MSc/Diploma/Certificate
INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL WELFARE, ETHICS AND LAW
Programme Handbook
2015-2016
The University of Edinburgh
Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
Easter Bush Campus
Midlothian, Scotland, EH25 9RG
www.ed.ac.uk/vet/international-animal-welfare
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Contents
Foreword and Welcome ..................................................................................................... 4
1.
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................... 5
2.
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
CONTACTS/SUPPORT ............................................................................................ 5
The IAWEL Programme Team .............................................................................. 5
The Digital Education Unit ..................................................................................... 6
Other contacts ....................................................................................................... 7
Response Time ..................................................................................................... 7
University Email ..................................................................................................... 7
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
OUR AND YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................... 8
Responsibilities of the Programme Director .......................................................... 8
Responsibilities of the Students ............................................................................ 8
Communications and absence policy .................................................................... 9
Computer requirements ......................................................................................... 9
Library Resources .................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
CALENDAR OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR (2015-2016) ............................................15
MSc IAWEL teaching timetable ............................................................................15
Assessments .......................................................................................................16
Examination Boards .............................................................................................16
Graduations ..........................................................................................................16
3.
4.
5.
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE ..................................................................................16
5.1
Length of study..................................................................................................16
5.2 Aim of the programme ..........................................................................................16
5.3 Learning outcomes ...............................................................................................17
5.4 Programme structure ............................................................................................18
5.4.1 The taught element ........................................................................................18
5.4.2 The dissertation/written reflective element .....................................................18
5.5 Programme Content .............................................................................................19
6.
6.1
6.2
TEACHING AND LEARNING APPROACH .............................................................23
Feedback from staff to students ...........................................................................24
Feedback from students to staff ...........................................................................24
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
ASSESSMENT ........................................................................................................25
The Taught Element .............................................................................................26
Dissertation ..........................................................................................................26
Late Submission of Assessments .........................................................................26
Plagiarism and the College policy ........................................................................26
Interruptions or Extensions to Study .....................................................................27
Special circumstances ..........................................................................................27
Procedure for academic appeals ..........................................................................28
7.
8.
PROGRESSION .........................................................................................................28
8.1 Progression to year two (the diploma year) ..........................................................28
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
8.2
Progression to the Masters dissertation ...............................................................28
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
AWARD ...................................................................................................................29
Certificate .............................................................................................................29
Diploma ................................................................................................................29
MSc .....................................................................................................................29
Fail........................................................................................................................29
Distinction ............................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
9.
10. THE DIFFERENT COMMITTEES: DESCRIPTION AND ROLES...........................29
10.1
Board of Examiners ...........................................................................................29
10.2
Role of External Examiner.................................................................................30
10.3
Teaching Committee .........................................................................................30
10.4
R(D)SVS Postgraduate Staff/Student Liaison Committee .................................30
10.5
MSc IAWEL Staff/Student Liaison Committee...................................................30
10.6
The student representative................................................................................30
11. MAIN RESEARCH INSTITUTES AND CORE STAFF .............................................30
11.1
University of Edinburgh/Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies ...................31
11.2
Scotland’s Rural College – Edinburgh (SRUC) .................................................31
11.3
Core Teaching Staff ..........................................................................................31
12. STUDENT SUPPORT AND FURTHER INFORMATION .........................................32
Information Services (IS).................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Study skills and personal development ..........................................................................32
Academic Study Skills for Postgraduate Taught Students at R(D)SVS .........................32
The Advice Place ...........................................................................................................33
Careers Service .............................................................................................................33
The Chaplaincy ..............................................................................................................33
Student Counselling Service ..........................................................................................34
Student Disability Service ..............................................................................................34
English Language Teaching Centre (ELTC) .................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Edinburgh University Student Association (EUSA) ........................................................35
Tandem ..........................................................................................................................36
Peer Proofreading ..........................................................................................................36
Development and alumni ...............................................................................................36
Health and Safety ..........................................................................................................36
Centre for Sport and Exercise ........................................................................................36
FINANCE - Paying Fees 2015/16 ..................................................................................36
ANNEX 1:
ANNEX 2:
ANNEX 3:
ANNEX 4:
ANNEX 5:
ANNEX 6:
DEGREE PROGRAMME TABLE (MSc IAWEL) ............................................38
Assessment regulations relating to progression and award ...........................39
College Personal Tutoring Statement ............................................................41
University Postgraduate Common Marking Scheme......................................43
Advice on using Social Media Networks & Confidentiality of Information ......44
Animal Welfare at the Dick Vet in Edinburgh .................................................46
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Foreword and Welcome
Welcome to the University of Edinburgh and to the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine.
We are delighted to have you join us for the 2015/2016 online distance learning
MSc/Diploma/Certificate programme in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc
IAWEL). You are joining us in the 4th year of this exciting and unique programme.
The MSc IAWEL programme at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies is not only the first to
be mounted within an international centre of veterinary excellence, but also one of the first to be
offered as an online distance learning programme.
The programme is run jointly by the University of Edinburgh and Scotland’s Rural College (SRuC),
predominantly by staff from The Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education
(JMICAWE). This Centre was opened at the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of
Veterinary Studies in May 2011. For further details on the Centre and its objectives please see
Annex 6.
The programme is run by myself, Fritha Langford, with the assistance of Jill MacKay and Bryony
Lancaster (Programme Coordinators) and Danielle Linkiewicz (Programme Administrator), and we
are all available to give help and guidance.
We do hope that you will enjoy your time with us and that you will take full advantage of the many
opportunities open to you.
Dr Fritha Langford
Programme Director
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
1.
INTRODUCTION
This handbook is a guide to what is expected of you on the MSc/Diploma/Certificate programme in
International Animal Welfare, Ethics & Law, and the academic and pastoral support available to you.
Please read it carefully. It will help you to make the most of your time on the programme.
Some important general aspects covered in this handbook are amplified in the University’s Code of
Practice for Taught Postgraduate Programmes. This handbook does not supersede the University
Regulations.
We consider it each student’s responsibility to make themselves familiar with the contents of this
handbook and also the Code of Practice for Taught Postgraduate Programmes. The information
provided in this handbook is intended to help you avoid unnecessary problems.
The University Degree Regulations and Programmes of Study set out University-wide and
programmes specific regulations.
http://www.drps.ed.ac.uk/15-16/regulations/postgrad.php
The Taught Assessment Regulations set minimum requirements and standards for students and
staff, expressing in practical form the academic goals and policies of the University.
www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/academic-services/policies-regulations/regulations/assessment
The degree regulations are supported by the Code of Practice for Taught Postgraduate
Programmes, although not regulatory; provides essential information for staff and students.
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/academic-services/policies-regulations/codes
2.
CONTACTS/SUPPORT
2.1
The IAWEL Programme Team
It is always helpful to know who to contact and how soon you can expect a response to your
queries. Each member of the programme team has areas of specialisation - things one person can
help you with more quickly than the others.
Programme Director: Dr Fritha Langford
Hours: 9-5pm, Mon-Wed
Tel No: +44 (0)131 651 7448
Email: Fritha.langford@ed.ac.uk
The Programme Director is responsible for the smooth running of the programme, including
responsibility for the admissions to the programmes, plus coordination of teaching inputs,
examinations, programme evaluation, and curriculum development. The Programme Director is
also there to facilitate your orientation and smooth progression through the degree, from initial
induction to subsequent course choice, and the transition into the dissertation stage and to the
successful completion of the degree.
Programme Coordinators:
Dr Jill MacKay
Hours: 9-5pm, Mon-Fri
Tel No: +44 (0)131 651 7396
Email: jill.mackay@sruc.ac.uk
Mrs Bryony Lancaster
Hours: 9-5pm, Mon-Fri
Tel No: +44 (0)131 650 8783
Email: bryony.lancaster@ed.ac.uk
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Jill and Bryony work closely with the Programme Director and also have responsibility for the
coordination of teaching inputs, pastoral support and granting of extensions for assignments.
Programme Administrator: Danielle Linkiewicz
Hours: 9-5pm, Mon-Fri
Tel No: +44 (0) 131 651 7363
Email: danielle.linkiewicz@ed.ac.uk
Contact Danielle if you have any general administrative queries relating to programme, for example
the registration process, course enrolments, fees, interruption of study, changes to programme of
study, staff-student liaison committee, etc.
Personal Tutor
All taught students at Edinburgh University are assigned a Personal Tutor. Your Personal Tutor is a
member of academic staff from your matriculated School, who is allocated to you at the beginning of
the academic year. Their role is to:



help you to review your academic progress
provide opportunities for you to reflect on how your learning can help you pursue your future
development
foster in you a sense of belonging to a community of learners
Your Personal Tutor is available if you have any concerns or problems that might affect your
studies, for example when there are special circumstances affecting your studies. They can also
advise on academic matters such as course choices in your degree programme. The School’s
Personal Tutoring statement can be found in Annex 3.
Further information and resources (including FAQs) can be found at: http://www.ed.ac.uk/schoolsdepartments/institute-academic-development/postgraduate/taught/apsupport/faq
Your programme team is based at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush
Campus, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, Scotland.
2.2
The Digital Education Unit
The Digital Education Unit provides support for the development of all online courses at the School.
The team can help you if you have any problems accessing the teaching materials or would like
advice on any of the technologies used within the programme.
In each course, we provide a discussion board for Technical Issues. Members of the team will
respond to posts on this board to assist you with queries about materials or technologies. For out-ofhours support, or if you encounter any problems accessing University systems, please contact the
University Information Services (IS) Helpline (see below).
2.3
University Information Services (IS) Helpline
If you have an IT or e-learning enquiry, or are unsure who to direct your enquiry to, please contact
the IS Helpline:
IS.Helpline@ed.ac.uk
If you require assistance outside of our working hours (8am – 6pm, Monday to Friday), your
request will be automatically transferred to our out-of-hours support team who can deal with a
wide variety of common IT queries. If they cannot resolve your request, it will be passed to the
central IS Helpline for investigation. Please note that this may result in a short delay in finding a
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
solution. Remember to check the service status pages and twitter page which are updated
regularly to reflect current status of the main services.
2.4
Other contacts
Director of Taught MSc Programmes: Professor Anna Meredith
Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
Email: anna.meredith@ed.ac.uk
Director of Postgraduate Studies: Professor Bernadette Dutia
Centre for Infectious Diseases, The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
Tel: +44 (0)131 651 9152.
Email: Bernadette.dutia@ed.ac.uk
Director of the Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education (JMICAWE):
Professor Natalie Waran
Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
Tel: +44 (0)131 651 7437
Email: Natalie.Waran@ed.ac.uk
Board of Examiners Convenor: Dr Darren Shaw
Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
Email: darren.shaw@ed.ac.uk
College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine Postgraduate Office
The Chancellor’s Building
49 Little France Crescent
Edinburgh EH16 4SB
Hours: 9-5pm, Mon-Fri
Tel: +44 (0)131 242 6460
Fax: +44 (0)131 242 6479
Email: mvmpg@ed.ac.uk
Website: http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/medicine-vet-medicine
2.5
Response Time
During term time, you can expect a response within 48 hours if you contact us Monday-Friday. If
you contact us at the weekends, you can expect a response within 48 hours of us returning on
Monday. We’re usually a lot quicker than that too!
You will be notified of any University holidays by announcement in Learn and this will affect our
response times. The University closes for two weeks over the Christmas/New Year period and
we are also on holidays for the month of July. If any member of the team is away from our desk
for any lengthy period of time, e.g. due to other holidays, illness or conferences, you will receive an
out of office reply indicating which other member of the team can be contacted instead.
If, for whatever reason, you have not received a response within 48 hours, please do not hesitate to
email another member of the team with your question.
2.6
University Email
When you join the University, you will get a University of Edinburgh e-mail account and address
which will be used for a variety of essential communications. You must access this and manage this
account regularly as important information from the University will be sent to this address, it is your
responsibility to check this, and failure to do so will not be an acceptable excuse or grounds for
appeal.
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
If you already have a web-based e-mail account and think you are unlikely to check your University
e-mail account, it is your responsibility to set up a forward on your University e-mail.
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/information-services/services/computing/comms-andcollab/email/office365/frequent-questions
How do I forward my email to another account?
Login to Office 365 on the web, then select Options (in the top right corner), and then See All
Options… Select Connected Accounts, where you can set up forwarding, choosing, if you wish, to
keep a copy of each email on Office 365. However, please note that correspondence to you
from the University will be sent to your University email account not your personal account
Full details on University Computing Regulations can be found at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/information-services/about/policies-andregulations/computing-regulations
3.
OUR AND YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
3.1
Responsibilities of the Programme Director
The Programme Director is responsible for the smooth running of the programme, including
responsibility for the admissions to the programmes, plus coordination of teaching inputs,
examinations, programme evaluation, and curriculum development. The Programme Director is
also there to facilitate your orientation and smooth progression through the degree, from initial
induction to subsequent course choice, and the transition into the dissertation stage and to the
successful completion of the degree.
They are also available as a first line of pastoral support. The Programme Director is usually
designated as the supervisor for all students on the programme; when you progress to the written
reflective element stage, a new supervisor suitable for your chosen topic may be allocated.
It is your responsibility to inform the Programme Director immediately of any problems that are
interfering with your coursework or progress through the Programme, including any personal,
religious or medical requirements that might affect your participation in any aspect of the
programme.
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
3.2
Responsibilities of the Students
Staff will communicate with you using your Edinburgh University email or through Learn. It is
your responsibility to check for messages about the programme.
Inform the programme team about any change in your circumstances – address, illness, etc.
If you are ill and your work has been affected, see a doctor and get a medical certificate.
Medical certificates are required to support requests for extensions, and as background
information in any special circumstances meeting.
Submit assessments on time.
Familiarise yourself with the rules and advice contained in this handbook.
Read and adhere to the policies associated with this programme (e.g. computing regulations,
copyright and plagiarism).
Set aside dedicated study time each week (this will vary individually but we expect to be a
minimum of 10 hours).
Log in to Learn regularly to check notices and contribute to academic discussions.
Keep your contact details up to date via MyEd at all times (see below).
Contact us if you have difficulty with any aspect of the current course or the programme as a
whole and we will work together to resolve this.
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Change of details
Students have the functionality to maintain their own personal details in EUCLID, accessed via their
MyEd ‘Student Personal Details’ channel. They can maintain:
•
•
•
•
Personal email address and mobile phone number
Preferred first name (the name they like to be known as)
Current and future home and semester addresses
Details of who the University should contact in the event of an emergency
Students also have access in EUCLID to basic Programme information and details of the Additional
Achievements that will appear on their Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR).
The user guide for student self-service is available at:
http://www.euclid.ed.ac.uk/student/Student_Self_Service.htm
3.3
Communications and absence policy
Postgraduate students are expected to be self-directed and motivated. You are responsible for
organising your time and making sure you meet assessment deadliness and any other
requirements. If you are studying by online distance learning this is particularly important, you are
expected to study approximately 10 hours per week with at least two ‘log in’ sessions. If you
are unable to meet these requirements, you must let the programme team know in advance (or as
soon as practically possible).
The IAWEL programme at the University of Edinburgh is online distance learning in nature and
therefore has established written forms of communication, such as discussions boards and email as
an official means of communication with students. Therefore, we ask that you follow the guidelines
below on communicating effectively:






Communicate positively, constructively and respectfully
Refrain from attacking and avoid premature judging
Write in a clear style to avoid misunderstanding, it is very easy to misinterpret emails and
discussion postings
Use appropriate grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation, e.g:
o Don't use all capital letters. This is considered "SHOUTING".
o Don't use exclamation marks to emphasise something you are frustrated about!!!!!!!.
o Don’t use red writing. This is considered as you being annoyed.
Re-read messages and use spelling and grammar checks before sending.
Don't blurt a message impulsively.
o Use appropriate etiquette.
o Don't say anything electronically that would not be said face-to-face.
o Don't vent emotions.
3.4
Computer requirements
As this is an online programme, you will be accessing materials, discussion boards and a range of
tools via the internet.
While the programme team and the University’s Information Services (IS) department provide
distance learning support, please remember that you are still responsible for your own technical setup.
You are not expected to be a technical whizz, and we provide guidance and training for the tools we
use. However, we expect that you will take responsibility for your access to the programme, make
back-ups of your work and organise alternative access if required.
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
You should have the following:









Access to a PC or Mac that you are confident will be able to cope with the volume of online
activity that takes place
A back-up plan (access to an alternative computer/internet access) in place in case your
computer fails at any point during the programme (see the Preparation and Back-ups section
below)
Access to a good internet connection – we strongly recommend that you have a broadband
connection, though you will find that a wi-fi or wireless connection is sufficient for most
activities
An up-to-date web browser - we recommend using Mozilla Firefox, which can be downloaded
for free from http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/
Up-to-date antivirus and computer security software - free to students from:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/is/anti-virus
We use Learn as our virtual learning environment. Once you get access to Learn you will be
able to test your browser settings for Learn.
Adobe Reader installed on your computer: http://get.adobe.com/uk/reader/
Adobe Flash Player installed on your computer: http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/
Headphones with a microphone for live tutorials – we find using headphones with a mic
rather than speakers minimises echo and feedback. A webcam is not required, but you may
choose to purchase one.
Preparation and Back-ups
We have all had experiences of losing an important file, often something we have been working on
for a long time!
It is particularly important when contemplating an online programme such as this to ensure that the
computer system you will be using for the programme is reliable and has up-to-date antivirus and
computer security software. You should get into the habit of running regular scans of your system to
catch any malicious software as early as possible.
You should also have set in place a number of file back-up options to ensure that, should your
computer fail approaching assessment/dissertation submission deadlines, you do not lose your
work.
These back-up options can include:
a) External hard drive
b) Pen drive (also known as a USB or memory stick)
c) CD-ROM
d) Cloud computing, e.g. Office 365 OneDrive (http://edin.ac/1LmOQiE), Google Docs
(https://docs.google.com), DropBox (http://www.dropbox.com) or email
e) Paper printouts of draft copies – if all else fails, you can type it back up from the last draft
print.
The last option is not very environmentally friendly, but it is particularly wise when preparing your
dissertation/written reflective element. Electronic media may fail, but paper can usually be relied on
to be accessible!
When using the online discussion forums on Learn, it is also a good precaution to compose your
posts offline, e.g. in a Word document. Learn may time out while you are working, and your work is
then lost when you post.
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
If you have the original as a file on your computer, it is easy to copy and paste it in to Learn and this
easy step removes the frustration of losing your work.
3.5
Library Resources
The Library is part of the University's Information Services, and we will be glad to help you find your
way into the materials you will need for the course. Please remember that we are here to support
you, so never hesitate to get in touch if you are stuck.
Key websites:
Library: http://www.ed.ac.uk/is/library
Subject guides to Library resources: http://www.ed.ac.uk/information-services/library-museumgallery/finding-resources/subject-guides
MyEd (click on Library tab) https://www.myed.ed.ac.uk/
Contacts:
Helpdesk: (IS.Helpline@ed.ac.uk) Please use this email address to contact Information Services
with any general enquiries.
Liaison Librarian: Fiona Brown (f.brown@ed.ac.uk) is your Library contact who can help you with
accessing and using resources and with reference enquiries.
Log-ins:
Most Library resources require you to log in because we pay for access on behalf of members of the
University. On matriculation, you should receive a University log-in with a Universal User Name
(UUN) that is your matriculation number (something like s0123456).
EASE is the name of the log-in that you can use to access most University resources, including the
Library's journals and databases. To get your EASE log-in, you need your UUN and to follow the
instructions at https://www.ease.ed.ac.uk/userdocs/register.html
For easiest access to resources, it is best to go via links provided in the Course Reading List or via
the Library web pages. If you go direct to a resource, it’s not always impossible to get in, but you
may run into a few hurdles. If we subscribe to the resource, to get in you may need to follow links to
UK Access Federation or Shibboleth – there is more information on what this looks like at
http://edin.ac/1PBBX2Q
If you have access to library resources from another institution (e.g. another university), do
remember that that login is distinct from your UoE login, and will give you access to a different set of
resources (although there may well be some overlap). Web browsers try to be helpful by
remembering logins to make it so that you don't need to log in each time you wish to access a
subscribed resource. But, this can cause a problem as you access resources available from the
different organisations you belong to: you may be denied access because you happen to have used
the wrong institutional identity.
If you are doing some searching that means switching regularly between different institutional logins
in getting references etc., then you might find it helps to get into the habit of using two separate
browser applications (for example, Google Chrome for one, and Firefox for UoE library). That way,
because the login is remembered in your browser session, you don't have to keep logging out and in
again as you switch between the different institutional resources.
Wireless network
It might seem irrelevant to register for access to the UoE wireless network, but by registering for
wireless access, you can use Eduroam which allows network logon and Internet access at any
eduroam-enabled site using your own username and password without the need for guest account
set up. Using eduroam may give you improved wireless access if you are near a participating
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
institution. To find locations that have eduroam, see https://www.jisc.ac.uk/eduroam/participatingorganisations . To register for wireless, see http://www.ed.ac.uk/is/wireless.
Log-in troubleshooting
Sometimes it’s not at all clear where to enter your login details. If you arrive at a full text journal from
following links from tweets or browsing the web, then the hosting site may not recognise you as a
member of a subscribing institution. If you go via the Library’s webpages, this is usually not a
problem because the link you follow has embedded information about subscription access.
Sometimes publishers present various login options – the one to choose in this case is Shibboleth,
or UK Federation. And then indicate you’re from University of Edinburgh to be allowed to use your
EASE login. Here’s an example of what this can look like:
If you like Google Scholar, then you can change the settings to link to University of Edinburgh
online journal subscriptions:
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Sometimes when we try to log on to an online resource from a non-university computer, we get a
security certificate error. To stop these warnings, you can download a University of Edinburgh
root certificate from http://tinyurl.com/37um6rl .
In Internet Explorer, the certificate error may look like this:
In Internet Explorer, select to “Continue to this website”.
In Firefox, the error may look like this:
In Firefox, select “I Understand the Risks” then select “Get Certificate” and finally, “Confirm Security
Exception”.
Getting articles from books, journals, etc.
Most of your recommended reading is available in the resources section for each module, but if you
have a reference from elsewhere to a book or journal article, then you can look in the UoE Library
catalogue at http://discovered.ed.ac.uk/. For more information on using DiscoverEd, visit
http://www.ed.ac.uk/information-services/library-museum-gallery/discovery .
You are strongly recommended to log in to DiscoverEd when searching for resources either in
DiscoverEd, or via Google Scholar, as outlined above. If you do not, you may find you get fewer
search results, see: http://edin.ac/1LmSh8Y
To log into DiscoverEd, use your EASE username (UUN) and password – see:
http://edin.ac/1PBGouG for more details.
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
The University doesn't subscribe to all journals or have copies of all books available electronically,
so there is a chance that we will not have what you require.In that case it is worth checking a library
near you or using the Iliad document delivery service (see below).
If the Library only has a journal in print then you can request a scan of an article or up to one
chapter of a book to be sent to you using the Iliad document delivery service (see below).
Document delivery
The Library can send you scans from our print journals or, if the journal is not in the UoE system, we
get scans of papers for you from other libraries.
Please check the catalogue first. If the journal or book is available electronically, you should be able
to get the material online. If the item is in our stock in print, then there is no fee for sending you a
scan of an article or chapter by email. For interlibrary articles, i.e. an item that we do not have in the
University library, each student has 30 per year free of charge. Thereafter if the student requires
further articles then there is a fee of £5 per request payable by the student. Payment is made
retrospectively, by credit card.
Here is the site for requesting documents to be delivered to you: http://illiad.lib.ed.ac.uk/illiad/. The
first time you use this service, you need to register using the library barcode on your matriculation
card. You should also register for electronic document delivery by contacting the ILL team at
webill@ed.ac.uk. If you are requesting a scan from our print, be sure to indicate in the notes field
that you are on a distance programme.
Finding literature on your topic
When you don't have a specific reference and need to search to find papers on a given topic, then it
is quicker to use literature databases. This is usually more efficient than browsing through individual
journals. The Subject guide to literature databases is at http://bit.ly/1EH1h11
and you can also use DiscoverEd, as per the information provided above.
Finding and using a library near you
If you are affiliated with another organisation, like another university, then you should make sure that
you are familiar with library resources available from that organisation. In most cases there will be
some overlap with UoE Library resources, but it is most likely that you would be able to expand your
range of resources by using the various libraries available to you.
Even if you are not affiliated with a local institution, there is a good chance that you would still be
able to use their library, if only for print resources. Librarians are a friendly species: contact them
and ask!
In the UK and Ireland, there is a reciprocal scheme between over 170 higher education institutions
called SCONUL access. The scheme's website (http://www.access.sconul.ac.uk/) has a list of
participating institutions that you can search by region or postcode to find ones closest to you. To
take advantage of the SCONUL scheme, you need to register for access at
http://www.sconul.ac.uk/sconul-access . This is automatically submitted to the institution’s team.
To find a library elsewhere in the world, two handy places to look are:
 WorldCat at http://www.worldcat.org/ (search for a book/article and then refine by
geographical region)
 Library Index at http://www.libdex.com/ (browse by region to find a library in your area)
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
4.
CALENDAR OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR (2015-2016)
4.1
MSc IAWEL teaching timetable
Block 1 teaching:
Weeks
1-5
Dates
21/9/15 – 23/10/15
Cert
6
26/10/15 – 30/10/15
7 - 11
02/11/15 – 04/12/15
Revision Week
Introduction to
International Animal
Welfare Science (CORE)
Introduction to
International Animal
Welfare Science (CORE)
Animal Welfare in
Research, Testing and
Education
Diploma
OR
Clinical Animal Behaviour
Block 2 teaching:
Weeks
12 - 16
Dates
11/1/16 – 13/2/16
Cert
Animal Ethics, Policy
and Law (CORE)
Equine Behaviour &
Welfare
OR
Diploma
Captive and Free-ranging
Wild Animal Welfare
Block 3 teaching:
Weeks
25 - 29
Dates
11/4/16 – 13/5/16
Cert/
Diploma
Cat and Dog Welfare
OR
Production Animal
Welfare
OR
Equitation Science
Revision Week
Animal Welfare in
Research, Testing and
Education
OR
Clinical Animal Behaviour
17
15/2/16 – 19/2/16
18 - 22
22/2/16 – 25/3/16
Revision Week
Animal Ethics, Policy
and Law (CORE)
Revision Week
Equine Behaviour &
Welfare
OR
Captive and Free-ranging
Wild Animal Welfare
30
16/5/16 – 20/5/16
31 - 35
23/5/16 – 24/6/16
Revision Week
Cat and Dog Welfare
OR
Production Animal
Welfare
OR
Equitation Science
Induction week: 14-18 September 2015
The programme is part-time, flexible, OLDL to allow students to be able to work full time and study
at the same time. For most students the usual route of study is:
Postgraduate Certificate, 60 credits = one year of study
Postgraduate Diploma, 120 credits = two years of study
MSc, 180 credits = three years of study
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
By intermittent study, students have up to 6 years to complete the MSc, 4 years the PG Diploma
and 2 years for the PG Certificate.
The University Academic Year can be found at: http://www.ed.ac.uk/news/semester-dates
4.2
Assessments
All assessments are in-course assignments.
4.3
Examination Boards
An Examination Board meeting takes place once a year, normally in August, and is convened by the
Exam Board Convenor, Dr Darren Shaw. An External Examiner will also be present and they are
appointed for every programme to moderate and adjudicate marking. The External Examiner for
this programme is Professor Xavier Manteca Vilanova from the University of Barcelona.
4.4
Graduations
All students intending to graduate must register by completing an online graduation registration
form. The form will be available on the Graduations website in early September 2016 and should be
submitted as soon as possible, but no later than 3 weeks before your ceremony. Only those who
want to attend a ceremony have to register. Students who, for any reason, do not wish to attend a
ceremony may graduate ‘in absentia’, and do not need to complete the graduation registration form.
There are no graduation fees at the University of Edinburgh
Online distance learning students are also given the opportunity to attend a virtual graduation
ceremony on the University’s Second Life campus. This event is streamed live, so the virtual event
is directly connected with the Edinburgh graduation. Full training and support will be provided to
assist you and ensure your virtual graduation is an event to remember.
Please be aware that if it is your intention to graduate at the above ceremony, any outstanding debts
to the University must be paid to the Finance Office 21 days prior to the Graduation Ceremony.
Further information on Graduations can be found at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/registry/graduations
5.
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
5.1
Length of study
The programme is structured to allow sequential progression via certificate, diploma and MSc
phases. However, it is also possible to graduate at the certificate or diploma phase. The certificate
phase can be studied over 1-2 years, the diploma phase can be studied over 2-4 years and the full
Masters can take from between 3-6 years to complete depending on how much time you have to
dedicate to studying per academic year. However, it is possible to complete the taught element of
the programme (ie 120 credits) in the first year and then complete the dissertation in the second
year. The dissertation year is not split so has to be completed in an academic year (i.e. from
September to June), but students can take a break between completion of taught courses and
commencing the dissertation year.
Thus, the programme is very flexible and students can also opt to take time out if work or family life
impact too much on study time. Moreover, it is also possible to pay by course to help spread the
cost of your studies.
5.2
Aim of the programme
The main programme aims are to enable students to:
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
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To enhance knowledge and understanding of animal welfare, ethics and law so as to
address welfare concerns from a global perspective – and develop awareness of the
importance of the application of science-based evidence for advancing animal welfare.
Specifically the programme will provide students with an understanding of animal welfare
that can be applied in veterinary practice, animal research, animal management and care,
animal production, welfare inspection, welfare assessment and preparation of animal based
legislation.
To provide a first class learning experience, leading to the development of proactive,
independent, reflective and life-long learners
5.3
Learning outcomes
The purpose of this programme is therefore to:
Acquire knowledge about international animal welfare science, ethics and law.
Demonstrate and understand how scientific assessment of animal welfare can be applied in
a range of practical situations.
Demonstrate the skills and confidence to undertake ethical debate relating to animal welfare
and animal use.
Be able to interpret and communicate scientific results and information in research and other
forms of social debate.
5.3.1 Knowledge and understanding
In-depth and extensive knowledge, understanding and skills at Postgraduate Certificate,
Diploma or Masters level within the field of animal welfare, ethics and law.
A contextual understanding of past and present knowledge and ideas within animal welfare,
ethics and law;
An intellectual curiosity and a willingness to question accepted wisdom and to be open to
new ideas within the field of animal ethics and welfare.
5.3.2 Graduate attributes: Skills and abilities in Research and Enquiry
An ability to appreciate the significance of and participate in the critical analysis of new
knowledge and understanding acquired through research and inquiry;
A capacity for independent, conceptual and creative thinking;
A capacity for problem identification, and an appreciation of the use of scientific methodology
in the collection of evidence, synthesis and dispassionate analysis.
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5.3.3 Graduate attributes: Skills and abilities in Personal and Intellectual Autonomy
An awareness and appreciation of ethical and moral frameworks, and issues;
An awareness of academic integrity;
An awareness and appreciation of social and cultural diversity;
An understanding of personal responsibilities, and of the rights of individuals and groups;
An ability to work independently and as part of a team;
An ability to produce good work in a timely manner.
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
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5.3.4 Graduate attributes: Skills and abilities in Communication
A capacity for attentive exchange, informed and respectful argument and reasoning;
An ability to communicate effectively for different purposes and in different contexts;
An ability to utilise different IT packages for communicating effectively across long distances;
A diverse set of transferable and generic skills.


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5.3.5 Graduate attributes: Skills and abilities in Personal Effectiveness
An openness to, and an interest in, life-long learning through directed and self-directed
study;
An awareness of personal strengths and weaknesses;
A capacity for self-reflection, self-discovery and personal development;
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)

An ability to interact positively with different people from different backgrounds.

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5.3.6 Technical/practical skills
An ability and openness to the use of computer based technology in learning.
An awareness of new developments in assessing animal welfare.
Development of technical skills in relation to specific project needs at Masters level.
5.4
Programme structure
The programme has two elements: (1) the taught element (120 credits) and (2) the dissertation
element (60 credits).
5.4.1 The taught element
Each academic year will consist of three 11-week terms structured into two blocks of 5 weeks of
study with a week in between for independent study and reflection.
Certificate courses – 60 credits
International Animal Welfare Science (Core – 20 credits) - AWAB11020
Animal ethics, policy and law (Core – 20 credits) - AWAB11022
And either
Production animal welfare (20 credits) - AWAB11024 or
Cat and dog welfare (20 credits) - AWAB11039
Equitation science (20 credits) - EQSC11033
You will be asked to choose your elective for the end of the PG Certificate year by the end of January.
(Please note: the alternative elective option will be offered for those going on to study the PG Diploma
and MSc).
Diploma courses - 60 credits
Students must select 3 of the courses below Animal welfare in research, testing and education (20 credits) - AWAB11037
Clinical animal behaviour (20 credits) – AWAB11036
Captive and free range wild animal welfare (20 credits) - AWAB11038
Equine Behaviour and Welfare (20 credits) - EQSC11030
Production animal welfare (20 credits) - AWAB11024
Cat and dog welfare (20 credits) - AWAB11039
Equitation science (20 credits) – EQSC11033
Please note that although all courses are offered, we cannot guarantee that all courses will be
available to all students each year.
5.4.2 The dissertation/written reflective element
During the dissertation element of the MSc programme, students will have the opportunity to further
develop their scientific skills and utilise scientific theory, in a less structured environment. The
dissertation is a written assignment of 10-15,000 words. This will allow the candidate to analyse and
present relevant research data that they have already collected during the course of their own work.
Alternatively, the candidate may wish to undertake a desk study to explore and develop a theme of
relevance to their current working environment, or in an area of interest that has arisen during their
period of study on the MSc. This feature will require a high level of commitment and application from
the candidate and provides a valuable exercise in the writing and presentation of information to a
standard that engages appropriately with academic conventions in relation to style, tone, structuring
and referencing.
We are also developing work-based dissertations to allow, for example, veterinarians in practice to
carry out case-study based dissertations or employees of NGOs to carry out strategy review
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
dissertations. More information on these options will be available during the year. Supervision for
this element of the MSc will be provided by existing research staff and subject experts currently
employed by the University of Edinburgh. Candidates will also be encouraged, where appropriate, to
work closely with senior staff at their home institutions
5.5
Programme Content
Please find below a short description of each course of the programme and the dissertation/written
reflective element.
Introduction to International Animal Welfare Science
(Course Organiser: Fritha Langford)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
-
-
Short description of course:
History, Culture and Concepts of Animal Welfare
Science and Animal Welfare
Understanding Animal Behaviour
Animal Suffering
Animal Welfare Assessment
Learning outcomes:
Students will be able to discuss the meanings and definitions of animal welfare.
They will also be able to describe how the concepts of animal welfare have changed over time
and in different parts of the world.
The students will understand how science works, how to read a scientific paper and apply
statistical principles in animal welfare research.
The students will be able to discuss how animal learning and motivation affects welfare. They
will also be able to explain how animal cognition and consciousness affect animal quality of
life.
The students will be able to describe the concepts of stress, pain and suffering and how these
relate to animal welfare.
Animal Ethics, Policy and Law
(Course Organiser: Fritha Langford)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
-
-
Short description of course:
Animal Welfare and Ethics
Animal Welfare Recommendations and Policy
Animal Welfare Legislation, Regulation and Enforcement
Translation, Education and Training
Global Applications
Learning outcomes:
To place animal ethics within a wider framework of the study of ethics and philosophy
To describe the concepts of ‘inherent value’, ‘intrinsic value’, and ‘inherent worth’ or ‘respect
for integrity’
Students will be able to discuss the animal welfare policy and recommendations made by
governments and other groups. They will also be able to describe how economics affects
animal welfare policy.
The students will be enabled to describe animal welfare law around the globe and discuss the
enforcement issues.
Students will be able to understand how animal welfare science gets translated into policy,
legislation and education.
Students will understand the Global Applications of animal welfare ethics, policy and law.
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Production Animal Welfare
(Course Organiser: Fritha Langford)
Short description of course:
1. The animals in global agriculture: past, present and future
2. On-farm animal welfare: housing and husbandry, genetics, disease and other welfare
problems
3. Off-farm animal welfare: transport, markets and slaughter
4. World trade: farmer to consumer and everything in between
5. Legislation, regulation, inspection and assurance worldwide
-
Learning outcomes:
The students will be able to describe the use of animals for food and discuss the patterns and
changes in global animal agriculture over time
Students will be able to explain the effects that different housing and husbandry systems have
on animals and discuss the associated welfare issues.
The students will be able to discuss the welfare consequences of live animal transport, markets
and slaughter of animals across the globe
The students will be able to discuss the trade aspects of animal production that directly, or
indirectly affect welfare
Students will be able to discuss regulatory and legislative frameworks used in the regulation
of the welfare of animals used for production and trade, how this is inspected and assured
Cat and Dog Welfare
(Course Organiser: Heather Bacon)
Short description of course:
Themes cover the welfare of companion animal from conception through to death, including
the influence of the environment, husbandry practices, veterinary treatment and breeding. We
will consider the moral and ethical aspects of keeping animals for differing uses and discuss
where animal welfare issues may arise, their potential impact and possible solutions.
-
Learning outcomes:
Students will become knowledgeable and be able to confidently discuss the following areas:
Cultural, social and historical influences on our attitudes to dogs and cats
Animals as pets – our responsibilities to their welfare
Welfare assessment in owned and feral dogs and cats
Companion animal population control, TNR, shelters, responsibilities and management
Companion animals in trade; fur, meat and slaughter
Infectious disease control; rabies in Europe, India and the USA
Animal Welfare in Research, Testing and Education
(Course Organiser: Matthew Leach)
Short description of course:
This course provides students with the knowledge and understanding of the different kinds of
uses of non-human animals in research, testing and education, the impacts on them (costs)
and the (potential) benefits to humans and other animals.
Learning outcomes:
On completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Describe the present and likely future uses of animals in research, testing and education;
- Analyse how the principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement (3Rs) have been
implemented in peer-reviewed scientific literature involving animal use and alternative
methods;
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
- Describe the main welfare issues of animals in laboratories, and apply knowledge of
appropriate methodologies to assess welfare;
- Explain arguments for and against the use of animals in experimentation, and defend their
own personal position regarding laboratory animal use based on available evidence and
applying critical thinking;
- Describe existing legislative and regulatory frameworks concerning the use of animals in
research, testing and education;
- Suggest practical solutions to replace, reduce and refine animal use.
Clinical Animal Behaviour
(Course Organiser: Natalie Waran)
Short description of course:
In this course, students will gain an appreciation of the interaction between health and
behaviour in domestic/captive animals and develop their understanding of the development,
diagnosis and management of behavioural disorders and conflicts in a range of companion
animal species including dogs, cats, horses and other household pets.
1. Normal species specific behaviour, animal motivation and cognition, the influence of
neuronal and endocrine physiological process in mediating behaviour;
2. The application of learning theory in behavioural modification;
3. Evidence based methods for managing species specific problem behaviour including;
aggression, separation related anxiety, inappropriate elimination, fear and phobic
behaviours.
Learning outcomes:
On completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate how a scientific understanding of the biology and normal species specific
behaviour can be applied to managing problematic behaviour in a range of companion
animal species;
- appreciate the range of interactions that occur between companion animals and humans;
- develop an understanding and knowledge of current theories and scientific perspectives
relating to the management of problematic behaviour in animals;
- appreciate how to investigate and evaluate a range of animal behaviour problems and
design a husbandry treatment plan to address the problem behaviour;
- comprehend the scientific basis to a range of adjuncts used in the management of problem
behaviour, including behavioural therapy, psychopharmacology, phermonatherapy and
dietary interventions.
Equine Behaviour and Welfare
(Course Organiser: Sebastian McBride)
Short description of course:
This course is designed to introduce equine behaviour with particular emphasis on the effect
of environment on both the behaviour and welfare of the developing and adult horse. In
particular, issues surrounding abnormal equine behaviour are discussed and the primary
concepts of animal learning and how they can be applied to equine training will also be
presented. The course will also deal with behaviour at the neurophsyiological level as a way
of improving, through a mechanistic approach, an understanding of specific equine
behaviours from both a causal and functional perspective.
Learning outcomes:
At the end of the course, the student will be able to:
- understand the natural behaviour of equids;
- recognise the different behaviours of the developing and adult equid in various domestic
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
environments;
- understand how animal learning theory can be applied to the training of the horse;
- have a knowledge of the neurophysiology underlying normal and abnormal goal-directed
equine behaviour;
- discuss the methods used to assess the welfare of equids;
- appreciate the specific welfare issues associated with working equids;
- evaluate the current research in equine behaviour and welfare.
Captive and Free Ranging Wild Animal Welfare
(Course Organiser: Heather Bacon)
Short description of course:
1. The history and ethics of keeping wild animals in captivity;
2. Legislation relating to captive wildlife keeping: examples from the UK, EU and globally;
3. Welfare assessment in Captive wildlife;
4. Behavioural management approach to captive wildlife;
5. Wildlife trade and utilisation;
6. Exotic pet welfare;
7. Management of wildlife populations.
Learning outcomes:
1. This course provides an overview of the interacting ethical, welfare and conservation
issues of topical interest in the management of wildlife.
2. A key theme relates to the dilemmas that can arise from conflicting concerns for individual
animal welfare and the conservation of species, populations or communities.
3. The lecture material addresses topics from a wide range of disciplines (eg conservation
biology, population biology, veterinary medicine, economics) which aims to provide the
student with a context for evaluating welfare and conservation priorities.
Equitation Science
(Course Organiser: Natalie Waran)
Short description of course:
Equitation science promotes an objective, evidence-based understanding of the welfare of
horses during training and competition by applying valid, quantitative scientific methods that
can identify training techniques which are ineffective or may result in problems with equine
welfare.
The course is designed to further develop the student¿s scientific skills and ability to utilise
scientific theory in Equitation Science.
There is an emerging recognition of the importance of the integration of underpinning
scientific principles of learning in equitation and recognition that this can both enhance the
performance and improve the welfare of competition horses.
Two aspects of the emerging discipline of Equitation Science are crucial to the improvement
of equine welfare. Firstly, the underpinning of both horse and human/rider training with
learning theory and, secondly, the use of technology to provide objective data for traditionally
subjective measures (eg. saddle pressures, rein tension/contact, stride length, weight
distribution). There is a clear need for tertiary level Equitation Science education in order to
produce graduates capable encouraging sound ethical practice and scientific rigour within
the equine sector.
Learning outcomes:
On completion of this course, the student will be able to:
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
1. Explain the importance of developing and applying an evidence based approach in
equitation.
2. Critically appraise the different elements of learning theory as applied to the training and
use of equines in their interaction with humans.
3. Evaluate the effects of the human/rider on the training and welfare of equines.
4. Assess various techniques and technology used in the objective measurement of the
impact of training methods, equipment and humans on horses including measurement of:
saddle pressures, rein tension/contact, stride length, weight distribution and judging.
International Animal Welfare Dissertation
(Course Organiser: Fritha Langford)
The dissertation course is designed to further develop the student's analytical skills and
ability to utilise scientific, ethical or legal theory. The dissertation project is designed to
further develop the student's understanding of the processes and planning involved in
undertaking research and to develop their analytical written communication skills.
The dissertation project involves the completion of a short 'literature review' introduction and
an Analytical Paper in which students are expected to carry out a formal academic study of
their chosen topic. Students can choose to carry out an empirical study, ethical analysis,
legal analysis or strategic policy planning exercise. Depending on the format this can
include: experimental design (where possible), data collection, statistical analysis and
interpretation; ethical analyses and interpretation; strategy plan, forecasting, production of
policy position statements and interpretation; or breakdown of legislation, case studies and
interpretation. This will be presented in the format of a paper to be published in the
appropriate field.
Students will be given the option of undertaking either a research project involving data
collection/analyses or a desk-based study from a list of available projects, or to produce a
project proposal of their own for approval.
Learning outcomes:
1. Recognise the importance of planning and preparation required to undertake a
research project (empirical or desk-based)
2. Develop a thorough understanding of the chosen subject area
3. Demonstrate the ability to collate and critically assess/interpret
data/literature/legislation
4. Develop and ability to effectively communicate knowledge in a professional manner
(written and oral)
5. Provide recommendations based on research findings.
6.
TEACHING AND LEARNING APPROACH
Interactive teaching methods will be employed by experienced educators and researchers.
Emphasis is on problem based learning in addition to the more traditional teaching methods and will
include:
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Online lecture notes
Online tutorials
Specialist online external lectures/seminars
Scientific online group discussions
Case studies
Problem-based learning scenarios
Literature based research
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
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Computer-assisted learning
Dissertation
Postgraduate students are expected to be self-directed and motivated. You are responsible for
organising your time and making sure you meet assessment deadlines and any other requirements.
If you are studying by online distance learning this is particularly important and you are expected to
study approximately 10-15 hours per week.
Student Feedback
6.1
Feedback from staff to students
All assignments will be marked and feedback provided within a period of fifteen working days
(where possible) following submission (excluding holidays periods whereby the University of closed,
e.g. over the Christmas period).
Feedback is defined as information to students which can enable them to review what they know,
understand and can do in their studies, and to identify areas for improvement. Opportunities for
feedback arise within timetables courses (e.g. during tutorials and on the discussion boards) as well
as more informally (through emails and discussion boards). Feedback can be provided not only on
coursework assignments, but also on activities that are not formally assessed such as class
discussions on the discussion boards, group exercises, problem-solving and developing project
plans and proposals.
6.2
Feedback from students to staff
Student feedback provides invaluable input to the review and development of curriculum and
programme organisation. At the beginning of the session students will be asked to elect programme
representatives who can raise issues of general concern on behalf of their class at staff-student
liaison meetings. However all students should feel free to approach staff at any time throughout a
session.
Students will be invited to take part in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) run by
the University of Edinburgh together with the Higher Education Academy, details of which will be
made available during May/June. The overall aim is to identify, at both local and national level,
areas where improvements could be made and efforts targeted to further enhance the provision of
taught degree programmes. A high response rate is necessary to obtain robust results, so
participation is very important and would be greatly appreciated.
Informal feedback is welcome at any time.
Type of Feedback within the IAWEL programme
General
Pre-assignment guidance, learning outcomes for courses
Learning materials
Opportunities to ask questions on discussion boards
Handouts
Online quizzes
Email communication with tutors when there are problems or specific questions
Tutorials
Peer support
Class discussions
Review sessions
Student self-reflection
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Students should use the information provided, reflect and grasp opportunities throughout the
programme to put this to good use. This should include thinking about what progress has been
made, what has gone well as well as not so well and should be accompanied by an action plan
Learn discussion forums
Feedback both from staff and peer group
Staff-student liaison committee meetings
Students from each year appoint representatives to the IAWEL Staff-Student Liaison
Committee. The Programme Director, Programme Coordinator, Programme Administrator and
an independent member of staff not involved in the teaching attend this meeting. It provides an
opportunity for both students and staff to openly discuss issues of general or particular concern
relating to the programme
Course evaluation questionnaires
Questionnaires are issued to students so that constructive comments can be made on the good
and bad points of the course/programme and on suggestions for change. Students are
encouraged to participate by completing these online questionnaires.
Assessed in-course work
Pre-assessment guidance will be given for all pieces of assessed work.
Feedback/comments will be provided for every marked and non-marked assessment.
Further feedback discussions will be held, if required, by the Programme Director.
One-to-one
Students with any specific programme queries should contact the relevant person as
recommended in this programme handbook.
Complaints
The University of Edinburgh is committed to enhancing the experience of our students.
We aim to ensure that our teaching, support services and student union activities provide positive
experiences and opportunities for our students.
If we are to achieve that aim, it is important that we know what is and is not working. We endeavour
to listen to concerns and to ensure they are dealt with appropriately.
If you are considering making a complaint to the University, you should first go to
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/student-academic-services/student-complaint-procedure
7.
ASSESSMENT
Students must comply with any assessment requirements specific to their degree programme and
the University’s taught assessment regulations for the current academic session:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/academic-services/staff/assessment/assessmentregulations
All assessments are submitted online through Learn and there are no formal examinations for this
programme. Most assignments are submitted through Turnitin, which is plagiarism detection
software - see below for plagiarism information and links for further information.
Assessment is in most cases a two-stage process. The taught component is for each course during
the time that the course is running. Therefore, all courses are assessed by the end of the taught
component of the programme. Progress to the dissertation component is conditional on a good
performance in continuous assessment at the first attempt. The Assessment Regulations set
minimum requirements and standards for students and staff, expressing in practical form the
academic goals and policies of the University.
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7.1
The Taught Element
The marking is carried out anonymously. All marks reported prior to the meeting of the Board of
Examiners are provisional until ratified by the Board.
Examples of assessment methods include:
 Written reviews of literature/critiques of scientific articles
 Continual assessment; problem solving and statistical analyses in scientific methodology
 Coursework including; report writing, poster preparation and web design
 Submission of a dissertation
All courses require more than one piece of assessment; in this instance the final mark for each
course is calculated according to the weight of assignments for each course. To obtain your 20
credits, a final course mark of 40% or more is required. However, to proceed to the MSc
dissertation, please see Section 8 and Annex 2.
7.2
Dissertation
The dissertation will be marked by two markers, one being the project supervisor and another
subject specialist assigned by the Programme Director, and may also be marked by the Exam
Board Convenor and the External Examiner. The supervisor is also asked to provide comments and
an assessed mark on the student’s performance. Once all dissertations are marked, the Board of
Examiners meets and makes the recommendations for the degree awards.
If a dissertation is judged by the examiners to be less than satisfactory, then the candidate may be
awarded the Diploma at the discretion of the Board of Examiners.
For all assignments, you will be provided with guidelines for the work requested (number of words,
layout, etc.). Hand-in dates must be strictly adhered to and penalties are imposed for late submission
(see below).
All written assessments must be submitted online. Only your exam number should appear on your
assessment (for anonymous marking); please do not include your name on assessments.
7.3
Late Submission of Assessments
Submission dates for assessments must be strictly adhered to and the following penalties are
imposed for late submission:



Up to 24 hours late – the mark will be reduced by 5 marks.
Any subsequent working day (up to 5 working days) will induce a loss of an additional 5
marks per day
More than 5 working days late – a mark of zero will be awarded for the assessment.
These penalties do not apply to students who have informed the Programme Director of difficulties
prior to the deadline and have received permission to submit late.
Students who have a valid and documented reason for late submission must present that
information to their programme team as soon as possible and before the hand-in date. Decisions on
the possibility of an extension are made by the Programme Director and/or Programme Coordinator.
7.4
Plagiarism and the College policy
The University’s degrees and other academic awards are given in recognition of the candidate’s
personal achievement. Plagiarism (that is, the act of including or copying, without adequate
acknowledgement, the work of another in one’s work as if it were one’s own) is academically
fraudulent and an offence against University discipline.
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Plagiarism, at whatever stage of a candidate’s degree, whether discovered before or after
graduation, will be investigated and dealt with appropriately by the University. Any failure adequately
to acknowledge or properly reference other sources in submitted work could lead to lower marks
and to disciplinary action being taken.
Guidance for avoiding plagiarism, together with the University's policy on plagiarism and the
regulations covering cases of suspected plagiarism, are available on the University web site at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/information-services/services/learningtechnology/assessment/plagiarism
All assignments (unless otherwise stated) will be submitted through Turnitin, which is plagiarism
detection software.
7.5
Interruptions or Extensions to Study
An interruption of study concession is applicable where a student is unable to participate in the
programme for a significant period of time due to circumstances that are largely beyond their own
control. Periods of interruption do not count towards the student’s total permitted period of study and
do not incur any additional fees or charges.
These circumstances can include, amongst others,
o Medical and health problems
o Personal and family problems
o Bereavement
o Problems experienced because of failure of university equipment or lack of access to
equipment for good reasons that are beyond the control of the student
Changes to UKBA regulations now mean that the University will not accept retrospective
Interruptions of Study (IoS) of more than 30 days. So that UK/EC students and students on study
visas are treated the same this will apply to all students. Students should be encouraged to request
an IoS as soon as it is apparent that it is justified, rather than waiting to submit a retrospective one
at a later date.
Flexible learning – intermittent study
Those students who are originally registered to complete their qualification in the minimum timeperiod (continuous study) can still change to an ‘intermittent’ programme of study, if commitments
change mid-way through the programme.
Those students who are registered for any level of qualification (MSc/PGDip/PGCert) under the
intermittent method of study have 2 years to complete each 60 credit section of the programme.
Students will be able to take courses as and when necessary to complete their award. Please note,
however, that specific courses are only offered at certain times of the academic year and that the
core courses must be taken in sequential order. Electives can only be taken after the core courses
are completed.
Intermittent students cannot take breaks in study during a course (bar exceptional circumstances,
see section above on IoS). Please let the Programme Director know of intended study patterns as
soon as possible and no later than 15 working days prior to the start of the subsequent course to
allow for enrolment on that course.
7.6
Special circumstances
All students are required to inform the Programme Director or Coordinator, at the earliest possible
opportunity, when they are suffering from any illness likely to affect their academic performance. If a
student is unable to complete any part of the programme or any assessment due to illness, accident
or any other reason beyond his/her control, he/she is required to submit a doctor’s certificate/letter
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(or equivalent) verifying the reason for non-submission. This information may then be brought to the
attention of the Examination Board when assessing that student’s performance.
Students suffering from any disability affecting performance in examination (e.g. dyslexia) should
inform the Programme Director or Coordinator at the start of the programme.
7.7
Procedure for academic appeals
An academic appeal is a "...request for a review of a decision of an academic body charged with
decisions on student progression, assessment and awards..." (QAA Scotland). At the University of
Edinburgh, the academic body would normally be a Board of Examiners.
Any student wishing to submit an appeal must have legitimate grounds for doing so, namely one or
both of:
(a) substantial information directly relevant to the quality of performance in the examination which
for good reason was not available to the examiners when their decision was taken.
(b) alleged irregular procedure or improper conduct of an examination. For this purpose “conduct
of an examination” includes conduct of a meeting of the Board of Examiners.
An appeal cannot be lodged until the decision being appealed against has been ratified by the
appropriate Board of Examiners.
There are strict timescales for the submission of academic appeals:
Final Year Student / Graduate
Continuing Student
6 weeks after results issued.
2 weeks after results issued.
Late appeals may be considered where there are special circumstances in relation to the late
submission of the appeal. A sub-committee of the Appeal Committee can consider whether late
appeals are allowed to progress.
Further guidance and information about the appeals procedure can be found at
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/academic-services/students/undergraduate/academicappeals/overview
8.
PROGRESSION
8.1
Progression to year two (the diploma year)
Progression to the second (diploma) year of the MSc programme depends upon passing at least 40
credits with a mark of at least 40% and a final average mark for the year across all courses of
40% or above.
8.2
Progression to the Masters dissertation
In order to progress to the dissertation element, students must:
 pass at least 80 credits with a mark of at least 50% in each of the courses which make
up these credits and no mark <40% for any course
 attain an average of at least 50% for the 120 credits of study
Please note there are no re-sit assessments at Masters level at the University of Edinburgh.
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9.
AWARD
9.1
Certificate
In order to be awarded a Certificate, candidates must:
 pass at least 40 credits with a mark of at least 40% in each of the courses which
make up these credits
 attain an average of at least 40% for the 60 credits of study examined for the
certificate
9.2
Diploma
In order to be awarded a Diploma, candidates must:
 pass at least 80 credits with a mark of at least 40% in each of the courses which
make up these credits
 attain an average mark of 40% for the 120 credits of study examined for the diploma
9.3
MSc
In order to be awarded a Masters degree, candidates must:
 attain 180 credits overall: 120 from the taught element of the programme with a
minimum mark of 50% for at least 80 credits, no mark under 40% for any course,
and 60 credits for the dissertation with a mark of at least 50%.
Failing to do so will result in students being awarded a Diploma or a Certificate as per the programme
regulations described below for the awards of these degrees.
9.4
Fail
An overall mark of 0-39% (E) in the taught element of the programme will result in a fail and no
degree will be awarded.
9.5
Merit
To achieve a merit, a student must be awarded at least 60% on the University’s Postgraduate
Common Marking Scheme for the dissertation, if the programme has a dissertation element, and
must pass all other courses with an average of at least 60%. Borderlines, for both the dissertation
and course average elements, are considered for merits.
9.6
Distinction
A candidate achieving an excellent performance will be awarded a distinction at the discretion of the
Exam Board. To achieve a distinction, a student must be awarded at least 70% on the University’s
Postgraduate Common Marking Scheme for the dissertation, if the programme has a dissertation
element, and must pass all other courses with an average of at least 70%. Borderlines, for both the
dissertation and course average elements, are considered for distinction.
See regulation extracts in Annex 2 for further information on progression and award.
10.
THE DIFFERENT COMMITTEES: DESCRIPTION AND ROLES
10.1 Board of Examiners
The Board is made up of a Convenor, the External Examiner, the Programme Director, Programme
Coordinator and most members of the Teaching Committee, with the Programme Administrator in
attendance. The Board meets once during the academic year to:
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a) consider student performance. This meeting takes place after the External Examiner has
scrutinised the assignment submissions. In assessing performance, the Board will consider
performance during the taught part of the programme, External Examiner’s comments, and
any other relevant matters brought to its attention that may assist in coming to a proper
decision. Following the Board’s deliberations, the final summary sheet of results is prepared
and agreed by the Board, and notification of recommendation for award of Certificate or
Diploma or progression to MSc project is given to the students.
b) determine final degree classifications, after the dissertations have been examined and
having taken into account all available relevant information.
The conclusions of the Board are fully documented.
10.2 Role of External Examiner
The External Examiner is appointed, usually for a period of 4 years, to ensure that the high
standards of the programme are maintained.
10.3 Teaching Committee
All course organisers and principal lecturers on the programme form the Teaching Committee. This
Committee meets at least twice a year to consider the programme content and all other matters
relating to teaching and running the programme. The Teaching Committee is chaired by the
Programme Director.
10.4 R(D)SVS Postgraduate Staff/Student Liaison Committee
This Committee meets twice during the year (more often if necessary) to discuss matters of concern
to all postgraduate students and staff of the R(D)SVS. Each on-campus Masters programme
nominates one student representative to join this committee and online students are requested to
submit a report to be considered at this meeting. The Committee is currently chaired by Dr Darren
Shaw.
10.5 MSc IAWEL Staff/Student Liaison Committee
This Committee is made up of MSc IAWEL students, the programme team and an Independent
Advisor (IA), external to the MSc. The IA is Professor Anna Meredith. This Committee will review
the whole programme up to twice per year; students set up the agenda, chair and minute this
meeting with access to an online discussion board. Students will be given an opportunity to raise
issues with respect to the programme in a confidential set-up with the IA. The IA will follow up any
raised issues directly with the Programme Director or with suitable member of staff within the
postgraduate office. Minutes of this meeting and action taken will be passed onto the students via
the programme Base on Learn.
10.6 The student representative
Each degree programme should have at least one elected student representative (more in the case
of programmes with large numbers of students) whose names are available to the other students
registered on the programme. The representative(s) can raise academic, welfare, resource, and
any other issues of general and particular concern on behalf of class members individually or
severally, with the Programme Director. There should be a staff/student liaison meeting, or, for
online or distance learning students, online liaison meetings, at least twice yearly. The
representative(s) will, in consultation with the Programme Administrator, organise this meeting.
Moreover, the representative(s) will also compose, in consultation with the class, the agenda for this
meeting, chair the meeting and produce the minutes of the meeting.
11.
MAIN RESEARCH INSTITUTES AND CORE STAFF
The programme is offered by members of staff of the University of Edinburgh, with some
contributing external lecturers from other Institutions.
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11.1 University of Edinburgh/Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
The University of Edinburgh was founded in 1583 by the Town Council of Edinburgh and is the
youngest of the four ancient universities of Scotland. In 1790 Edinburgh established the first Chair in
Agriculture in the English-speaking world. The University has expanded to become one of the
largest universities in Britain, with a worldwide reputation for excellence in research and teaching in
a very wide range of traditional, high-tech and professional disciplines. Today the University has 3
Colleges with 6,670 staff and 20,293 undergraduate and postgraduate students, and maintains its
long tradition of educating students from overseas. Famous former students include Charles Darwin,
David Hume, Peter Mark Roget (Roget’s Thesaurus), Arthur Conan Doyle, Walter Scott, and Julius
Nyerere.
In August 2002, the University of Edinburgh adopted a new structure of Academic Management,
based on 3 Colleges containing a total of 21 schools. One of the Colleges is the College of Medicine
and Veterinary Medicine. This College has four schools, one of which is the Royal (Dick) School of
Veterinary Studies. The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies has 2 divisions, one of which is
the Division of Veterinary Clinical Sciences.
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies is the continuation within the University of the
Edinburgh Veterinary School founded by William Dick in 1823, under the auspices of the Highland
Society. The School of Veterinary Studies has an international reputation for its research, teaching
and clinical services. It is based at the Easter Bush Veterinary Centre (EBVC), which is 10 km south
of the city of Edinburgh.
11.2 Scotland’s Rural College – Edinburgh (SRUC)
The College undertakes applied research and development work, tertiary education at technological
and science levels, and consultancy work in the agriculture and allied industries. It has special
interest in animal welfare matters and the relationship between animal behaviour and welfare.
11.3
Core Teaching Staff
Heather Bacon
Dr Rick D'Eath
Prof Cathy Dwyer
Dr Marie Haskell
Dr Susan Jarvis
Dr Fritha Langford
Prof Alistair Lawrence
Prof Malcolm Mitchell
Prof Mike Radford
Prof Peter Sandoe
Prof Natalie Waran
Dr Joanne White
JMICAWE Veterinary Welfare Education & Outreach Manager
Heather.bacon@ed.ac.uk
Animal Welfare Researcher
rick.death@sac.ac.uk
Animal Welfare Researcher
SRUC cathy.dwyer@SRUC.ac.uk
Animal Welfare Researcher
marie.haskell@ SRUC.ac.uk
Animal Welfare Researcher
susan.jarvis@ SRUC.ac.uk
Programme Director / Animal Welfare Researcher
fritha.langford@ed.ac.uk
Lecturer in Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare
Alistair.Lawrence@ SRUC.ac.uk
Farm Animal Welfare Researcher
Malcolm.mitchell@ SRUC.ac.uk
Animal Welfare Law Expert
m.radford@abdn.ac.uk
Animal Ethics
pes@life.ku.dk
Professor of Animal Welfare, Director of JMICAWE (The Jeanne
Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education)
Natalie.waran@ed.ac.uk
Animal Welfare Policy Developer
Jo.white@progressiveideas.co.uk
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12.
STUDENT SUPPORT AND FURTHER INFORMATION
Study skills and personal development
Institute for Academic Development
The Institute for Academic Development (IAD) provides a number of workshops and resources for
University of Edinburgh postgraduate taught students, to help you gain the skills, knowledge, and
confidence needed for studying at postgraduate level.
Virtual Workshops
The IAD will be offering various workshops/events for ODL students during 2015-2016. Details of
these can be found on the IAD website or via MyEd.
Resources
There are various resources available on the IAD website, including:
 Preparing for your studies
 Studying at postgraduate level
 Developing your English
 Literature searching
 Managing research workloads
 Writing at postgraduate level
 Assignments: planning and drafting
 Critical thinking
 Using Digital Media
 Guides and Codes
Contact Details:
Institute for Academic for Academic Development
7 Bristo Square
Edinburgh EH8 9AL
Blog: http://iad4masters.wordpress.com/
Website: www.ed.ac.uk/iad/postgraduates
Email: iad.masters@ed.ac.uk
Academic Study Skills for Postgraduate Taught Students at R(D)SVS
You are automatically enrolled on the Academic Study Skills course on Learn. This is part of the
support service provided for all postgraduate students at the Dick Vet.
This online space provides guidance on the essentials of academic learning, from researching
information and making use of our online library resources through to critical writing, feedback and
presentation skills. Live sessions will be scheduled during the year, and these will be recorded for
you to revisit or watch if you are unable to attend.
You will have access to the materials and discussion boards throughout the year, and can use the
resources for self-study and guidance. If there is any reference tool or assessment format you're
not familiar with, and if you would like extra advice, the study skills team is on hand to help you.
Please contact us either via the discussion board on the Academic Skills course, or directly by
email for one-to-one support.
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MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
The course activities and assessment are not compulsory, unless you wish this course to be
recorded in your academic transcript (HEAR) or intend to work as a peer tutor. The course is open
to all postgraduate students at the vet school, so you will be able to share your experience with
students undertaking a range of taught postgraduate Masters courses at Edinburgh.
If you have any questions, or wish further information, please contact Sharon Boyd
(sharon.boyd@ed.ac.uk).
The Advice Place
The Advice Place is the free advice and information centre for all students at the University of
Edinburgh. The service is run by EUSA and offers independent and confidential advice. Our
professional advisers are available throughout the year, including the summer vacation period.
Get in touch with us if you have questions about anything and everything related to university life,
from finance and funding to accommodation and tenancy. We also have specialist Academic
Advisers, who can offer guidance on issues related to your studies.
Many of our information resources are available online and can be downloaded from our website.
ODL students are also eligible to apply for online discretionary funding.
More information about the services provided to ODL students can be found on The Advice Place
website: http://www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/advice/distancelearners/
How to contact The Advice Place:
Phone: +44 (0)131 650 9225/ 0800 206 2341 (9:45-4:45 weekdays, except Wed 10:30-4:45)
Email: advice@eusa.ed.ac.uk ; academic.advice@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Careers Service
The Careers Service provides extensive support via its website and is also able to support students
through email and telephone.
The best starting point for ODL students is the section of their website specifically for postgraduate
students: http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/careers/postgrad
You can contact the Careers Service at:
Phone: +44 (0)131 650 4670
Email: careers@ed.ac.uk
http://twitter.com/uofedcareers
http://www.facebook.com/EdinburghCareersService
The Chaplaincy
The Chaplaincy is for students and staff of all faiths and none. Through the Chaplaincy you have
access to a wide range of multifaith chaplains and humanist contacts; to streamed services,
debates, and other events; and to pastoral support, regardless of religious affiliation, and wherever
you are in the world.
The Chaplaincy can provide telephone, email of skype contact, as well as links to specialist sources
of help or information. As a distance learner, it may be difficult for you to come and visit in person,
however you are always welcome to telephone or email the Chaplaincy in confidence. To find out
more about the Chaplaincy go to their web site at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/chaplaincy
Information about the Chaplain and the Chaplaincy Team is at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/chaplaincy/about/staff-andteam
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Phone: +44 (0)131 650 2596
Email: Chaplain@ed.ac.uk
The Chaplaincy Office number is +44 (0)131 650 2595
Student Counselling Service
When you embark on further studies at a distance you are able to contact your tutors regarding all
issues relating to your course. However the pressures of study on top of an already busy life can
bring unexpected stresses or other personal issues arise which you may not wish to discuss with
your tutor. Sometimes it can be helpful to talk in confidence to a counsellor.
You can find further information on how to access the Service and what counselling can offer
at: http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/student-counselling
We are aware that face to face counselling is not possible for most distance learning students and
offer an e-mail option to ensure that the Service is accessible to you all.
Further information on the email counselling service and suitability:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/student-counselling/includes/services/email-counselling
Phone: +44 (0)131 650 4170
Email: student.counselling@ed.ac.uk
Student Disability Service
Disabled students, including those with specific learning difficulties, are warmly welcomed to the
University of Edinburgh. The Student Disability Service offers information and advice on all aspects
of support for disabled students and can help you plan your studies at Edinburgh.
The Student Disability Service provides advice and support to students with dyslexia, mental health
issues and students on the autistic spectrum, as well as those who have physical and sensory
impairments or ongoing and fluctuating health conditions.
The Service is keen to offer support in a flexible way in order to meet the needs of all students,
including distance learners.
If you think you are eligible for adaptations, adjustments to teaching, assessment practice, or
personal assistance, it is essential that you contact the Student Disability Service as soon as
possible if you have not done so already.
The Service is keen to offer support in a flexible way in order to meet the needs of all students,
including distance learners. Arrangements here may be different from those you already have, so an
early consultation is essential.
Student Disability Service
3rd Floor, Main Library, George Square,
Edinburgh, EH8 9LJ
Tel: 0131 650 6828
Email: disability.service@ed.ac.uk
Web: www.ed.ac.uk/student-disability-service
English Language Teaching Centre (ELTC)
Online distance learning (ODL) students can access a range of ELTC self-study materials, fully
accessible online through the University website. These language materials include: 'Effective
English Learning', ‘Listening and Note-taking’, 'Writing Postgraduate Assignments' and 'Essential
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Grammar’ and all are available at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/institute-academicdevelopment/postgraduate/taught/learning-resources/english
In-session English language support is provided free under the University’s English Language Testing
and Tuition (ELTT) programme and is now available to online distance learning Masters students.
ELTC support may comprise of online tuition, or access to independent study materials. Students
should contact ELTC to have their need for support assessed.
Further information about ELTC services can be found on the ELTC website:
www.ed.ac.uk/english-language-teaching
Phone: +44 (0)131 650 6200
Email: eltcinfo@ed.ac.uk
Edinburgh University Student Association (EUSA)
Class Reps
Class Reps are the link between students and staff at course and departmental level. They play a
crucial role in ensuring the University listens to, and learns from, students’ academic experiences so
that the quality of teaching can be continually monitored and improved.
In the first or second week of teaching, your course organiser will ask for volunteers to take on the
role of class rep, giving details of the number of class rep positions available, and the way in which
you can put your name forward.
Class Reps are asked to find out any issues coming from their peers and feed them back to the
teaching team. This can be done through a variety of methods (emails, forums etc) and Class Reps
should discuss with their peers and course organiser the most effective ways of gathering and
feeding back opinion. Being a class rep should be a very rewarding experience for students, with
plenty of scope to gain and develop a whole host of skills.
Further information about the class rep system, including a role description and details of training
and support offered to class reps, can be found here:
http://www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/representation/yourvoice/classreps/
Email: class.reps@eusa.ed.ac.uk
Democracy
Decisions are taken by the University or government which hugely impact on your student
experience and it is important that you are represented so that those decisions benefit you.
University of Edinburgh students are automatically members of Edinburgh University Students’
Association (EUSA) and can vote – and stand - in EUSA elections, and get involved in everything
we do. EUSA campaigns to improve the Edinburgh student experience, and represents your views
to the University to make sure that the student voice is heard.
Councils
Any student can get involved with EUSA’s Academic Council, Welfare Council or External Affairs
Council to improve student life in the areas they care about. All three Councils have an online
presence.
Referenda
If you feel strongly about an issue, you can put it to a vote among your fellow students in a EUSA
online referendum; you can also vote on any issue raised by other students.
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Find more information at www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/democracy-and-campaigns
Tandem
Launched in Edinburgh in 2007, Tandem is a popular language exchange programme
run by EUSA. All students are welcome! Tandem is designed to help you meet people
and learn languages in a fun, relaxed, social environment without tutors, exams or
lectures. Tandem can be accessed remotely online through Skype, and also includes
many face-to-face events, from a weekly Language Café, to monthly speed language matching.
Students create a profile on the Tandem Partner Database, and can then connect with thousands of
other language partners, who may be on-campus, or elsewhere.
For more details about Tandem, check out tandem.eusa.ed.ac.uk
Peer Proofreading
Powered by student volunteers, EUSA’s Peer Proofreading provides free writing
support for non-native English speaking students.
www.eusa.ed.ac.uk/proofreading
Development and alumni
As an alumnus, you will belong to a worldwide community of over 130,000 individuals connected to
the University of Edinburgh.
The Development and Alumni Office, The Edinburgh Campaign, offers a range of services and
activities, and acts as a point of contact for the world network of alumni clubs and groups. More
information can be found at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/student-academic-services/departments/developmentalumni
Health and Safety
Information about the people, structure and role of the Health and Safety Department at the
University can be found at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/health-safety
Centre for Sport and Exercise
The University of Edinburgh’s superb sport and exercise facilities are ranked among the very best in
the UK. The University of Edinburgh’s main gym facilities and indoor sport centre are based at the
Pleasance, situated in the heart of the city.
The Pleasance complex houses two multi-purpose sports halls, catering for a diverse range of
indoor sports - everything from badminton to ultimate frisbee.
More information can be found at: http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/sport-exercise/home
FINANCE - Paying Fees 2015/16
Full guidance is provided at: http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/finance/students
Fees for intermittent study
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For programmes currently offering intermittent study, please note that as students are invoiced per
course, this means that as the dissertation element is one course then the fee for the course (i.e. the
usual fee for one year) is invoiced and has to be paid in full, with no option to pay by instalments.
Fees are reviewed on an annual basis and will likely be increased in subsequent years.
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/student-funding/tuition-fees/postgraduate/odl-fees
Payment Options
Online distance learning students have the same rights and responsibilities for payment of fees to
the University as on-campus students. The payment options are:



sponsorship/scholarship funding
in advance and/or at programme start
by instalment (except for the dissertation year)
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/finance/students/fees/payment-options
Students paying by instalment must follow the same rules and timetable as for direct debit
instalments:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/finance/students/fees/payment-options/direct-debit
For UK based students instalment payment is by direct debit only from a UK bank. Non-UK based
students can also pay by instalment; on-line, bank-to-bank transfer or by phone.
All students must complete the online distance learning programme mandate no later than one
month after their programme start date.
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/finance/students/fees/distance-learning
It is important that mandates are set up in the correct time scales.
An instalment plan letter will be sent to your University student email account confirming the amount
to be paid on each instalment date once the mandate(s) are received and actioned by the Income
Section.
Communication
Most of the contact from the Income Section, Finance will be to your University student email
account. We may also communicate using any other contact details you have given the University. It
is important to check emails regularly.
Income Section contact details:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/finance/students/fees/comments
37
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
ANNEX 1:
DEGREE PROGRAMME TABLE (MSc IAWEL)
Programme Name: MSc International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law
Degree Type: Postgraduate Taught Masters/Diploma/Certificate
Core/Optional
Course
Level
Credits
YEARS 1 -2
MUST DO 60 CREDITS
Core
International Animal Welfare Science
(AWAB11020)
Animal ethics, policy and law (AWAB11022)
11
20
11
20
Optional
(Programme list)
Production animal welfare (AWAB11024) OR
Cat and dog welfare (AWAB11039) OR
Equitation science (EQSC11033)
11
20
ELECTIVES
YEARS 2-5
MUST DO 60 CREDITS
Optional
(Programme list)
Animal welfare in research, testing and education
(AWAB11037)
11
20
Optional
(Programme list)
Production animal welfare (AWAB11024)
11
20
Optional
(Programme list)
Optional
(Programme list)
Cat and dog welfare (AWAB11039)
11
20
Equitation science (EQSC11033)
11
20
Optional
(Programme list)
Captive & free ranging wild animal welfare
(AWAB11038) OR
11
20
Optional
(Programme list)
Clinical Animal Behaviour (AWAB11036)
11
20
Optional
(Programme list)
Equine Behaviour & Welfare (EQSC11030 )
11
20
Dissertation (AWAB11035)
11
60
Core
YEARS 3-6
Core
Programme can be completed within 3 years or take a maximum of 6 years.
38
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
ANNEX 2:
Assessment regulations relating to progression and award
Regulation 41 - Borderlines
Boards of Examiners must consider students whose marks are borderline for passing a course,
progression, award or classification purposes. Borderline marks are defined as marks from two
percentage points below the class or grade boundary up to the boundary itself, e.g. 58.00% to
59.99% for an undergraduate 2.1 classification or 38.00% to 39.99% for a pass. Boards of
Examiners must use the University borderline definition and may not set and use a different
definition.
Regulation 53 - Postgraduate assessment progression
For programmes where there is an identifiable taught component followed by a project or
dissertation component, students must pass the assessment requirements of the taught stage at an
appropriate level at the first attempt before progression to the dissertation. In order to progress to
the masters dissertation students must:
(a) pass at least 80 credits at SCQF level 11 with a mark of at least 50% in each of the courses
which make up these credits; and
(b) attain an average of at least 50% for the 120 credits of study examined at the point of decision
for progression; and
(c) satisfy any other specific requirements for the masters degree programme, that are clearly stated
in respective programme handbooks.
For programmes where the taught and project or dissertation components are taken in parallel, or
where there are not identifiable taught and project or dissertation components, the requirements for
progression are determined at programme level, stated in the Programme Handbook.
When all the marks for the taught components of the programme (120 credits) are available, if the
student has achieved PASS marks (40%) in at least 80 credits and has an overall average of 40%
or more over the full 120 credits, then they will be awarded credits on aggregate for the failed
courses.
Regulation 54 - Postgraduate degree, diploma and certificate award
In order to be awarded the certificate, students must:
(a) pass at least 40 credits with a mark of at least 40%; and
(b) attain an average of at least 40% for the 60 credits of study examined for the certificate; and
(c) satisfy any other specific requirements for the named certificate that are clearly stated in
respective programme handbooks.
In order to be awarded the diploma, students must:
(a) pass at least 80 credits with a mark of at least 40%; and
(b) attain an average of at least 40% for the 120 credits of study examined for the diploma; and
(c) satisfy any other specific requirements for the named diploma that are clearly stated in
respective programme handbooks.
In order to be awarded a masters degree, students must:
(a) have satisfied any requirements for progression, as laid out in taught assessment regulation 53
above, and
(b) attain an additional 60 credits, by achieving a mark of at least 50% for the dissertation or project
component and
(c) satisfy any other specific requirements for the masters degree programme, that are clearly stated
in respective Programme Handbooks.
39
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
When all the marks for the taught components of the programme or diploma are available, if the
student has achieved PASS marks (40%) in at least 80 credits and has an overall average of 40%
or more over the full 120 credits, then they will be awarded credits on aggregate for the failed
courses, up to a maximum of 40 credits. For a certificate, a maximum of 20 credits may be awarded
on aggregate.
Regulation 55 - Postgraduate dissertations
Resubmissions of revised dissertations are not permitted for postgraduate masters programmes
unless this has been approved by CSPC on the basis of a case submitted by the relevant College
Committee.
Regulation 56 - Award of postgraduate merit
Taught postgraduate degrees may be awarded with merit. To achieve a merit, a student must be
awarded at least 60% on the University’s Postgraduate Common Marking Scheme for the
dissertation, if the programme has a dissertation element, and must pass all other courses with an
average of at least 60%. Borderlines, for both the dissertation and course average elements, are
considered for merits.
Regulation 57 - Award of postgraduate distinction
Taught postgraduate degrees may be awarded with distinction. To achieve a distinction, a student
must be awarded at least 70% on the University’s Postgraduate Common Marking Scheme for the
dissertation, if the programme has a dissertation element, and must pass all other courses with an
average of at least 70%. Borderlines, for both the dissertation and course average elements, are
considered for distinctions.
Regulation 62 Convener’s Action
The Convener of the Board of Examiners, Progression Board, or Special Circumstances Committee
may take decisions by Convener’s Action. This regulation makes this explicit, and gives some
examples of occasions when Convener’s Action may be applied. It may occur when the Board of
Examiners takes a decision in principle but needs confirmation or further information, or when the
Board, or Special Circumstances Committee considers the possible outcomes and authorises the
Convener, once relevant information is known, to apply the appropriate option. Convener’s Action
may also be appropriate when the decision to be made follows an existing precedent.
Further guidance can be found in the Taught Assessment Regulations at:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/academic-services/staff/assessment/assessmentregulations
Regulation 26 - Academic Misconduct
It is an offence for any student to make use of unfair means in any University assessment, to assist
a student to make use of such unfair means, to do anything prejudicial to the good conduct of the
assessment, or to impersonate another student or allow another person to impersonate him or her in
an assessment. Any student found to have cheated or attempted to cheat in an assessment may be
deemed to have failed that assessment and disciplinary action may be taken.
College Policy is that as a minimum the 1st piece of a student’s coursework should be put through
TURNITIN software and feedback given to the student.
Regulation 24 - Late submission, including late submission of script books
Students need to submit assessed work and examinations by the published deadline and to hand in
their examination scripts before leaving the examination venue
40
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
ANNEX 3:
College Personal Tutoring Statement
Postgraduate Taught Online Distance Learning Programmes - 2015/16
The Benefits of the Personal Tutor system
By working in partnership with your Personal Tutor you will:

Become a confident learner in your discipline and play an active part in your academic
community.

Reflect on your academic progress and your effective use of academic feedback.

Develop the range of skills and attributes required for success at university and beyond.
More extensive details on all aspects of the Personal Tutoring system, as well as other sources of
support at the University, can be found at the following link: http://www.ed.ac.uk/schoolsdepartments/institute-academic-development/postgraduate/taught/apsupport
How your School will deliver these Benefits – Postgraduate Taught Students
One-to-one Meetings:
As a postgraduate taught student you will have at least one individual meeting or ‘contact’ with your
Personal Tutor (PT) per course. As you are studying for an online degree, your meetings may take
place by telephone, live internet call, or a web conferencing application. Email exchanges are not
considered to be meetings unless they take place within a pre-agreed timeframe to enable you to
have a “conversation” (e.g. if you are overseas and emailing within a 24-36 hour period to take
account of time differences).

Each meeting may be expected to last no more than 20-30 minutes

If you are undertaking the taught portion of the programme, you may have up to three
mandatory Individual Meetings with your PT per academic session, coinciding with the
start of the online courses:

o
Meeting 1: early in Semester 1
o
Meeting 2: beginning of Semester 2 (second course)
o
Meeting 3: beginning of third course
If you are undertaking the dissertation portion of the programme, you are expected to stay
in close contact with your project supervisor. You can also contact with your PT if you wish to
discuss any issues and have at least two mandatory individual meetings.
Adhoc PT-Tutee Meetings
You are encouraged to contact your PT at any time to arrange a meeting should you require advice
or be experiencing problems (academic or personal).

The PT will respond promptly (normally within three working days).

The PT will provide advice directly or direct you to the most appropriate support service.
41
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)

If the PT is unavailable, a tutee should contact the Senior Tutor.

The Student Experience Officer (SEO, Sharon Pearson) may also be contacted to assist with
arranging a meeting with another PT.
Student Support Organisational Structure – Who to Contact?
All taught students have a Personal Tutor, a Senior Tutor, and a Student Support Team. You can
find out who your Personal Tutor is through MyEd. Details of other Personal Tutors, Senior Tutors
and the Student Support Team are also listed on MyEd.
Your PT is your first point of contact. Please refer to Section 2 of the handbook for full contact
details, including:

Your Senior Tutor is: Dr Geoff Pearson

Administrative Support: Danielle Linkiewicz

Explanation of who to go to with specific types of queries

Response time expectations
Please contact the Senior Tutor if you need to change your Personal Tutor.
42
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
ANNEX 4:
University Postgraduate Common Marking Scheme
University Postgraduate Common
Marking Scheme
R(D)SVS Marking guidance - elements
% Mark
Range
Description
Standard
Knowledge and understanding:
Range and understanding of
sources; synthesis and focusing
of ideas and topic
Critical analysis:
Organisation & coherence of critical
discussion; support through
example, detail, references and,
where relevant, experience.
Structure and presentation:
Clarity: layout; word limit; spelling
& grammar; correct use of diagrams
and figures
Project work:
Questions, rationale, theoretical
background, data collection, critical
analysis
80 – 100 %
A
An excellent
performance
Eligible for
consideration
for distinction
Excellent coverage of theories and
sources. An outstanding
demonstration of knowledge and
understanding of the topic.
An excellent analysis and critique of
the subject area, demonstrating
originality of thought underpinned by
rationale. An outstanding evaluation
and robust discussion of findings and
implications
A very high standard of presentation.
Complies with all academic
conventions. Logical and extremely
well written.
Perceptive identification of research
question, critical appreciation of
underlying theory and rationale;
insightful and critical analysis of data
and interpretation of implications.
70-79 %
A
An excellent
performance
Eligible for
consideration
for distinction
Excellent coverage of sources,
evidence of scholarship in
understanding
Systematic critical questioning of
received ideas and suggestion of
alternative perspectives; thorough and
supported analysis. A very competent
evaluation and discussion of
implications.
Effectively argued, within the length
allowed, skilled use of academic
conventions, accurate proof reading.
An accurate identification of research
question. A thorough understanding of
the theory to underpin analysis of data.
Demonstrates a competent ability to
relate findings to theory
60-69 %
B
A very good
performance
Proceed to
MSc
Competent coverage of major
sources; shows depth of
understanding of the topic;
relationships between ideas
cogently made.
Critical review & synthesis of ideas;
coherent, realistic and well-supported
argument; appropriate use of ideas;
perceptive appraisal of implications
Competent control of length, skilled
use of academic conventions; almost
all errors eliminated in proof reading
Identification of research question;
cogent & theoretically –based
rationale; good research design,
critical analysis of data; careful
appraisal of implications.
50 – 59 %
C
A good
performance,
satisfactory for
a Master's
Degree
Proceed to
MSc
Provides an adequate
understanding of key concepts and
issues from a range of sources.
Ideas synthesized and related to
topic.
Ideas that are well discussed.
Application of examples and some
critical analysis demonstrated.
Length requirements observed;
appropriate use of academic
conventions; several errors in spelling,
grammar etc. A fluidity of sense and
argument throughout work.
40 – 49 %
D
Proceed to
Diploma
Superficial treatment of topic.
Inability to demonstrate an
adequate understanding of key
concepts and issues.
Poorly organized and a poor
discussion of ideas.
No attempt to critically analyse. Mainly
descriptive in style
Word limit ignored. Poor demonstration
of comprehension, grammar and
spelling.
0 – 39 %
E
A satisfactory
performance
for the
Diploma but
inadequate for
a Master's
Degree
An inadequate
performance
for a Master’s
Degree and
for the
Diploma.
Rationale for research question
provided. Aims and objectives stated.
Critical analysis of data demonstrated.
Appropriate conclusions drawn from
study. Lacks critical thinking and
integration of ideas.
Vague research question. Aims and
objectives not clear. Poor attempt at
critical analysis of data. Lack of
conclusions from study.
Fail Diploma
Limited range of ideas; shows weak
acquaintance with sources; ideas
unfocused.
Unsupported arguments; little use of
theory; descriptive and without critical
analysis.
Length requirements not observed;
use of unattributed material;
incomplete referencing; presentation
consistently marred
43
Research question unclear; rationale
weak; theoretical underpinning limited;
research methods not well-chosen or
misapplied; analysis sketchy or
unjustified by data; implications
asserted are untenable
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
ANNEX 5:
Advice on using Social Media Networks & Confidentiality of Information
Facebook, Twitter and other social media networks have changed the way we interact with each
other and like them or not, they are a part of our society. As some of you will carry out research
where animals are involved, we remind you to respect the welfare and dignity of our research
animals and to ensure that you continue to follow procedures to ensure our work continues to be
ethical, credible and professional. Sharing images of animals outside of the context of academic
discourse is not appropriate. This not only applies to posts on social network sites but also can be
discussions in the pub or on the bus, of a particular research project which is equally inappropriate.
Carrying out research involving animals – is a sensitive subject. If someone did post animal
research materials and these caused clear disrepute or damage to individuals or the
University of Edinburgh, your Programme Director would need to inform College who would
apply procedures to review and if appropriate penalise the student.
Please remember you must not post the following information:






scientific research information, analysis, results or any other information and / or images
relating to your dissertation papers
location details of research buildings or organisations you may be working with during trials
information and/or images about research staff and colleagues
information and / or images of any farm visits, lab visits or abattoir excursions
unresolved grievances
non-public or not-yet-approved documents or minutes, news or information.
Be mindful of your responsibilities
Under Data Protection legislation - do not disclose other people’s personal information without
prior permission.
Be aware that any posts you make in a professional capacity (even private posts) are subject to
data protection and freedom of information and may need to be disclosed.
University policies apply: Students must not post materials about their work and locations if doing
so would carry a risk to themselves and especially to others, including the University as an
organisation.
Please use the Programme’s Learn Blackboard discussion forum to discuss latest news articles or
your own research – as this is a safe, secure environment.
If in doubt, then please ask your Programme Director for advice or refer to the University of
Edinburgh’s Social Media guidelines:
http://www.ed.ac.uk/polopoly_fs/1.78322!/fileManager/111201%20UoE-Social-Media-Guidelines.pdf
http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/communications-marketing/resources/web-publishing
44
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
Here are our top tips for keeping yourself and you information safe
1. Check your privacy settings, set them to ‘only my friends’ this means no one you have not
accepted as a friend can view your photos and personal information. You can also adjust your
search setting so that Googling your name does not take you to your profile.
2. Choose your friends wisely! Before you click ‘accept’ to that friend request, do you actually
know them and trust them with access to all your information? Recent research indicates that 40%
of Facebook profiles are fake, created by marketing companies and scam artists, if you get a friend
request from someone you have not met, who looks like a model, it is probably not because they
want to get to know you.
3. Keep your friends from sharing your information. Be aware that friends can sometimes share
your information from their profiles with websites and applications. You can edit those privacy
settings under “Applications and Websites.”
4. Don’t hesitate to untag photos of yourself if you do not think they are appropriate and ask your
friend to remove the picture if you feel it shows you in a compromising position.
5. Do not post pictures of yourself under the influence of any type of substance. This refers to
pictures such as, dancing-on-the-bar pictures or candid shots of the last time you got drunk. Do not
post photos of yourself or anyone else doing something illegal, Facebook posts are evidence that
can be used by the police. Students should also be aware of the sensitivity around carrying out
scientific research and should not post any images of them or colleagues involved in carrying out
research, nor should students post information on the content of their programme.
6. Don’t tolerate harassment and abuse, if someone is upsetting you with their comments or
messages you can ‘unfriend’ them and block them from requesting to be your friend again or
contacting you. If you continue to feel harassed, contact your Programme Director or The Advice
Place so they can help. In addition, do not say things to, or about anyone on Facebook that you
could not comfortably say to their face. The Advice Place have supported students who have made
formal complaints about being harassed by other students on Facebook, is what you want to say so
funny that it is worth jeopardising your time at University?
7. Avoid putting your phone number, mailing address, or pet's names in your profile. People
often use words such as pet's names or numbers as passwords, publishing them online just makes
you more vulnerable to identity thieves.
8. Never post information regarding an upcoming holidays as your status. Doing so is asking
for your house to be robbed. If you must post photos and every detail of your two-week trip to
France, do so after you return home, not before or during your time away.
9. Think before you link. Before clicking on a link from Facebook, always remember to check the
address bar, which should always display "www.facebook.com/" and nothing else like
"www.facebook33.tk" or "www.facebook1.php", etc. This can steal your e-mail and password, as
well as post spam links to your friends' walls.
10. Think before you post, it’s the simplest tip that can make the biggest difference to whether you
can enjoy social network sites rather than have them become a problem for you. Consider whether
this information you are sharing is something your mum, partner or future employer would approve
of. If not, keep it private.
45
MSc/Diploma/Certificate in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law (MSc IAWEL)
ANNEX 6:
Animal Welfare at the Dick Vet in Edinburgh
The Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education (JMICAWE) was opened at
the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in May 2011. Integrated
within the R(D)SVS, the JMICAWE is a venture with ambitious objectives committed to improving
the health and welfare of animals through education, training and research and by influencing policy
at the highest level.
The JMICAWE not only promotes the need for education in animal welfare science and ethics but
also emphasizes the important role of veterinarians in promoting animal welfare along with their
involvement in protecting public health. International concern for animal welfare continues to grow
with increasing demand for measures to protect animals and improve animal quality of life. In a
number of surveys, eight out of ten respondents believe that animal welfare is a key priority for a
civilised society. Animals are an important part of our world, relied upon for food, used as research
models, companions, working animals, for sport and in recreation.
To date, our educational and outreach activities have involved the development and delivery of a
number of successful workshops provided at the invitation of collaborating Chinese and Indian
Universities. The aim of the workshops has been to aid in the development of a veterinary UG
curriculum that promotes the responsibility of veterinarians as ambassadors for animal health and
welfare and addresses the recognized need for incorporating critical thinking and ethical analysis as
well as clinical skill acquisition and a thorough understanding of infectious disease control.
Closer to home, the JMICAWE is involved with both undergraduate and postgraduate students who
have an interest in animal welfare, behaviour, ethics and law. The Centre staff are involved in
teaching throughout the AHWFS course for the BVM&S and are also pivotal in the developments of
the MSc AABAW and MSc IAWEL, as well as contributing to the MVetSci Conservation Medicine
and MSc One Health.
We also hope to empower long term veterinary development internationally through the delivery of
on-site veterinary training in animal welfare and ethics, development of animal welfare lectureships
and help with capacity-building in the areas of animal welfare science, ethics and policy.
If you would like to learn more about animal welfare science, ethics and law - visit the Jeanne
Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education on the 2nd floor of the R(D)SVS Teaching
Building or view the website at www.ed.ac.uk/vet/jmicawe - or make an appointment to come and
visit us, or Skype us to chat to the Centre Director, Professor Natalie
Waran (natalie.waran@ed.ac.uk).
Why not follow our activities, through blogging or tweeting?
Our current activities are blogged each week (www.jmicaweactivities.blogspot.co.uk) and there are
daily tweets (follow @JMICAWE on Twitter)?
There is also now a R(D)SVS student led animal ethics group, which we support - you can get in
touch with them through Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/vetethics/
46