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Course profile

Equine Clinical Studies (VETS4022)

Study period
Sem 1 2025
Location
Gatton
Attendance mode
In Person

Course overview

Study period
Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 22/11/2025)
Study level
Undergraduate
Location
Gatton
Attendance mode
In Person
Units
2
Administrative campus
Gatton
Coordinating unit
Veterinary Science School

In this course, students develop skills in all branches of equine medicine, surgery and reproduction. This includes competence in the normal clinical procedures used in equine practice and an understanding of the scientific basis and case-based diagnostic approach for such procedures. Topics include: management and diseases of broodmares, stallions, and neonates, wound healing, colic and gastroenterology, opthalmology, respiratory syndromes, urological syndromes, orthapaedics, lameness and laminitis, neurology, dermatology and dentistry.

The purpose of the course is toᅠallow students to develop the Day-1 theoretical and practicalᅠknowledge ofᅠequine internal medicine and surgery needed to become competent general practitioners. Knowledge and skills gained in this course will be built upon during the clinical equine rotation in final year (VETS5015), with the aim of developing sound clinical competency with horses upon graduation.ᅠThis courseᅠbuilds on earlier, introductory courses in pre-clinical studies, anatomy, physiology and pathologyᅠof which students are expected to have a thorough working knowledge.

Course requirements

Assumed background

Assumed Background:

The students in this course are assumed to have a sound knowledge of:

ᄋᅠᅠᅠᅠᅠ Digestion, Metabolism & Nutrition (VETS1003)

ᄋᅠᅠᅠᅠᅠ Functional anatomy of locomotion and the integument (VETS1021)

ᄋᅠᅠᅠᅠᅠ Principles of disease (VETS2006ᅠ& VETS2007)

ᄋᅠᅠᅠᅠᅠ Structure and function (VETS2011 & VETS2012)

ᄋᅠᅠᅠᅠᅠ Infectious diseases (VETS3010)

ᄋᅠᅠᅠᅠᅠ Veterinary Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology (VETS3050)

ᄋᅠᅠᅠᅠᅠ Veterinary Systems and Pathology and Medicine (VETS3060)

ᄋᅠᅠᅠᅠᅠ Veterinary Clinical Principles (VETS3070)

Prerequisites

You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:

(VETS3010, VETS3011, VETS3012) or (VETS3050, VETS3060, VETS3070)

Restrictions

Enrolment restricted to Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) students.

Course contact

Course staff

Lecturer

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 aim of the course is to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to recognise, understand and treat theᅠcommon basic diseases and disorders of horses. In this course, students develop skills in all branches of equine internal medicine and surgery. This includes competence in the normal clinical procedures used in equine practice and an understanding of the scientific basis and case-based diagnostic approach for such procedures. Topics include: cardiology, gastroenterology, respiratory diseases, nephrology, neurology, endocrinology, lameness and orthopaedic surgery, neonatology andᅠopthalmology.

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this course you should be able to:

LO1.

Obtain a relevant and accurate history for an individual horse or a group of horses through effective communication with owners in various contexts

LO2.

Describe the underlying pathophysiology of common equine diseases encountered in practice to a varied audience

LO3.

Identify and correctly interpret clinical signs of common equine diseases encountered in practice

LO4.

Develop a relevant problem list using information derived from the history, general assessment and physical examination of the horse

LO5.

Select and justify the appropriate diagnostic procedures needed to further assess common presenting complaints in horses

LO6.

Correctly interpret the results of diagnostic tests used in the investigation of common equine diseases and integrate those results in case management

LO7.

Propose and communicate rational medical and surgical treatment and management of common equine diseases

LO8.

Identify horses with diseases requiring referral to a specialist for further investigation and/or treatment

LO9.

Possess a knowledge of the ethical standards expected of veterinarians and accept their professional responsibility to assess their own ethics and standards of conduct

Assessment

Assessment summary

Category Assessment task Weight Due date
Quiz Assessment sequence: Quizzes Semester 1
  • Online
10%

Week 3,

Week 6,

Week 9,

Week 12,

Week 13,

Examination End of Semester 1 Examination
  • Identity Verified
  • In-person
  • Online
40%

End of Semester Exam Period

7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025

Quiz Assessment sequence: Quizzes Semester 2
  • Online
10%

Week 16,

Week 19,

Week 22,

Week 26,

Examination End of Semester 2 Examination
  • Identity Verified
  • In-person
40%

Second End of Semester Exam Period

8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025

Assessment details

Assessment sequence: Quizzes Semester 1

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Quiz
Weight
10%
Due date

Week 3,

Week 6,

Week 9,

Week 12,

Week 13,

Learning outcomes
L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Task description

Quizzes are available on the Blackboard page for VETS4022.

Multiple choice online quizzes based upon class content (lectures, practical sessions and tutorials). Each quiz is a timed, 30-minute quiz with 10 multiple choice questions, each quiz is worth 2.5%. The topic of each quiz will be detailed on Blackboard. The due dates will be different for each quiz and detailed instructions and due dates will be posted on BlackBoard (expect 4 quizzes per semester).

The specific due dates and tested materials will be different for each quiz and detailed instructions will be posted on Blackboard. The quizzes will be announced on Blackboard.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Quizzes will appear in the Blackboard page for this course.

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 1 Examination

  • Identity Verified
  • In-person
  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Examination
Weight
40%
Due date

End of Semester Exam Period

7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Task description

Short answer (60% of marks will be short answer/written format) and multiple choice (40% of marks will be MCQ) question examination covering lectures, tutorials and practical sessions from Semester 1. The questions include both basic knowledge and problem-based questions. Some questions may include images or results from diagnostic tests.


Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Exam details

Planning time 10 minutes
Duration 120 minutes
Calculator options

Any calculator 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.

Assessment sequence: Quizzes Semester 2

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Quiz
Weight
10%
Due date

Week 16,

Week 19,

Week 22,

Week 26,

Learning outcomes
L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Task description

Quizzes are available on the Blackboard page for VETS4022.

Multiple choice online quizzes based upon class content (lectures, practical sessions and tutorials). Each quiz is a timed, 30-minute quiz with 10 multiple choice questions, each quiz is worth 2.5%. The topic of each quiz will be detailed on Blackboard. The due dates will be different for each quiz and detailed instructions and due dates will be posted on BlackBoard.

The specific due dates and tested materials will be different for each quiz and detailed instructions will be posted on Blackboard. The quizzes will be announced on Blackboard.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

The quiz will be found in the Blackboard page for this course.

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 2 Examination

  • Identity Verified
  • In-person
Mode
Written
Category
Examination
Weight
40%
Due date

Second End of Semester Exam Period

8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025

Other conditions
Time limited.

See the conditions definitions

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Task description

Short answer (60% of marks will be short answer/written format) and multiple choice (40% of marks will be MCQ) question examination covering lectures, tutorials and practical sessions from Semester 2. The questions include both basic knowledge and problem-based questions. Some questions may include images or results from diagnostic tests.


Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Exam details

Planning time 10 minutes
Duration 120 minutes
Calculator options

Any calculator permitted

Open/closed book Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted
Exam platform Paper based
Invigilation

Invigilated in person

Submission guidelines

Deferral or extension

You may be able to defer this exam.

Students must be available for their examinations on the scheduled date, time, and campus of their course enrolment. The exam format is determined by the Course Coordinator and may include written (paper-based, online, or digital), practical, oral, or other timed assessments (such as quizzes).

If you are unable to sit for your original examination, you may be eligible for a deferred examination. To apply, you must demonstrate that unavoidable circumstances prevented you from attending your exam. If this is not possible, you can apply for a one-off discretionary deferred exam. All requests for deferred examinations MUST include supporting documentation. For more information, including acceptable evidence and application instructions, please visit my.UQ Deferring an Exam.

Please note that there are no provisions to defer an already-deferred exam. You must be available to sit your deferred examination at the allocated time.

Students who submit five or more deferral requests within a twelve-month period will be contacted with advice on the services and support available within the University.

Course grading

Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.

Grade Description
1 (Low Fail)

Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Overall mark of 0-29%

2 (Fail)

Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Overall mark of 30-44%

3 (Marginal Fail)

Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes

Course grade description: Overall mark of 45-49%

4 (Pass)

Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Overall mark of 50-64%

5 (Credit)

Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Overall mark of 65-74%

6 (Distinction)

Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Overall mark of 75-84%

7 (High Distinction)

Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Overall mark of 85-100%

Additional course grading information

To pass VETS4022

Students must achieve an overall mark of at least 50% (i.e. for the combined assessment tasks).

Grade calculations

The final grade of the course includes the grade obtained at the first semester examination (worth 40%), the grade obtained at the second semester examination (worth 40%) and the grades obtained during the 8 quizzes (worth 2.5% each and 20% combined).

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.ᅠ

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 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.

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Learning period Activity type Topic
Multiple weeks
Lecture

Anaesthesia and analgesia Lectures

Fundamental principles of anaesthesia in horses. Premedication, induction, maintenance and recovery procedures. Common complication and how to prevent them. 

Sub-activity:

Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05, L06, L09

Lecture

Case management in general and specialty practices

Case-based application of the knowledge acquired in the course with a focus on the different types of equine practice.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Equine lameness and orthopaedic surgery

A thorough approach to equine lameness including foot lameness, fractures, joint disorders, tendon and ligament disorders and treatments options for lameness.

Sub-activity:

Learning outcomes: L01, L05, L06, L08

Lecture

Diagnostic imaging

Overview of the diagnostic imaging techniques and their use in equine practice using a case-based approach.

Sub-activity:

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Wound management Lectures

Discussion on equine wounds, their assessment, management and complications.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Tutorial

Wound management Tutorial

Case-based discussions on equine wounds, their assessment, management and complications.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Urology, nephrology and urogenital surgery

Approach to equine urinary problems in the horse including surgeries of the urogenital tract.

Sub-activity:

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Neurology

Examination of the nervous system, diagnostic aids, common diseases and their prognosis and treatment.

Sub-activity:

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Tutorial

Equine neurology Tutorial

Case-based approach to common equine neurologic diseases and their management.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Cardiology

Overview of cardiac diseases in horses particularly as it relates to athletic performance. Diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of common cardiac abnormalities.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Ophthalmology

Principles involved in the examination, medical treatment of various eye conditions, anaesthesia of eye and eyelid conditions including (anaesthesia - the use of various nerve blocks, general anaesthesia) placement of eye treatment tubes.

Learning outcomes: L01

Lecture

Alimentary tract disorders and liver diseases Lectures

Case-based approach to equine abdominal diseases with a focus on diseases of the alimentary system (dental, stomach, small intestine, colon, liver) and management of colics.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Tutorial

Equine colic Tutorial

Case-based approach to colic management.

Learning outcomes: L01, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Tutorial

Case management Gastrointestinal Tutorial

Case-based approach to medical gastrointestinal disorders.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Practical

Equine clinical skills

Students will perform diagnostic procedures common in equine practice including nerve blocks, dental floating, nasogastric intubation and ocular examination. All the procedures will be performed on live animals.

Learning outcomes: L01, L03, L04, L05, L06

Lecture

Respiratory pathology Lectures

Comprehensive approach to infectious and non-infectious diseases of the equine upper and lower respiratory tract with a focus on diagnosis and treatment.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Tutorial

Case management Respiratory Tutorial

Case-based approach to medical respiratory disorders.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Equine Neonatology Lectures

Case-based approach to common problems of the foal from birth to weaning with a focus on management.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Tutorial

Equine neonatology Tutorial

Case-based approach to foal diseases with a focus on management.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Practical

Case and client management in practice

Case-based application of the knowledge acquired in the course with a focus on the different types of equine practice.
In client communication workshops, students will work in small groups to conduct consultations with simulated clients (actors), give and receive feedback, and reflect on their own performance. This workshop will extend on theory covered in VET4022 and allows students to practice client discussions focussed on a common condition, treatment options, costs and prognosis. As such, the workshops provide a highly contextualised opportunity to further integrate and apply knowledge gained from lectures in a practical and applied setting. Students will receive 360 degree real-time multi-source feedback within the context of the workshop, which will mostly likely be conducted via ZOOM in 2021. Feedback will be related to both the communication aspects of the interaction and also the technical/ clinical content.

Sub-activity:

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L07, L09

Tutorial

Equine lameness and diagnostic imaging

This case-based tutorial will present common clinical presentations of lameness encountered in equine practice.

Sub-activity:

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Dermatology

Case-based evaluation of equine skin diseases.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Oncology and haemolymphatic diseases

Case-based approach to infectious haemolymphatic diseases and diagnostic & therapeutic approach to anaemia in horses.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Lecture

Endocrinology

Case-based discussion of equine endocrinology with a focus on disorders resulting in laminitis.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

Tutorial

Equine endocrinology tutorial

Case-based approach to interpretation of hormonal assays relevant to the management of horses with metabolic disorders.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09

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:

Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.