Course coordinator
Dr Cristina Rosales
Please note that Dr Rosales works remotely and is contactable by email, and Zoom on request.
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
Anatomy of the oral cavity, gastro-intestinal tract, liver & pancreas. Cellular, organ & whole body regulation of carbohydrate, lipid & amino acid metabolism in mammals. Elimination of waste products. Nutrient-endocrine & nutrient-gene interactions. Food & feed composition & nutritive value. Development, sites & mechanism of digestion & absorption in different species, diet & nutrient profiles for tissue use.
This course explores the relationship between anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and nutrition in the major animal species of veterinary importance.ﾠ This course will build on the information provided in first semester courses around basic chemistry and biology of cell processes and serves as an introduction to the second-year course in animal nutrition, which describes the requirements and allocation of nutrients for animal health.
Course requirements
Assumed background
English, Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry to Year 12 level.ﾠ Introductory Biochemistry (BIOC1011) and Animal & Veterinary Biologyﾠ(VETS1060).
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
VETS1060 or ANIM1060
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ANIM1023
Restrictions
Enrolment restricted to Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) students only.
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Cristina Rosales
Tutor
Ms Tallia-Rume Romano
Mr Joshua Paech
Miss Sophie Berry
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.
ﾠ
Aims and outcomes
To integrate an understanding of normal gastrointestinal function with recognition of normal gastrointestinal structure, which will provide the foundation for the development of logical, inferential, and problem-solving capabilities needed to diagnose and manage veterinary patients.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Identify the microscopic and gross anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract of domestic animals and differentiate these among the different species.
LO2.
Identify key structures and landmarks associated with the abdominal and pelvic cavities.
LO3.
Describe the normal physiology of digestion in domestic animals.
LO4.
Identify the basic nutritional requirements of domestic animals.
LO5.
Explain the normal metabolism of digestion in domestic animals.
LO6.
Label physical structures of the gastrointestinal tract in domestic animals.
LO7.
Apply acquired anatomical, physiological, nutritional and biochemical knowledge of the gastrointestinal tract to solve clinical problems in domestic animals.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiz |
Assessment Sequence: Quizzes
|
20% |
Quiz 1: Teeth & Skull 22/08/2025 5:00 pm Quiz 2: Dog & Cat 29/08/2025 5:00 pm Quiz 3: Ruminants 5/09/2025 5:00 pm Quiz 4: Horse & Pig 12/09/2025 5:00 pm Quiz 5: Equine Teeth & Ageing (in-class, paper-based) 31/10/2025 5:00 pm |
| Examination |
Digital Practical Exam
|
20% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
| Examination |
Theory: Anatomy/Physiology/Biochemistry/Nutrition Theory
|
60% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
Assessment details
Assessment Sequence: Quizzes
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
Quiz 1: Teeth & Skull 22/08/2025 5:00 pm
Quiz 2: Dog & Cat 29/08/2025 5:00 pm
Quiz 3: Ruminants 5/09/2025 5:00 pm
Quiz 4: Horse & Pig 12/09/2025 5:00 pm
Quiz 5: Equine Teeth & Ageing (in-class, paper-based) 31/10/2025 5:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
Task description
The integrated assessment sequence will consist of FIVE quizzes. The quizzes will be open during the Practical class and will remain open for the duration of ONE (1) week. Quizzes will be delivered through the Inspera platform or paper-based, as best suits the question format. Please regularly check the Blackboard site for details regarding this assessment item.
Although five quizzes will be conducted throughout the semester, the best four (4) results attained by each student will be attributed to the final mark of this assessment item.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI and MT tools.
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.
Digital Practical Exam
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
The exam can assess all practicals in anatomy and histology.
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 | 60 minutes |
| Calculator options | No calculators permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no 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.
Theory: Anatomy/Physiology/Biochemistry/Nutrition Theory
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 60%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
The End of Semester Anatomy/Physiology/Biochemistry/Nutrition theory exam will be worth 60% of the total marks. All lecture material will be covered in the exam.
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 | No calculators permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no 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.
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 VETS1003
Students must achieve 50% overall to pass this course.
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.
Work Integrated Learning
A passing grade must be attained in ALL Year One courses prior to the commencement of the Animal Husbandry & Pre-Clinical Work Integrated Learning (WIL) milestone.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
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
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Other course materials
If we've listed something under further requirement, you'll need to provide your own.
Required
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Gumboots | Required | own item needed |
| Overalls | Required | own item needed |
| Safety Glasses | Required | own item needed |
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 7 |
Lecture |
Gastrointestinal anatomy Structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract including: oral cavity and salivary glands, teeth, stomach and secretory glands, intestines and distal tract (rectum & anus), mesenteries, embryological development, liver and gall bladder, pancreas, histology of the GIT and comparative anatomy (pig, ruminants, horse). |
Multiple weeks From Week 3 To Week 12 |
Practical |
Gastrointestinal anatomy Structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract including: oral cavity and salivary glands, stomach and secretory glands, intestines and lower tract, mesenteries, liver and gall bladder, pancreas, histology, comparative anatomy and evolution. Dissection of abdominal musculature and organs of abdomen and pelvis. Histology practical classes may employ VIRTUAL MICROSCOPY, BEST, and SLICE as learning tools. |
Multiple weeks From Week 7 To Week 9 |
Lecture |
Gastrointestinal Physiology The process of digestion and absorption in ruminants and monogastric animals, including control, motility, secretions, and digestive and absorptive processes. |
Multiple weeks From Week 9 To Week 12 |
Lecture |
Nutritional metabolism (biochemistry) Mechanisms that animals use to control, regulate, and integrate metabolism to meet their varying needs, from times when nutrients are plentiful such that energy reserves can be replenished, through periods of fasting and scarcity when these reserves must be mobilised. |
Multiple weeks From Week 12 To Week 13 |
Lecture |
Nutrition in domestic animals Nutritional strategies and adaptations of different animals. Nutrient requirements, the provision of nutrients, regulation of nutrient supply and its utilisation. Feed composition and evaluation and why nutrition is relevant in performance and in disease. |
Additional learning activity 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.
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: