About this course

The course provides an introduction to the veterinarian’s professional role and societal responsibilities. Students are introduced to key societal domains and perspectives in veterinary medicine, including:

  • the veterinarian’s professional role and societal responsibilities
  • food safety, animal welfare, environment and sustainability
  • the One Health perspective
  • basic veterinary legislation
  • professional ethics
  • communication

The teaching emphasizes reflection and the development of professional understanding.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The student:

  • has basic knowledge of the veterinarian’s professional role and societal responsibilities, as well as interactions with other disciplines and professions
  • is familiar with key aspects of the history of the veterinary profession
  • is familiar with professional ethical principles and ethical guidelines for the veterinary profession
  • is familiar with the One Health perspective
  • understands the importance of veterinary medicine in sustainable bio-production

Skills

The student:

  • can make simple professional decisions in light of professional ethical principles
  • can reflect on complex situations involving conflicting societal interests

General competence

The student:

  • can reflect on their own level of knowledge and skills
  • can identify their own academic strengths and weaknesses

  • Learning activities

    • lectures
    • group work
    • reflection assignments
    • discussion-based activities

  • Syllabus

    Information on literature, learning outcomes, and reading guidance will be provided on Canvas.

  • Assessment method

    No examination

  • About use of AI

  • Mandatory activity

    The following activities are mandatory:

    • reflection assignments
    • group assignments with presentations and discussions

    Rules:

    • mandatory activities must be completed and academically approved in order to pass the course
    • in cases of documented valid absence, alternative arrangements may be offered; otherwise, mandatory activities must be completed the following year