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
A comparative approach to reproductive anatomy & physiology with emphasis on species considered of veterinary importance; The practical/clinical significance of structures & endocrine interactions; purposes, benefits & methods of manipulating reproduction with emphasis on current production & breeding management systems.
General:
VETS2008 is designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of the structure and the function of tissues and organs making up the reproductive system. The relationship between structure and function of tissues and organs is explored. Examples of anatomy (structure) and physiology (function) are drawn primarily from 5 major domestic animal species - sheep, cattle, horses, pigs and dogs. This is intended to highlight the relevance of understanding animal reproduction from the three perspectives of animals used for food (sheep, cattle, pig), sport/leisure (horses) and as companions (dogs).
The intent is to achieve a competent understanding of the reproductive systems and reproductive cycles to provide a good working foundation for more advanced learning in later years of the BVSc (Hons) program. The course is a foundation for the 4th year course, VETS4034, which highlights the clinical discipline of Theriogenology (clinical practice of veterinary gynaecology, andrology and obstetrics). VETS2008 includes anatomy, physiology, puberty, estrous cycles, sperm and oocyte production, pregnancy, parturition and the post-partum period. It also explores aspects of applied reproduction such as management procedures to optimise fertility, synchronisation of estrous cycles and artificial breeding.ﾠﾠ
Anatomy:
Gross and histological reproductive anatomy of the male and female will be covered, with emphasis on structures of clinical significance. Common abnormalities and their origin will also be described so that the student can understand how abnormalities occur and where they will most likely be encountered.
Physiology:
Hormone production, interaction and function will be discussed in relation to hormone effects on the reproductive tract and testis/ovary function. This is followed by the reproductive cycle from mating, fertilisation, through to initiation of pregnancy, embryonic development followed by parturition (birth) and lactation.
Applied Reproduction:
Aspects of applied reproduction will be explored across different species in practical and tutorial classes.
Practical Component:
Practical classes will be provided in both macroscopic and microscopic reproductive anatomy. In addition, applied practicals will provide an introduction to the basic skills required in the practice of veterinary reproduction. These skills will be further developed in VETS4034.
Course requirements
Assumed background
For the hands-on animal practicals, students must have acquiredﾠanﾠunderstanding of and competency in animal husbandry, handling and production (particularly VETS1025).ﾠFor the assignment,ﾠskills acquired inﾠVeterinary Professional Foundationsﾠ(VETS1018) are central to theﾠcriticalﾠevaluation of data presented in research papers.ﾠ
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
AGRC1041
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
VETS2505
Restrictions
Enrolment restricted to Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) students only.
Course contact
Course staff
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.
A detailed lecture and practical plan are available on the VETS2008 Blackboard site. The course consists of approximately 36 lectures in 4 modules: 1) Male, 2) Female, 3) Pregnancy & Parturition, 4) Exotics. To supplement the lectures, there will be three anatomy practicals (male, female, pregnancy/lactation), one practical for semen assessment, five animal pracs/tutes (2x bovine, ovine, porcine, and canine) and two tutorials (female cycles, pregnancy).
Aims and outcomes
The course aims to identify the core principles of reproductive physiology that underpin the capacity to critically evaluate and solve common problems in animal reproduction. VETS2008 provides the basic knowledge and skills required to evaluate the fertility of individuals and groups of animals, and provide advice on optimising fertility, management of pregnancy, parturition and preparation for subsequent breeding.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Describe and identify the normal reproductive anatomy (structure) and physiology (function), before and after puberty, of the male and female in model animal species.
LO2.
Discuss how gamete production, development and function results in successful fertilisation.
LO3.
Discuss hormonal control of estrous cycles and evaluate methods to manipulate the cycle to optimize fertility.
LO4.
Evaluate the significance of events leading to the initiation and successful maintenance of pregnancy in domestic species.
LO5.
Describe how gestation is maintained in animals by explaining the roles of hormones, maternal recognition of pregnancy, embryonic/foetal development and parturition.
LO6.
Apply knowledge of the development of the placenta, embryo/fetus and associated hormones to identify appropriate methods of pregnancy diagnosis.
LO7.
Demonstrate knowledge of functional anatomy and physiology through application to problems of clinical significance in domestic animals.
LO8.
Evaluate reproductive performance of individuals and groups of animals by analyzing records and gathering history of management and reproductive practices.
LO9.
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
|
50% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
| Presentation |
Group project: Critical literature review
|
20% 10% per item |
Check in meeting 24/09/2025 9:00 am Video due 8/10/2025 12:00 pm
Check in meetings will occur between 9am-12pm on 24/9/25 - group times will be confirmed during semester. |
| Quiz |
Assessment Sequence: Quizzes (Male, female and pregnancy/parturition/lactation)
|
30% 10% per quiz |
Quiz 1: Male reproduction 18/08/2025 12:00 pm Quiz 2: Female reproduction 8/09/2025 1:00 pm Quiz 3: Pregnancy, parturition and lactation 15/10/2025 10:00 am |
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
End of Semester: Theory
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 50%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
The end of semester is an on-campus invigilated examination. The exam contributes 50% of the final grade and is a 120 minute exam held during the exam period. This exam will cover ALL material presented in the lectures and practical classes, with focus on applying knowledge to clinically relevant scenarios. The exam will incorporate a range of question types available in the Inspera examination platform.
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.
Hurdle requirements
Students must ATTEMPT the end of semester exam. There is no requirement to pass the end of semester exam. Students who do not ATTEMPT the end of semester exam, without an approved deferral, will fail the course and, if eligible under the Program Rules, will sit an exam that covers the content of the whole course.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.
Group project: Critical literature review
- Team or group-based
- Mode
- Oral, Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
- Category
- Presentation
- Weight
- 20% 10% per item
- Due date
Check in meeting 24/09/2025 9:00 am
Video due 8/10/2025 12:00 pm
Check in meetings will occur between 9am-12pm on 24/9/25 - group times will be confirmed during semester.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09
Task description
In groups of 3-4 students, select one manuscript from the available list for critical evaluation. This assignment has 2 parts:
· A 5 minute, in person ‘check in’ meeting with the course coordinator (10% weighting)
· A short (10 minute max) video, including references (10% weighting)
The check in meeting is designed to test your knowledge of the study, it’s strengths and limitations and how it fits into the literature. It’s also a chance to reflect on how you’ve worked as a group. The video is aimed at explaining the significance and quality of the manuscript to your peers (e.g. How reliable are the results and conclusions of the paper? To what extent did the paper add to current knowledge at the time of publication?). As part of your evaluation, concisely explain the background reproductive physiology concepts and application of the findings to veterinary practice.
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 folder.
On the video submission due date, students must submit the assignment coversheet detailing their use of AI, and a reference list (either in the video or as a separate document).
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
Instructions for submission are on VETS2008 Course Blackboard.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Students with acceptable reasons (medical or compassionate reasons or as a result of exceptional circumstances) may apply for an extension of the deadline for either the check in meeting or the video submission, or both. 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.
Assessment Sequence: Quizzes (Male, female and pregnancy/parturition/lactation)
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 30% 10% per quiz
- Due date
Quiz 1: Male reproduction 18/08/2025 12:00 pm
Quiz 2: Female reproduction 8/09/2025 1:00 pm
Quiz 3: Pregnancy, parturition and lactation 15/10/2025 10:00 am
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
There will be an assessment sequence consisting of 3 quizzes throughout the semester:
- In Week 4: Male reproduction - covers anatomy and physiology of males
- In Week 7: Female reproduction - covers anatomy and physiology of females
- In Week 11: Pregnancy, parturition and lactation - covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, parturition and lactation
Dates are subject to change in consultation with the year group (e.g. to avoid conflict with other major assessments).
All quizzes are online (Blackboard), invigilated in-class quizzes. Each quiz is worth 10%, with a total of 30 questions worth 1 mark each. Students will be given a random selection of questions in random order.
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
All quizzes are online (Blackboard) and will be conducted as invigilated in-class quizzes.
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 VETS2008
- Students must obtain at least 50% overall and MUST ATTEMPT the end of semester examination. Students are not required to pass the end of semester exam, assignment or quizzes individually to pass the 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.
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.
Other course materials
If we've listed something under further requirement, you'll need to provide your own.
Required
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Lab Coat & closed in shoes | Required for Anatomy Practical's | own item needed |
| Lab coat and closed shoes | Semen assessment practical | own item needed |
| Work boots and overalls | Ovine practical | own item needed |
| Gumboots and overalls (sleeveless recommended) | Bovine practical @ dairy | own item needed |
Additional learning resources information
Blackboard:
The Blackboard site for VETS2008 is where you'll find all the learning material, including lecture slides and recordings, practical and tutorial notes, an up to date timetable and additional resouces.
Textbooks:
Most reproduction texts are quite dense and less than inspiring reading. If you are looking at purchasing just one text that covers most of the basic course material, then Senger is recommended. Senger is an easy read with good illustrations. If you wish to purchase a specific anatomy text, Textbook of veterinary anatomy is probably the most useful, and if you are looking for a specific physiology book then Cunningham's textbook of veterinary physiology is the most useful.
In addition to the recommended reference material, you may find the following useful both now and in later years: Noakes, DE, Parkinson, TJ & England, GCW (eds) 2019, Veterinary reproduction and obstetrics, 10th edn, Saunders, Edinburgh. SF887 .A7 2009.
Websites:
The internet can be a wonderful resource for finding information, but take care with what you find online, as it's not always correct!ﾠSome of the following websites provide useful information on animal reproduction.
Library of Reproduction Imagesﾠﾠﾠﾠ
International Embryo Transfer Society
ﾠJournals:
In general, articles published as review papers in peer-reviewed journals are likely to include more comprehensive and recent information on animal reproduction.ﾠ
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 5 |
Lecture |
Male reproduction lectures Weeks 1-3. Lecture series covering male reproductive anatomy and physiology. Sub-activity: Testis and epididymis Scrotum and spermatic cord Accessory sex glands Penis and prepuce Male hormones Spermatogenesis Sperm maturation and assessment Erection and ejaculation Male puberty Male reproductive System- Student feedback Clinical applications related to male reproduction systems Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L07, L08, L09 |
Week 2 (04 Aug - 10 Aug) |
Practical |
Male anatomy practical Week 2. Male reproductive anatomy and histology. Sub-activity: Anatomy of male reproductive systems in domestic animals Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L07, L08 |
Week 3 (11 Aug - 17 Aug) |
Practical |
Semen assessment practical Basics of qualitative and quantitative laboratory semen assessment for male breeding soundness evaluation. Sub-activity: Assessment of Semen/spermatozoa viability Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L07, L08 |
Multiple weeks From Week 4 To Week 7 |
Lecture |
Female reproduction lectures Lecture series covering female reproductive anatomy and physiology. Sub-activity: Structure and function of vulva, vagina, cervix Structure and function of uterus and oviducts Structure and function of ovary Female hormones Oestrous cycles Oogenesis- follicular phase Oogenesis- luteal phase female puberty in animals Female reproductive system- student feedback and questions Clinical applications related to female reproduction systems Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09 |
Multiple weeks From Week 5 To Week 10 |
Practical |
Bovine and ovine practical Practical sessions in cattle and sheep on pregnancy diagnosis by rectal palpation, semen collection and artificial breeding. Sub-activity: Introduction to Palpation Species Focused prac - Bovine Species Focused prac - ovine Learning outcomes: L01, L07 |
Week 5 (25 Aug - 31 Aug) |
Practical |
Female anatomy practical Female reproductive anatomy and histology. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Multiple weeks From Week 6 To Week 8 |
Practical |
Canine and porcine practical Practical sessions on pigs and dogs, focusing on semen collection, artificial insemination, vaginal cytology and pregnancy diagnosis. Sub-activity: Species focused practical- canine Species focused practical- porcine Learning outcomes: L01, L07 |
Multiple weeks From Week 8 To Week 11 |
Lecture |
Pregnancy & parturition lectures Weeks 8-12. Lecture series covering pregnancy, parturition and post-parturition recovery. Sub-activity: Sperm transport & fertilisation Embryology Pregnancy recognition Structure and function of the placenta in domestic animals Maintenance of pregnancy Parturition Lactation Uterine involution and resuming cycling Clinical application - pregnancy diagnosis Pregnancy and parturition- feedback and student questions Learning outcomes: L04, L05, L06, L07, L09 |
Week 10 (06 Oct - 12 Oct) |
Tutorial |
Clinical Reproduction Tutorial Tutorial on Female Reproductive Tract Learning outcomes: L07, L08 |
Week 11 (13 Oct - 19 Oct) |
Practical |
Pregnancy and lactation anatomy practical Anatomy and histology of pregnancy and lactation. Learning outcomes: L01, L04, L05, L06 |
Week 12 (20 Oct - 26 Oct) |
Tutorial |
Pregnancy diagnosis tutorial Tutorial covering applied aspects of pregnancy diagnosis. Learning outcomes: L01, L07 |
Week 13 (27 Oct - 02 Nov) |
Lecture |
Exotics lectures Lecture series covering avian, reptile and small mammal reproduction. Learning outcomes: L01, L07, L08 |
Additional learning activity information
Refer to Practical Schedule on Blackboard for detailed scheduling information.
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: