Course coordinator
Dr Nicholas Clark
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- Gatton
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- Gatton
- Coordinating unit
- Veterinary Science School
Genetic principles of inheritance, the molecular underpinnings of gene structure & function, & the basis of diseases of a genetic origin. Analysis for animal breeding programs to control disease or improve animal production.
This course provides the basic knowledge and skills needed to explain the pathogenesis of genetic disease, understand current diagnostic and predictive tools, and provide sound advice to breeders to control genetic disease or improve animal production. We outline the basis of diseases with a significant genetic component and the principles of genetic analysis for animal breeding. We will also build on your prior biological knowledge to explore the principles of genetic technologies, the molecular underpinnings of gene structure and function, and the use of modern breeding strategies.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Students should have a background in basic biology and biochemistry, as well as an understanding of animal production systems in Australia.
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
AGRC1041 or AGRC2001
Restrictions
Enrolment restricted to Bachelor of Veterinary Technology, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) students only.
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Nicholas Clark
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Please check your course Blackboard site frequently for the latest Timetable information.
Please note that unexpected changes to the Timetable may occur throughout the Semester. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly check the course Blackboard site. Any updates to the timetable will be communicated to students via Blackboard Announcements.
Aims and outcomes
The aim of this course is to provided the basic skills needed to explain the pathogenesis of genetic disease, understand current diagnostic and predictive tools, and provide sound advice to breeders to control genetic disease or improve animal production.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Explain how mutations and chromosomal abnormalities arise, and relate these to the pathogenesis of disease.
LO2.
Apply the use of molecular markers in diagnostics and animal breeding, explain their underlying methodologies, and evaluate their strengths and limitations as a diagnostic tool.
LO3.
Explain the screening and treatment options for genetic diseases and genetic technologies for animal improvement.
LO4.
Design animal breeding plans for disease control and animal production, based on sound genetic principles.
LO5.
Work together in small groups to read and critically analyze the scientific literature.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examination |
End of Semester Theory Examination
|
55% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
| Quiz |
Assessment Sequence: Quizzes
|
30% 15% each |
Quiz 1 28/08/2025 9:40 am Quiz 2 23/10/2025 9:40 am |
| Presentation |
Video Assignment
|
15% |
10/10/2025 2:00 pm |
Assessment details
End of Semester Theory Examination
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 55%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
The End of Semester exam will cover the content of the lectures, practicals and tutorials of the whole semester. The exam will encompass short essay and problem-solving questions based on genetic disease case studies, genetic research scenarios and animal breeding goals.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - specified written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Inspera |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Students must be available for their examinations on the scheduled date, time, and campus of their course enrolment. The exam format is determined by the Course Coordinator and may include written (paper-based, online, or digital), practical, oral, or other timed assessments (such as quizzes).
If you are unable to sit for your original examination, you may be eligible for a deferred examination. To apply, you must demonstrate that unavoidable circumstances prevented you from attending your exam. If this is not possible, you can apply for a one-off discretionary deferred exam. All requests for deferred examinations MUST include supporting documentation. For more information, including acceptable evidence and application instructions, please visit my.UQ Deferring an Exam.
Please note that there are no provisions to defer an already-deferred exam. You must be available to sit your deferred examination at the allocated time.
Students who submit five or more deferral requests within a twelve-month period will be contacted with advice on the services and support available within the University.
Assessment Sequence: Quizzes
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 30% 15% each
- Due date
Quiz 1 28/08/2025 9:40 am
Quiz 2 23/10/2025 9:40 am
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
Quiz 1 will be held as an in-person invigilated quiz and will cover lecture content from weeks 1 - 4, inclusive. The quiz will incorporate a range of questions available in the Inspera examination platform. This quiz will be a 40-minute Inspera platform quiz.
Quiz 2 will be held as an in-person invigilated quiz and will cover lecture content from weeks 5 - 11, inclusive. The quiz will incorporate a range of questions available in the Inspera examination platform. This quiz will be a 40-minute Inspera platform quiz.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Students with acceptable reasons (medical or compassionate reasons or as a result of exceptional circumstances) may apply for an extension of the deadline. Information on applying for an extension can be found here: my.UQ Applying for an extension.
Extension applications must be received by the assessment due date and time.
Video Assignment
- Team or group-based
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
- Category
- Presentation
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
10/10/2025 2:00 pm
Task description
Students will work in groups of three (or four) to design and film a genetics counselling scenario. Each group must research the genetic condition that is provided, work together to write a script for their scenario and create a video that depicts a domestic animal owner being counselled about a genetic condition's basis, inheritance and prognosis. The group must submit a 10-minute video, a single page of academic references that were used during the research and an assignment coversheet detailing their use of AI.
A list of manuscripts, groups and further assessment details will be provided during semester. Guidelines and marking criteria for this assignment are in the Blackboard Assessment section
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance. A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Instructions for submission are on ANIM2503 Course Blackboard.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Students with acceptable reasons (medical or compassionate reasons or as a result of exceptional circumstances) may apply for an extension of the deadline. Information on applying for an extension can be found here: my.UQ Applying for an extension.
Extension applications must be received by the assessment due date and time.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time.
If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24hour period plus part of another 24-hour period). 10% will be deducted per day for up to 7 calendar days, at which point your submission will receive a mark of zero (0) unless an extension has been approved.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 0-29% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 30-44% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: 45-49% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 50-64% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 65-74% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 75-84% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 85-100% |
Additional course grading information
To pass ANIM2503
- Students must achieve an overall mark of 50% or more and obtain a mark of 45% or greater on the End of Semester Theory Examination.
Grade Calculations
When rounding final marks for grade calculations, part marks of <0.5 will be ROUNDED DOWN to the nearest whole number, and part marks of >/= 0.5 will be ROUNDED UP to the nearest whole number.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to my.UQ for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Assessment using the Inspera platform
Students must click the ‘SUBMIT NOW’ button on the summary page to submit their answers. After submission, a confirmation will appear on the dashboard indicating that the answers have been submitted and can no longer be edited.
For all exams lasting 60, 90, 120, or 180 minutes, an additional 10 minutes of planning time is provided to read the questions and plan responses, though students may start working immediately if they choose.
It’s crucial to ensure your laptop meets the device requirements for Inspera assessments before the exam. If you don’t have a suitable laptop, you can borrow one from the Library. Check Get Familiar with Inspera for the most up-to-date information about using the platform. Note that power outlets will not be available during exams.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Additional learning resources information
UQ Student Support and Wellbeing Services
Harmonising study and life commitments and seeking help early when needed is essential for successfully navigating university studies. UQ Student Support and Wellbeing Services (SSWS) and UQU Student Advocacy and Support (SAS) offer numerous resources for BVSc(Hons) and BVetTech students, including various mindfulness programs and counselling services to boost confidence and promote overall physical and mental wellbeing.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the UQ Counselling and Crisis Line on 1300 851 998 (available 24/7, 365 days a year).
The Hub
The Student Clinical Skills Hub is a purpose-built, state-of-the-art self-directed learning facility located centrally in the School (John Mahon (8105), Room 101) with two main areas and an online resource community available for all SVS students.
The Hub has a lab where students can practice their clinical skills using standard veterinary equipment, on simulators and/or models in conjunction with supporting audio-visual resources and a smaller communications suite with two working consult rooms, a viewing room and a debriefing space.
The Hub’s aim is to provide a safe, authentic, self-directed learning environment where students can practice their clinical skills in accordance with individual competences beyond the scheduled contact hours of their programs and further enhance their capacity for self-directed, lifelong learning.
If you cannot access the community or have any other questions, please contact the Hub Coordinator via svs-hub@uq.edu.au or ext 15046.
SVS BVSc(Hons) and BVetTech Student Support
The 2025 School of Veterinary Science Student Support Blackboard Site can be found by visiting [SCIE0586] Student Support for BVSc & BVetTech programs 2025 SCIE0586_7520_00101
This site contains links to valuable resources and information for all BVSc(Hons) and BVetTech students. Here you will find information on topics such as:
- Orientation and new student information
- Mental health and wellbeing
- OH&S
- Program rules and requirements
- Study planners
- Equity, diversity and inclusion
- Study help and support
- Useful SVS staff contacts –
- Academic Student Mentors, International Student Mentor, Peers Support Network, SVS Academic Progression and Integrity Officer, SVS Chief Examiner, SVS Director of Students and Admissions, etc.
- SVS Student Information Resource Handbook
The site also offers a way for you to share your valuable feedback directly with the School about your experiences as a student. We welcome and encourage your input, as it helps us continually improve our processes. If you have a formal grievance regarding academic or teaching standards, please refer to the Student Grievance Resolution Policy to understand your options and the steps you can take.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Multiple weeks From Week 1 To Week 4 |
Lecture |
Genetic Fundamentals and Genetic Testing This lecture series explores genetic fundamentals of inheritance and mutation in animals, and the principles and technologies for genetic testing and other applications. |
Multiple weeks From Week 2 To Week 6 |
Lecture |
Genetic Diseases and Population Genetics This lecture series introduces some of the applications of genetics in the study of genetic diseases. We will explore the genetic processes affecting populations, including wildlife populations, and the use of genetic markers in individuals and populations. |
Multiple weeks From Week 4 To Week 12 |
Team Based Learning |
Genetic Testing Consultation Scenario Practical, self-directed learning and tutorial activities will provide an opportunity for students to explore the hands on laboratory techniques applicable to the isolation of genetic material and diagnosis of genetic diseases and the knowledge and skills to analyse their results. |
Multiple weeks From Week 4 To Week 7 |
Tutorial |
Population Genetics Tutorials A series of small group tutorials and larger group calculation practice sessions will provide opportunities for students to apply lecture content to a diverse range of genetic disease and population scenarios. |
Multiple weeks From Week 7 To Week 12 |
Lecture |
Animal Breeding Programs This lecture series explores the principles of selective breeding to improve animal production and to reduce the incidence of genetic diseases. |
Tutorial |
Animal Breeding Tutorials A series of small group tutorials and larger group calculation practice sessions will provide opportunities for students to apply lecture content to animal breeding scenarios. |
|
Week 13 (27 Oct - 02 Nov) |
Lecture |
Semester Review Week 13 will provide review lectures and tutorials of the entire subject and offer an opportunity to practice exam questions |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.
You'll also need to be aware of the following policies and procedures while completing this course: