Graduate Courses Offered in 2007
- Avian Health Online™ - Postgraduate Certificate and MAHM
- Master of Veterinary Science MVSc
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Master of Veterinary Science, Submission of a Collection of Papers for Examination
- Master of Science MSc
- Doctor of Philosophy PhD
- Doctor of Veterinary Science DVSc
- Master of Veterinary Studies MVS (Currently unavailable)
General requirements for all graduate courses
All candidates for higher degrees in the Faculty of Veterinary Science have a responsibility to be aware of and to abide by the following:
- the University's Code of Conduct for Research;
- the University's Environmental Health and Safety Policy;
- the University's Intellectual Property policy;
- the requirements of the University's Animal Experimentation Ethics Committee.
These will be made available, or their source identified, in the Faculty's graduate orientation program conducted after enrolment. Supervisors are also expected to introduce these issues to the student during the course of the candidature.
The University has in force Personal Accident insurance coverage for graduate students. Details of this are available from the Insurance Officer in the University's Risk Management Office.
Master of Veterinary Science (MVSc)
This is a research work degree which can be undertaken in any of the Research Programs;
Masters Thesis Subject 250-601
Entry Requirements
The usual entry requirement is a BVSc (usually honours level) or recognised equivalent qualification. In addition international students should be aware of the English language requirement (Refer to 'Information for International Applicants').
Course Objectives
A research degree program that has as its objectives that graduates:
- have achieved a breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding in a particular field or set of related fields in veterinary science;
- can apply scientific methods to the definition and solution of problems by research;
- have acquired advanced technical skills relevant to the field of research;
- have acquired skills in the searching and manipulation of scientific literature and other relevant data bases;
- are effective in scientific communication through both the spoken and written medium and to both professional colleagues and the wider community;
- can approach scientific research in a critical, perceptive and constructive way;
- have an understanding of the financing and management of scientific research;
- develop interpersonal skills to work as part of a team;
- observe the appropriate research codes of practice;
- demonstrate a professional approach to all areas of responsibility.
Course outline and Requirements
Research training, based on the conduct of experiments under appropriate supervision, is given in a selected discipline area within the field of Veterinary Science.
The course is normally undertaken full time for at least one year. The maximum period of candidature is two years.
Candidates are expected to meet regularly with their supervisor and to present their work in the Faculty's research seminar program. They are assisted to participate in relevant national or international conferences.
Assessment: A thesis is submitted for examination by both internal and external examiners. The format of the thesis, including a statement on authorship, must follow prescriptions laid down by the University and advised to the candidate at the time of enrolment.
Candidates whose progress in the course is not satisfactory may have their candidature terminated after appropriate counselling and an opportunity for appeal.
Master of Science (MSc)
This is a research work degree program, which can be undertaken in any of the research programs;
Masters Thesis Subject 250-605
The requirements for this degree program are set by the Faculty of Science. Reference should be made to that faculty's graduate handbook for details of entry requirements, course objectives, and course outline and requirements. Candidates for this degree may be fully supervised and work within the Department of Veterinary Science.
Doctor of Philosophy (Phd)
This is a research work degree which can be undertaken in any of the research programs. It is under the governance of the Academic Board and administered through the School of Graduate Studies. Detailed information on the rules and regulations for the degree and general information for candidates is published in "The Degree of Doctor of Philosophy - Handbook" available from the School of Graduate Studies
PhD Veterinary Science 250-701
Entry requirements
The minimum requirement for admission to PhD candidature is a four year honours degree from an Australian University, or a qualification or combination of qualifications considered by the PhD Committee to be equivalent. In assessing overseas qualifications the PhD Committee will consult the guidelines published by the National Office of Skills Recognition. In addition international students should be aware of the English language requirement. (Refer to 'Information for International Applicants'.)
In the Department of Veterinary Science candidates may be from a Veterinary Science, Science or Agricultural Science background depending on the nature of the research project to be undertaken. Some clinically based projects are only appropriate for veterinary graduates.
Candidature
Candidates undertake a period of supervised advanced study and research in the Faculty of Veterinary Science. The maximum term of candidature is three years on a full time study basis and six years on a part time study basis.
Candidates are expected to meet regularly with their supervisor and are required to submit an annual report on the progress of their work. They are expected to present their work in the Faculty's research seminar program. They are assisted to participate in relevant national or international conferences.
Assessment: A thesis is submitted for examination by a minimum of two external examiners. The format of the thesis, including a statement on authorship, must follow prescriptions laid down by the University and advised to the candidate at the time of enrolment.
Candidates whose progress in the course is not satisfactory may have their candidature terminated after appropriate counselling and an opportunity for appeal.
Doctor of Veterinary Science (DVSc)
A candidate for the degree of Doctor of Veterinary Science must be a graduate in veterinary science of at least three years standing and have made substantial published contributions to veterinary science.
The publications are put together in the form of a thesis which is examined by at least two examiners, one or both of whom may be external to the Department of Veterinary Science.
For this degree there is no time spent as a candidate in the Department of Veterinary Science. Research work can be done elsewhere and the University is acting as an examining body.
The University's Code of Conduct for Research must be observed. Also any Animal Experimentation Ethics Committee requirements, and any industrial health and safety competency requirements, relating to the experimental work, must be met.
Master of Veterinary Studies (MVS)
This course is currently unavailable.
This is a coursework degree program for one year full time or two years part-time.
The aim of the MVS course, in acknowledgment of the aims, guiding values and objectives of the University of Melbourne, is to provide, for persons who hold a BVSc or equivalent qualification, advanced education at the highest international standard towards the achievement of advanced professional competence in a selected discipline area of Veterinary Science.
This course has as its objectives that graduates:
- have achieved a breadth and depth of knowledge in a particular discipline or set of related disciplines within veterinary science;
- have attained an advanced level of appropriate diagnostic, therapeutic, and technical (including instrumentation) skills;
- have developed preliminary research skills, including the ability to search and critically review literature, and other relevant data bases, define questions/hypotheses, design and execute experimental studies, analyse and interpret results and to write reports/papers;
- can be effective in scientific communication at the professional and community levels, through both the spoken and written medium;
- have developed interpersonal and organisational skills towards leadership within the profession and the community.
Entry Requirements:
A BVSc (usually honours level) or recognised equivalent qualification. International students should be aware of the English language requirements. (Refer to "Information for International Students" )
Course outline and Requirements:
(1) Compulsory subject:
Research Project (250-644 Full time; 250-645 Part time)
Subject Coordinator: Designated member of staff in the discipline
Objectives: In this subject, the candidate is required to develop skills in problem identification, critical analysis of literature, design of investigations and experiments, analysis, solution, and in reporting and communication.
Content: An approved research topic relevant to the discipline chosen in the additional subject will be investigated and reported in publications or a minor thesis. Candidates are required to present two seminars.
Assessment: The thesis will be marked by two examiners, normally one being external to the department.
(2) Discipline subject:
One MVS subject is selected in the appropriate discipline. The following discipline streams are currently unavailable:
- Dairy Medicine & Management
- Equine Medicine and Surgery
- Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging
- Sheep & Beef Cattle Health & Production
- Small Animal Medicine & Surgery
- Small Animal Medicine
- Small Animal Surgery
- Veterinary Pathology
- Zoo Animals & Wildlife Medicine
All discipline streams, require the completion of two subjects, the discipline subject and the Research Project.
Please note that not all discipline streams are continuously offered throughout the year. Please check with the Graduate Coordinator in the Faculty of Veterinary Science for availability before submitting an application.
PH: + 61 3 8344 7357 or email: http://vet-unimelb.custhelp.comDairy Medicine & Management (250-628 Full time; 250-629 Part time)
Subject Coordinator: To be advised
General Information: This subject is designed for veterinary graduates with prior experience and currently employed in veterinary fields associated with the dairy industry.
Objectives: To provide advanced knowledge and skills for careers involved with the dairy industry, working in private practice or government departments or related areas, or agribusinesses.
Content: A series of scheduled, formal group sessions based around units of study which include topics on nutritional management, data management & microcomputers, survey design, mastitis & milk quality, advanced bovine medicine, farm economics, genetic improvement, and reproductive management.
Assessment: Progressive assessment of short written assignments on each unit; oral presentation; up to two 3 hr written examinations; 30 minute oral examination.
Equine Medicine & Surgery (250-614 Full time; 250-615 Part time)
Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging (250-616 Full time; 250-617 Part time)
Small Animal Medicine & Surgery (250-610 Full time; 250-611 Part time)
Small Animal Medicine (250-632 Full time; 250-633 Part time)
Small Animal Surgery (250-630 Full time; 250-631 Part time)
Subjects Coordinator: Dr. B.W. Parry
General Information: These subjects are designed for veterinary graduates with graduate clinical experience who wish to acquire advanced clinical training in the species and disciplines named. Practical work is an integral part of the programs offered. In Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging, candidates will be expected to have a good understanding of the medical and surgical conditions affecting dogs, cats and horses and the pathological processes involved in those disorders. They should also have a basic knowledge of radiation physics and radiographic procedures and safety.
Objectives: To provide advanced clinical training in diagnostic, therapeutic, and technical skills associated with veterinary clinical sciences.
Content: Participation in the clinical investigation and management of clinical cases under supervision of senior staff; instruction in advanced methods of diagnosis using endoscopy, radiology and diagnostic imaging. Data management. Communication skills are developed through case presentations to staff and students. In Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging, there is training in the use and application of radiology and ultrasound imaging in the diagnosis and management of disorders affecting the common domestic animals, principally dogs, cats and horses. Experience is gained in presenting radiographic and ultrasound interpretations in a clinical setting and in integrating these with other clinical information.
Assessment: Satisfactory completion of clinical work; two 3 hr written examinations; a 1 hr oral/practical examination.
Sheep & Beef Cattle Health & Production (250-612 Full time; 250-613 Part time)
Subject Coordinator: Associate Professor A.L. Vizard
General Information: This subject is designed for veterinary graduates following careers as sheep and/or beef cattle specialists. Candidates are urged to enrol in the course full-time. Those wishing to undertake the degree part-time will be required to attend the Mackinnon Unit at the Veterinary Clinical Centre, Werribee for specified periods, normally a minimum of 12 weeks in the first year, and 6 weeks in the second year. Part-time candidates are also required to complete assignments in the field.
Objectives: To provide graduate training for veterinarians who wish to provide comprehensive services to the sheep and beef industries.
Content: Formal instruction through lectures, tutorials and workshops in diseases of sheep and cattle, statistics and data management, information organisation and evaluation, farm economics and management, nutrition of grazing livestock, grazing management, reproductive management, genetic improvement and advanced clinical and diagnostic procedures and animal handling and production management techniques. Candidates will also participate in consultancy work and extension exercises.
Assessment: Two 3 hr written examinations, 30 minute oral examination, progressive assessment of written assignments and case studies.
Veterinary Pathology(250-603 Full time; 250-604 Part time)
Subject Coordinator: Professor R. F. Slocombe
General Information: Veterinary graduates undertaking this subject might anticipate developing a career in private diagnostic pathology practice, research, government departments involved with veterinary pathology and universities.
Objectives: To provide advanced graduate training for veterinarians in the pathology of disorders affecting the common domestic animals, captive wildlife and avian species.
Content: Participation in diagnostic duties under the supervision of senior pathology staff, including all major aspects of diagnostic pathology, including post mortem and surgical pathology examinations, section preparation and evaluation, and histologic interpretation. Candidates will document fully at least 5 selected case studies, each not exceeding 3,000 words, including diseases of small companion animals, large companion or food animals, and birds or wildlife.
Assessment: Continuous assessment of practical work, case studies, up to two 3 hr written examinations, 30 minute oral examination.
Zoo Animals & Wildlife Medicine (250-617 Full time; 250-618 Part time)
Subject Coordinator: Professor Glenn Browning
General Information: This subject is offered within the affiliated institutions administered by the Zoological Board of Victoria.
Objectives: To provide graduate training for veterinarians in medicine, surgery, pathology and management of zoo animals and wildlife.
Content: Candidates undertake clinical duties under the supervision of veterinary staff at the institution. Maintain a record of all cases attended during the candidature, and provide an analysis and summary of the clinical work, and diseases and management problems encountered.
Assessment: Fifteen selected case studies and clinical reports; two 3 hour written examinations; a 30 minute oral examination.