Course Descriptions

CVM 702-A0 | First Year Transition - Building Academic Resilience

(7 lecture hours + 0 lab hours = 0.5 credits)

This course will facilitate the transition to first year veterinary medical school. Students will apply research from learning science, components of positive psychology, and well-being to their individual contexts to best support academic transitions. Topics include organizational strategies to with cognitive load, facilitating a reasonable study plan that demonstrates forethought, monitoring learning through sustaining practice with different types of knowledge, among other topics.

CVM 710A-A0 | Veterinary Anatomy I

(37 lecture hours + 76 lab hours = 5 credits)

A systemic and topographic study of macroscopic body structure is presented via lecture and laboratory. This course utilizes the dog and cat as the primary models for the study of general mammalian form; however, the anatomical information learned may be applied (with varying degrees of modification) to essentially all domestic mammals as well as many exotic species. A team approach is used for laboratory dissection. Clinical applications are incorporated throughout the course in alignment with the goal of contributing to the education of a practitioner.

CVM 711-A0 | Veterinary Physiology I

(83 lecture hours = 5.5 credits)

The CVM 711 course is a detailed study of cellular, tissue, organ function and their control and integration in animals.  Emphasis will be placed on cardiovascular, endocrine, nervous, muscular, respiratory, renal, digestive, and reproductive physiology. The basic physical and chemical principles that underlie physiological processes will be described.

CVM 712-A0 | Veterinary Histology

(30 lab hours = 1 credit)

This course is a series of laboratories designed to develop the necessary skills to identify microscopic anatomy of basic cell types, tissues, organs, and organ systems. Principles learned in this course will be applied in simultaneous and subsequent courses in the CVM curriculum.

CVM 713-A0 | Parasitology

(43 lectures + 6 lab hours = 3 credits)

This course teaches principles of parasitology, including etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and control of selected parasitic diseases in animals. Students will gain knowledge of life cycle biology, transmission strategies, and natural hosts of major parasites of animals.

CVM 714-A0 | One Health I

(8 lecture hours = .5 credit)

This course will focus on the aspects of One Health that relate to the individual and professional foundations of veterinary medicine.  It will include the history of veterinary medicine to introduce them to their professional cultural inheritance, human animal bond, animal welfare, the role of animals in human psychosocial health, professional ethics and jurisprudence, work life balance, professional organizations and future opportunities for veterinarians.

CVM 715-A0 | Clinical Skills

(30 lab hours = 1 credit)

Students will be taught safe handling and restraint techniques and will be introduced to the general physical examination of various domestic animal species, including small animals (dogs & cats), companion animals (horses) and production animals (cows & small ruminants). Students will also be introduced to psychomotor skills needed for surgery and other clinical procedures.

CVM 716A-A0 | Evidence-Based Veterinary Medicine

(8 lecture hours = 0.5 credit)

This course builds on the basics of One Health II by applying evidence-based veterinary medicine in understanding clinical research in infectious disease management.  The understanding of the application of evidence-based veterinary medicine is used throughout the working life of veterinarians in contemporary veterinary practices.  Basic training in research methodology will be covered to learn clinical study processes and how new scientific evidence is discovered.  These skills will be applied to investigating an infectious disease spread within and between populations utilizing mock case studies by appraising scientific evidence about the etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitological diseases.

CVM 717-A0 | Applied Anatomy and Physiology

(15 lectures hours = 1 credit)

This course is designed to help students develop their skills in critical thinking, communication, resource identification and evaluation, and clinical decision-making through small group management of a hypothetical veterinary case Through case-based learning, students will revisit and apply knowledge from previous courses as well as preview the application and interpretation of content from upcoming semesters. Students will maintain any and all appropriate medical records during the management of the case.

CVM 718-A0 | Professional Life Skills I

(2 lecture hours + 26 lab hours = 1 credit)

Students will be introduced to professional communication skills and their importance in veterinary medicine. The Professional Skills course will focus on aspects Building Professional Identity, Communications, Leadership, Wellbeing, & Financial Literacy. .

CVM 719-A0 | Medical Science

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

This course will provide a foundation of general medical knowledge required of a veterinarian.  Subjects will include: medical terminology, medical chemistry, medical math, and medical physics.

CVM 722-A0 | Veterinary Immunology

(38 lecture hours = 2.5 credits)

This course presents current concepts in basic and clinical immunology with special emphasis on protective immunity against infectious diseases and the role of aberrant immune responses in diseaset.

CVM 723B-A0 | Veterinary Virology

(22 lecture hours = 1.5 credits)

This course introduces students to important viral diseases of animals and help them develop a conceptual framework of best practices that can be adapted to incorporate novel approaches to the control of viral diseases encountered during their veterinary medical careers.

CVM 723C-A0 | Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology

(38 lecture hours = 2.5 credits)

This course will introduce students to important bacterial and fungal diseases of animals and help them develop a conceptual framework that can be adapted to incorporate novel approaches that they will encounter during their veterinary careers.  

CVM 724-A0 | One Health II

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

This course introduces the basic concepts of epidemiology and biostatistics as applied to veterinary and One Health problems. Emphasis is placed on the principles and methods of epidemiologic investigation, epidemiologic definitions, appropriate summaries and displays of data, and the use of classical statistical approaches to describe the health of populations. Topics include the dynamic behavior of disease; usage of rates, ratios and proportions, odds ratios, and other statistical tools. Various epidemiologic study designs for investigating associations between risk factors and disease outcomes are also introduced, culminating with criteria for causal inferences. The application of these disciplines in the areas of health services, screening, and environment policy are presented. The influence of epidemiology and biostatistics on legal and ethical issues are also discussed.  Critical review of scientific literature will be examined.  To the extent possible, we will draw from the Appalachian region for examination of issues.

CVM 725-A0 | Clinical Skills II

(30 lab hours = 1 credit)

Students will be taught basic ligatures and suturing techniques, phlebotomy, intramuscular injection and subcutaneous injection techniques using models and live animals. Students will perform physical examinations of canine, equine, bovine and ovine species and be introduced to the Subjective, Objective, Assessment and Plan (SOAP) format for medial record keeping.

CVM 726 | Animal Husbandry and Welfare

(60 lab hours = 2 credits)

This course provides an introduction to animal husbandry, welfare, and behavior in major species. The course will allow students to describe normal husbandry of multiple species and behavior and also to identify abnormal behavior.

CVM 728-A0 | Professional Life Skills II

(2 lecture hours + 26 lab hours = 1 credit)

The Professional Life Skills course will focus on aspects of: Building Professional Identity, Communications, Leadership, Wellbeing, & Financial Literacy.

CVM 731-A0 | Veterinary Pharmacology

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

The course is designed to build on the student's foundation of pharmacologic knowledge. This course covers concepts of pharmacokinetics (drug absorption, distribution, and excretion) and pharmacodynamics (the action or effects of drugs on living organisms) that underlie the correct use of drugs in veterinary therapeutics; exemplary pharmacologic classes of drugs will be discussed.  ntimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance, evidence based pharmacotherapy and

 CVM 700-A0 | Intro to Gross Anatomy (Optional course offered in summer before first semester)

(12 lecture hours + 10 lab hours = 0.5 credits)

This elective course will be offered as a high volume of information delivered regarding the musculoskeletal system of the domestic dog and domestic cat appendicular skeleton and skeletal muscle systems and similarly the osteology of the vertebral column and rib cage.

CVM 720-A0 | Veterinary Anatomy II

( lecture hours +   lab hours = 4 credits)

The course will be divided into large animal, porcine, and exotic animal species.  The horse will serve as the primary model for studying large animal anatomy and for comparing equine anatomy with other large domestic animal anatomy and with previously covered small animal anatomy. Emphasis will be on the anatomy of large animals (horse and large and small ruminants), which is vital to preparing CVM students to practice veterinary medicine and enter the medical profession.  Anatomical concepts of the various regions of the body will be correlated with systemic anatomy and with topographical and other regional anatomy. Dissection, prosections, imaging, and clincical approaches/cases will be emphasized throughout our study of anatomical structures.  Clinical applications are incorporated throughout the course in alignment with the ultimate goal of producing competent clinicians. 

CVM 730A-A0 | Veterinary General Pathology I

(44 lecture hours = 3 credits)

The first part of this course will introduce the student to general pathology of all organ systems. The second part of this course covers systemic pathology of domestic animals. Students will apply knowledge from previous courses (anatomy, histology, physiology, parasitology, immunology, and infectious disease) with the new knowledge of general pathology to describe the pathogenesis of and diagnose diseases. The pathophysiology of diseases will be covered for the hepatic, pancreatic, urinary cardiovascular, endocrine, musculoskeletal, respiratory, CNS, special senses, reproductive, gastrointestinal, integumentary, and ophthalmic systems of domestic animals.

CVM 732-A0 | Toxicology

(20 lecture hours + 2 lab hours = 1.5 credits)

This course is an introduction to principles of toxicology in domestic animals. The student will learn basic principles of veterinary toxicology and learn how to locate toxicological information.  The course will present some common toxicants of chemicals and plants (focusing on those found in North America) affecting domestic animals and to learn basic approaches to treatment of poisoned animals.

CVM 733-A0 | Clinical Pathology

(41 lecture hours + 8 lab hours = 3 credits)

This course explains pathophysiologic mechanisms responsible for abnormal findings in hematologic, biochemical, urinalysis, and cytologic tests in health and disease of animals. Students will learn a selection of appropriate diagnostic tests for various diseases and how to interpret the results of these tests. They will additionally learn basic principles of laboratory medicine, including quality control, reference intervals, specificity, sensitivity, and positive and negative predictive values.

CVM 734-A0 | One Health III

(30 lecture hours = 2 credits)

This course will introduce the concepts of distribution, diagnosis, treatment, and control of zoonotic diseases and transboundary diseases.  It will draw from knowledge gained in with courses regarding infectious agents, immune system, pathophysiology, clinical pathology, and parasitology.  The course will examine the One Health aspects of disease and the interrelatedness between individual and population human health, animal health, and the environment. Included will be student team literature search, critical literature analysis and presentations. Student will complete phase one of the United States Department of Agriculture Initial Accreditation Training.

CVM 735-A0 | Clinical Skills III

(45 lab hours = 1.5 credits)

Continued development of expertise in handling and interpretation of general physical examination findings in large animals (equine, bovine, small ruminants), exotics/birds and small animals. Continued progress toward mastery of psychomotor skills for surgery including catheter placement, closure of abdominal incisions, gloving techniques and clamping/ligating. Introduction of basic diagnostic techniques.

CVM 736-A0 | Veterinary Nutrition

(28 lecture hours + 4 lab hours = 2 credits)

This course is a comprehensive overview of domestic animal nutrition, including digestion and metabolism of nutrients, feedstuffs and feeding, ration formulation, and the interaction of nutrition and disease for small animals, horses and food animals. Clinical nutrition aspects will be focused upon.

CVM 737A-A0 | Intro to Surgery

(30 lecture hours = 2 credits)

This course will cover principles of surgery, including aseptic technique, fracture healing, perioperative patient care, and basic principles of surgical procedures and techniques. Application of anatomic knowledge to surgical approaches will also be included.

CVM 737B-A0 | Surgery II – Soft Tissue

(24 lectures hours = 1.5 credit) 

This course will cover clinical conditions seen in small animals with an emphasis on surgical treatment and prognosis.  It will integrate and build upon the principles of surgery and surgical diseases covered in CVM 737, applying and expanding anatomical knowledge acquired, and go beyond the genetic and developmental aspects of small animal conditions to address surgical interventions to consider when conservative and medical therapies alone are not appropriate or not producing satisfactory results.  Case-based examples and exercises will be utilized throughout the course to improve students’ ability to apply the information to practical clinical situations. 

CVM 737C-A0 | Small Animal Surgery III - Orthopedic

(22 lecture hours = 1.5 credits)

This course will cover orthopedic and other clinical conditions seen in small animals with an emphasis on surgical treatment and prognosis.  It will integrate and build upon the principles of surgery and surgical diseases covered in CVM 737 applying and expanding anatomical knowledge acquired and go beyond the genetic and developmental aspects of small animal orthopedic and other clinical conditions to address surgical interventions to consider when conservative and medical therapies alone are not appropriate or not producing satisfactory results.  Case-based learning will be utilized throughout the course to improve students’ ability to apply the information to real-world practical clinical situations.

CVM 738-A0 | Professional Life Skills III

(3 lecture hours + 22 lab hours = 1credit)

Students will be introduced to professional communication skills and their importance in veterinary medicine. The Professional Life Skills course will focus on aspects of: Building Professional Identity, Communications, Leadership, Wellbeing, & Financial Literacy.

CVM 730B-A0 | Veterinary General Pathology II

(46 lecture hours = 3 credits)

This course serves as a continuation of CVM 730A-A0: Veterinary Pathology I.  The pathophysiology of diseases will be covered for the musculoskeletal, respiratory, CNS, integumentary, and ophthalmic systems of domestic animals. .

CVM 743-A0 | Intro to Diagnostic Imaging

(45 lecture hours = 3 credits)

This introductory course covers methods of imaging, radiation safety measures and principles of image interpretation. Radiography and ultrasonography are emphasized, but computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear scintigraphy are also discussed. Lectures on basic image interpretation include normal findings and classical imaging signs of common conditions. A working knowledge of small animal and equine anatomy and physiology is a pre-requisite for this course.

CVM 744-A0 | One Health IV

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

This course introduces the basic concepts of the role environmental component of One Health.  This will include a broad analysis of environmental impacts of livestock production, climate change, food safety and security, emerging and transboundary diseases. These will be examined across a broad spectrum of ecosystems including air, land, fresh water, and oceans.  The links between the environment, human health and animal health will be highlighted including a focus on the Appalachian region.  Students will complete the USDA Emerging and Exotic Diseases of Animals for Initial Accreditation Training.

CVM  745-A0 | Clinical Skills IV

(45 lab hours = 1.5 credits)

Students will continue to develop expertise in handling and interpretation of general physical examination findings in large animals (equine, bovine, small ruminants). Students will demonstrate continued progress toward mastery of psychomotor skills for surgery including aseptic technique, anesthetic monitoring, and using a spay model.

CVM 746-A0 | Introduction to Anesthesia & Analgesia I

(30 lecture hours = 2 credits)

This course serves as an introduction to veterinary anesthesia, analgesia, and peri-operative case management.  It will lay the foundation for the basic principles of anesthesia and analgesia, relying on the student to review and be familiar with basic pharmacology and physiology presented in previous semesters. This course is also a prerequisite for the Applications in Anesthesia & Analgesia course in the 5^th semester of the curriculum, in which students will apply the knowledge learned in the introductory course to formulate specific anesthetic plans for various species and cases with pre-existing conditions or comorbidities.

CVM 748-A0 | Professional Life Skills IV

(1 lectures + 28 lab hours = 1 credit) 

Students will be introduced to professional communication skills and their importance in veterinary medicine. Students will demonstrate these skills in simulated client interactions.

CVM 749-A0 | Integrated Diagnostics

(15 lectures = 1 credit)

The emphasis of this course is directed toward the integration of basic science with clinical skills, especially the use of diagnostic imaging and clinical pathology when working through a clinical case.  Students will develop their skills in critical thinking, communication, resource identification, evaluation, and clinical decision-making through small group management of a hypothetical veterinary cases. Through case-based learning, students will revisit and apply knowledge from previous courses as well as preview the application and interpretation of content from upcoming semesters. 

CVM 769C-A0 | Veterinary Oncology

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

This course teaches principles and practice of veterinary oncology.  Students will gain knowledge of the most common malignancies seen in both small and large animals, including both diagnosis and appropriate treatment options with their associated prognosis.  Information will be presented in both didactic and case-based format.

CVM 769D-A0 | Wildlife and Zoological Medicine

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

The purpose of this “Wildlife & Zoological Medicine” course is to introduce & expose veterinary students to the diversity of this discipline of veterinary medicine.  This course will expose the third-year student to species within the classes of mammalian, avian, reptilian, amphibian, and fish.  Each of these taxons represented include between 6000 to 20,000 species.   The representative species discussed and studied in this course will enable the veterinary student to gain a basic understanding of the unique challenges and requirements of medicine and surgery involving diverse species in ex situ locations within zoological parks and in situ within natural habitats or other environments.  Likewise, the veterinary student will learn that (s)he will not only broaden one’s knowledge and skill base, but also potentially increase one’s income capacity by providing professional care for these species. This “Wildlife & Zoological” (W & Z) course will build on the knowledge & skills the sixth semester veterinary student has developed over the previous five semesters.  This W & Z course will require a sound knowledge of parasitology, anatomy, physiology, general pathology, immunology, infectious diseases, and other disciplines of medicine and surgery.  The veterinary student will be expected to be able to adapt and modify their skill sets and knowledge base to adapt to the unique characteristics of these species of other taxons of the vertebrate phylum.

CVM 769M-A0 | Veterinary Disaster Medicine Elective

(6 lecture hours + 8 lab hours = 1 credit)

This course will introduce the concepts and issues involved in veterinary disaster medicine at the local, national, and international level.  Case studies, tabletop exercises, and hands-on laboratories will be used to train in basic response processes and techniques. Online Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) courses will used to build background training.

CVM 737C-A0 | Small Animal Surgery III - Orthopedic

(22 lecture hours = 1.5 credits)

This course will cover orthopedic and other clinical conditions seen in small animals with an emphasis on surgical treatment and prognosis.  It will integrate and build upon the principles of surgery and surgical diseases covered in CVM 737 applying and expanding anatomical knowledge acquired and go beyond the genetic and developmental aspects of small animal orthopedic and other clinical conditions to address surgical interventions to consider when conservative and medical therapies alone are not appropriate or not producing satisfactory results.  Case-based learning will be utilized throughout the course to improve students’ ability to apply the information to real-world practical clinical situations.

CVM 741A-A0 | Veterinary Pharmacology I

(30 lecture hours = 2 credits)

This course covers the basic concepts of pharmacokinetics (drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) and pharmacodynamics (the action or effects of drugs on living organisms) that underlie the correct use of drugs in veterinary therapeutics.   The course is designed to build a foundation of pharmacologic knowledge.   Drug modes of action and physiologic effects that stem from drug actions are introduced with emphasis placed upon prototypical drugs. 

CVM 741B-A0 | Veterinary Pharmacology II

(30 lecture hours = 2 credits)

Description forthcoming.

CVM 750A-A0 | Small Animal Medicine I

(60 lecture hours = 4 credits)

Diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and prevention of non-surgical diseases of the dog and cat. Emphasis will be on diagnosis and treatment. 

CVM 750B-A0 | Small Animal Medicine II

(60 lecture hours = 4 credits)

Diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and prevention of non-surgical diseases of the dog and cat. Emphasis will be on diagnosis and treatment. 

CVM 751-A0 | Theriogenology

(30 lecture hours = 2 credits)

Integration of reproductive physiology, endocrinology, pathology, and pharmacology as they apply to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of reproductive disorders of domestic animals. Normal estrous cycles, breeding management, pregnancy, dystocia management and parturition in domestic animal species will be covered.  Breeding soundness in male and female animals, and normal pregnancy and production.

CVM 752A-A0 | Food Animal Production, Medicine, & Surgery I

(45 lecture hours = 3 credits)

This course is designed to educate the veterinary student on the diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and prevention of non-surgical and surgical disease of food and fiber animals (bovine, ovine, caprine, porcine, camelid) and includes production animal medicine and emerging diseases.

CVM 752B-A0 | Food Animal Production, Medicine, & Surgery II

(45 lecture hours = 3 credits)

This course is designed to educate the veterinary student on the diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and prevention of non-surgical and surgical disease of food and fiber animals (bovine, ovine, caprine, porcine, camelid) and includes production animal medicine and emerging diseases.  

CVM 753A-A0 | Equine Medicine & Surgery I

(45 lecture hours = 3 credits)

Clinical conditions seen in the horse, with emphasis on clinical signs, diagnosis, medical and surgical treatment, and prognosis.

CVM 753B-A0 | Equine Medicine & Surgery II

(45 lecture hours = 3 credits)

This course is designed to educate the veterinary student on clinical conditions seen in the horse, with emphasis on clinical signs, diagnosis, medical, and surgical treatment, and prognosis.

CVM 755-A0 | Clinical Skills V

(60 lab hours = 2 credits)

Continued development of expertise in handling and interpretation of general and specific physical examination findings in large animals (equine, bovine, small ruminants) and small animals. Continuation of anesthesia and surgical skills training with introduction of anesthesia and surgery in the live canine or feline patient.

CVM 758-A0 | Professional Life Skills V

(30 lab hours = 1 credit)

Students will be introduced to professional communication skills and their importance in veterinary medicine. The Professional Life Skills course will focus on aspects of: Building Professional Identity, Communications, Leadership, Wellbeing, & Financial Literacy.  

CVM 759-A0 | Introduction to Clinical Year

(7 lecture hours = .5 credits)

Course CVM 759 is designed to prepare students for their clinical year rotations in fourth year. Clinical Rotation policy, procedure, coursework, organization, expectations and how to maximize success on rotations will be explored and discussed. Instruction will consist of self-guided online modules, in-person sessions and small group discussions

CVM 761-A0 | Avian and Exotic Animal Medicine

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

The purpose of this “Avian & Exotic Animal Medicine” course is to build confidence, competence, and commitment to the species of small, “exotic” mammalian, avian, and reptilian species that are most commonly presented to clinicians in North American practices.  Each of these three taxons represented include between 6000 to 8000 species.   The representative species discussed and studied in this basic medicine course will enable the veterinary student to gain a basic understanding of the unique challenges and requirements of these increasingly popular, companion animals.  Likewise, the veterinary student will learn that (s)he will not only broaden one’s knowledge and skill base, but also potentially increase one’s income capacity by provided professional care for these species. This “Avian & Exotics” (A&E) course will build on the knowledge & skills the sixth semester veterinary student has developed over the previous five semesters.   This A & E course will require a sound knowledge of parasitology, anatomy, physiology, general pathology, immunology, infectious diseases, and other disciplines of medicine and surgery.  The veterinary student will be expected to be able to adapt and modify their skill sets and knowledge base to adapt to the unique characteristics of these species of other taxons of the vertebrate phylum.

CVM 765-A0 | Clinical Skills VI

(105 lab hours = 3.5 credits)

Students will be introduced to more advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for small and large animals including ophthalmology procedures, ultrasonography, radiography, bandaging, semen evaluation, and epidurals using a combination of live animals, models and cadavers. Students will demonstrate continued practice with completing medical records including SOAPs, case presentations, and discharge instructions.

CVM 766-A0 | Practice Management

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

In this course students will be exposed to key concepts in veterinary practice management and ownership. Students will gain insights to the operational workings in a variety of clinical settings. Students will acquire knowledge of business operation s, team management and client acquisition and retention.

CVM 768-A0 | Professional Life Skills VI

(15 lab hours = 1 credit)

The Professional Life Skills course will focus on aspects of Building Professional Identity, Communications, Leadership, Wellbeing, & Financial Literacy.  

CVM 769-O | Radiographic Interpretation

(15 lecture hours = 1 credit)

This course covers principles and application of radiographic image interpretation using the foundation of Roentgen signs. Each case will give students the opportunity to practice the skills of basic image interpretation, including identifying normal findings as well as classical imaging findings associated with commonly encountered radiographic diagnoses. A working knowledge of small animal and equine anatomy and physiology is a pre-requisite for this course. 

CVM 769-H | Advanced Equine Diagnostics

(30 Lab hours = 1 Credit)

This course expands on principles introduced in the CVM 753, 763 (Equine Medicine and Surgery), CVM 715, 725, 735, 745, 755, and 765 (Clinical skills), and other courses taught in the LMU-CVM curriculum. Students will learn to use advanced diagnostic procedures and techniques commonly applied in equine medicine, surgery, and theriogenology. This course is particularly recommended for equine oriented students before the beginning of their clinical year rotation. The course is designed to allow students to become competent and confident in using several the diagnostic procedures and techniques encountered in equine practice. An emphasis will be placed on the individual student to prepare in advance for the labs, by reading assigned material and completing laboratory assignments.

CVM769-K | Food Animal Elective

(30 Lab hours = 1 Credit)

This course is designed to increase expertise in certain food animal skills, expose food animal students to techniques and skills not previously taught in prior courses or labs and offers opportunity to increase their food animal problem solving and critical thinking skills.  This course is primarily directed toward students that wish to specialize in food animal practice or intend for food animal practice to be most of their overall practice.  Dairy, beef and small ruminants’ topics and exercises will be conducted and will include at least one “outbreak” investigation.

CVM 769-L | Theriogenology Elective

(15 lecture hours + 15 lab hours = 1.5 credit)

Advanced integration of reproductive physiology, endocrinology, pathology, and pharmacology as they apply to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of reproductive disorders of large animal species.  Advanced normal and abnormal estrous cycles, breeding management, pregnancy, dystocia management, parturition, synchronization protocols, assisted reproductive techniques (embryo transfer, ovum pick-up, in vitro fertilization, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, etc.), and additional reproductive pharmacologic agents in large animal species will be covered.  Advanced breeding soundness in male and female animals, and normal, abnormal pregnancy and production, and advanced procedures.  Advanced topics will have a more in-depth view of the reproductive health and treatment of large animal species.

CVM 770 | Small Animal General Practice Clinical Rotation

(4 weeks = 4 credits)

Course CVM 770 consists of supervised clinical instruction in a selected, pre-approved, high quality, small animal general practice (canine, feline, pocket pets). Students see a wide variety of medical and surgical cases and are active participants in their diagnostic and therapeutic management, to include documentation of findings and care in problem-oriented medical records and performance of clinical procedures.

CVM 771 | Specialty Practice Clinical Rotation

(4 weeks = 4 credits)

Course CVM 771 consists of supervised clinical instruction in a selected, high quality, specialty practice focusing on small animal species, primarily canine and feline. Instruction will take place in practices with board certified internists, radiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists, or other specialists, and/or access to those specialists. Students are active participants in diagnostic and therapeutic management of a wide variety of cases with instructive pathophysiological learning issues requiring appropriate medical and/or surgical management in veterinary advanced care, emergency and critical care situations.

Or

CVM 771S | Specialty Practice Clinical Rotation “Selective”

(4 weeks = 4 credits)

Course CVM 771S consists of supervised clinical instruction in a selected, high quality, specialty practice. Species of focus or interest can include: canine, feline, lab animal, exotic, zoological, equine and/or large animal depending on the interest and career goals of the student. Instruction will take place in practices with board certified internists, radiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists, or other specialists, and/or access to those specialists. Students are active participants in diagnostic and therapeutic management of a wide variety of cases with instructive pathophysiological learning issues requiring appropriate medical and/or surgical management in veterinary advanced care, emergency, and critical care situations.

CVM 772 | Small Animal Primary Care

(4 weeks = 4 credits)

Course CVM 772 consists of supervised clinical instruction in the medical and surgical areas of a busy community shelter practice. Students will receive an introduction to all aspects of shelter operations and gain a better understanding of the challenges that animal shelters encounter. Students will learn why animals are admitted to shelters, behavior and enrichment strategies used in this environment, and how community engagement leads to successful adoptions. 

CVM 772 | Small Animal Primary Care - Virtual

(4 weeks = 4 credits)

Course CVM 772 consists of supervised instruction in the medical and surgical areas of a busy community shelter practice. Students will receive an introduction to all aspects of shelter operations and gain a better understanding of the challenges that animal shelters encounter. Students will learn why animals are admitted to shelters, behavior and enrichment strategies used in this environment, and how community engagement leads to successful adoptions. 

Veterinarians and other subject matter experts participating in the course will discuss preventive, medical, and surgical care options for shelter animals with the students, including the review of  physical examinations, develop problem lists and determine differential diagnoses on shelter animals. After discussing their findings with a veterinarian, students will then formulate diagnostic and treatment plans for their patients. Students will develop surgical skills through learning about various techniques utilized in spay/neuter procedures. Students will gather patient history and perform animal examinations on client owned animals through simulated activities. Students may also have the opportunity to participate in discussions regarding dentistry procedures, and attend presentations by humane officers.  Communication practice revolving around the care received at preventative health clinics will also be offered. Students may be required to make formal case presentations to others during the course. 

The virtual CVM 772 course is composed of discussions regarding the medical and surgical care of animals, presentations, self-study, case write ups, and working with members of various shelter departments. 

CVM 773 | Diagnostic Veterinary Medicine

(2 weeks = 2 credits)

The CVM 773 course is a 2-week rotation during which the students will receive senior level training in diagnostic pathology and 10 ancillary diagnostic services. The ancillary diagnostic services are; bacteriology, virology, molecular biology, serology, toxicology, clinical receiving, histology, parasitology, clinical pathology, and epidemiology. The course is composed of lecture/cooperative/ active /group and self- learning morning sessions. The students will spend the afternoon sessions performing post mortem examinations on the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (UKVDL) necropsy floor or will work on Diagnostic Case Studies and allied diagnostic services assignments. The students will also give diagnostic pathology case presentations on UKVDL case submissions and will receive clinical pathology assignments. The clinical pathology assignments are composed of cytology slides collected from case submissions and the students are asked to read the slides using microscopes and submit their diagnostic reports.

CVM 773 | Diagnostic Veterinary Medicine - Virtual

(2 weeks = 2 credits)

The CVM 773 course is a 2-week rotation during which the students will receive senior level training in diagnostic pathology and 10 ancillary diagnostic services. The ancillary diagnostic services are; bacteriology, virology, molecular biology, serology, toxicology, clinical receiving, histology, parasitology, clinical pathology, and epidemiology. The course is composed of lecture/cooperative/ active /group and self- learning morning sessions. The students will spend the afternoon sessions observing post mortem examinations remotely on the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (UKVDL) necropsy floor (with two way audio/video for Q&A) or will work on Diagnostic Case Studies and allied diagnostic services assignments. The students will deliver diagnostic pathology case presentations on case submissions and will receive clinical pathology assignments. The students read the slides that will be shared virtually, and will write and submit their diagnostic reports.

CVM 774 | Large Animal Rotation

(4 weeks = 4 credits) 

Students will be introduced to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for large animals including internal medicine cases, bovine lameness, herd and flock health consultation and routine procedures, ophthalmology procedures, diagnostic imaging, equine lameness examination, reproductive technology, bandaging and wound care, dental procedures, anesthesia, and general surgical procedures using a combination of live animals, models, and cadavers. Students will demonstrate continued communications skills development including communication with owners through written discharge instructions and communication with colleagues via referral letters.

CVM 774-B | Large Animal Equine Alternate Rotation

(4 weeks = 4 credits)

Students with a high interest in food animal and/or equine practice, who have demonstrated basic skills in the handling of these species, will be approved by members of LMU faculty to complete their large animal rotation at high quality clinical affiliate sites, as designated by the Clinical Relations and Outreach team, in lieu of completing their large animal rotation at the DVTC.  These locations will introduce and/or reinforce diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for large animals including internal medicine, surgery, lameness evaluation, herd and flock health consultations routine procedures, diagnostic imaging, reproductive technology, bandaging and wound care, dental procedures and anesthesia. Students will continued to develop their communication skills. If this course is being completed at a Mixed Animal Practice, the student needs to construct their activities so a minimum of 80% of their cases are large animal focused.

CVM 774 | Large Animal Rotation - Virtual

(4 weeks = 4 credits)

Students will be introduced to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for large animals in a virtual environment including internal medicine cases, bovine lameness, herd and flock health consultation and routine procedures, ophthalmology procedures, diagnostic imaging, equine lameness examination, reproductive technology, bandaging and wound care, dental procedures, anesthesia, and general surgical procedures using a combination of live animals, models, and cadavers. Students will demonstrate continued communications skills development including communication with faculty through exercises demonstrating written discharge instructions and communication with colleagues via referral letters.

CVM 776 | NAVLE Administration

(3 weeks = 3 credits)

Course CVM 776 is a Required Course offered in fall semester. Students will prepare and sit for the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE®). Students will conduct independent studies and review in order to prepare for the NAVLE®.  Students are not required to pass the NAVLE® to pass the course.

CVM 777 | Clinical Year Assessment

(1 week = 1 credit)

This required course is offered to students at the conclusion of the clinical year rotation blocks to assist in their transition from veterinary student to DVM. Course design involves a multifaceted approach to content delivery through exit surveys, financial literacy education, veterinary imaging monitoring verification, and interactive professional communication. This course includes four internal CVM programmatic surveys, one LMU-CVM Graduating Senior Survey, one AVMA Graduating Senior Survey, one Doctors Without Quarters (DWQ) education seminar, submission of dosimeter badge, and various communication activities. Students will have access to online education materials and learning tools provided by the CVM, DWQ, and AVMA. Instructors will track individual student progress in each respective learning unit by tracking performance metrics provided by the LMU-CVM Outcomes Assessment program. The course assignments and self-directed completion of units will span approximately 2-4 weeks.

CVM 778 | Clinical Diagnostic Imaging Hosted by VetCT

(2 weeks = 2 credits)

This course will provide a structured means for students in the clinical year of the DVM program to apply and synthesize the knowledge gained in the pre-clinical training into the clinical setting.  Students will use the knowledge and skills gained in the Radiology Short Course to perform radiographic interpretation during their clinical placements.   

CVM 779 | Advanced Clinical Pathology Rotation

(2 weeks = 2 credits)

This course will build on the core concepts of clinical pathology as presented in CVM 733, while fostering higher-level interpretation of laboratory data. Clinical biochemistry, hematology, urinalysis, cytology, and molecular diagnostics will be reviewed in this asynchronous, virtual course. 

CVM 780 | Clinical Rotation

Course CVM 780 consists of supervised clinical instruction in high quality learning experiences available at institutions and practices in North America and around the world, to include specialty practices (such as medicine, surgery, cardiology, dermatology, neurology, oncology, ophthalmology), species-specific practices, other accredited Colleges of Veterinary Medicine, zoos, and other LMU-CVM approved public and private biomedical institutions. 

Students are active participants in their elective rotations, participating in the wide variety of cases with instructive learning issues and situations to which they will be exposed. Elective clinical rotations can either be selected from a preapproved list, or a proposal can submitted and approved through the Clinical Relations Office on E*Value.

CVM 781 | Elective Externship Clinical Rotation

Course CVM 781 consists of supervised clinical instruction in high quality learning experiences available at institutions and practices in North America and around the world, to include specialty practices (such as medicine, surgery, cardiology, dermatology, neurology, oncology, ophthalmology), species-specific practices, other accredited Colleges of Veterinary Medicine, zoos, and other LMU-CVM approved public and private biomedical institutions. Students are active participants in their rotations, participating in the wide variety of cases with instructive learning issues and situations to which they will be exposed. Elective externship clinical rotations are submitted and approved through the Clinical Relations Office on E*Value. 

CVM 782 | NAVLE Prep Rotation

This course is offered to students in the fourth year of the curriculum as an elective to assist in preparation for the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination. Course design involves a multifaceted approach to content delivery through review sessions, case-based problem solving, online educational resources/testing modules, and structured self-directed study 

CVM 782-H0 | Advanced Dentistry Clinical Rotation

This elective course is a continuation of small animal dentistry and is focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of common dental conditions of canine and feline patients which are typically seen in small animal general practice.