Programme Specification PG

Programme Specification Postgraduate Applicable to postgraduate programmes Please click here for guidance on completing this specification template. Part A: Programme Summary Information 1.

Title of programme:

PG Diploma/MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy

2.

Programme Code:

VZVD VZVP

3.

Entry Award(s):

Credit:

Level:

☐

MA

☒

MSc

180

7

☒

PGDip

120

7

☐

PGCert

☐

PG Award

☐

DPS

☐

CPS

☐

Other (please specify below:

Credit:

Level:

4.

Exit Awards:

\

☒

PGDip

120

7

☒

PGCert

60

7

☐

PG Award

☐

CPS

Exit awards will automatically bear the name of the entry award. If an exit award is to be unnamed (i.e. it will show only the qualification achieved) or if it is to have a different name from the entry qualification you must indicate this below: The PG Cert is unnamed due to professional issues. The Veterinary Physiotherapy qualification implies a certain level of clinical competency TQSD/14.15 2016-17 v.1

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which will not have been achieved by someone exiting the award at 60 CR, especially as all the clinical topics are in year 2 and all modules are required to be taken in a prescribed order. 5.

Date of first intake:

May 2012

6.

Frequency of intake:

Yearly in May

7.

Duration and mode of study:

A 3 year part-time (maximum 6 years) blended learning approach, involving online distance learning, practical residential schools and clinical placements.

8.

Applicable framework:

University Framework for Full-time and Parttime Modular Postgraduate Programmes framework for the 2014-15 cohort

Framework exemption required:

☒

No (please go to section 9)

Please indicate the applicable boxes:

☐

Yes (please provide a brief summary below)

Date exemption approved by AQSC: 9.

Applicable Ordinance:

General Ordinance for Modular Master’s Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, Postgraduate Certificates and Postgraduate Awards

New/revised Ordinance required:

☒

No (please go to section 10)

Please indicate the applicable boxes:

☐

Yes (please provide a brief summary below)

Date new/revised Ordinance approved by Council: 10.

Faculty:

Health and Life Sciences

11:

Level 2 School/Institute:

Institute of Learning and Teaching

12.

Level 1 unit:

School of Veterinary Science

13.

Campus:

Online- Leahurst Campus

14.

Other contributors from UoL:

IACD IIB ILT

15:

Teaching other than at UoL:

Module VETS773 & VETS775 require the student to attend 10 days of clinical

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observation either at Leahurst or an external Veterinary Hospital. Module VETS776 requires students to attend 20 days of clinical veterinary physiotherapy placements. 16:

Director of Studies:

Professor Catherine McGowan BVSc MACVSc DEIM DECEIM PhD FHEA MRCVS

17:

Board of Studies:

School of Veterinary Science PGT Board and Board of Studies

18:

Board of Examiners:

School of Veterinary Science Veterinary Postrgraduate Unit module review board and examination boards

19.

External Examiner(s): Name Institution Position

Dr Melinda Cairns University of Hertfordshire Senior Lecturer Physiotherapy & Post Doctoral Research Fellow

20.

Professional, Statutory or Regulatory body:

N/A

21:

QAA Subject benchmark Statements(s):

N/A

22.

Other reference points:

QAA – UK Quality Code for Higher Education

23.

Fees:

£75 per credit bearing unit within the PG Diploma Veterinary Physiotherapy (and unamed PG Certificate exit point) £9000 for 120 credits (PG Diploma Veterinary Physiotherapy) Additional £1500 for the research project

24.

Additional costs to the student:

The student must budget for the cost of accomodation, travel and subsistance which is in addition to the stated course fees. There will be 2 weeks in each year for formal in house practical weeks (Modules VETS771, VETS772 each require student attendance at Leahurst for a five day practical residential school and VETS774 for a 10 day practical residential school) and a final examination day for the practical examination at the end of the second year. In addition, students are required to attend two five day Veterinary Hospital Placements during Module VETS 773 and VETS 775. The student is at liberty to organise them at a Veterinary Hospital close to their place of residence or may attend Leahurst Veterinary Hospital. In addition students are required to complete 20 days of Clinical Placements with designated Clinical Educators which may be local to the students’ residence. Administrative support is available for organisation of Clinical Educator

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placements. Both Clinical Educator and Veterinary placement days do not need to be consecutive. 25:

AQSC approval: Part B: Programme Aims & Objectives

26.

Aims of the Programme

No.

Aim:

1

This programme aims to develop the professional skills and knowledge of Chartered Physiotherapists, especially in the areas of comparative skills and evidence based clinical practice, enabling them to apply their existing knowledge, experience and practical skills to the treatment of animal patients. To produce high calibre graduates equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to play leading roles in the development of the Veterinary Physiotherapist profession and be part of a multidisciplinary team in the treatment of animals.

2.

27.

Learning Outcomes

No.

Learning outcomes – Master’s degree

1.

A systematic understanding of the application of the knowledge and practical skills which they have already gained in human physiotherapy to animals. A critical awareness of the theoretical basis underpinning the practice of physiotherapy on animals. A comprehensive understanding of the techniques of animal examination, assessment of their findings and identification of treatment goals. A comprehensive understanding of selection, justification and implementation of appropriate treatment programs on animals. Conceptual understanding enabling the critical evaluation the efficacy and efficiency of their practice. A comprehensive understanding of effective communication at different levels including clients and professional colleagues. A critical awareness of ethical and legal issues in practice, in particular any limitations on their rights in diagnosis and treatment. A critical awareness of the role of the physiotherapist in relation to other members of the veterinary/multidisciplinary team. Undertake independent research, critically evaluate research methodologies and develop critiques of them, and propose new hypotheses for the implementation of research results into practice.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Learning Outcomes No.

Learning outcomes – Postgraduate Diploma

1.

A systematic understanding of the application of the knowledge and practical skills which they have already gained in human physiotherapy to animals. A critical awareness of the theoretical basis underpinning the practice of physiotherapy on animals. A comprehensive understanding of the techniques of animal examination, assessment of their findings and identification of treatment goals.

2. 3.

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Programme Specification PG

4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

A comprehensive understanding of selection, justification and implementation of appropriate treatment programs on animals. Conceptual understanding enabling the critical evaluation the efficacy and efficiency of their practice. A comprehensive understanding of effective communication at different levels including clients and professional colleagues. A critical awareness of ethical and legal issues in practice, in particular any limitations on their rights in diagnosis and treatment. A critical awareness of the role of the physiotherapist in relation to other members of the veterinary/multidisciplinary team.

Learning Outcomes No.

Learning outcomes – Postgraduate Certificate

1.

Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the anatomy of the domestic species and critically evaluate the similarities and differences in the arrangement of muscles, bones, tendons, joints, nerves and major blood vessels between common domestic species and humans using the correct anatomical vocabulary. Demonstrate an in depth understanding of the structure, mechanical properties and biomechanics of muscle, tendon, bone and cartilage evaluating the response of these structures to the mechanical environment, exercise, fatigue, ageing and injury. Demonstrate an in depth understanding of the legal, professional and ethical implications of veterinary physiotherapy practice. Demonstrate the ability to undertake a physiotherapy assessment of both large and small animals and to establish treatment goals based on the critical evaluation of assessment findings. Demonstrate the ability to apply clinical reasoning to issues through independent thought and informed judgement. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of problems associated with osseous, joint, tendon and ligament structures due to developmental disorders, injury/trauma and degenerative disorders and identify appropriate physiotherapy rehabilitation options. Demonstrate an in depth understanding of the veterinary approach of diagnosing lameness and treating musculoskeletal disease in animals. Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate the scientific literature relating to their area of work.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Learning Outcomes No.

Learning outcomes – Postgraduate Award N/A

27a.

Mapping of subject-based learning outcomes:

Learning outcome No.

Module(s) in which this will be delivered

1. A systematic understanding of the application of the knowledge and practical skills which they have already gained in human

VETS771, VETS772, VETS774, VETS776

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Mode of assessing achievement of learning outcome The essay component of each module is designed to draw out existing practice

PSRB/Subject benchmark statement (if applicable) N/A

Programme Specification PG

physiotherapy to animals.

2. A critical awareness of the theoretical basis underpinning the practice of physiotherapy on animals 3. A comprehensive understanding of the techniques of animal examination, assessment of their findings and identification of treatment goals

VETS771, VETS772,VETS 773, VETS774, VETS775, VETS776

4. A comprehensive understanding of selection, justification and implementation of appropriate treatment programs on animals

VETS774 and VETS776

5. Conceptual understanding enabling the critical evaluation the efficacy and efficiency of their practice.

VETS771, VETS772,VETS 773, VETS774, VETS775, VETS776

6. A comprehensive understanding of effective communication at different levels including clients and professional colleagues

VETS772 specifically Placements in veterinary hospitals and with veterinary physiotherapists

7. A critical awareness of ethical and legal issues in practice, in particular any limitations on their rights in diagnosis and treatment

VETS772 specifically Placements in veterinary hospitals and with veterinary physiotherapists

8. A critical awareness of the role of the physiotherapist in relation to other members of the veterinary/multidisciplinary team

VETS772 specifically Placements in veterinary hospitals and with veterinary physiotherapists

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experience in physiotherapy for application in animals. This will be emphasised and expanded upon during discussion boards Short answer questions and part of the essays and journal club All aspects of online assessment, placement feedback plus practical examination All aspects of online assessment, placement feedback plus practical examination In all modules discussion boards, journal club and essays (especially case based ones) promote reflection and critique All modules in essay and discussion board communication, placement feedback All modules in essay and discussion board communication, placement feedback plus practical examination All modules in essay and discussion board communication, placement feedback plus

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Programme Specification PG

9. Undertake independent research, critically evaluate research methodologies and develop critiques of them, and propose new hypotheses for the implementation of research results into practice

practical examination All assessment items.

VETS777

N/A

28.

Skills and Other Attributes

No.

Skills and attributes:

1.

Effective communication  The ability to collect, analyse, and organise information and ideas, and to convey those ideas clearly and fluently, in both written and spoken forms.  The ability to interact effectively with others in order to work towards a common outcome.  The ability to select and use the appropriate level (specialist and non-specialist), style and means of communication.  The ability to engage effectively and appropriately with information and communication technologies. Independence and creativity  The ability to work and learn independently.  The ability to generate ideas and adapt innovatively to changing environments.  The ability to identify problems, create solutions, innovate and improve current practices. Critical judgement  The ability to define and analyse problems.  The ability to apply critical reasoning to issues through independent thought and informed judgement.  The ability to evaluate opinions, make decisions and to reflect critically on the justifications for decisions. Ethical and social understanding  An understanding of professional responsibility to the client, animal, veterinarian and other professionals involved in the care of a patient.  A knowledge and respect of ethics and ethical standards in relation to animal physiotherapy, particularly with respect to animal welfare.

2.

3.

4.

28a.

Mapping of skills and other attributes:

Skills and other attributes No.

Module(s) in which this will be delivered and assessed

1. In-depth knowledge of the field of study

VETS771-776

2. Effective communication

VETS771-776, VETS777 for Masters candidates

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Learning skills, research skills, employability skills A key employability skill A key employability skill, but also important in research and learning indirectly

Mode of assessing achievement of the skill or other attribute All assessment in these 6 core modules Predominantly in the essay and journal club assessment where communication

Programme Specification PG

3. Independence and creativity 4. Critical judgement

5. Ethical and social understanding

29.

VETS771-776, VETS777 for Masters candidates VETS771-776, VETS777 for Masters candidates

VETS771-776

Learning skills Equally important across learning skills, research skills and emplyability skills A key employability skill

skills will be specifically assessed, discussion boards and all placements All asessments and placements All asessments and placements

All assessment in these 6 core modules

Career opportunities: The demand for Veterinary Physiotherapy as an adjunct to traditional veterinary management of animals has grown enormously over the past 10 years. An increase in public and veterinary awareness means that a greater number of chartered physiotherapists are seeking additional qualifications in Veterinary Physiotherapy. Successful candidates will have achieved a PG Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy from one the leading Veterinary institutions in the UK and a Russell group university, as well as met the criteria required for “category A” registration with The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT). Physiotherapists can enjoy a career working with animals as well as with humans in a professional area of enormous demand and career satisfaction. Graduates can have their own practice or work with an established Veterinary Physiotherapy or Veterinary practice.

Part C: Entrance Requirements 30.

Academic Requirements: Prerequisites for this programme are eligibility for registration with the Health Professions Council (or equivalent Physiotherapists Registration Board for international delegates).

31.



In addition, one year’s recent experience working as a physiotherapist



References from a veterinarian and a physiotherapist (human or animal) in support of the applicants suitability for the programme.



If the applicant is from a country where English is not the first Language they will be required to show evident of attainment of English at a minimum IELTS score of 7 or equivalent.



Recognition of Prior Learning Policy arrangements will be applicable, as long as the prior learning represents equivalent modules and learning outcomes. APL or APEL from non-veterinary or animal physiotherapy or non M-level programmes (e.g. sports science, science, equine science) will not be considered.

Work experience:

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Programme Specification PG

One year clinical physiotherapy practice supported by suitable references. 32.

Other requirements: N/A Part D: Programme Structure

33.

Programme Structure: This is a 6 module Post Graduate Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy to be studied on a part time basis over 2 years (3 modules per year) or a 7 module Veterinary Physiotherapy MSc degree over a further (3rd) year. All candidates will start in May, and candidates without any disruption to study will complete their PG Certificate after the first year, the Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy at the end of the second year and the MSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy at the end of the third year. The maximum period of student registration under the current University of Liverpool Regulations is six years. It is expected that most candidates will exit at the PG Diploma Veterinary Physiotherapy stage, although some candidates will be able to exit at the “untitled” Certificate stage, which will not attract a named exit award title MODULES VETS771-776 ARE COMPULSORY AND MUST BE TAKEN IN THE PRESCRIBED (NUMERICAL) ORDER. 1. VETS771 ANATOMY & BIOMECHANICS FOR THE VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPIST (20 credits) The aim of this module is to develop in depth knowledge of the musculoskeletal anatomy and biomechanics of common domestic species for qualified physiotherapists including a critical awareness of comparative aspects between these species and humans and how this may affect the type of locomotion or performance expected. Includes a 5 day residential school (see timetable below) 2. VETS772 PRINCIPLES OF VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPY & APPROACH TO THE ANIMAL PATIENT (20 credits) The aim of this module is to develop critical awareness of the legislation that frames animal therapy and develop a comprehensive understanding of the assessment and therapy of animals including emphasis on the importance of good verbal and written communication. Includes 5 days residential school (see timetable below) 3. VETS773 CLINICAL ORTHOPAEDICS OF THE COMMON DOMESTIC SPECIES FOR THE VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPIST (20 credits) The aim of this module is to develop an in depth understanding of a range of orthopaedic and musculoskeletal conditions that affect the common domestic species. 4. VETS774 VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE 1 (20 credits) The aim of this module is to enable physiotherapists to critically evaluate and

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translate their knowledge and understanding of human physiotherapy practice to that of animal patients, facilitating an in depth understanding of the physiotherapist and their practice in context of the veterinary multidisciplinary team. Includes a 10 day residential school (see timetable below) 5. VETS775 NEUROMOTOR SYSTEM IN PERFORMANCE AND DISEASE (20 credits) The aim of this module is to develop an in depth knowledge of the neuromotor system in performance and disease including adaptations to training, feeding for performance and diseases and disorders affecting the neuromotor system in animals. 6. VETS776 ADVANCED VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE (20 credits) The aim of this module is to enable the candidate to further develop, consolidate and critically appraise their clinical and theoretical veterinary physiotherapy skills and knowledge to be able to apply them in a professional manner in clinical practice. Includes 20 placement days with a Veterinary Physiotherapist (see timetable below)

In order to enrol on the research project, candidates will have had to have submitted a research proposal, which includes nomination of a supervisor and identification of the research facilities available for research. Approval of the proposal is required for a candidate to enrol on the final module, VETS777. If VETS777 is undertaken, candidates will have up to 12 months to complete and present their project.

7. VETS 777 RESEARCH PROJECT (60 credits) The aim of this module is for candidates to review the literature around a specific area, undertake independent research, critically evaluate research findings, and implement research results in practice. TIMETABLE: Year of Module Title Study VETS771 ANATOMY & BIOMECHANICS FOR THE 1 VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPIST (20 credits) VETS772 PRINCIPLES OF VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPY & 1 APPROACH TO THE ANIMAL PATIENT (20 credits) VETS773 CLINICAL 1 ORTHOPAEDICS OF THE COMMON DOMESTIC TQSD/14.15 2016-17 v.1

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CPD “Semester”

Practical requirements

May – August

July: 5 day practical residential school

End of August till December

December: 5 day practical residential school

January - May

5 days informal placements in veterinary

Programme Specification PG

SPECIES FOR THE VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPIST (20 credits) VETS774 VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE 1 (20 credits) VETS775 NEUROMOTOR SYSTEM IN PERFORMANCE AND DISEASE (20 credits)

May - August

2

VETS776 ADVANCED VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE (20 credits)

January - May

3

VETS 777 RESEARCH PROJECT (60 credits)

Sep (12 months)

2

2

34.

hospitals

End of August till December

July 10 day practical residential school 5 days informal placements in veterinary hospitals 20 days of clinical veterinary physiotherapy placements (to commence anytime after the successful completion of the second residential school)

Industrial placement/work placement/year abroad: Students are required to attend two five day Veterinary Hospital Placements during Module VETS 773 and VETS 775. The student is at liberty to organise them at a Veterinary Hospital close to their place of residence or may attend Leahurst Veterinary Hospital. Additionally, clinical Veterinary Physiotherapy placements will take place after the successful completion of the second physiotherapy residential school in VETS 772 in the second semester. Each student is required to complete a total of 20 days between the December of their first year and the completion of VETS776 (16 months) of Clinical Veterinary Physiotherapy training with an approved Veterinary Physiotherapy Clinical Educator. Both Clinical Educator and Veterinary placement days do not need to be consecutive. Administrative support is available for organisation of Clinical Educator placements. In the UK there is a “bank” of Veterinary Physiotherapy Clinical Educators who are experienced in providing placements for Veterinary Physiotherapy students, many of whom are “Accredited Clinical Educators” of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Each Clinical Educator will sign an agreement to provide specified placement learning outcomes and to meet the University’s physiotherapy clinical competency, teaching, health and safety, and insurance requirements. The quality and learning experience offered to the student will be monitored by completion of feedback forms from the student and by the external veterinary consultant visiting placement providers as required. The dates and times of the individual Clinical Placement days are to be negotiated by the student and Clinical Educator, but administrative support will be available in the form of lists of approved clinical educators, the learning outcomes of each of the different placements, the contact numbers of the Clinical Educator and possible dates of attendance.

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Programme Specification PG

Clinical educators, are paid by the veterinary postgraduate unit as external lecturers. While the placements are only 20 days, they form an important part of many of the learning outcomes and skills (see mapping above). 35.

Liaison between the Level 2 Schools/Institutes involved: N/A Part E: Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies

36.

Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies: The T&L strategy is to provide a blended learning approach, including distance education in an online forum, practical residential schools and clinical placements to encourage communication and interaction between professional peers as well as the teaching staff while maintaining flexibility to be available to practising professionals on a part time basis. Underlying the strategy is an emphasis on development of comparative skills to allow the professional physiotherapist to transfer existing skills and knowledge to the animal patient, and also a strong emphasis on clinical reasoning and evidence based practice. This strategy works well for part time clinical professionals who work clinically in between study as it allows incorporation of reflection upon everyday clinical work into the actual programme of study in the form of clinical discussions and case based assessments as well as the transfer of new theoretical knowledge about their animal patients.

36a.

Learning, Teaching and Assessment methods: The Veterinary Postgraduate Unit team have extensive experience in T&L using 100% online at the University of Liverpool, with over 30 approved modules and over 330 students now in the online format through this unit. The materials which would otherwise be provided in lecture format may be delivered as webinars or narrated video presentations. Readings and easy access to the library are provided. Facilitated directed learning is encouraged in the form of researching responses to queries posted on discussion boards and the integrated assessment items. Synchronous face to face teaching is achieved via the use of the university of Liverpool webinar software “communicator” and journal critiques are presented live with tutor and other student involvement in the discussion. This module will be presented online using blended delivery of static materials (lectures and readings) and synchronous and asynchronous online interactive learning with practical classes to support key learning outcomes and skills development. The assessment is fully integrated into the module and part of the assessment is also interactive, where candidates are assessed on their contribution to discussion forums or a discussion forum will form the basis of a submitted assessment item. Each module in the PG Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy (VETS771-776) contains similar assessment items all of which contribute to the overall strategy.

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Programme Specification PG

1. Short answer questions Designed to promote revision and attain the required breadth of knowledge. These range from just a few words to up to 300 or 400 words and may require incorporation of evidence from the literature (one or 2 references). 2. Essay Designed to promote reflection, synthesis of new ideas, solving of complex issues and in depth research and understanding of a topic. Will always involve referencing the literature and evidencing answers from the medical, veterinary or basic science literature. Case based essays will be submitted using the wiki tool and will be visible to and able to be discussed by members of the group which is designed to promote interaction and the ability of the candidates to learn from the varied experience of others. Either one 2000 word essay or 2 1500 word essays per module. 3. Discussion Boards Designed to ensure continued interaction and involvement in the online forum. Discussions are designed to reflect cases, professional issues, legal issues, ethical issues or other issues where students are involved and have an opinion. In many cases students will be directed to research an area prior to submitting their answer, forming an important directed learning tool throughout the module. An overall contribution grade is given which will require at least one submission to each discussion board topic throughout the module (usually 4 – 6 discussion boards per module). 4. Journal Club Journal clubs are used in a number of modules to develop skills in critical reading and analysis of original research papers. It is essential that students are capable of critically reading and interpreting literature in their original and new fields of study, as well as the basic science research. The journal club is hosted by a staff member online synchronously using the adobe communicator and students present orally in front of their webcam and microphone to the group. The tutor and the students then hold a discussion. Each student will present once per module. These are assessed based on the submitted critique as well as the presentation and discussion. 5. Placement The informal placements in VETS773 and VETS775 are required to be completed but no grade is ascribed and these are represented in the module assessments as pass/fail only with a fail being non-attendance. These are designed to ensure each physiotherapist has been exposed to the profession with which they will be working with as a multidisciplinary team in the future. The formal placement for VETS776 is formally assessed by a clinical educator with the requirements of clinical competency, communication skills and professional behaviour. In addition the student is required to complete a reflective case log. This will be required to be completed before the practical examination at which time these competencies are assessed in house in a formal practical examination setting. 6. Practical examination The practical examination focuses on clinical competency and clinical reasoning skills but covers all aspects of the program with the student assessed by both a TQSD/14.15 2016-17 v.1

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Programme Specification PG

veterinarian and a physiotherapist to ensure the language and terminology used is suitable for both professions. VETS777 7. Research project The research project is assessed based on the submitted project on the main components outlines in the learning outcomes of the module (and programme). 8. Research project presentation Effective oral communication of data in a form which is digestible and understandable by professional peers is essential for Masters degree holders and reflects both the degree of understanding of the topic and research methods and their analysis as well as communication skills. 9. Supervisors report As well as research skills, independent learning and initiative are assessed by the supervisor’s report where factors such as self motivation, ability to progress in the project, the quality of the first draft and response to edits in a timely fashion are assessed. 37.

Assessment information for students: Code of Practice on Assessment The University has a Code of Practice on Assessment which brings together the main institutional policies and rules on assessment. The Code is an authoritative statement of the philosophy and principles underlying all assessment activities and of the University's expectations in relation to how academic subjects design, implement and review assessment strategies for all taught programmes of study. The Code of Practice includes a number of Appendices which provide more detail on the regulations and rules that govern assessment activity; these include: The University marks scale, marking descriptors and qualification descriptors; The framework for modular, postgraduate programmes; Information about students’ progress, including guidance for students; The procedure for assessment appeals; Regulations for the conduct of exams; The University’s policy on making adjustments to exam arrangements for disabled students. The code of practice relating to external examining (see also below) The Academic Integrity Policy, which covers matters such as plagiarism and collusion and includes guidance for students; The policy relating to mitigating circumstances which explains what you should do if you have mitigating circumstances that have affected assessment; and The policy on providing students with feedback on assessment. Please click here to access the Code of Practice on Assessment and its appendices; this link will also give you access to assessment information that is specific to your cohort:

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A summary of key assessment information is also available in the ‘Your University’ handbook. Marking criteria: The marking descriptors for the Department/School of Veterinary Science will be used in marking all work on this programme. These are:

90100 %

8089% 7079%

6069% 5059%

4049%

3039%

2029% Less than 20% 38.

Absolutely outstanding answer. Factually faultless; strong degree of originality; clearly directed; comprehensive coverage; extensive evidence of supplementary reading; very well written. Outstanding answer. Factually faultless; clearly directed; logical; good evidence of supplementary reading; originality present; very well written. Very good answer. Presentation is fresh, logical and perhaps enlightening; some originality of thought or approach; evidence of outside reading; good coverage; very well written and directed. Comprehensive answer. Clear; logical; thorough; factually sound (sufficiency of facts and/or no serious errors); evidence of outside reading and/or originality; well written and directed. Adequate answer. Accurate but limited to programme material; perhaps some errors or key facts missing; no originality, little evidence of outside reading; expression/style/grammar moderate. Incomplete answer. Information fairly sparse; some inaccuracies; broadly relevant to the question but poor coverage of subject, no sign of outside reading; expression/style/grammar poor. Deficient answer. Poorly directed at question; many omissions or errors but some relevant facts correct, the general drift may appear sensible, but understanding poor, expression/style/grammar poor. Very deficient answer. Largely irrelevant to the question; a few facts correct, but many omissions and errors; expression/style/grammar very poor. Totally inadequate answer. Little or no relevance to question or little or no substance/factual material; approach may be all wrong; expression/style/grammar dreadful.

Student representation and feedback: Students will be given the opportunity to nominate themselves for election with one representative from each year being voted in by the students. An online conference meeting (using Adobe Connect) will take place 3 times per year approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the Board of Studies. A ratio of two staff members for each student representative will be present at each meeting. A formal agenda will be issued and the student representatives will gather any concerns or issues to raise at each meeting. Minutes will be taken and circulated for discussion at the next Board of Studies.

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Programme Specification PG

Part F: Status of Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation 39.

Status of Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation: N/A Part G: Diversity & Equality of Opportunity and Widening Participation

40.

Diversity & Equality of Opportunity and Widening Participation: The 100% online format is easily accessible and expected to create significant potential for a wide and diverse enrolment from numerous countries from around the globe. The format also promotes equal opportunity through its universal ease of access.

ANNEX 1 Annex Of Modifications Made To The Programme Please complete the table below to record modifications made to the programme. Description of modification (please include details of any student consultation undertaken or confirm that students’ consent was obtained where this was required)

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Minor or major modifications

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Date approved by FAQSC

Date approved by AQSC (if applicable)

Cohort affected