anatomy 1 (upper respiratory system)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vessels of pelvis and hindlimb (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory anatomy 2 (larynx)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular physiology tutorial (Group A1)	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 11	Respiratory histology 1 (upper respiratory tract)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory anatomy 3 (trachea/lungs)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory anatomy 4 (pleurae)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory histology 2 (trachea/lungs)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vessels of forelimb (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory physiology 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory anatomy (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory physiology 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory histology (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 12	Cardiovascular anatomy 5 (vessels of head and neck)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vessels of head and neck 1 (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory physiology 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vessels of head and neck 2 (Group A)	Practical (2 hr)
	Revision	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory physiology tutorial (Group A1)	Tutorial (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

It is expected that students will participate in all activities provided and contribute to discussions and activities where required.

All assessment tasks and required learning activities (RLA) are a compulsory part of the course. Where an assessment or RLA is missed a special consideration application must be submitted.

Study commitment

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

Required readings

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

Dyce, K.M., Sack, W.O. & Wensing, C.J.G. 2010. Textbook of Veterinary Anatomy. Fourth Edition. Saunders Elsevier, St Louis. (ISBN: 978-141606607-1)
Evans, H.E. & de Lahunta, A. 2013. Miller’s Anatomy of the Dog. Fourth Edition. Saunders Elsevier, St Louis. (ISBN: 978-143770812-7)
Eurell, J.A. & Frappier, B.L. 2006. Dellmann's Textbook of Veterinary Histology. Sixth Edition.
Blackwell, Ames. (ISBN: 978-078174148-4)
Sjaastad, Ø.V., Sand, O. & Hove, K. 2016. Physiology of Domestic Animals. Third Edition.
Scandinavian Veterinary Press, Oslo. (ISBN: 978-829174341-7)

Learning outcomes

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

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

LO1. correctly apply anatomical, histological and physiological terms
LO2. identify and describe important features of the gross and microscopic structure of the integument, musculoskeletal, digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems; including major species differences
LO3. describe the physiological features of the integument, musculoskeletal, digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems and their role in the maintenance of homeostasis
LO4. integrate anatomical, histological and physiological principles to explain normal function, abnormal function and procedures
LO5. describe the anatomical relationships amongst structures in regions of the body and common modalities used to visualise them
LO6. compare and contrast the major anatomical structural and functional differences in common domestic species.

Graduate qualities

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

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context. 3. Perform a complete clinical examination relevant to presentation and context. World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - 2.11. Communication skills
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings. 3. Perform a complete clinical examination relevant to presentation and context. 4. Identify and prioritise problems to develop differential diagnoses and a diagnostic plan, then interpret clinical and diagnostic evidence to establish a diagnosis.
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 3. Perform a complete clinical examination relevant to presentation and context. 4. Identify and prioritise problems to develop differential diagnoses and a diagnostic plan, then interpret clinical and diagnostic evidence to establish a diagnosis. 6. Develop appropriate treatment and preventive plans and administer appropriate treatments
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 10. Safely perform sedation and general and regional anaesthesia; implement chemical methods of restraint. 11. Perform routine procedures, including surgeries, identifying associated indications and contraindications and adjusting the procedures as indicated. 12. Assess and triage animals in an emergency, perform first aid to stabilise the patient, and refer promptly to appropriate colleagues as needed. 3. Perform a complete clinical examination relevant to presentation and context. 4. Identify and prioritise problems to develop differential diagnoses and a diagnostic plan, then interpret clinical and diagnostic evidence to establish a diagnosis. 6. Develop appropriate treatment and preventive plans and administer appropriate treatments 7. Tailor the diagnostic, treatment, preventive, and control plans when providing veterinary services, considering animal welfare, client expectations and economic contexts. World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - 2.8. Animal welfare
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 10. Safely perform sedation and general and regional anaesthesia; implement chemical methods of restraint. 3. Perform a complete clinical examination relevant to presentation and context. 4. Identify and prioritise problems to develop differential diagnoses and a diagnostic plan, then interpret clinical and diagnostic evidence to establish a diagnosis. 5. Select appropriate diagnostic tests and techniques, including diagnostic imaging. Safely apply diagnostic techniques and safely collect, preserve and transport samples as applicable. Interpret results of diagnostics, accounting for their limitations. 8. Utilise traditional and digital technologies and information sources to inform patient care and manage health data.
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings. 3. Perform a complete clinical examination relevant to presentation and context. 4. Identify and prioritise problems to develop differential diagnoses and a diagnostic plan, then interpret clinical and diagnostic evidence to establish a diagnosis. 9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete. World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - 3.5. Application of risk analysis

Responding to student feedback

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

This unit has been modified based on student feedback from 2023. TeAching material and assessments have been updated accordingly.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
A laboratory coat and closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your manual and posted in laboratories
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory
As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Disclaimer

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

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

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

Media

Student links

About us

Connect

Current students

VETS6104: Foundations of Veterinary Science A

Semester 1, 2024 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

Media

Student links

About us

Connect