Course coordinator
Ms Trish Farry
Available during tutorial session and by email appointment.
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2025 (20/01/2025 - 21/06/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- Gatton
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- Gatton
- Coordinating unit
- Veterinary Science School
Defines the different classes of drugs/chemicals/physical agents and describes their actions, practical applications, side effects, contra-indications and dosage regimen.
VETS3017 examines the different classes of drugs/chemicals/physical agents utilised in veterinary therapeutics and describes their actions, therapeutic applications, side effects, contra-indications and dosage schedules. Terminology and legislation relevant to the field are also studied. VETS3017 focuses on the applications of veterinary therapeutics applicable to veterinary technologists working in clinical practice, research facilities and other related fields.
VETS3017 will also cover the basic principles of toxicology, especially how toxins affect the body and provide information on common toxicants that affect small animals and how to recognise clinical signs.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Students should have a background in animal anatomy and physiology as well as chemistry before undertaking VETS3017.
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
Completion of BVetTech Core Courses and successful completion of EMS
Recommended prerequisites
We recommend completing the following courses before enrolling in this one:
AGRC2001, ANIM2051, ANIM2052 & VETS2001
Companion or co-requisite courses
You'll need to complete the following courses at the same time:
VETS3009, VETS3017, VETS3018, VETS3043, VETS3044 and VETS3048
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ANIM3022, VETS2020
Restrictions
Only available to 3rd year Veterinary Technology students
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Jo Rainger
Dr Danielle Hindmarsh
Dr Andrea Schoep
Guest lecturer
Dr Edith Hampson
Tutor
Dr Ildiko Erdelyi
Dr Elisa Dennis
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
This course aims to prepare students for a veterinary support role in a clinical context, research facility or industry role (e.g. veterinary pharmaceutical company) with a focus on developing an understanding of the drugs and chemical agents used in veterinary therapeutics and their applications.
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Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Classify drugs and chemical agents used in the therapy of companion animals and livestock and explain their physiological and pharmacological effects in different body systems.
LO2.
Explain the key mechanisms of a drug's journey through the body (pharmacokinetics) and what drugs do to the body (pharmacodynamics) and apply that to drug usage in veterinary therapeutics.
LO3.
Calculate the correct drug dosage and dispense medication in accordance with veterinary instructions; provide appropriate advice and instructions to clients.
LO4.
Describe appropriate routes of drug administration in a range of clinical scenarios and provide justification for their use.
LO5.
Accurately record veterinary patient medical information relating to drug administration and therapeutic effects using appropriate terminology.
LO6.
Demonstrate an understanding of and comply with safety legislation relevant to the use of veterinary drugs and chemical agents.
LO7.
Understand and explain the basic principles of toxicology, especially how toxins affect the body.
LO8.
Know the important toxicants affecting small animals, be able to recognise them clinically and advise clients on emergency management.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examination |
In-Semester Examination 1
|
40% |
Scheduled in Week 6 |
| Examination |
In-Semester Examination 2
|
60% |
In-semester Saturday 29/03/2025 - 12/04/2025 |
Assessment details
In-Semester Examination 1
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 40%
- Due date
Scheduled in Week 6
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06
Task description
This examination will be of 60 minutes duration and in the form of multiple choice questions (MCQ) and/or short answer questions and may include some problem solving case-based scenarios.
This exam will cover all anaesthesia-related materials and calculations (premedication, opioids/NSAIDS, local anaesthetics, IV & inhalational anaesthesia, calculations).
The exam will be an in-person invigilated digital exam utilising the Inspera Platform.
Inspera
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 End of Semester 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.
Previous VETS3017 Inspera examinations are available in the library as an example of the different question types that can be utilised within this platform.
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.
In certain circumstances, you can apply to take a Deferred examination for in-semester and end-of-semester exams.
- In-semester deferred exam request – applies to exams held at any time other than during the University's end-of-semester exam block periods.
- End-of-semester deferred exam request – applies only to exams held during the University's designated end-of-semester exam periods.
You'll need to demonstrate through supporting documentation how unavoidable circumstances prevented you from sitting your exam. If you can’t, you can apply for a one-off discretionary deferred exam.
There are no provisions to defer a deferred exam. You need to be available to sit your deferred examination.
Further information including acceptable evidence and instructions on how to apply can be found on my.UQ Deferring an exam
In-Semester Examination 2
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 60%
- Due date
In-semester Saturday
29/03/2025 - 12/04/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
This examination will be of 90 minutes duration and in the form of multiple choice questions (MCQ) and/or short answer questions and may include some problem-solving case-based scenarios.
Anaesthesia pharmacology will not be re-examined. Any other materials covered in weeks 1 - 9 may be examinable.
The exam will be an in-person invigilated digital exam utilising the Inspera Platform
Inspera
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 End of Semester 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.
Previous VETS3017 Inspera examinations are available in the library as an example of the different question types that can be utilised within this platform.
Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 90 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.
In certain circumstances, you can apply to take a Deferred examination for in-semester and end-of-semester exams.
- In-semester deferred exam request – applies to exams held at any time other than during the University's end-of-semester exam block periods.
- End-of-semester deferred exam request – applies only to exams held during the University's designated end-of-semester exam periods.
You'll need to demonstrate through supporting documentation how unavoidable circumstances prevented you from sitting your exam. If you can’t, you can apply for a one-off discretionary deferred exam.
There are no provisions to defer a deferred exam. You need to be available to sit your deferred examination.
Further information including acceptable evidence and instructions on how to apply can be found on my.UQ Deferring an exam
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: Grade 1 is 0%-29% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Grade 2 is 30%-44% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: Grade 3 is 45%-49% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Grade 4 is 50%-64% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Grade 5 is 65%-74% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Grade 6 is 75%-84% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Grade 7 is 85%-100% |
Additional course grading information
To pass VETS3017
Students must gain 50% of the available marks for the course, and achieve at least 50% in the end of semester examination.
Grade calculations
When rounding final marks for grade calculations, part marks of <0.5 will be ROUNDED DOWN to the nearest whole number, and part marks of >/= 0.5 will be ROUNDED UP to the nearest whole number.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to my.UQ for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
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.
Additional learning resources information
SSWS + UQU
Maintaining a work-life balance and seeking help early is crucial for successful university studies. UQ Student Support and Wellbeing Services (SSWS) and the Student Union (UQU) offer numerous resources for UQ students including various mindfulness programs and counselling services to boost confidence and improve overall physical and mental wellbeing. UQU also offers a range of support, welfare, and wellbeing resources.
For immediate assistance, please call the 24/7 UQ Counselling and Crisis Line at 1300 851 998.
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 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.
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 10 |
General contact hours |
Tutorial (Antibiotics) Students will participate in a team based learning session that will focus on the case based application of the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, side effects and contraindications of antibiotics. During this session students will be asked to apply the appropriate Queensland and National legislation to the purchase, sale, dispensing, administration, storage and disposal of these drugs. Students will also be practice the calculation of drug dosages applicable to the use of these agents. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
General contact hours |
Q & A Session (Opioids and NSAIDs) Students have been supplied pre-reading on case based application and the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, side effects and contraindications of opioid and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Students should also be able to apply appropriate Queensland and National legislation to the purchase, sale, dispensing, administration, storage and disposal of these drugs. This session will be dedicated to addressing questions and clarifying key concepts. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
|
Lecture |
Lecture and Tutorial Series Series of lectures and tutorials covering basic knowledge of pharmacology (pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics) and drugs classified by body system (e.g. cardiovascular, gastro-intestinal, respiratory, endocrine) OR by effects (e.g. antimicrobials; anti-inflammatories, chemotherapeutics, parasiticides) will be delivered over the semester. Modes of action, therapeutic effects, side effects, legislative classification, and other clinical applications will be discussed. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Lecture |
Toxicology Lectures will cover the basic principles of toxicology, especially how toxins affect the body. These lectures will provide information on common toxicants that affect small animals and how to recognise clinical signs. There will be a Q&A session scheduled that will be dedicated to addressing questions and clarifying key concepts. Learning outcomes: L07, L08 |
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 - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.