Course coordinator
Associate Professor Deanne Whitworth
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 & physiology of urinary & endocrine systems, with integrative physiology, comparative, applied & topographic anatomy of domestic animals.
The course is a foundation pre-clinical anatomical and biomedical science course that establishes a firm knowledge of normal organ and body system functions in animals with relevance to the veterinary sciences. It provides a basis of knowledge for further study of the recognition and understanding of abnormal function in animal disease. Specifically, the course teaches the anatomy and physiology of the urinary and endocrine systems, the comparative anatomy and physiology of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, monotremes and marsupials, and applied anatomy of domestic species through the use of radiology.
Course requirements
Assumed background
English, Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry to Year 12 level.
Background knowledge in Animal & Veterinary Biology (VETS1060), Molecular Basis of Life (BIOC1011), Cell & Tissue Biology for Agriculture & Veterinary Science (AGRC1041), Digestion, Metabolism & Nutrition (VETS1003), Functional Anatomy of Locomotion & the Integument (VETS1021) and Structure & Function I (VETS2011) is assumed.
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:
PHYL2026 or PHYL2028, VETS2002 or VETS2003
Restrictions
Enrolment restricted to Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) students only.
Course contact
Course coordinator
Dr Werdi Pratiwi
Course staff
Lecturer
Associate Professor Deanne Whitworth
Professor Michael Noad
Dr Werdi Pratiwi
Professor Paul Mills
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Please check your course Blackboard site frequently for the latest Timetable information.
Please note that unexpected changes to the Timetable may occur throughout the Semester. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly check the course Blackboard site. Any updates to the timetable will be communicated to students via Blackboard Announcements.
Aims and outcomes
The primary goal of this course is to provide a framework of information that allows students to develop a good understanding of the basic biological principles in relation to the normal structure and function of animals that are relevant to veterinary science. The course builds on the anatomy and physiology of different body systems taught in the first semester (VETS2011 Structure and Function I), while also introducing the anatomy and physiology of comparative species such as fish, birds, reptiles, monotremes and marsupials.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Describe the structure and the function of the renal system, and apply this knowledge to describing its role in health and disease.
LO2.
Describe the structure and the function of the endocrine system and apply this knowledge to describe how many bodily functions are affected by hormonal influences and interpret the consequences of dysfunction.
LO3.
Be able to explain how thermoregulation is beneficial to the animal in temperature extremes and disease.
LO4.
Compare and contrast the anatomy of non-domestic species such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, monotremes and marsupials with domestic animals, and how evolutionary pressure has led to differences between these species and domestic species, and their clinical significance.
LO5.
Compare and contrast the physiology of common non-domestic species such as reptiles, birds, and small mammals with domestic animals, and how evolutionary pressure has led to differences between these species and more common domestic species, and their clinical significance.
LO6.
Apply the concepts of radiology to the generation of radiographic images. Use standard radiologic terminology to identify and describe normal anatomy of small animals and horses.
LO7.
In the context of external industry learning, begin to develop a professional identity through reflection of pre-clinical WIL experience.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examination |
Renal & Endocrine Theory Exam
|
40% |
In-semester Saturday 6/09/2025 - 20/09/2025 |
| Examination |
End-of-Semester Digital Practical Exam
|
25% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
| Examination |
End-of-Semester Theory Exam
|
35% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
| Reflection |
Pre-Clinical (PC) WIL Reflection
|
Pass/Fail |
19/09/2025 2:00 pm |
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
Renal & Endocrine Theory Exam
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 40%
- Due date
In-semester Saturday
6/09/2025 - 20/09/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
A centrally-scheduled in-semester theory exam covering renal anatomy and physiology, and endocrine anatomy and physiology. The exam will incorporate a range of questions available in the Inspera examination platform. This is a 60-minute, in-person, invigilated exam run on the Gatton campus.
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 | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| 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.
End-of-Semester Digital Practical Exam
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 25%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
This exam covers material in Renal Anatomy, Endocrine Anatomy and Comparative Anatomy, and Radiology practicals and tutorials, as well as the Radiology theory content.
This is a 60-minute, in-person, invigilated exam run on the Gatton campus. The exam will incorporate a range of questions 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.
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.
End-of-Semester Theory Exam
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 35%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
This exam covers the lecture material on Comparative Anatomy and Physiology, and Thermoregulation.
This is a 60-minute, in-person, invigilated exam run on the Gatton campus. The exam will incorporate a range of questions 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.
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.
Pre-Clinical (PC) WIL Reflection
- Hurdle
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Reflection
- Weight
- Pass/Fail
- Due date
19/09/2025 2:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Student specific.
Task description
The purpose of the reflective task is to consider your PC-WIL industry placement or recognised prior learning (exemption granted) experience in the context of gaining knowledge relevant to the Animal Husbandry (AH)/PC-WIL milestone.
Reflection is a core component of your journey through the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) program. Thus, we trust you will be developing an insight as to how these external WIL learning experiences are adding to your professional identity. Importantly, reflection also defines a pathway forward to identify weaknesses and to consider what remediation must be undertaken, in preparation for the demands of the clinical phase of the BVSc program.
Students must complete a succinct reflection on their PC-WIL industry placement experience.
Criteria & Marking
- The reflection must individually address the described learning objectives (listed below) in the context of your PC-WIL industry placement.
- Word limit is 1000 words, with a 200-word tolerance.
- A diverse approach to the format of the reflection is acceptable: i.e. you may use alternative forms of media such as PowerPoints, pictures, videos, text, tables, diagrams or a combination of these arrangements. (Please note – photos and videos only with the appropriate permission from the applicable industry partner).
- A passing grade for this reflection is a requirement for the completion of this course.
- Enquiries related to this Assessment Task should be directed to vetenquiries@uq.edu.au. PLEASE DO NOT CONVEY QUERIES TO THE COURSE COORDINATOR(S).
Learning Objectives
- Reflect on the nature and general management of animal enterprises and associated specific animal husbandry practices you encountered during a PC-WIL placement.
- Reflect on your own personal development (in terms of interpersonal skills; animal handling and restraint proficiency in varying situations; experience in animal husbandry and management) following this PC-WIL placement.
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of the business operation of your chosen animal enterprise, extending to local risk factors and health and safety considerations.
- Identify opportunities to remediate self-identified weaknesses in learning objectives 1-3.
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.
Hurdle requirements
The PC WIL Reflection must be graded as a PASS to achieve a passing grade for VETS2012Submission guidelines
The reflection must be submitted via the VETS2012 Blackboard site. Feedback will be provided and, in some instances, a re-submit requested by the WIL Coordinator.
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.
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 VETS2012
Students must achieve a final mark of 50% that is a cumulative mark from the theory and practical examinations (ie In-semester Theory Exam, End-of-semester Theory Exam, and End-of-semester Practical Exam). There is no requirement to pass each examination individually.
In addition, students must achieve a Pass grade in the Pre-Clinical WIL Reflection 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.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Protective lab wear | Required for practical classes | 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 |
|---|---|---|
Not scheduled |
Practical |
Comparative Anatomy and Physiology Practicals Comparative anatomy and physiology of other species such as birds, monotremes and marsupials |
Not scheduled |
Practical |
Radiology Practical Radiographic anatomy |
Not scheduled |
Lecture |
Thermoregulation Lectures Physiology of Thermoregulation of different species. |
Not scheduled |
Not Timetabled |
Reflective Journal Maintain a reflective journal, which will serve as a record of AH/PC WIL learning experiences & capture your unique learning opportunities |
Multiple weeks |
Lecture |
Renal and Endocrine Anatomy and Physiology Lectures Anatomy and physiology of the renal system, hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid gland, adrenal cortex and endocrine pancreas; endocrine homeostasis and thermoregulation |
Practical |
Renal and Endocrine Anatomy and Physiology Practicals Anatomy and physiology of the renal system, hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid gland, adrenal cortex and endocrine pancreas; endocrine homeostasis and thermoregulation |
|
Tutorial |
Renal and Endocrine Anatomy and Physiology Tutorials Anatomy and physiology of the renal system, hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid gland, adrenal cortex and endocrine pancreas; endocrine homeostasis and thermoregulation |
|
Lecture |
Comparative Anatomy and Physiology Lectures Comparative anatomy and physiology of other species such as birds, monotremes and marsupials |
|
Lecture |
Radiology Lectures Radiographic anatomy |
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: