An Undergraduate Curriculum In Veterinary Reproduction At James Cook University

Abstract

The curriculum developed to teach a new, five-year undergraduate veterinary science degree at James Cook University is outlined and discussed. The curriculum in veterinary reproduction involves delivering 87 h of lectures and 133 h of laboratory and practical classes which comprises 6% of the total number of hours involved in delivering the veterinary degree course. An integrated model of delivering curriculum is utilized where theriogenology is integrated within all five years of the course rather than being delivered as a separate subject. Tracking is not possible and all students are exposed to the entire reproductive curriculum although the opportunity is given for final year students interested in theriogenology to utilize electives and externships to further improve their knowledge and skills. A strong emphasis on the development of clinical skills is fostered with horizontal and vertical integration of theriogenology throughout the curriculum and the creation of an extensive set of laboratory classes. Stand alone theriogenology rotations are not provided in the final year of the course but clinical aspects of theriogenology are included within other clinical rotations and electives. The curriculum will be continually developed with feedback from staff, students, employers, peer review, and development of further learning aids.