Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2026 (23/02/2026 - 21/11/2026)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- Gatton
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 4
- Administrative campus
- Gatton
- Coordinating unit
- Veterinary Science School
This is a foundation course in the BVSc training programme. It will provide students with the underpinning knowledge and understanding of the behaviour and husbandry of domestic and non-domestic animals commonly attended by veterinarians. The course also introduces students to key concepts in animal welfare, particularly as it relates to animal management. Students will gain the required skills to enable them to competently handle and restrain common domestic animal species. After completing this training, students will have the essential knowledge, understanding and skills required for them to complete their Animal Husbandry / Pre-Clinical Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placements.
VETS1025 focuses on animal husbandry, handling, behaviour, and welfare of common domesticated animals farmed for food and fibre (production animals) and common companion and performance animals (dogs, cats, 'pocket' pets, birds, reptiles, aquarium fish, and horses). The lectures will cover the husbandry, behaviour and welfare of beef and dairy cattle, horses, sheep, goats, camelids, pigs, poultry, dogs, cats, 'pocket' pets, birdsﾠand reptiles. The practical component of the course will focus on developing the animal handling skills of students to enable them to competently and safely complete their Animal Husbandry / Pre-Clinical Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placement milestone and be able to progress to training in the clinical examination of animals.
Course requirements
Assumed background
As for first year veterinary science students
Restrictions
Enrolment restricted to Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) students only.
Course contact
Course coordinator
Dr Paula Morelli Mercadante
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Paula Morelli Mercadante
Dr Ben Wood
Professor Ben Ahern
Miss Michelle Story
Tutor
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
To provide students with a sound understanding of the husbandry management (including animal handling, behaviour and welfare) of cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, dogs, cats, goats, camelids, poultry, birds, 'pocket' pets and reptiles. The course will provide the underpinning knowledge and skills for students to complete the required Animal Husbandry / Pre-Clinical Work Integrated Learning placements in the second and third year of the BVSc program and provide a foundation for clinical practice.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Describe in detail the daily and/or annual animal management procedures, specifically in relation to biosecurity, husbandry, handling, behaviour and welfare of animal species commonly seen in veterinary practice.
LO2.
Differentiate and identify the major breeds of common domestic animals.
LO3.
Describe in detail the major challenges associated with the husbandry management of dogs, cats, horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry and in lesser detail that for goats, camelids, birds, 'pocket' pets and reptiles.
LO4.
Describe in basic terms preventive health programs for the common domestic and production animals.
LO5.
Recognise key normal and abnormal welfare and behaviour traits in common domestic animals and use this to inform handling and management practices.
LO6.
Competently perform a range of animal husbandry and handling techniques on animal species commonly seen in veterinary practice.
LO7.
Achieve sufficient proficiency in these disciplines to safely and actively apply the learning objectives of this course while engaged in Animal Husbandry / Pre-Clinical Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placements.
LO8.
Develop and practice interpersonal communication skills for working effectively in a team to; build collegial networks, collect, analyse and report data, and interact with live animals safely.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examination |
Semester 1: End of Semester Examination
|
45% |
End of Semester Exam Period 6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026 |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation |
Animal Behaviour Assignment
|
15% |
30/10/2026 2:00 pm
Friday Week 13 (Semester 2) |
| Examination |
Semester 2: End of Semester Examination
|
30% |
Second End of Semester Exam Period 7/11/2026 - 21/11/2026 |
| Practical/ Demonstration |
Cat and Cattle Handling Practical Assessment
|
Pass/Fail |
End of Semester Exam Period 6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026
Animal handling practical assessments are held over two consecutive days, with students being allocated two individual times, one per day, to attend. The exact time of the exams will be provided via Blackboard announcement. |
| Quiz |
Assessment Sequence: In-Class Quizzes
|
10% 5% per quiz |
Quiz 1 10/03/2026 Quiz 2 24/03/2026 |
| Practical/ Demonstration |
Dog and Horse Handling Practical Assessment
|
Pass/fail |
21/09/2026
Animal handling practical assessments are held over two consecutive days, with students being allocated two individual times, one per day, to attend. The exact time of the exams will be provided via Blackboard announcement. |
| Practical/ Demonstration |
Mandatory practical participation and skills assessment (Poultry, Beef Cattle, Cat clinical restraint, Pigs, Sheep and Goat handling)
|
Pass/fail |
23/03/2026 - 19/10/2026 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Semester 1: End of Semester Examination
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 45%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
This exam will cover all Semester 1 lecture and practical class content. This will be a centrally scheduled exam, in the End of Semester exam period. This is an online Inspera based exam which may include multiple response, multiple-option, text entry, matching/pairing, inline choice, drag and drop, composite, hotspot and matching ad case based applied reasoning items. Additional information about the exam structure will be made available via Blackboard announcements.
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 | 90 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
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.
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.
Animal Behaviour Assignment
- Team or group-based
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
30/10/2026 2:00 pm
Friday Week 13 (Semester 2)
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L05, L08
Task description
Purpose of this assignment
- To improve your understanding of normal animal behaviour and how to perform detailed observations of their behavioural cues and apply this to animal handling and welfare assessments.
- To use group work to enhance communication skills and promote in depth, evidence-based discussion of behavioural observation between colleagues.
Task
The observations can be performed on any species you are able to observe as a group e.g. mob of sheep on a pasture or ducks on a pond. For students unable to observe live animals or the same live animals concurrently, video recording can be utilised if owner consent is acquired. This task has seven components;
- Observe animals in their natural environment, from a distance which will not impact their natural behaviour. This should be done in your assignment group.
- Prepare a map of the area under observation, and estimate the size of the area, number of animals, class and species, and indicate their location on the map.
- Name and define at least fifteen (15) natural behaviours you observe.
- Create a table and describe, define and name these behaviours and record how many times you observe them to occur over a one hour period. For optimum marks these should be recorded as columns per individual, with identifying features of each individual animal noted at the top.
- Research journal articles where observed behaviours have been reported. Each group member should provide at least one article and contributions should be noted in the bibliography. Course behaviour notes and texts should also be reviewed.
- Discuss what was observed and any interpretations of these in light of the group's research and general experience.
- Prepare a report of this observation for submission, structured as research journal article. Exemplar's are provided on Blackboard.
Specific details
Assignment sheet, an exemplar assignment and marking rubric will be provided via Blackboard. An introductory behaviour observation lecture and practical classes will be run in Semester 1 to prepare students for this type of observation and reporting.
This assignment will be completed in assigned groups of 3, 4 or 5, during Semester 2 and submitted via turnitin, in the assessments folder on Blackboard.
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
Submit your Assessment through the course Turnitin submission point in Blackboard.
Before submitting your assessment item to Turnitin, please name your file in the following way:
For example, SMITH Bob_54329876_VETS1234_Essay1
All students must ensure they receive their Turnitin receipt on submission of any assessments. A valid Turnitin receipt will be the only evidence accepted if one or more of your submissions are missing. Without evidence, the assessment will receive the standard late penalty or, after seven days, will receive zero. In the case of a Blackboard outage, please contact the Course Coordinator as soon as possible to confirm the outage with ITS.
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 24-hour 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.
Semester 2: End of Semester Examination
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
Second End of Semester Exam Period
7/11/2026 - 21/11/2026
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L03, L06
Task description
The End of Semester exam will be 60 minutes, written, invigilated exam at the Gatton campus held during the Central Exam Period. Exam question formats may include multiple response, text entry, multiple option, matching/pairing, inline choice, drag and drop, composite, hotspot and matching ad case based applied reasoning items. This exam covers content delivered during lectures, practical classes and workshops in Semester 2. The exam may also cover lecture material from Semester 1, where that content has been incorporated into the workshops and practical classes, as the Semester 1 content is the foundation for all practical work undertaken in Semester 2.
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
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.
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.
Cat and Cattle Handling Practical Assessment
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration
- Weight
- Pass/Fail
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026
Animal handling practical assessments are held over two consecutive days, with students being allocated two individual times, one per day, to attend. The exact time of the exams will be provided via Blackboard announcement.
- Other conditions
- Student specific, Time limited, Secure.
- Learning outcomes
- L06, L07
Task description
Semester 1 - End of Semester exam period
(1) Cattle
(2) Cats
Over the two semesters, students will be assessed on animal handling competencies involving four (4) domestic species: Cattle and Cats in the End of Semester 1 exam period and Horses and Dogs in Week 9 of Semester 2. The minimum mark required for EACH of the specific species of animal handling practical assessments is 70%, and ALL species exams MUST be passed to pass the course. The course Blackboard site lists the possible examinable competencies, all of which will be taught in the animal handling practical classes.
Practical 'Animal Handling' Exams Failure
Students who do not achieve a 70% pass mark in any of the animal handling practical assessment or receive a 'Safety fail' may be eligible for a second attempt at achieving competency. Students will only be eligible for second attempt at achieving competency if they have attended the failed species' animal handling practical class taught during the semester.
If a second attempt at achieving competency is awarded for cats or cattle, this will be undertaken with the dog and horse second attempts held in Week 10 of Semester two. This enables students who failed cat or cattle in Semester 1 to receive remediation and further practice opportunities during their Semester 2 cat and beef cattle pracs, before their second attempt.
Any student who cannot attend the second attempt exams as scheduled, without a medical certificate, will forfeit their 2nd attempt at competency and enter the supplementary exam pathway for the course, if eligible under UQ Assessment Procedures.
Campus biosecurity requires all students to be in Australia for 7 days prior entering any animal facility on campus, therefore it is essential that students do not book international travel during the Semester 2 mid-semester break. Therefore NO student will be allowed to undertake a second attempt at competency if they have returned from overseas less than SEVEN (7) days prior to the scheduled exam. Failure to satisfy the biosecurity requirement will automatically result in cancellation of the second attempt leading to supplementary assessment if the student is eligible.
Students who are not eligible for, or who fail their second attempt at achieving competency in any species, may be eligible for supplementary assessment under UQ Assessment Procedures. Supplementary assessment, will be scheduled in the Semester 2 Deferred and Supplementary Examination period.
In the event of timetabled face-to-face animal handling practical exams being postponed due to adverse weather or other confounding reasons, the exams will be rescheduled as soon as practically possible. There is no suitable alternative format for these exams as they assess animal handling competencies that are critical in demonstrating that students are safe to progress in the BVSc(Hons) program.
If the animal handling practical exams cannot be held before the finalisation of grades, students will be awarded an incomplete grade in VETS1025 until the examinations can be rescheduled.
All Practical 'Animal Handling' assessment will be held on the Gatton Campus ONLY.
Hurdle requirements
Students MUST pass the practical handling assessment (with a pass mark of 70%) for EACH of the four species examined to pass VETS1025.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.
Students who are significantly injured, pregnant or unwell may not be safe to undertake these practical assessments. There are no alternative assessments available as these assessments are an essential safety hurdle before commencing their WIL program. Students will have to remain incomplete (INC) for this course until they are able to undertake the assessment safely, or withdraw if that exceeds the time allowed for remaining incomplete in a course.
Assessment Sequence: In-Class Quizzes
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 10% 5% per quiz
- Due date
Quiz 1 10/03/2026
Quiz 2 24/03/2026
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L05, L07
Task description
This assessment sequence is composed of two in-class Inspera based quizzes, designed to ensure content understanding prior to commencing practical work. Quiz question format may include multiple choice, short answer, problem solving and interpretation of multi-modal (video, images, graphs, tables) resources.
- Quiz 1 in Week 3: 5%, 30min, 20 marks. Week 1&2 content focus on importance of biosecurity, OH&S, welfare and ethics of working with live animals
- Quiz 2 in week 5: 5%, 30min, 20 marks. Week 3 & 4 lecture content and practical content provided in Practical Class Folders on Blackboard.
Submission guidelines
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.
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.
Dog and Horse Handling Practical Assessment
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration
- Weight
- Pass/fail
- Due date
21/09/2026
Animal handling practical assessments are held over two consecutive days, with students being allocated two individual times, one per day, to attend. The exact time of the exams will be provided via Blackboard announcement.
- Other conditions
- Student specific, Time limited, Secure.
- Learning outcomes
- L02, L05, L06
Task description
Semester 2 - Week 9 of Semester 2
(1) Horses
(2) Dogs
Over the two semesters, students will be assessed on animal handling competencies involving four (4) domestic species: Cattle and Cats in the End of Semester 1 exam period and Horses and Dogs in Week 9 of Semester 2. The minimum mark required for EACH of the specific species of animal handling practical assessments is 70%, and ALL species exams MUST be passed to pass the course. The course Blackboard site lists the possible examinable competencies, all of which will be taught in the Semester 1 or 2 animal handling practical classes.
Practical 'Animal Handling' Exams Failure
Students who do not achieve a 70% pass mark in any of the animal handling practical assessment or receive a 'Safety fail' may be eligible for a second attempt at achieving competency. Students will only be eligible for second attempt at achieving competency if they have attended the failed species' animal handling practical class taught during the semester.
If a second attempt at achieving competency is awarded for dogs and/or horses, students will be required to undertake retraining in the species they failed, immediately prior to the second attempt at achieving competency, in Week 10 of Semester 2. Any student who cannot attend the Week 10 scheduled date for their second attempt at competency, without a medical certificate, will forfeit their 2nd attempt at competency, and enter the supplementary exam pathway for the course, if eligible under UQ Assessment Procedures.
Campus biosecurity requires all students to be in Australia for 7 days prior entering any animal facility on campus, therefore it is essential that students do not book international travel during the Semester 2 mid-semester break. Therefore NO student will be allowed to undertake a second attempt at competency if they have returned from overseas less than SEVEN (7) days prior to the scheduled exam. Failure to satisfy the biosecurity requirement will automatically result in cancellation of the second attempt leading to supplementary assessment if the student is eligible.
Students who are not eligible for, or who fail their second attempt at achieving competency in any species, may be eligible for supplementary assessment under UQ Assessment Procedures. Supplementary assessment, will be scheduled in the Semester 2 Deferred and Supplementary Examination period.
In the event of timetabled face-to-face animal handling practical exams being postponed due to adverse weather or other confounding reasons, the exams will be rescheduled as soon as practically possible. There is no suitable alternative format for these exams as they assess animal handling competencies that are critical in demonstrating that students are safe to progress in the BVSc(Hons) program.
If the animal handling practical exams cannot be held before the finalisation of grades, students will be awarded an incomplete (INC) grade in VETS1025 until the examinations can be rescheduled.
All Practical 'Animal Handling' assessment will be held on the Gatton Campus ONLY.
Hurdle requirements
Students MUST pass the practical handling assessment (with a pass mark of 70%) for EACH of the four species examined to pass VETS1025 and enable the commencement of the Animal Husbandry & Pre-Clinical Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placement milestone.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.
Students who are significantly injured, pregnant or unwell may not be safe to undertake these practical assessments. There are no alternative assessments available as these assessments are an essential safety hurdle before commencing their WIL program. Student will have to remain incomplete (INC) for this course until they are able to undertake the assessment safely, or withdraw if that exceeds the time allowed for remaining incomplete in a course.
Mandatory practical participation and skills assessment (Poultry, Beef Cattle, Cat clinical restraint, Pigs, Sheep and Goat handling)
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Oral
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration
- Weight
- Pass/fail
- Due date
23/03/2026 - 19/10/2026
- Other conditions
- Student specific, Secure.
- Learning outcomes
- L02, L04, L05, L06
Task description
Students will attend 2-3hr practical classes per species, in small groups, to practise basic animal handling and husbandry skills.
All practical attendance is in designated practical groups, at strictly scheduled times for individuals, posted on Blackboard. This is to ensure ethical use of out teaching animals and adequate supervision of students to manage safety during classes. Additionally ALL biosecurity protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE) and OH&S instructions are mandatory and failure to comply may mean failing the skills list based on safety, resulting in failure of the course.
All students are required to attend all practical classes and demonstrate the ability to competently perform 70% of the 10 core animal handling and husbandry skills on the checklist provided on Blackboard, for each species (Sem 1:Poultry, and Sem 2: Beef Cattle, Cat clinical restraint, Pigs, Sheep and Goats). The only exceptions are;
- Where the student can provide the course coordinator a medical certificate, or
- In the case of a personal or family emergency, such as the passing of a close friend or family member, provide a letter from a senior family member.
Where there is appropriate grounds, a student will be rescheduled into the next available practical session.
Students who fail to complete the skills competency checklist, may be eligible for supplementary assessment under UQ Assessment Procedures.
Hurdle requirements
All students are required to attend all practical classes and demonstrate the ability to satisfactorily perform 70% of the 10 core animal handling and husbandry skills on the checklist provided on Blackboard, for each species (Sem 1:Poultry, and Sem 2: Beef Cattle, Cat clinical restraint, Pigs, Sheep and Goats).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.
All students are required to attend all practical classes as scheduled and demonstrate the ability to competently perform 70% of the 10 core animal handling and husbandry skills on the checklist provided on Blackboard, for each species (Sem 1:Poultry, and Sem 2: Beef Cattle, Cat clinical restraint, Pigs, Sheep and Goats). The only exceptions are;
- Where the student can provide the course coordinator a medical certificate, or
- In the case of a personal or family emergency, such as the passing of a close friend or family member, provide a letter from a senior family member.
Where there is appropriate grounds, a student will be rescheduled into the next available practical session.
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 VETS1025
- Students must achieve an overall mark of at least 50% (i.e. for the combined assessment tasks).
- Achieve a mark of at least 70% for EACH of the species examined (cattle, horses, cats and dogs) in the practical assessments.
- Achieve a minimum of 70% competency in EACH of the 6 mandatory, in-prac skills competency checklists (Poultry, Beef Cattle, Cat clinical restraint, Pigs, Sheep and Goat handling)
- Students who are significantly injured, pregnant or unwell may not be safe to undertake these practical assessments. There are no alternative assessments available, as these assessments are an essential safety hurdle before commencing their AH/PC WIL program. Students will have to remain incomplete (INC) for this course until they can undertake the assessment safely, or withdraw if that exceeds the time allowed for remaining incomplete in a course.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
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.
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 at least 50% in the supplementary assessment except when the supplementary assessment involves one or more species-specific animal handling practical exams where the pass mark is 70% for each species-specific exam to achieve a passing grade of 3S4.
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 2026 School of Veterinary Science Student Support Blackboard Site can be found by visiting [SCIE0586] Student Support for BVSc & BVetTech programs 2026
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.
Additional Course Resources
Lecturers will provide students with recommended texts, websites via Blackboard links. The Gatton library has a comprehensive collection of texts covering the husbandry management of all species covered in the course. Search for resources on theﾠLibrary website.
As part of a collaboration between the Universities of Melbourne, Queensland and Sydney, Murdoch University and Massey University a series of high-resolution panoramic four-dimensional (4D) virtual farm videos have been created to help prepare veterinary students for their livestock husbandry placements and to improve their understanding of the livestock farming enterprises. Students will be able to see firsthand the seasonal changes in grazing properties and how intensive farming units are organised.
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 |
Lecture |
Animal husbandry, behaviour and welfare (Lectures) Lectures on husbandry, behaviour and welfare of horses, cattle, sheep, dogs, cats, goats, pigs, poultry, birds, camelids, 'pocket pets' and reptiles. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Practical |
Animal husbandry and handling (Practical classes) Students will do practical training in the handling and restraint of pigs, sheep, cattle, horses, dogs, cats, poultry and goats at facilities on Gatton Campus or in the community. Learning outcomes: L06, L07, L08 |
|
Lecture |
Cultural Competency (Lectures) A series of self directed lectures exploring building cultural competency in CAUL and Indigenous perspectives on animal husbandry Learning outcomes: L01, L03, L08 |
|
Tutorial |
Tutorials Tutorials on various species with emphasis on production, husbandry, behaviour and welfare Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Tutorial |
Pre-prac Workshops (Sem 1 and Sem 2) Workshops for each species, held prior to practical training, to refresh students on handling techniques, husbandry practices and equipment, safety, behaviour and welfare. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
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
- AI for Assessment Guide
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: