Veterinary Industry Internship

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

280 Hours

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This is a capstone internship experience subject, which enables students to integrate the knowledge acquired through their coursework and apply this knowledge within the veterinary industry. Students will undertake a six week placement within a relevant organisation and develop the professional skills required to function within such an organisation. The subject aims to provide students with an extended work based experience within a veterinary industry of their choice, including government, private industry or a non-government organisation (NGO). Students will have the opportunity to develop their experience of working with and leading diverse teams within the workplace setting. Additionally, students will gain an understanding of the role of veterinarians within this industry, and of graduate employer expectations.

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:

• Apply knowledge and skills to solve problems that arise in practical settings and professional contexts in veterinary science and develop an integrated understanding of knowledge and practice
• Investigate, evaluate, interpret and manage problems encountered within the veterinary industry employing practical skills and the application of knowledge.
• Display leadership qualities when working with diverse teams in the workplace
• Exhibit high level professional skills including communication, decision making, team work and networking.

1. Work placement Assessment, due during individual students' placement, 50%

(Students will be assessed by their placement supervisor on their contributions to activities and tasks within their organisation. Assessment will also encompass evaluation of attendance and punctuality, theoretical knowledge, professional demeanour, oral and written communication skills, initiative and enthusiasm. )

2. Written Assignment (2000 words), due at the end of study period, 50%

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Students completing this subject will:

• be able to seek solutions to problems through the application of knowledge, the ability to initiate and integrate new ideas, an appreciation of the broad picture of science, and an understanding of the importance and application of scientific method
• deal with integrity and honesty with professional colleagues, clients and the general public
• demonstrate empathy and concern for animals and people
• possess an understanding of both scientific and vocational aspects of veterinary science
• be motivated to be a veterinarian, aware of the veterinarian’s place in society, and prepared to be a leader in the community
• have broad knowledge of veterinary science and be able to develop intellectual and physical skills as circumstances dictate
• be adaptable to changes in their specific field of employment and to advancements in veterinary science in general
• be aware of the global society and equipped to contribute to it