Unit of Study VBIO1005 Anatomy and Physiology 5 (2026)

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Unit Snapshot

Unit type

UG Coursework Unit
Credit points

12
Faculty & College

Faculty of Science and Engineering
Placement

No

Pre-requisites

ANIM1002 - Animal Production, Husbandry and Handling

Enrolment information

1. To pass the unit, students must submit all assessment tasks. 2. Attendance: It is important to recognise the relationship between attendance, participation, student success and retention. Please take advantage of all classes and engagement activities as it will increase your opportunity for learning, progression in the course, and success as a veterinarian or veterinary technologist. For units with practicals and other learning activities that directly relate to developing AVBC day one competencies that are required for veterinary accreditation, additionally VNCA day one competencies required for AVNAT registration, attendance is required. These will be identified within each unit and attendance requirements clearly communicated to students.

Unit description

This unit provides foundational knowledge of reproductive anatomy, physiology, embryology, genetics, and breeding in veterinary practice. Students will explore reproductive programs, processes and animal selection protocols across common domestic species. Application of these tools supports students to gain the ability to identify genetic disorders and design breeding plans to optimize animal health and productivity. Students will apply their understanding of reproductive physiology and pharmacology to implement breeding programs, enhancing genetic improvement and reproductive outcomes. They will also develop expertise in genetic diagnostics and disease management, using diagnostic tools to identify and manage hereditary conditions, ensuring effective treatment and disease control in clinical settings. Critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making will be emphasized, enabling students to integrate their knowledge into real-world veterinary practice. This reflective approach will support informed decision-making to promote animal health and welfare. Additionally, students will gain experience in interdisciplinary collaboration, learning to communicate genetic principles effectively with breeders, animal owners, and veterinary professionals. By completing this unit, students will acquire the essential skills and knowledge needed to apply reproductive science in clinical practice. This will prepare them to deliver high-quality, evidence-based veterinary care, contributing to advancements in animal health, genetic management, and sustainable breeding practices.

Unit content

Reproductive anatomy and gametogenesis I
Reproductive anatomy and gametogenesis II
Reproductive physiology and endocrine control
Embryology and pregnancy physiology
Introduction to breeding programs, genetics and animal selection
Reproductive pharmacology and intro to artificial breeding

Availabilities

Not currently available in 2026

Learning outcomes

Unit Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a unit. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes. The unit learning outcomes and graduate attributes are also the basis of evaluating prior learning.

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

describe the reproductive anatomy, physiology, and hormonal regulation of reproduction in common domestic animal species

identify and explain key genetic principles and inheritance patterns relevant to veterinary breeding programs and the diagnosis of hereditary conditions

explain the role of reproductive pharmacology and assisted reproductive techniques in improving breeding outcomes and genetic selection

describe basic diagnostic tools and breeding strategies to support animal selection and design foundational breeding plans that promote animal health and productivity.

Fee information

Domestic

Commonwealth Supported courses
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