Outline

Overview

This unit forms the second and final part of a capstone experience in which the student will systematically investigate a topic to test a hypothesis under the guidance of a research advisor and peers under independent review. The unit is a logical progression from VETS6307. The cap-stone experience project will culminate in preparation of a manuscript in the style of an appropriate scientific journal. Narrative literature reviews are not acceptable. Risk assessments are regularly conducted for units that require the completion of compulsory learning activities that may expose students to zoonotic diseases. These assessments aim to identify appropriate risk mitigation controls, such as vaccination against vaccine- preventable zoonoses. Vaccination against Q fever (Coxiella burnetii) is an inherent requirement for students enrolling in this unit of study. Students must be vaccinated against Q fever before commencing the unit or no later than week two of the enrolled teaching session. Q fever vaccination is only available in Australia with the vaccination process taking three weeks to complete. Students must also submit a Q fever Vaccination Declaration upon enrolment. Students who fail to receive vaccination by the specified deadline and/or submit a Q fever Vaccination Declaration are precluded from practical learning activities and will not be able to satisfactorily complete relevant units of study and/or progress in their course more generally. Please refer to the University鈥檚 website /students/q-fever-vaccinations.html for more information on student vaccinations.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	School of Veterinary Science Academic Operations
Credit points	3
Prerequisites ?	VETS6101 and VETS6102 and VETS6103 and VETS6104 and VETS6105 and VETS6106 and VETS6107 and VETS6108 and VETS6201 and VETS6202 and VETS6203 and VETS6204 and VETS6205 and VETS6206 and VETS6207 and VETS6208 and VETS6301 and VETS6302 and VETS6303 and VETS6304 and VETS6305 and VETS6306 and VETS6307
Corequisites ?	VETS6221 and VETS6222
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Christopher Grupen, christopher.grupen@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 August 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written work	Manuscript Written task	40%	Week 08 Due date: 27 Sep 2026 at 23:59	5000 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Revised manuscript Written task	60%	Week 11 Due date: 25 Oct 2026 at 23:59	5000 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ?

Assessment summary

Draft manuscript: a report in draft form on the research project undertaken in VETS6307 and VETS6313. This report is reviewed by an independent reviewer.
Final manuscriupt: the final version of a report on the research project undertaken in VETS6307 and VETS6313, updated following reviewer鈥檚 comments. This report is evaluated by your advisor.听
Assessment rubrics,听submission instructions and other detailed information are听published on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the 听(Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a High distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a Distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	听
Distinction	75 - 84	听
Credit	65 - 74	听
Pass	50 - 64	听
Fail	0 - 49	When you don鈥檛 meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the听Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the听Current Students website听for more information on AI in assessments, including听details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website听provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the听Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM)听which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the听Current Students website听for more information on AI in assessments, including听details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a听simple extension.鈥� The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can鈥檛 complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for听special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students,听听includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy听reflects the University鈥檚 commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week -01	R&E3B Introduction	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 01	Research	Self-directed learning (6 hr)
Week 01	Student-advisor meeting 1	Self-directed learning (1 hr)
Week 02	Student-advisor meeting 2	Self-directed learning (1 hr)
Week 02	Research	Self-directed learning (6 hr)
Week 05	Research	Self-directed learning (6 hr)
Week 05	Student-advisor meeting 3	Self-directed learning (1 hr)
Week 09	Student-advisor meeting 4	Self-directed learning (1 hr)
Week 09	Research	Self-directed learning (6 hr)
Week 11	Research	Self-directed learning (6 hr)
Week 11	Student-advisor meeting 5	Self-directed learning (1 hr)
Week 12	Research	Self-directed learning (6 hr)
Week 12	Student-advisor meeting 6	Self-directed learning (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance and class requirements

The Sydney School of Veterinary Science has established attendance guidelines to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements.

DVM students are expected to be present for all scheduled classes and activities to achieve learning outcomes. This includes arriving on time and staying for the duration of each class. Students who fail to attend a minimum of 80% of classes (not including lectures) may not be eligible for reassessment.

In addition to the requirements outlined above, and in accordance with the听DVM attendance provisions, DVM students are also required to complete all Required Learning Activities (RLAs) and assessment tasks. If absent for a RLA or assessment, for any reason, students must notify the unit coordinator and apply for a special consideration at the earliest opportunity.

Classes identified as a RLA will be available on the Canvas site.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 3 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 60-75 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. construct and critically analyse complex information, problems, concepts and theories to transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences
LO2. formulate, elaborate and modify a manuscript through the peer-review process
LO3. demonstrate autonomy, expertise, judgement, adaptability, time management and responsibility for your professional conduct of your project.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all 爆料王 graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one鈥檚 personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency. 34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 40. Contribute as appropriate to the advancement and dissemination of veterinary knowledge to improve the quality of animal care and public health. World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - 2.11. Communication skills 3.6. Research
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 37. Demonstrate fundamental knowledge of the organisation, management, business principles, legislation related to veterinary business(es), and personal financial management. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 40. Contribute as appropriate to the advancement and dissemination of veterinary knowledge to improve the quality of animal care and public health. World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - 2.11. Communication skills 2.9. Veterinary legislation and ethics 3.6. Research
	Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - 33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency. 35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance. 36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self. 39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice. 40. Contribute as appropriate to the advancement and dissemination of veterinary knowledge to improve the quality of animal care and public health. 9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete. World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - 3.8. Administration and management

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

The 2025 Unit of Study Survey response rate was less than the required minimum of 20%. Most of the feedback was positive, with many praising their advisor for the support given during the project. We are looking to make guidelines for assessment tasks clearer and improving feedback from the manuscript independent reviewer. In future, more detailed guidelines regarding manuscript preparation and revision will be given and the advisor guidelines will be reviewed.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Risk assessments are regularly conducted for units that require the completion of compulsory learning activities that may expose students to zoonotic diseases. These assessments aim to identify appropriate risk mitigation controls, such as vaccination against vaccine- preventable zoonoses.

Vaccination against Q fever (Coxiella burnetii) is an听inherent requirement听for students enrolling in this unit of study. Students must be vaccinated against Q fever before commencing the unit or no later than听the first day听of the enrolled听teaching session. Q fever vaccination is only available in Australia with the vaccination process taking three weeks to complete.

Students must also submit a Q fever Vaccination Declaration upon enrolment.

Students who fail to receive vaccination by the specified deadline and/or submit a Q fever Vaccination Declaration are precluded from practical learning activities and will not be able to satisfactorily complete relevant units of study and/or progress in their course more generally.

Please refer to the University鈥檚 website听here听for more information on student vaccinations

Disclaimer

Important: the 爆料王 regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an .

爆料王

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

VETS6313: Research and Enquiry 3B

Semester 2, 2026 [Normal day] - Camden, Sydney

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links