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. Risk assessments are regularly conducted for units that require the completion of compulsory learning activities that may expose students to zoonotic diseases. These assessments aim to identify appropriate risk mitigation controls, such as vaccination against vaccine- preventable zoonoses. Vaccination against Q fever (Coxiella burnetii) is an inherent requirement for students enrolling in this unit of study. Students must be vaccinated against Q fever before commencing the unit or no later than week two of the enrolled teaching session. Q fever vaccination is only available in Australia with the vaccination process taking three weeks to complete. Students must also submit a Q fever Vaccination Declaration upon enrolment. Students who fail to receive vaccination by the specified deadline and/or submit a Q fever Vaccination Declaration are precluded from practical learning activities and will not be able to satisfactorily complete relevant units of study and/or progress in their course more generally. Please refer to the University’s website https://www.sydney.edu.au/students/q-fever-vaccinations.html for more information on student vaccinations.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	School of Veterinary Science Academic Operations
Credit points	12
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	VETS6111 and VETS6113
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	One semester of study in each of general chemistry, biology and biochemistry Note: Departmental permission required for enrolment
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Caroline Marschner, caroline.marschner@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	End of semester exam - Theory Written Exam	55%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Online quizzes Online quizzes see Canvas for dates	15%	Multiple weeks	15min	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person written or creative task	In class test Written test	5%	Week 03 Due date: 12 Mar 2026 at 09:00	15 minutes	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written test	In semester test Written test	25%	Week 07 Due date: 15 Apr 2026 at 09:00	1 hour	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = early feedback task ?

Assessment summary

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

All required hurdle tasks and compulsory assessments must be submitted by 11:59 PM Australian Eastern Time, unless an approved special consideration application or an academic plan with an adjusted submission date has been granted.

A combined pass grade (≥ 50%) for the final exam and in-semester test MUST be achieved and an overall ≥ 50% grade is required to receive a pass grade for this unit.

Note: An overall result ≥ 50% is required to pass this unit of study.

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

Attendance and class requirements

The Sydney School of Veterinary Science has established attendance guidelines to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements.

DVM students are expected to be present for all scheduled classes and activities to achieve learning outcomes. This includes arriving on time and staying for the duration of each class. Students who fail to attend a minimum of 80% of classes (not including lectures) may not be eligible for reassessment.

In addition to the requirements outlined above, and in accordance with the DVM attendance provisions, DVM students are also required to complete all Required Learning Activities (RLAs) and assessment tasks. If absent for a RLA or assessment, for any reason, students must notify the unit coordinator and apply for a special consideration at the earliest opportunity.

Classes identified as a RLA will be available on the Canvas site.

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.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

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

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

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

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 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. 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	What is Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 01	The Language of Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Introduction to Structure and Function	Lecture (1 hr)
	Musculoskeletal Anatomy Lecture 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Musculoskeletal Anatomy Lecture 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Structure-Function of Epithelia and Glandular Tissues	Lecture (1 hr)
	Introduction to Dissection	Practical (2 hr)
	Introduction to Homeostasis	Lecture (1 hr)
	Musculoskeletal Anatomy Lecture 3-Joints	Lecture (1 hr)
	Musculoskeletal Anatomy Lecture 4- Hip	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 02	Extrinsic Pectoral Muscles Anatomy Practical 1	Practical (2 hr)
	Structure-Function of Muscle and Tendons 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Intrinsic Muscles of Proximal Pectoral Limb Anatomy Practical 2	Practical (2 hr)
	Musculoskeletal Anatomy Lecture 5-Stifle	Lecture (1 hr)
	Structure and Function of Connective Tissue	Lecture (1 hr)
	Structure and Function of Skeletal Muscle and Tendon 2	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 03	Imaging Modalities and Introduction to Imaging	Lecture (1 hr)
	Intrinsic Muscles of Distal Pectoral Limb Anatomy Practical 3	Practical (2 hr)
	Structure and Function of Cardiac and Smooth Muscle	Lecture (1 hr)
	Proximal Pelvic Limb Anatomy Practical 4	Practical (2 hr)
	Oral Cavity Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of Epithelia, Glandular Tissue and Muscle	Practical (2 hr)
	Stifle Tutorial	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 04	Dentition	Lecture (1 hr)
	Distal Pelvic Limb and Abdominal Wall Anatomy Practical 5	Practical (2 hr)
	Salivary Glands/Pharynx Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Oesophagus, Monogastric Stomach Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Abdominal Wall, Inguinal Canal, Diaphragm Anatomy Practical 6	Practical (2 hr)
	Ruminant/Complex Stomach Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Carnivore Intestine Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Limb and Spine Radiology	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Ox and Pig Intestine Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Horse Intestine Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Practical Histology of Connective Tissue	Practical (2 hr)
	Structure and Function of Upper Alimentary Tract	Lecture (1 hr)
	GIT Physiology fermentation	Lecture (1 hr)
	Head and Neck (L&P), Dentition (GIT) Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	GIT Physiology Secretion and Absorption	Lecture (1 hr)
	Practical Histology of the Upper Alimentary Tract	Practical (2 hr)
	Body Water Homeostasis Tutorial	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 06	GIT Motility and Control	Lecture (1 hr)
	Head and Neck (GIT) Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Head Radiology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Liver and Pancreas Anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Carnivore Intestine Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
Week 07	Ox and Pig Intestine Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Comparative Histology of the GIT	Lecture (1 hr)
	Liver, Pancreas and Horse GIT Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Structure and Function of Liver and Pancreas	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular Anatomy 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	GIT Cased Based Interactive Lecture	Lecture (1 hr)
	Abdomen Radiology	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 08	Cardiovascular Structure and Function 1-Electrical and Mechanical Events of the Heart	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular Anatomy 2 Heart	Lecture (1 hr)
	Practical Histology of Gastrointestinal Tract	Practical (2 hr)
	Cardiovascular Structure and Function 2- ECG	Lecture (1 hr)
	Cardiovascular Anatomy 3 Embryology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Practical Histology of Liver and Pancreas	Practical (2 hr)
	Cardiovascular Anatomy 4 GIT	Lecture (1 hr)
	Haematology 1 and 2	Lecture (2 hr)
	Cardiovascular Anatomy 5 Lymphatics	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 09	Cardiovascular Anatomy 6 Vessels of the Limbs	Lecture (1 hr)
	Heart Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Vessels of the Thorax	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory Anatomy 1 and 2	Lecture (2 hr)
	Respiratory Anatomy 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Haematology	Practical (2 hr)
	Case Based Tutorial Cardiovascular	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 10	Structure and Function of Cardio-Vascular System 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vessels of the Abdomen Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory Anatomy 4- Pleural Cavity	Lecture (1 hr)
	Insemester Test feedback session	Lecture (1 hr)
	Vessels of the Pelvis and Hind Limb Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Cardiovascular Anatomy 7 Head and Neck	Lecture (1 hr)
	Practical Histology of the Cardiovascular System	Practical (2 hr)
	Vessels of the Pectoral Limb Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
Week 11	Vessels Head and Neck Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory Histology 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Structure and Function of Cardiovascular System 4	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Respiratory Physiology 1	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Respiratory Histology 2	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 12	Integument 1 and 2	Lecture (2 hr)
	Integument 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory Physiology 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory Physiology 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Integument 4	Lecture (1 hr)
	Revision	Lecture (1 hr)
	Respiratory Histology Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Integument Anatomy Practical	Practical (2 hr)
	Case Based Tutorial Respiratory	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Q&A Diagonstic Imaging Tutorial	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 13	Integument Histology Practical	Practical (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

The Sydney School of Veterinary Science has established attendance guidelines to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements. DVM students are expected to be present for all scheduled classes and activities to achieve learning outcomes. This includes arriving on time and staying for the duration of each class. Students who fail to attend a minimum of 80% of classes (not including lectures) may not be eligible for reassessment.

Classes identified as a RLA will be available on the Canvas site.

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

Detailed information on any required readings may be found on Canvas.

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. Define, identify and integrate normal anatomic and histologic structure and physiologic function of the mammalian integument, musculoskeletal, digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems relevant to common veterinary procedures
LO2. Compare and contrast the important structural and functional components of integument, musculoskeletal, digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems of dogs with common domestic species
LO3. Integrate understanding of normal anatomic and histologic structure and physiologic function to identify, explain, and predict common disorders of structure and function of integument, musculoskeletal, digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems
LO4. Relate the three-dimensional anatomic relationships of anatomic structures in different body regions and apply this to evaluation of gross anatomy and diagnostic imaging

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.
	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) -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
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.
15		Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings.
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.
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.

Responding to student feedback

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

The 2025 Unit of Study Survey response rate was less than the required minimum of 20%. Student responses indicated, they generally enjoyed the unit of study including the lectures, workshops and practical classes, in particular working with animals. We are looking to optimise and further refine timetabling.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

WHS requirements

Risk assessments are regularly conducted for units that require the completion of compulsory learning activities that may expose students to zoonotic diseases. These assessments aim to identify appropriate risk mitigation controls, such as vaccination against vaccine- preventable zoonoses.

Vaccination against Q fever (Coxiella burnetii) is an inherent requirement for students enrolling in this unit of study. Students must be vaccinated against Q fever before commencing the unit or no later than the first day of the enrolled teaching session. Q fever vaccination is only available in Australia with the vaccination process taking three weeks to complete.

Students must also submit a Q fever Vaccination Declaration upon enrolment.

Students who fail to receive vaccination by the specified deadline and/or submit a Q fever Vaccination Declaration are precluded from practical learning activities and will not be able to satisfactorily complete relevant units of study and/or progress in their course more generally.

Please refer to the University’s website here for more information on student vaccinations.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

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

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

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

VETS6104: Foundations of Veterinary Science A

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

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