Outline

Overview

Understanding normal structure and function of the animal body is critical to understanding disease and dysfunction and as such, principles of preventative and therapeutic intervention. The overarching purpose of this unit of study is to provide an advanced understanding of the normal structure and function of the major co-ordinating Systems of the mammalian body and preliminary contextual understanding of the important concepts of pathophysiology and general pathology. The unit of study is underpinned by an understanding of basic concepts and the frameworks of structure and function achieved in the Foundations of Veterinary Science A. This Unit of Study will provide the foundation for advanced learning in DVM year 2 of systemic pathology, pathophysiology and aetiopathogenesis in the setting of the major organ systems in the context of clinical scenarios of companion and production animals. 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. 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 ?	(VETS6101 and VETS6102 and VETS6103 and VETS6104) or (VETS6111 and VETS6113 and VETS6104)
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	2 semesters of chemistry, 1 semester of biology, 1 semester of biochemistry
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Glenn Shea, glenn.shea@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Peter White (Vet Science), p.white@sydney.edu.au
	Roslyn Bathgate, roslyn.bathgate@sydney.edu.au
	Simon de Graaf, simon.degraaf@sydney.edu.au
	Mark Krockenberger, mark.krockenberger@sydney.edu.au
	Glenn Shea, glenn.shea@sydney.edu.au
	Merran Govendir, merran.govendir@sydney.edu.au
	Caroline Marschner, caroline.marschner@sydney.edu.au
	Penelope Hansen, penny.dobson@sydney.edu.au
	Marianne Keller, marianne.keller@sydney.edu.au
	Luisa Monteiro de Miranda, luisa.miranda@sydney.edu.au
Tutor(s)	Athena Ktenas, athena.ktenas@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam ?	Theory Exam MCQ and Short Answer Questions	50%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Online Quiz Early Feedback Quiz #earlyfeedbacktask	5%	Week 03 Due date: 20 Aug 2025 at 09:00 Closing date: 20 Aug 2025	15 min	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written test ?	In-semester test MCQ and Short Answer Questions.	30%	Week 08 Due date: 26 Sep 2025 at 09:00	1.5 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Group report Group report, Patho-histological report	15%	Week 13 Due date: 07 Nov 2025 at 23:59	3-5 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Assessment summary

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

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.

*** Students must achieve a pass (i.e. ≥ 50% mark) in the combined marks from the Intra-Semester Test and the Final Written Examination and an overall of ≥ 50% grade is required to receive a pass grade for this unit.

The completion of all assessment tasks is compulsory. Failure to submit will result in an absent fail grade (AF) for the unit.

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.

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

In accordance with the DVM attendance provisions, DVM students are required to complete all Required Learning Activities (RLA’s) and assessment tasks. If absent for any reason, students must notify the UOSC and apply for a special consideration at the earliest opportunity.

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

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2021 (Schedule 1).

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

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.

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:

Late submission 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 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 02	Introduction to VETS6108	Lecture (1 hr)
	Introduction to metabolism & excretion	Lecture (1 hr)
	Comparative anatomy of kidneys and relationship with regional structures	Lecture (1 hr)
	Anatomy of the urinary system	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of the kidney	Lecture (1 hr)
	The renal system's role in maintaining homeostasis 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of the kidney	Practical (2 hr)
	Comparative anatomy of the kidneys and urinary system	Practical (2 hr)
	The renal system's role in maintaining homeostasis 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Renal acid-base physiology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pathological processes - cell injury, pigmentations & tissue deposits	Lecture (1 hr)
	Bilirubin metabolism and jaundice	Lecture (1 hr)
	The pathological basis of disease	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 03	Liver and kidney and their role in metabolism and excretion (Pharmacology 1)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Liver and kidney and their role in metabolism and excretion (Pharmacology 2)	Lecture (1 hr)
	Pathological processes - cell injury, pigmentations & tissue deposits [liver]	Practical (2 hr)
	Connections between GIT & kidney and implications [anatomy]	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Connections between GIT & kidney and implications [pharmacology]	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Pathological processes - cell injury, pigmentations & tissue deposits [urinary system]	Practical (2 hr)
	Revision - summation of metabolism & excretion	Lecture (1 hr)
	Case Based Learning Renal	Lecture and tutorial (1 hr)
	Case Based Learning Renal	Lecture and tutorial (1 hr)
Week 04	Endocrine histology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Endocrinology 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Endocrinology 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Endocrinology 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of endocrine system	Practical (2 hr)
	Radiology online	Independent study (2 hr)
	Reproduction overview and introduction to endocrinology	Lecture (1 hr)
	Male physiology 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Male physiology 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Female physiology - oestrus cycles	Lecture (1 hr)
	Case Study Endocrinology	Lecture and tutorial (2 hr)
Week 05	Male reproductive system anatomy 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Male reproductive system anatomy 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Male reproductive system histology [part 1: Testes]	Lecture (1 hr)
	Male reproductive system histology [part 2: genital tract]	Lecture (1 hr)
	Female reproductive system/mammary histology 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Male dog anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
	Unknown hormone	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Female genital tract/mammary gland anatomy 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Female genital tract/mammary gland anatomy 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Semen assessment	Practical (2 hr)
	Comparative male anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
Week 06	Spey anatomy	Lecture (1 hr)
	Female physiology - puberty and senescence	Lecture (1 hr)
	Female physiology - gametes and fertilisation	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Female physiology - Gestation and parturition	Lecture (1 hr)
	Female physiology - Lactation and juvenile growth	Lecture (1 hr)
	Male reproductive tract histology	Practical (2 hr)
	Female dog anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
	Placental anatomy 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Comparative female anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
	Female reproductive tract histology	Practical (2 hr)
Week 07	Placental anatomy 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Obstetrics 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Obstetrics 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Placental anatomy [part 1]	Practical (1 hr)
	Placental anatomy [part 2]	Practical (1 hr)
	Placental Anatomy [part 3]	Practical (1 hr)
	Endocrinology of reproduction	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Radiology online	Lecture and tutorial (2 hr)
Week 08	Introduction to neuroscience & divisions of the NS	Lecture (1 hr)
	Afferent nervous system & autonomic nervous system	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of the NS - cells, CNS and PNS	Lecture (1 hr)
	Overview of neural control	Lecture (1 hr)
	Reflexes & the neurological examination	Lecture (1 hr)
	Sensory physiology:Introduction, Touch,.. [Part 1]	Lecture (1 hr)
	Sensory physiology; vision, hearing, balance [part 2]	Lecture (1 hr)
	Divisions of the nervous system; head & neck	Practical (2 hr)
	Histology practical CNS	Practical (1 hr)
	Cranial nerves	Lecture (1 hr)
	Histology of eye & ear	Lecture (1 hr)
	Brachial plexus & innervation of forelimb	Practical (2 hr)
	Histology practical: PNS and Eye	Practical (2 hr)
Week 09	The efferent NS part 1 - somatic nerves & movement	Lecture (1 hr)
	The efferent NS Part 2: The autonomic NS	Lecture (1 hr)
	Micturition/ Cauda Equina	Lecture (1 hr)
	Consciousness, behaviour, sleep and learning	Lecture (1 hr)
	Lumbosacral plexus and innervation of hindlimb	Practical (2 hr)
	How to perform a neurological examination & case studies	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Application of MRI in neuroscience	Lecture (1 hr)
	Autonomic nervous system, spinal nerves and neural control of urination	Practical (2 hr)
	How to perform a neurological examination & case studies 2	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Sensory physiology: Pain [Part 3]	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 10	Revision and Integration: Nervous System	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Neurological examination: Case studies presentation	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
	CNS, cranial nerves, ear & eye	Practical (2 hr)
	Case studies of neural dysfunction: ANS, pain, behaviour	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 11	Introduction to immunity & inflammation / assessment task	Lecture (1 hr)
	Immunology, inflammation & repair overview	Lecture (1 hr)
	Ontogeny of the immune system	Lecture (1 hr)
	Innate immunity	Lecture (1 hr)
	Innate immunity / Acute Inflammation 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Innate immunity / acute inflammation	Practical (2 hr)
	Passive immunity	Lecture (1 hr)
	Information DVM2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Morphological diagnosis / innate immunity / acute inflammation	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Review innate pathology	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 12	Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 2	Lecture (1 hr)
	Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 3	Lecture (1 hr)
	Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 4	Lecture (1 hr)
	Morphological diagnosis/Adaptive immunity/chronic inflammation	Practical (2 hr)
	Adaptive Immunity	Lecture (1 hr)
	Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 5	Lecture (1 hr)
	Assessment task workshop	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Immunodiagnostics [infectious disease]	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Review adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 13	Concepts of repair & wound healing	Lecture (1 hr)
	Repair as an extension of adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation	Lecture (1 hr)
	Placement Pre-Departure presentation	Lecture (1 hr)
	Enhancing repair through surgical principles	Lecture (1 hr)
	Modulation of adaptive immunity: Vaccination	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Modulation of adaptive immunity: Vaccination	Lecture (1 hr)
	Immunodiagnostics [immune mediated disease]	Tutorial (2 hr)

Attendance and class 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.

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

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.

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 urinary, reproduction, endocrine, nervous and lymphoid systems relevant to common veterinary procedures.
LO2. compare and contrast the important structural and functional components of the urinary and reproduction systems of common domestic species
LO3. use understanding of normal anatomic and histologic structure and physiologic function to predict the effect of disruption to normal function of urinary, reproduction, endocrine, nervous and lymphoid systems
LO4. apply understanding of the three-dimensional relationships of anatomic structures of the body to evaluate structures detected by diagnostic imaging
LO5. define, identify, and integrate normal anatomical structure with physiology of avian integument, musculoskeletal, digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, endocrine, reproductive, and nervous systems relevant to common veterinary procedures and compare these to mammalian structure and function
LO6. apply the general principles of basic pathological processes (cell injury; degeneration & necrosis; inflammation, immunity & repair; circulatory disturbances; tissue deposits), and host-pathogen-environment interactions to analyse and predict the pathogenesis and fundamental features of animal diseases

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) - 11. Perform routine procedures, including surgeries, identifying associated indications and contraindications and adjusting the procedures as indicated. 13. Assess and manage pain. 15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings. 20. Advise on and implement preventive programs appropriate to the species 23. Perform antemortem and postmortem inspection of animals and make appropriate decisions to protect the food chain and animal welfare at the point of slaughter. 25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context. 27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice. 28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion. 30. Act professionally and ethically, compliant with legal and regulatory requirements of the relevant veterinary statutory body. 33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency. 34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted. 35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance. 36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 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. 9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 13. Assess and manage pain. 16. Assess and advise, at individual and population levels, on clinical and production factors such as the physical condition, welfare, nutritional status, performance and associated management factors of an animal/ group of animals. 25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context. 27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice. 28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion. 3. Perform a complete clinical examination relevant to presentation and context. 33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency. 34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted. 35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance. 36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 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. 9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 1. Obtain an accurate and relevant history of the individual animal or animal group and its/their management and environment. 13. Assess and manage pain. 16. Assess and advise, at individual and population levels, on clinical and production factors such as the physical condition, welfare, nutritional status, performance and associated management factors of an animal/ group of animals. 20. Advise on and implement preventive programs appropriate to the species 25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context. 27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice. 28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion. 33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency. 34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted. 35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance. 36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self. 38. Promote health and safety of patients, clients, colleagues and themselves in the veterinary setting, including applying risk management principles to practice. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 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. 9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 1. Obtain an accurate and relevant history of the individual animal or animal group and its/their management and environment. 15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings. 16. Assess and advise, at individual and population levels, on clinical and production factors such as the physical condition, welfare, nutritional status, performance and associated management factors of an animal/ group of animals. 19. Recognise suspicious signs of reportable biosecurity risks (endemic, exotic and zoonotic diseases) and take appropriate action, including notifying the relevant authorities. 23. Perform antemortem and postmortem inspection of animals and make appropriate decisions to protect the food chain and animal welfare at the point of slaughter. 25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context. 30. Act professionally and ethically, compliant with legal and regulatory requirements of the relevant veterinary statutory body. 33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency. 34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted. 35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance. 36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self. 38. Promote health and safety of patients, clients, colleagues and themselves in the veterinary setting, including applying risk management principles to practice. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 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. 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 - 2.11. Communication skills
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings. 17. Apply principles of population medicine and epidemiological skills to investigate veterinary problems. 23. Perform antemortem and postmortem inspection of animals and make appropriate decisions to protect the food chain and animal welfare at the point of slaughter. 25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context. 27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice. 28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion. 30. Act professionally and ethically, compliant with legal and regulatory requirements of the relevant veterinary statutory body. 33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency. 34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted. 35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance. 36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 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. 7. Tailor the diagnostic, treatment, preventive, and control plans when providing veterinary services, considering animal welfare, client expectations and economic contexts. 8. Utilise traditional and digital technologies and information sources to inform patient care and manage health data. 9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.

Responding to student feedback

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

Based on student feedback, content and delivery of lectures, tutorials and practical classes were revised where appropriate. All feedback provided will be considered as part of the formal Curriculum Review.

Additional information

SSVS student portal

Work, health and safety

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 (2) 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.

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.

Students in the DVM must have a valid Q‐fever vaccination and/or an appropriate record of testing for Q‐fever.

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

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

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

VETS6108: Foundations of Veterinary Science B

Semester 2, 2025 [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

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

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Useful links