Outline

Overview

This Unit introduces the student to intermediate veterinary professional skills for approaching a clinical investigation and engaging with complex professional encounter. It also builds on and extends their knowledge of professional competencies introduced in VETS6101 and required as an effective veterinary professional. Key themes include clinical reasoning and an introduction to clinical problem solving; communication during difficult clinical encounters; cross-cultural communication; professionalism and community engagement; animal welfare and social justice; veterinary legislation; mental health training; veterinary career pathways and career resilience. Developing and extending their knowledge and skills in these areas will help students attain veterinary graduate attributes essential for long term effectiveness and success in their veterinary career. An integral part of this unit of study is an opportunity for students to extend their professional capabilities in an area of personal interest through the Independent Learning Project, allowing them to differentiate their capabilities from others in future employment applications. 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	3
Prerequisites ?	VETS6101 and VETS6102 and VETS6103 and VETS6104 and VETS6105 and VETS6106 and VETS6107 and VETS6108
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Anne Quain, anne.quain@sydney.edu.au
Guest lecturer(s)	Elizabeth Ross, elizabeth.ross@sydney.edu.au
Guest lecturer(s)	Lara Boland, lara.boland@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Sanaa Zaki, sanaa.zaki@sydney.edu.au
	Anne Quain, anne.quain@sydney.edu.au
	Jaime Gongora, jaime.gongora@sydney.edu.au
	Ingrid Van Gelderen, ingrid.vangelderen@sydney.edu.au
Tutor(s)	Penelope Hansen, penny.dobson@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length
Assignment	Draft written report Draft written report to by submitted in Canvas	5%	Week 01 Due date: 02 Mar 2025 at 23:59	Up to 1500 words
Outcomes assessed:
Supervised exam ?	Written theory exam Multiple choice questions	40%	Week 04 Due date: 17 Mar 2025 at 09:00	1 hour
Outcomes assessed:
Assignment	Final written report The report to be submitted in Canvas.	20%	Week 04 Due date: 23 Mar 2025 at 23:59	1500 words
Outcomes assessed:
Assignment	Reflective task Individual reflective task on group work	25%	Week 04 Due date: 23 Mar 2025 at 23:59	1000 words
Outcomes assessed:
Assignment	ILP completion document Short response form and contract	10%	Week 12 Due date: 25 May 2025 at 23:59	Up to 300 words
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ? = AI allowed ?

Assessment summary

Draft report: Pre-allocated groups submit a draft plan/report. The plan should provide a clear roadmap for your final written report. Marked as complete/incomplete, 5% (group mark). Referencing must use the Harvard style guide.

Final written report: In pre-allocated groups you will apply principles derived from current legislation, ethical standards of the profession and animal welfare to a veterinary practice scenario. This should be a polished, final report detailing your response to the scenario based on evidence and information you have sought 20% (group mark). Referencing must use the Harvard style guide.

Reflective statement: The purpose of this statement is to reflect on how you would respond to similarly complex ethical, legislative and communication challenges, and what you've learned by working through this task that will aid you in your future career management and professional development. 25% (individual mark). Referencing must use the Harvard style guide.

Independent learning project – completion and feedback document:Describe whether and how learning outcomes were/were not achieved, and how this contributes to your career development. Suggest constructive criticism. 10% (individual mark)

Final exam: Multiple choice questions only. In person supervised examination. 40% (individual mark).

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

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.

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.

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).

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit of study at an exceptions standard.
Distinction	75 - 84	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit of study at a very high standard.
Credit	65 - 74	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit of study at a good standard.
Pass	50 - 64	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit of study at an exceptable standard.
Fail	0 - 49	Awarded 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) and automated writing tools

Except for supervised exams or in-semester tests, you may use generative AI and automated writing tools in assessments unless expressly prohibited by your unit coordinator.

For exams and in-semester tests, the use of AI and automated writing tools is not allowed unless expressly permitted in the assessment instructions.

The icons in the assessment table above indicate whether AI is allowed – whether full AI, or only some AI (the latter is referred to as “AI restricted”). If no icon is shown, AI use is not permitted at all for the task. Refer to Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks for this unit.

Your final submission must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of automated writing tools or generative AI, and any material generated that you include in your final submission must be properly referenced. You may be required to submit generative AI inputs and outputs that you used during your assessment process, or drafts of your original work. Inappropriate use of generative AI is considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and penalties may apply.

The Current Students website provides information on artificial intelligence in assessments. For help on how to correctly acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the  AI in Education Canvas site.

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 23:59 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.

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	Introduction to unit and assessment	Lecture (1 hr)
	Resilience and self care	Lecture (1 hr)
	Decision making and clinical reasoning in veterinary contexts	Lecture (2 hr)
	Animal welfare and social justice	Lecture (2 hr)
	Finance, ethics and welfare	Lecture (2 hr)
	Communication: cross cultural situations	Lecture (1 hr)
	Communication: deaf awareness training	Lecture (1 hr)
	Communication LGBTIQ+ community	Lecture (1 hr)
	Communication: Indigenous cultures	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 01	Legislation - introduction	Lecture (1 hr)
	Legislation: registration and acts of veterinary science	Lecture (2 hr)
	Legislation: The VPB, code of conduct and complaints	Lecture (1 hr)
	Alternative career pathways	Lecture (1 hr)
	Networking and career resilience	Lecture and tutorial (3 hr)
	Minimising iatrogenic harms of veterinary care	Lecture (2 hr)
	Communication: difficult clinical encounters	Lecture (2 hr)
	Community engagement/education	Lecture (1 hr)
	Persuasive communication and writing for the media	Lecture (2 hr)
	Errors and complications: Animal welfare & ethics	Lecture (1 hr)
	Review session	Lecture (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

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

The DVM Attendance Provision 2024 is available on the University of Sydney policy register.

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 3 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 60-75 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

While there are no required readings, wide reading in this subject area is recommended. Please see the Canvas page for recommended readings. These are not comprehensive, but are a good starting point for your assignments.

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. critically evaluate professional and clinical reasoning frameworks in diverse veterinary workplace environments and apply these frameworks to make decisions
LO2. demonstrate career management and resilience strategies that promote working sustainably and effectively as a veterinarian in a global context
LO3. apply principles derived from current legislation, ethical standards of the profession and animal welfare to manage problems in diverse veterinary practice scenarios.

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) - 2. Handle, restrain and otherwise manage animal(s) safely and humanely, considering animal behaviour and welfare, and instruct others in helping the veterinarian perform these techniques. 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. 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.
	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. 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. 31. Issue certificates, applying principles appropriate to the relevant veterinary statutory body. 32. Prescribe, dispense and use medicines correctly and prudently, including recording and reporting adverse reactions, in accordance with legislation and current prescription guidelines. 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.
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 2. Handle, restrain and otherwise manage animal(s) safely and humanely, considering animal behaviour and welfare, and instruct others in helping the veterinarian perform these techniques. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 40. Contribute as appropriate to the advancement and dissemination of veterinary knowledge to improve the quality of animal care and public health. 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.

Due to overwhelming positive feedback we have continued to schedule lectures for mornings (9-1) only, to give students afternoons for studying/completing the ILP and group tasks (see timetable). We have sought to minimise assessments for different subjects in the same weeks to enhance student experience. This is an intensive delivered unit in weeks -1 and 1, and the aim was to allow students to complete the majority of their assessments early in semester, closer to proximity of teaching and before they undertake weighted assessments in other subjects.

Additional information

Learning commitments: You are responsible for your own learning. Each aspect of this unit of study is designed to help you in your learning and progress as a veterinarian. The teaching staff will endeavour to assist you in your learning by explaining concepts, demonstrating skills and providing resources. However, development of understanding, skills and abilities in this course will require considerable personal effort on your part.
Teacher consultation guidelines: Staff members are available to consult with students at mutually convenient times. Making an
appointment to meet with staff is advised since they have many commitments outside this unit of study. Seek help from your peers in understanding course materials before consulting staff members.

More information can be found on Canvas.

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.

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) and automated writing tools

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

VETS6201: The Veterinary Professional 2

Semester 1, 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) and automated writing tools

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