Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine
Professional Program of Study
For the professional curriculum in veterinary medicine leading to the degree doctor of veterinary medicine, see Veterinary Medicine, Curriculum.
Courses in veterinary diagnostic and production animal medicine provide students with basic and advanced skills in diagnostics, reproduction, medicine, surgery, production, and health management of the major livestock species. Students in the fourth year of the curriculum in veterinary medicine may elect to take advanced courses in beef, dairy, swine, poultry or sheep production medicine. Elective courses may include preceptorships in private practices, at other veterinary schools, in research and disease control laboratories, or in related agribusinesses.
Production animal medicine emphasizes the integration of veterinary medicine with nutrition, genetics, economics, food safety, and other disciplines, enabling graduates to acquire and use a broad knowledge base to support the health and improve the production and efficiency of the food supply chain.
Graduate Study in Veterinary Preventive Medicine
Veterinary Preventive Medicine is a multidisciplinary program focused on the study of health and disease in populations. The various disciplines represented in the program are unified by a common approach based on the application of statistical methods to problem solving in populations. Through their research and course work, students will learn to understand and apply a variety of disciplines, principles, and techniques to population health issues involving environmental, ecological, nutritional, genetic, infectious, or non-infectious diseases.
Graduate study in Veterinary Preventive Medicine will provide valuable skills and experience to persons interested in public health, food safety, emerging infectious diseases, zoo or wildlife health management, and livestock health. A degree in Veterinary Preventive Medicine may be valuable for individuals considering a future in the biological or pharmaceutical industries, government regulatory agencies, public veterinary practice, or international service agencies responsible for population health.
Veterinary Preventive Medicine is an interdepartmental major administered by the Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine (VDPAM) with participating faculty from colleges and departments across the University and collaborators from the National Animal Disease Center (USDA:ARS) and the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (USDA:APHIS) located in Ames, Iowa.
Both thesis and nonthesis options are available and require the completion of a minimum of 30 graduate credits for thesis and 36 graduate credits for nonthesis and a final examination.
Courses primarily for professional curriculum students:
VDPAM 308. Spanish for Veterinarians.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Basic knowledge of Spanish
This course is designed to meet the needs of veterinary students who will practice in an environment in which the use of Spanish for accurate client communication is essential which includes much of our food animal industry in the state of Iowa. This is not a traditional Spanish language course. To be successful, student taking the course should have a basic knowledge of Spanish pronunciation, grammar and syntax.
VDPAM 309. Intro to Production Animal Informatics.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
The fundamentals of how clinical, diagnostic, production and financial information is obtained and used by production animal operations. Students will acquire skills to create and use spreadsheets for manipulating and summarizing data. They will also acquire knowledge of where to find inexpensive and readily available resources with information on how to use spreadsheets and other software. Students will also have the opportunity to work with different record keeping programs used by swine, beef and dairy operations.
VDPAM 310. Intro to Production Medicine.
Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Currently enrolled in Vet Med III
The role of the veterinarian in the management of animal health and production in dairy and beef cattle herds, beef feedlots and swine herds will be described. Provides veterinary students with a starting point to understand the principles and techniques that are the basis of food-animal health management programs.
VDPAM 312. Veterinarian in Society II.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: First-year classification in veterinary medicine
A continuation of the Veterinarian in Society series. An introduction to the topics of animal behavior, animal welfare, and the human animal bond.
VDPAM 340. Clinical Foundations I.
(0-40) Cr. 1.
F.S.
Prereq: Classification in veterinary medicine
One week course at Iowa State University and Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center in Clay Center, Nebraska. An introduction to Food Supply Veterinary Medicine covering industry (beef, dairy, pork, sheep) overviews, production systems, behavior, welfare, handling and restraint, examination techniques, biosecurity, epidemiology and food safety. Visits to production units are utilized to reinforce the application of clinical skills.
VDPAM 350. Basic Livestock Nutrition and Feeding.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Classification in Veterinary Medicine
Introductory course on livestock (beef, dairy, swine, sheep, and equine) nutrition and feeding principles. Students will apply scientific facts and principles to problem-solving procedures in determining nutritious and economical livestock feeding programs.
VDPAM 351. Bovine Embryo Transfer and Related Technology.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Classification as second or third year veterinary students
This course will meet for two hours once each week of the Spring Semester. The first hour will be traditional lecture and the second hour will be a combination of student projects and labs and demonstrations of applied clinical procedures. Bovine embryo transfer and closely related topics such as: female reproductive physiology, estrus synchronization, semen sexing and reproductive disease will be emphasized. In addition several class periods will be devoted to the use of ultrasound for diagnosis reproductive and non-reproductive conditions.
VDPAM 402. Advanced Dairy Production Informatics.
(1-1) Cr. 2.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: 309 or permission of instructor
Advanced coverage of concepts related to collection, manipulation, analysis and reporting of information used by dairy farms and their consultants. Hands on experience with Dairy Comp 305 and PCDart as well as other dairy management and information software.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
VDPAM 407. Evidence Based Clinical Decision Making.
(Dual-listed with 507). (1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Discussion, lectures and laboratories to assess the quality and significance of medical evidence in making informed decisions about the treatment of individual animals and animal populations.
VDPAM 408. Poultry Diseases.
(Dual-listed with 508). Cr. 2.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: Enrollment in College of Veterinary Medicine
Bacterial, viral, parasitic, and nutritional diseases of domestic poultry and gamebirds; biosecurity, immunization, and management procedures to prevent poultry diseases.
VDPAM 409. Veterinary Practice Management and Organization.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
An A to Z introduction to proven veterinary practice management methods and strategies. The student will follow a detailed hands on workbook describing most of the processes and procedures of day to day veterinary practice. The class content will be composed of class room discussions, didactic presentations, a practical workbook, ancillary handouts, and both in and out of class assignments.
VDPAM 414. Veterinary Practice Entrepreneurship.
(Dual-listed with 514). Cr. 2.
S.
To provide a formal exposure to the entrepreneurial and business skills necessary to own and operate a successful veterinary practice or other small business opportunity.
VDPAM 416. Bovine Reproduction Evaluation Laboratory.
(0-4) Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: Third year classification in veterinary medicine. 10 students per section
Bovine rectal palpation techniques will be repetitively taught in 7 four-hour sessions. Students will also learn techniques of epidural anesthesia, artificial insemination, and ultrasonic imaging. University-owned cattle will be used.
VDPAM 419. Advanced Swine Production Informatics.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
F.
Prereq: 309
Advanced coverage of concepts related to collection, manipulation, analysis and reporting of information used by swine production companies. Production, financial, diagnostic and clinical data will be covered in the course. Hands-on experience with computer software and information systems used in swine production will be provided. Students will learn to objectively evaluate the validity of information that is presented to them and also be able to make practical and useful recommendations regarding the types of information tools that can/should be used. The students will learn what software and information systems are available and be able to critically evaluate them.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
VDPAM 420. Preceptorship in Veterinary Medical Practice.
Cr. 1-6.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine.
Elective course in veterinary practice under the guidance of veterinarians in approved practice settings.
VDPAM 426. Veterinary Toxicology.
(Dual-listed with 526). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Third-year classification in veterinary medicine
Study of toxicological diseases of domestic animals emphasizing clinical recognition, circumstances of poisoning, differential diagnosis with clinical and laboratory data, therapeutic procedures, preventive management and public health implications. Supplemented with case-based materials.
VDPAM 436. Beef Records Analysis.
(0-30) Cr. 1-2.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: Classification in Veterinary Medicine, VM1-VM3 or special permission of instructor
The class will have both a lecture and lab component and students can enroll in one or both. Lectures will emphasize current production and evaluation techniques for beef cow/calf operations and students will learn to conduct and critically assess production and financial data using a standardized approach. Lab activities will allow students an opportunity to work with individual beef cattle producers to identify areas for improving profitability, health, and sustainability. Each semester's content builds on the material from the previous semester. Enrolling in the class for multiple semesters will be encouraged.
VDPAM 437. Basic Clinical Skills for Production Medicine (MS 623-701): Dairy Herd Problem Identification.
(7-33) Cr. 2.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine
Seven hours recitation/discussion and 33 hours clinical experience per week. Course taken for two weeks at University of Wisconsin, Madison, on a space-available basis. Learn to interpret DHI records and use them to identify and monitor herd problems of production, mastitis, reproduction, and replacement heifer management. Evaluate rates and treatment protocols of common dairy herd diseases. Assess dairy housing including ventilation and freestalls. Estimate costs of herd problems and develop partial-budgets.
VDPAM 438. Mastitis Problem Investigations (MS 623-703): Mastitis/Milk Quality.
(9-31) Cr. 2.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine
Nine hours recitation/discussion and 31 hours clinical experience per week. Course taken for two weeks at University of Wisconsin, Madison, on a space-available basis. Learn to evaluate rates of clinical mastitis using manual and computerized (DC305) record systems. Interpret somatic cell count records to target mastitis problems. Collect samples and interpret milk microbiology reports. Evaluate mastitis risks in housing systems (stalls, bedded packs, etc). Analyze milking systems and milker practices. Develop mastitis treatment protocols.
VDPAM 439. Clinical Investigations of Fresh Cow and Calf Problems (MS 623-705): Applied Dairy Nutrition.
(3-37) Cr. 2.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine
Three hours lecture, 37 hours clinical experience per week. Course taken for two weeks at University of Wisconsin, Madison, on a space-available basis. Learn to evaluate calf and peri-parturient cow management practices. Develop an investigation stragegy for ambiguous herd problems. Collect samples and interpret herd-based diagnostic tests for infectious and metabolic diseases. Assess environmental risk factors for metabolic and infectious disease including hygiene and housing. Assess nutritional status of herds via nutritional management, actual feed intake, particle length determination, etc.
VDPAM 445. Clinical Medicine.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Third year classification in veterinary medicine
Clinical diagnosis and treatment of diseases of swine, beef, dairy, and small ruminant.
VDPAM 450. Disturbances of Reproduction.
(4-0) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: Third-year classification in veterinary medicine
General principles of diseases causing disturbances in reproduction.
VDPAM 451. Clinical Embryo Transfer.
(0-40) Cr. 2.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth year classification in veterinary medicine
Elective clinical assignment in techniques of embryo transfer. Primary species studied will be bovine but equine and small ruminant embryo transfer will be covered during appropriate seasons. Enrollment is limited to four students per two week session.
VDPAM 455. Diagnostic Laboratory Practicum.
Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine
Practical experience in diagnosis of infectious and toxic diseases of livestock through exposure to cases in the ISU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
VDPAM 456. Veterinary Diagnostic Lab Methods Applications.
(16-0) Cr. 1.
F.
Prereq: VM 2, VM 3 or VM 4
Case materials are used to develop diagnostic questions and to better understand the value of diagnostic tests. Testing methods and interpretation of diagnostic tests are coupled with sampling strategy and objective assessment of available evidence to provide accurate diagnosis.
VDPAM 464. Advanced Stocker/Feedlot Medicine.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
F.S.
Prereq: VDPAM 310
Two week advanced clinical rotation in stocker/feedlot beef production medicine held in Oklahoma. The instructor will lead field trips as well as problem solving exercises where the student will apply concepts of stocker/feedlot health management, production and economic analysis, and disease control/prevention. Travel and overnight stays will be required.
VDPAM 476. Food Animal and Camelid Field Service.
(0-40) Cr. 2.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth year classification in Veterinary Medicine, and 310
Elective course in food animal and camelid field services. Students will assist university veterinarians in delivering health care and production management services to the ISU livestock farms and other livestock farms in the local area. Focus will be on delivery of individual animal care and establishment of best practices for herd management of production systems at the university and in the region.
VDPAM 477. Food Animal and Camelid Medicine and Surgery.
Cr. 1-2.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine
Clinical assignment focused on the management of food animal and camelid medicine and surgery cases. Specific instruction in clinical evaluation of cases coupled with appropriate diagnostic testing and therapeutic intervention will be emphasized. Additional instruction will be provided in disease prevention, intensive care and management of food animal and camelid species. Particular emphasis will be placed on appropriate on-label and extra-label drug usage in food animal species.
VDPAM 479. Applied Swine Production Medicine Preceptorship.
(0-40) Cr. 1-6.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: 310
Advanced course in swine production medicine with emphasis on herd management, production analysis, and problem solving. Forty hours clinical experience per week. Assignments will include preceptorships with a practicing veterinarian and/or a production unit.
VDPAM 480. Swine Production Medicine.
(15-25) Cr. 2.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: 310 or permission of instructor
Two week clinical rotation in swine production medicine. Students will be assigned to take the lead in investigating field based client cases with supervision of the instructors. Develop critical thinking skills that will allow students to apply concepts of herd management, production analysis, economic analysis, and disease prevention in addressing client cases. Variable amounts of travel to farm sites will be required with the potential for rare overnight stays.
VDPAM 481. Advanced Cow/Calf Production Medicine.
(Dual-listed with 581). (20-20) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Completion of two semesters of VDPAM 436, 4th year classification in veterinary medicine
Two-week senior elective that will focus on the economics of animal disease in cow/calf operations. Evidence based medicine and epidemiological principles will be used in investigation of disease outbreaks. Extensive partial budgeting used. Field trips will be incorporated when possible.
VDPAM 482. Applied Beef Production Medicine Preceptorship.
(0-40) Cr. 1-6.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: 310 and permission of instructor; ability to provide travel to each site
Advanced course in beef production medicine with emphasis on herd management, production analysis, and problem solving. Forty hours clinical experience per week.
A. Assignment with practicing veterinarian and/or production unit
B. Bull Breeding Soundness at Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center (GPVEC)
C. Calving at GPVEC
D. Feedlot Management at GPVEC
E. Weaning Management at GPVEC
F. Pregnancy Examination at GPVEC
G. Bovine Reproduction at GPVEC
I. Applied Beef Stocker/Feedlot Management @ Sweiger Enterprises (Subsections: FL: Feedlot Management, SFC: Calving, CW: Cattle Processing, SE: Sweiger Enterprises Beef consulting, CM: Cattle Marketing: ST: Stocker)
J. Lambing at GPVEC
K. Equine Dentistry at GPVEC
M. Calf Preconditioning at GPVEC.
P. Gomer Bull / Large Animal Surgery at GPVEC
VDPAM 483. Beef Production Medicine.
(15-20) Cr. 2.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: 310
Two week advanced clinical rotation in beef production medicine. Fifteen hours recitation/discussion and 20 hours clinical experience per week. This course is designed to expose students to cow-calf and feedlot production concepts. The activities scheduled for the rotation depend greatly on the time of year. When ever possible, the class incorporates field trips. Students should anticipate that travel is required and overnight stays may be required. These field trips can vary in length from several hours to several days and may include weekends. Typically, 3-4 days of the rotation are spent at the Great Plains Veterinary Education Center, Clay Center, NE. Students should, therefore, plan accordingly and contact the instructor, immediately, if they anticipate a conflict. Students should not schedule Grand Rounds during this rotation.
VDPAM 484. Dairy Production Medicine.
(15-20) Cr. 2.
F.SS.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine; 310
Two week course in dairy production medicine combining class time with multiple on-farm visits to learn various management aspects (DHIA, DC305 PC Dart record analysis, calf rearing through lactating cows, reproduction programs, udder health and milk quality, biosecurity, welfare, nutrition and cow comfort) for a wide variety of dairy operations. Students will learn the latest in dairy management by reviewing current topic articles and gain experience in farm evaluation through a group project. Fifteen hours recitation/discussion and 20 hours clinical experience per week.
VDPAM 485. Applied Dairy Production Medicine Preceptorship.
(0-40) Cr. 1-6.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: 484
Advanced course in dairy production medicine with emphasis on herd management, production analysis, and problem solving. Forty hours clinical experience per week. Assignments will include preceptorships with a practicing veterinarian and/or a production unit.
VDPAM 486. Introduction to Small Ruminant Production Medicine.
(13-6) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Classification in Veterinary Medicine
Survey of small ruminant production systems, common management practices, and disease processes of small ruminants. This course is intended to give the student a background in small ruminant medicine. Herd health, disease monitoring and prevention, and typical management systems will be emphasized in lecture.
VDPAM 487. Livestock Disease Prevention.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
A survey of diseases of large domestic animals, including discussion of causes, transmission, and control. Designed for students majoring in agricultural sciences.
VDPAM 488. Laboratory in Clinical Microbiology.
Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine
Application of microbiological procedures to the diagnosis of infectious diseases.
VDPAM 489. Issues in Food Safety.
(Cross-listed with AN S, FS HN, HRI). (1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in FS HN 101 or 272 or HRI 233; FS HN 419 or 420; FS HN 403
Capstone seminar for the food safety minor. Case discussions and independent projects about safety issues in the food system from a multidisciplinary perspective.
VDPAM 490. Independent Study.
Cr. 1-5.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of department chair
VDPAM 491. Advanced Ruminant Nutrition.
(30-10) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 350 recommended
Focus on dairy nutrition from the calf to the adult, lactating cow. Balancing rations for dairy operations. Introduction to different feedstuffs and forage varieties to determine those that are best suited to bovine diets.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
VDPAM 492. Orientation for International Experience.
(2-0) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Classification in veterinary medicine
Predeparture orientation for group study abroad. Cultural considerations for the study abroad experience and a conversational language introduction. Out of class work will be assigned.
VDPAM 494. Advanced Dairy Production Medicine II.
(20-20) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: 484 or permission of instructor
Advanced coverage in investigating dairy herd problems relating to milk quality or nutrition. Milk quality and nutrition troubleshooting will be taught through the combination of lecture and on-farm investigations. Students will combine lecture knowledge, data acquired from on-farm investigations and record analysis to generate management plans.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
VDPAM 495. Advanced Small Ruminant Production Medicine.
(15-20) Cr. 2.
F.S.
Prereq: Fourth year classification in veterinary medicine, VDPAM 486 or permission of instructor
Two week clinical rotation in small ruminant production medicine. Field trips will be incorporated when possible. Topics to be covered include small ruminant industries (milk, meat, and fiber), milk quality, nutrition, reproduction, and disease management of small ruminants.
VDPAM 496. International Preceptorship.
(0-40) Cr. 1-12.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Second-year classification in veterinary medicine
International Preceptorships and Study Abroad Group programs. This course will provide opportunities for students to be involved in applied clinical, production, and/or research experiences in international locations. The course consists of 40 hour per week experiential learning opportunities.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduate students:
VDPAM 507. Evidence Based Clinical Decision Making.
(Dual-listed with 407). (1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Discussion, lectures and laboratories to assess the quality and significance of medical evidence in making informed decisions about the treatment of individual animals and animal populations.
VDPAM 508. Poultry Diseases.
(Dual-listed with 408). Cr. 2.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Bacterial, viral, parasitic, and nutritional diseases of domestic poultry and gamebirds; biosecurity, immunization, and management procedures to prevent poultry diseases.
VDPAM 514. Veterinary Practice Entrepreneurship.
(Dual-listed with 414). Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Graduate Veterinarian or DVM-dual graduate degree candidate
Provide a formal exposure to the entrepreneurial and business skills necessary to own and operate a successful veterinary business.
VDPAM 522. Principles of Epidemiology and Population Health.
(Cross-listed with V MPM). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Epidemiology and ecology of disease in populations. Disease causality and epidemiologic investigations. Issues in disease prevention, control, and eradication.
VDPAM 526. Veterinary Toxicology.
(Dual-listed with 426). (Cross-listed with TOX). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Study of toxicological diseases of domestic animals emphasizing clinical recognition, circumstances of poisoning, differential diagnosis with clinical and laboratory data, therapeutic procedures, preventive management and public health implications. Supplemented with case-based materials.
VDPAM 527. Applied Statistical Methods in Population Studies.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2011.
Prereq: STAT 401
ANOVA, Linear Regression, Model Selection, Mixed Models, ANCOVA, Repeated Measurement Analysis, MANOVA, Nonparametric Methods, Diagnostic Test Evaluation, ROC Curve Analysis, Generalized Linear Models, Logistic Regression, Survival Analysis, Cox Proportional Hazards Regression.
VDPAM 529. Epidemiological Methods in Population Research.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Designing, conducting, and analyzing data from field-based studies, including cross-sectional, case-control and cohort, with categorical outcomes.
VDPAM 542. Introduction to Molecular Biology Techniques.
(Cross-listed with B M S, BBMB, EEOB, FS HN, GDCB, HORT, NREM, NUTRS, V MPM). Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Graduate classification
Sessions in basic molecular biology techniques and related procedures.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
A. DNA Techniques. Includes genetic engineering procedures, sequencing, PCR, and genotyping. (F.S.SS.)
B. Protein Techniques. Includes fermentation, protein isolation, protein purification, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, NMR, confocal microscopy and laser microdissection, immunophenotyping, and monoclonol antibody production. (S.SS.)
C. Cell Techniques. Includes immunophenotyping, ELISA, flow cytometry, microscopic techniques, and image analysis. (F.S.)
D. Plant Transformation. Includes Agrobacterium and particle gun-mediated transformation of tobacco, Arabidopsis, and maize, and analysis of transformants. (S.)
E. Proteomics. Includes two-dimensional electrophoresis, laser scanning, mass spectrometry, and database searching. (F.)
F. Techniques in Metabolomics. metabolomics and the techniques involved in metabolite profiling. For non-chemistry majoring students who are seeking analytical aspects into their biological research projects
G. Genomic Techniques
VDPAM 546. Clinical and Diagnostic Toxicology.
(Cross-listed with TOX). (0-3) Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: D.V.M. degree or 526
Advanced study of current problems and issues in toxicology. Emphasis on problem solving utilizing clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory resources.
VDPAM 551. Advanced Veterinary Diagnostic Medicine.
(0-3) Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: 455
Necropsy techniques of animals with emphasis on gross and microscopic lesion description and microbiological diagnosis of disease in food animals.
VDPAM 570. Risk Assessment for Food, Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine.
(Cross-listed with AGRON, TOX). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2011.
Prereq: STAT 104 or consent of instructor: Wolt, Hurd
Risk assessment principles as applied to biological systems. Exposure and effects characterization in human and animal health and ecological risk assessment. Risk analysis frameworks and regulatory decision-making. Introduction to quantitative methods for risk assessment using epidemiological and distributional analyses. Uncertainty analysis.
VDPAM 581. Advanced Cow/Calf Production Medicine.
(Dual-listed with 481). (20-20) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Completion of two semesters of VDPAM 436, 4th year classification in veterinary medicine
Two-week senior elective that will focus on the economics of animal disease in cow/calf operations. Evidence based medicine and epidemiological principles will be used in investigation of disease outbreaks. Extensive partial budgeting used. Field trips will be incorporated when possible.
VDPAM 590. Special Topics.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Topics in medicine, surgery, theriogenology; beef, swine, dairy, or sheep production medicine.
VDPAM 596. International Preceptorship.
(0-40) Cr. 1-12.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Admission to graduate college
International Preceptorships and Study Abroad Group programs. Provides opportunities for students to be involved in applied clinical, production, and/or research experiences in international locations. The course consists of 40 hour per week experiential learning opportunities.
VDPAM 599. Creative Component.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Enrollment in nonthesis master's degree program
Courses for graduate students:
VDPAM 650. Swine Diagnostic Medicine.
Cr. 1-4.
F.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
A detailed study of swine diseases emphasizing the pathogenesis and diagnosis of swine respiratory, enteric, reproduction, metabolic, and septicemic diseases.
VDPAM 655. Advanced Swine Production Medicine.
Cr. 1-4.
S.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Detailed overview of applied techniques used in swine production medicine; production modeling and record analysis, production economics and financial analysis, therapeutic and vaccination strategies, quality control procedures and food safety.
VDPAM 699. Research.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine Professional Program of Study
For the professional curriculum in veterinary medicine leading to the degree doctor of veterinary medicine, see Veterinary Medicine, Curriculum.
The Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine provides instruction on pathogenic bacteria, fungi, and viruses and their interaction with host animal species. Principles and applications of infectious diseases, immunity to disease, diagnostic methods for infectious diseases, and vaccinology are covered. Principles and applications of epidemiology, public health, preventive veterinary medicine, regulatory veterinary medicine and food safety are also emphasized.
Graduate Study
The department offers opportunities for the degree doctor of philosophy with a major in veterinary microbiology. A specialization in preventive medicine is an option for this degree. Graduates in the Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine programs have a broad understanding of the fundamental processes involved in infectious diseases, pathogenesis and immunology. They are able to effectively establish research programs, which involve complex biological systems and disease syndromes. They are also prepared to address microbial-based social, ethical and environmental problems. Graduates acquire effective written and oral communication skills which lead to successful research and teaching careers in the medical and veterinary sciences. The department also offers work towards the master of science with majors in veterinary microbiology or veterinary preventive medicine. A non-thesis master's option is available for majors in preventive medicine. Courses are open for students majoring in other graduate programs.
Prerequisite to graduate study is completion of coursework in general microbiology, biology, biochemistry, mathematical sciences, and physics. Candidates for the majors in veterinary microbiology should possess an undergraduate degree in biomedical science with emphasis in medical microbiology or the D.V.M. degree. Candidates for the major in preventive medicine should possess the D.V.M. degree.
The department also participates in the interdepartmental majors and programs in genetics, immunobiology, and MCDB (molecular, cellular, and developmental biology; see Index).
Each graduate student must demonstrate proficiency in English composition within two semesters in residence.
Courses primarily for professional curriculum students:
V MPM 378. Case Study IV.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Second-year classification in veterinary medicine
Case-based applied learning that relates to the basic science courses. Emphasis on early integration of basic and clinical science concepts.
V MPM 380. Veterinary Immunology.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: First-year classification in veterinary medicine
Structure and function of the immune system in animals.
V MPM 386. Veterinary Microbiology.
(3-5) Cr. 5.
F.
Prereq: Second-year classification in veterinary medicine
Bacteria and fungi of veterinary importance with emphasis on mechanisms of disease production and laboratory diagnostic procedures.
V MPM 387. Veterinary Virology.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Second-year classification in veterinary medicine
Basic principles of animal virology. Pathogenesis of viral infections. The nature and ecology of viruses of veterinary and zoonotic importance.
V MPM 388. Public Health and the Role of the Veterinary Profession.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Second-year classification in veterinary medicine
Fundamental epidemiology, zoonotic diseases, occupational health, food safety, other public health topics.
V MPM 390. Topics in Veterinary History.
(2-0) Cr. 1.
S.
8 weeks. Significant persons, noteworthy events, and pivotal scientific discoveries in the course of the development and advancement of veterinary medicine from ancient times to the present.
V MPM 409. Infectious Diseases of Wild Animals.
(0-2) Cr. 1.
F.S.
Prereq: Second year classification in veterinary medicine
Infectious diseases (bacterial, viral, and mycotic) of non-human primates, birds, ruminants, cold-blooded animals, marine mammals, and carnivores.*Spring only offered to UNL students.
V MPM 437. Infectious Diseases and Preventive Medicine.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Third-year classification in veterinary medicine
Etiology, epidemiology, laboratory diagnosis, regulatory control and preventive medicine aspects of the infectious diseases of swine, sheep, goats, cattle and horses.
V MPM 486. Laboratory in Public Health.
Cr. 2.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth-year classification in veterinary medicine
Discussions, lectures, exercises and field trips related to veterinary public health.
V MPM 490. Independent Study.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor and department chair
V MPM 491. CDC Epidemiology Elective Preceptorship.
Cr. 6.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Written permission of instructor
Introduction to preventive medicine, public health and the principles of applied epidemiology within the working atmosphere of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
V MPM 494. Zoo Preceptorship.
Cr. 1-8.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Fourth year classification in veterinary medicine
Elective course in zoo veterinary practice under guidance of approved veterinarians.
V MPM 496. International Preceptorship.
(0-40) Cr. 1-12.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Second-year classification in veterinary medicine
International Preceptorships and Study Abroad group programs. This course will provide opportunities for students to be involved in applied clinical, production, and/or research experiences in international locations. The course consists of 40 hour per week experiential learning opportunities.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduate students:
V MPM 502. Microbial Genetics.
(Cross-listed with MICRO). Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: 302, BIOL 313
The fundamental concepts of bacterial and bacteriophage genetics including mutagenesis, mechanisms of both vertical and horizontal genetic information transfer, gene regulation, and genetic approaches to study complex cellular processes. Review and discussion of research literature to examine experimental design, methodology, and interpretation of both historical and contemporary relevance to microbial genetics.
V MPM 520. Medical Immunology I.
(4-0) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: MICRO 310 or V MPM 386, 3 credits in biochemistry
Nature of the immune system and its role in health and disease.
Credit for either V MPM 520 or 575, but not both may be applied toward graduation.
V MPM 522. Principles of Epidemiology and Population Health.
(Cross-listed with VDPAM). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: MICRO 310 or equivalent
Epidemiology and ecology of disease in populations. Disease causality and epidemiologic investigations. Issues in disease prevention, control, and eradication.
V MPM 536. Zoonoses and Environmental Health.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: 386, 387 and 388 or equivalent or permission of instructor
Pathogensis and control of zoonotic diseases. Factors influencing transmission and survival of pathogenic microorganisms in the environment.
V MPM 540. Livestock Immunogenetics.
(Cross-listed with AN S, MICRO). (2-0) Cr. 2.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: AN S 561 or MICRO 575 or V MPM 520
Basic concepts and contemporary topics in genetic regulation of livestock immune response and disease resistance.
V MPM 542. Introduction to Molecular Biology Techniques.
(Cross-listed with B M S, BBMB, EEOB, FS HN, GDCB, HORT, NREM, NUTRS, VDPAM). Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Graduate classification
Sessions in basic molecular biology techniques and related procedures.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
A. DNA Techniques. Includes genetic engineering procedures, sequencing, PCR, and genotyping. (F.S.SS.)
B. Protein Techniques. Includes fermentation, protein isolation, protein purification, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, NMR, confocal microscopy and laser microdissection, immunophenotyping, and monoclonol antibody production. (S.SS.)
C. Cell Techniques. Includes immunophenotyping, ELISA, flow cytometry, microscopic techniques, and image analysis. (F.S.)
D. Plant Transformation. Includes Agrobacterium and particle gun-mediated transformation of tobacco, Arabidopsis, and maize, and analysis of transformants. (S.)
E. Proteomics. Includes two-dimensional electrophoresis, laser scanning, mass spectrometry, and database searching. (F.)
F. Techniques in Metabolomics. metabolomics and the techniques involved in metabolite profiling. For non-chemistry majoring students who are seeking analytical aspects into their biological research projects
G. Genomic Techniques
V MPM 565. Professional Practices in Science and Engineering.
(Cross-listed with AGRON, AN S, BCB, CH E, CPR E, EEB, HORT, M E, MICRO, PL P). Cr. arr.
Prereq: Graduate classification
Professional, ethical and legal issues facing scientists and engineers in academia. Offered in modular format.
A. Responsible Conduct of Research. (Cr. 1.0). F,
B. Working with Industry. (Cr. 0.5).
C. Communications in Science. (Cr. 0.5). Alt S., offered 2011. Reading and reviewing manuscripts; publishing papers; oral and poster presentations.
D. Time Management and Mentoring. (Cr. 0.5). Alt F., offered 2012. Balancing life and career; mentoring; lab management.
E. The Interview Process. (Cr. 0.5). Alt S., offered 2012. Applying and interviewing for academia, industry and government.
F. Grant Writing. (Cr. 1.0). Alt F., offered 2011. Writing a winning proposal.
G. Teaching. (Cr. 0.5). Preparation of a teaching portfolio and course materials; lecturing, technology.
S. Ethical and legal issues in research.
S. Establishing productive collaborations with industry.
V MPM 575. Immunology.
(Cross-listed with MICRO). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 310
An examination of humoral and cellular immune functions. Interactions between cells and factors of the immune system that result in health and disease. MICRO 475L optional.
Credit for either V MPM 575 or V MPM 520, but not both, may be applied toward graduation.
V MPM 586. Medical Bacteriology.
(Cross-listed with MICRO). (4-0) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Bacteria associated with diseases of vertebrates, including virulence factors and interaction of host responses.
V MPM 586L. Medical Bacteriology Laboratory.
(0-6) Cr. 2.
F.
Prereq: credit or enrollment in 586 or 625
Procedures used in isolation and identification of pathogenic bacteria, including molecular and genetic techniques used in research.
V MPM 587. Animal Virology.
(4-0) Cr. 4.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Principles of animal virology. Biology of viruses associated with diseases of veterinary importance, including mechanisms of pathogenesis.
V MPM 590. Special Topics.
Cr. 1-5.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
V MPM 596. International Preceptorship.
(0-40) Cr. 1-12.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Admission to graduate college
International Preceptorships and Study Abroad Group programs. This course will provide opportunties for students to be involved in applied clinical, production, and/or research experiences in international locations. The course consists of 40 hour per week experiential learning opportunties.
V MPM 599. Creative Component.
Cr. arr.
Prereq: Nonthesis M.S. Option only
A written report based on laboratory research, library reading, or topics related to the student's area of specialization and approved by the student's advisory committee.
Courses for graduate students:
V MPM 604. Seminar.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
V MPM 608. Molecular Virology.
(Cross-listed with MICRO, PL P). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: BBMB 405 or GDCB 511
Advanced study of virus host-cell interactions. Molecular mechanisms of viral replication and pathogenesis.
V MPM 615. Molecular Immunology.
(Cross-listed with BBMB, MICRO). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2011.
Prereq: BBMB 405 or 502
Current topics in molecular aspects of immunology: T and B cell receptors; major histocompatibility complex; antibody structure; immunosuppressive drugs and viruses; and intracellular signalling pathways leading to expression of genes that control and activate immune function.
V MPM 625. Mechanisms of Bacterial Pathogenesis.
(Cross-listed with MICRO). (4-0) Cr. 4.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Credit in Biochemistry and Microbiology
Review of current concepts in specific areas of microbial pathogenesis including the genetic basis for bacterial disease, genetic regulation and control of virulence factors and their mechanisms of action, and host-pathogen interactions at the cellular and molecular levels. The application of microbial genetics to understanding pathogenesis will be included.
V MPM 629. Advanced Topics in Cellular Immunology.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: 520 or 575
Current topics and literature in cellular immunology. Topics include thymocyte development and selection, T cell interactions with antigen presenting cells, and lymphocyte effector functions.
V MPM 660. Pathogenesis of Persistent Infections.
(Cross-listed with V PTH). (2-0) Cr. 2.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Study of current knowledge related to host pathogen interactions during persistent and chronic infections by bacteria, viruses and parasites.
V MPM 690. Current Topics.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Colloquia or advanced study of specific topics in a specialized field.
A. Immunology
B. Infectious Diseases
V MPM 698. Seminar in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology.
(Cross-listed with MCDB, BBMB, GDCB, MICRO). (2-0) Cr. 1-2.
Repeatable. F.S.
Student and faculty presentations.
V MPM 699. Research.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.