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The veterinary program has officially changed for 2008. Some courses have been moved around or omitted all together and students are now required to complete prerequisites before applying to veterinary school. Many of these pre reqs will have been completed by most international students already. Make sure you save your course syllabi and descriptions for any classes you take at your current institution that resemble the courses listed below. This new course arrangement has allowed for more hands on animal experience to be added and for students to be exposed to the life of a veterinarian in the earlier years through the Veterinary Professional Life stream which occurs in all five years.
Prerequisite Units - up to 9 points
Students who have not completed these units will be required to pass them prior to commencing the first year of the course.
PEC140 Introduction to Chemistry -- 3 pts
Description: Topics: atomic and molecular structure of matter, chemical symbols and equations, valency, states of matter, gas laws, simple reaction types, acids and bases, the mole concept, chemical stoichiometry, molarity, pH, titrations, chemical equilibrium, kinetics, atomic structure, periodicity, bonding, thermochemistry, properties of hydrocarbons, halogenoalkanes and alcohols, organic nomenclature. OR
Year 12 Chemistry with a final scaled score of more than 60%.
MAS184 Biostatistics and Information Retrieval -- 3 pts
Description: The unit introduces students to biostatistical methods for analysis and research with emphasis on the veterinary and health sciences. Topics: the design and analysis of simple experiments, the use of modern computer technology to analyse and present data and the interpretation of analysis presented in published scientific reports. An Information Retrieval Unit within the unit builds on the basic library skills program and includes accessing electronic abstracting services and design of literature search strategies.
OR
MAS183 Statistical Data Analysis and Databases -- 3 pts
Description: This unit introduces students to methods of collection, storage, retrieval and statistical analysis of data of particular relevance to the environmental and biological sciences. Topics: the design and analysis of simple experiments, sampling methods, analysis of data arising in particular applications and the interpretation of statistical analyses presented in published scientific papers and reports. The unit incorporates an integrated component on the retrieval and analysis of data and information from databases.
BIO152 Cell Biology -- 3 pts
Description: This unit introduces components of cells, their synthesis, function and control mechanisms; demonstrates the integrated, controlled nature of the normal cell; and develops both manual and conceptual skills in biology. Topics: cell ultrastructure; proteins; enzymes; membranes; energy metabolism; oxidative phosphorylation; electron transport chains; photosynthesis; structure of DNA; transcription and the role of RNA in the cell; the genetic code; translation and the role of ribosomes; gene control; DNA synthesis; chromosomes and mitosis; meiosis; introduction to Mendelian genetics and cell specialisation.
The Veterinary Biology degree encompasses both normal and abnormal aspects of vertebrate structure and function. The first year comprises six units which cover animal development, structure, function and metabolism. The second year also comprises six units which cover general aspects of the causes and nature of disease and its control.
A degree of Bachelor of Science is awarded after successful completion of Part I (or equivalent advanced standing) and two and a half years of Part II studies. It is a basis for an extra 'sidestep' year of research work in some aspect of veterinary biology, leading to an honours degree. However, it is expected that most students will proceed directly into fourth and fifth year to complete the BVMS in the minimum time.
Course Structure - 60 points
Year 1: Semester 1
VET240 Veterinary Anatomy 1 -- 4 pts
Description: This unit will explore the anatomy of domestic mammals, emphasising the nervous, cardiovascular, urogenital and digestive systems of companion animals. Basic embryology will introduce each system and investigate the gross anatomical form and actions of each body system's components.
Practical sessions involve dissections and studies of specimens held in the veterinary anatomy museum collection. Imaging techniques, auscultation and palpation of relevant body regions of the dog and horse will highlight morphologically-based clinical aspects of the practical sessions.
VET241Veterinary Biochemistry -- 4 pts
Description: Knowledge of molecular biochemistry and intermediary metabolism is central to the understanding of health, disease and the treatment of disease in animals. The unit emphasises the conceptual understanding of DNA, gene expression and metabolism in the whole animal. Regulation of intermediary and tissue metabolism forms the central component of the unit. Digestion and absorption of nutrients and metabolites by herbivores, omnivores and carnivores and their utilisation in the body, such as in muscle, will be used to integrate the unit.
VET244 Veterinary Physiology I -- 4 pts
Description: This unit covers the functioning of the individual organs and tissues of the adult mammal, including nervous, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and alimentary systems. The mechanism of actions will be considered in terms of the cellular structure and physical processes necessary to maintain the healthy body, including a detailed study of the histology of each tissue. Control mechanisms will be outlined. Special emphasis will be placed on domestic species.
Semester 2
VET243 Veterinary Physiology II -- 4 pts
Description: This unit investigates the dynamic integration of structures and functions that promote health and survival in animals of veterinary importance. Focus will be on nervous and endocrine control and on reproduction, embryo development and growth. Practical work will involve the study of live animals, and material from the Veterinary Museum. Case study projects involving real clinical examples will be undertaken as a learning tool.
VET212 Veterinary Anatomy II -- 4 pts
Description: This unit explores the anatomy of domestic mammals, emphasizing the musculoskeletal, peripheral nervous system, integumentary and respiratory systems of companion animals. Differences in form and function due to influences of lifestyle and locomotor pattern are explored using a comparative species approach. Practical sessions involve dissections and studies of specimens held in the veterinary anatomy museum collection. Imaging techniques, auscultation and palpation of relevant body regions of the dog and horse highlight morphologically-based clinical aspects of the practical sessions.
VET242 Animal Systems I -- 3 pts
Description: This unit provides an introduction to large animal production systems, in particular cattle, sheep, pigs and horses. These animal systems will be explored with an emphasis on the principles of domestication and sustainable agricultural practices, ecology, animal-plant interactions, plant identification, breed identification and basic welfare concepts. Practical exercises will utilise the Murdoch University Farm to develop skills in plant recognition, and to train students in the safe handling of cattle, sheep, pigs and horses.
VET209 Veterinary Professional Life I -- 1 pts
Description: In this unit students will spend time in selected veterinary practices during their vacation time, to develop an understanding of the workings of a practice, and the importance of teamwork and communication in veterinary practice. The unit also includes a two-day seminar on veterinary careers and professional development and a series of talks by guest speakers.