Animal Science (ANS1)

If you are interested in working closely with farmers in advisory or agribusiness roles, developing more efficient ways of rearing animals and growing crops, this degree is for you.

Curricular information is subject to change

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The BAgrSc Animal Science programme aims to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of key scientific facts, principles, concepts and theories relevant to Animal Science, and to produce future national and global leaders in key sectors of the economy, particularly those areas related to animal production, food production and related industries. Students are encouraged to think critically, be active, motivated, autonomous learners and to aspire to lifelong learning, leadership, and individual career growth and development. We aim to provide learning environments that integrate teaching, research, assessment and learning, individually and through group activities in order to develop leadership, critical and reflective thinking, effective communication and inquiry skills. The diversity of learning environments (off campus, particularly UCD Lyons Farm, classroom, laboratory, work placement) and methods (formal lectures, small group practicals, directed autonomous learning) ensure that students have a stimulating learning experience, which should equip them with the skills necessary to provide professional leadership and support for the expanding and dynamic Agri-Food industry. Students will undertake both basic sciences (Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) as they relate to Animal Science, as well as more specialised topics including Agricultural economics and farm business management, Animal Reproduction, Physiology, Genetics and Breeding, Animal Nutrition, Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Ruminant and Non-ruminant Animal Production Systems, Experimental Design and Data Analysis. To achieve the aims of the Programme, students are exposed to stimulating learning and practical experiences from dedicated research-active staff involving an inquiry-based learning approach incorporating a diverse range of teaching and assessment methods in which both critical thinking and research skills are emphasized including case studies, group work, project work and work placements


The Animal and Crop Production (ACP) programme aims to provide students with a thorough knowledge and understanding of the animal and crop industries both nationally and globally from a social, economic, global and environmental perspective and that guarantees the production of safe food. We encourage our students to explain, evaluate, and effectively interpret theories, and assumptions in the animal and crop science area. We encourage our students to find, access, and critically evaluate information, and then be able to communicate effectively through writing, speech, and visual information. We do this by providing learning environments that integrate teaching, research, assessment and learning, individually and through group activities so as to develop leadership, critical and reflective practice, effective communication and inquiry skills. The diversity of learning environments (classroom, off campus practical’s – particuarly UCD Lyons Farm, field work, work placement) and methods ensure that students have a stimulating learning experience, which should equip them with the skills necessary to provide professional leadership and support for the expanding and dynamic agricultural sector industry. The ACP programme aims to be an integral component in ensuring the continued success of both the Irish animal and crop industries. Through our curriculum and experiential opportunities, we aim to develop leadership ability, integrity, and curiosity in our students and an inquiry based learning approach is employed incorporating a diverse range of teaching and assessment methods such as case studies, group projects, project work and professional work placements.


The BAgrSc Animal Science programme aims to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of key scientific facts, principles, concepts and theories relevant to Animal Science, and to produce future national and global leaders in key sectors of the economy, particularly those areas related to animal production, food production and related industries. Students are encouraged to think critically, be active, motivated, autonomous learners and to aspire to lifelong learning, leadership, and individual career growth and development. We aim to provide learning environments that integrate teaching, research, assessment and learning, individually and through group activities in order to develop leadership, critical and reflective thinking, effective communication and inquiry skills. The diversity of learning environments (off campus, particularly UCD Lyons Farm, classroom, laboratory, work placement) and methods (formal lectures, small group practicals, directed autonomous learning) ensure that students have a stimulating learning experience, which should equip them with the skills necessary to provide professional leadership and support for the expanding and dynamic Agri-Food industry. Students will undertake both basic sciences (Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) as they relate to Animal Science, as well as more specialised topics including Agricultural economics and farm business management, Animal Reproduction, Physiology, Genetics and Breeding, Animal Nutrition, Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Ruminant and Non-ruminant Animal Production Systems, Experimental Design and Data Analysis. To achieve the aims of the Programme, students are exposed to stimulating learning and practical experiences from dedicated research-active staff involving an inquiry-based learning approach incorporating a diverse range of teaching and assessment methods in which both critical thinking and research skills are emphasized including case studies, group work, project work and work placements


1 - Devise and implement strategies for optimal animal performance and assess and suggest solutions for problems related to animal production
2 - Manipulate animal physiology and reproductive processes to optimise management and maximise fertility
3 - Design suitable diets for ruminant and non-ruminant production based on sound principles of animal nutrition and feed formulation
4 - Implement the principles of animal genomics and animal breeding for genetic improvement of economically important traits
5 - Implement strategies to optimize the use of grassland in animal production
6 - Use their knowledge of the scientific research principles to devise, analyse, interpret and report on scientific investigations
7 - Devise and implement novel improvement strategies underpinned by sound scientific knowledge and be proficient in communicating key messages to end users
8 - Be able to optimise animal production systems to meet economic targets and achieve environmental objectives
9 - Demonstrate knowledge of animal production systems and how the components are integrated and managed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way
10 - Understand the animal industry in Ireland, the context in which it operates and its relationship to animal industries internationally
11 - Develop and utilise a wide range of generic skills useful in further career development through specific class exercises and PWE.
Want to know more about animals? Want broad-ranging career opportunities in research, production, business and advisory roles? Then Animal Science might be for you.

Animal Science concentrates on the study of applied sciences such as genetics, animal physiology, animal nutrition and behaviour, health and welfare. These are fundamental to understanding how animals function - farm animals, companion animals and wildlife.

They also underpin the principles of livestock production. This degree is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide professional leadership and technical support for the dynamic and rapidly changing animal industry, which contributes 80% of Ireland's agricultural output. In particular, the objectives of this degree are to give you an understanding of:

 - The growth and development of farm animals, how they function and of animal behaviour and welfare

 - Animal production systems and how the components are integrated and managed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner

 - The animal industry in Ireland, the context in which it operates and its relationship to animal industries in Europe and worldwide.
If you are interested in working closely with farmers in advisory or agribusiness roles, developing more efficient ways of rearing animals and growing crops, this degree is for you.

The Animal & Crop Production option within the BAgrSc degree provides you with a broad knowledge of agriculture relating to crops, animals and agribusiness. The objectives of this degree are to give you:

 - Knowledge of the growth, development and improvement of farm animals and crops

 - Knowledge of the agribusiness industry and the internal and external factors influencing it

 - The capacity to draw on this knowledge base to formulate animal and crop production systems that are economic and sustainable

 - The capacity for lifelong learning so as to remain knowledgeable of evolving technical, economic, policy and regulatory frameworks

 - Communication and technology skills that are applicable to many areas of professional employment

The Animal & Crop Production degree option is distinctive in that it develops an understanding of the science and business of crop and animal production and their interactions in an environment that is constantly changing due to technology, economics and social and agricultural policy.
STAGE 1
This stage includes the core modules for Agricultural Science and provides students with an opportunity to undertake an elective module, Introduction to Animal Science. These act as a foundation for later modules.

STAGES 2-4
The later stages of the programme include a range of relevant applied sciences dealing with animal nutrition, genetics, health, behaviour and welfare. You also undertake modules concerned with environmental issues and policy. You will deal with the physiology, breeding and nutrition of animals in more detail. You also have an opportunity to select from a wide range of modules, depending on your interests or career focus.

The UCD Research Farm at Lyons Estate provides modern teaching facilities and well-equipped laboratories.

PROFESSIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE
A five-month Professional Work Experience placement is an integral component of the degree programme and takes place following the spring break of Stage 3. This may be taken, for example, as a combination of on-farm, agribusiness and research centre placements. Some of this may be taken abroad as part of our student exchange programmes.
Previously students have gone to the USA, New Zealand, Australia and continental Europe.
STAGE 1
Stage 1 concentrates on the basic sciences and includes project work in which you explore areas of animal and crop production.

STAGES 2-4
You will take a number of modules, ranging from relevant applied sciences (such as Soil Science, Microbiology) to intensive study in the areas of Animal Husbandry, Crop Husbandry, Farm Business, Agricultural Policy and Communications, together with an opportunity for selection of elective subjects and project work. The animal and crop facilities at the UCD Lyons Research Farm are widely used as teaching aids in this degree option, particularly in the final stages of the programme. An extensive eight-month period of Professional Work Experience is undertaken from January of Stage 3.

PROFESSIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE
Between January and September in Stage 3 you undertake a period of Professional Work Experience in Ireland or abroad. This is a central part of the programme and allows you to gain practical skills, which make a valuable contribution to your CV and can lead to employment offers following graduation.
There are opportunities to study abroad (Australia, Europe and the USA) in Stage 3 for one semester and to work abroad for your Professional Work Experience (Australia, Europe, New Zealand and the USA).

Graduates are employed in a wide variety of areas, such as:




  • Agribusiness

  • Animal and crop industries

  • Consultancy

  • Semi-state or government agencies

  • Financial services

  • Print, radio and television media



This is also a very suitable degree if you intend to pursue full-time farming or combine part-time farming with a professional career. Research opportunities to Master’s and PhD level are available.


UCD Agriculture and Food Science Programme Office,
Agriculture and Food Science Centre,
Belfield,
Dublin 4
Tel: +353 1 716 7194
Email:agandfoodprogrammes@ucd.ie
Web:www.ucd.ie/agfood

Stage 1

In addition to the 55 credits of core modules, students must take elective modules amounting to 5 credits.

Stage 2

In addition to the 50 credits of core/option modules, students must take elective modules amounting to 10 credits.

Stage 3

In addition to the 50 credits of core modules, students must take elective modules amounting to 10 credits. A period of Professional Work Experience is mandatory and must be undertaken in Stage 3.

Stage 4

In addition to the 50 credits of core and option modules, students must take elective modules amounting to 10 credits.

Module ID Module Title Trimester Credits
Stage 1 Core Modules
     
AESC10010 Land Use and the Environment Autumn 5
CHEM00020 Introductory Chemistry Autumn 5
MATH10230 Mathematics for Agriculture I Autumn 5
PHYC10180 Physics for Ag. Science Autumn 5
RDEV10020 Information Skills Autumn 5
RDEV10030 Introduction to Agricultural Economics and Business Autumn 5
ANSC10010 Introduction to Animal Science Spring 5
BIOL10010 Animal Biology and Evolution Spring 5
BIOL10030 Cell and Plant Biology Spring 5
CHEM10010 Introduction to the Chemistry of Biomolecules Spring 5
CPSC10010 Introduction to Crop Science Spring 5
Stage 1 Core Modules
     
Stage 1 Options - A)MIN0OF:
These modules may expand your knowledge of the Agri-Food sector and may be taken in place of an elective in Trimester 2 - Spring.
     
PHYC10190 Aspects of Physics for Ag. Sci Spring 5
RDEV10040 Introduction to Food and Agribusiness Management Spring 5
Stage 1 Options - A)MIN0OF:
These modules may expand your knowledge of the Agri-Food sector and may be taken in place of an elective in Trimester 2 - Spring.
     
Stage 2 Core Modules
     
AERD20030 Business Management Autumn 5
AESC20060 Soil Science Basics Autumn 5
FOR20100 Applied Biostatistics Autumn 5
MICR20010 Agricultural Microbiology Autumn 5
ANSC20010 Genetics and Biotechnology Spring 5
ANSC20020 Animal Nutrition I Spring 5
BSEN30020 Buildings and Environment Spring 5
FDSC20100 Agricultural Biochemistry Spring 5
RDEV20140 Health, Welfare & Safety in Agriculture Spring 5
Stage 2 Core Modules
     
Stage 2 Options - 1 OF:
Students must select one of the following 2 modules
     
HORT20070 Agricultural Botany Autumn 5
CPSC20030 Principles of Crop Science Spring 5
Stage 2 Options - 1 OF:
Students must select one of the following 2 modules
     
Stage 2 Options - A)MIN0OF:
These modules may expand your knowledge of the Agri-Food sector and may be taken in place of electives
     
BIOL20050 Climate Change and Agriculture Autumn 5
BSEN30170 Agricultural Mechanisation: Engines and Crop Machinery Autumn 5
FDSC20010 Food Macronutrients Autumn 5
AESC20050 Applied Zoology Spring 5
CPSC20020 Fundamentals of Arable Crop Production Spring 5
Stage 2 Options - A)MIN0OF:
These modules may expand your knowledge of the Agri-Food sector and may be taken in place of electives
     
Stage 3 Core Modules
     
ANSC30010 Animal Reproduction Autumn 5
ANSC30020 Animal Breeding I Autumn 5
ANSC30030 Animal Genomics Autumn 5
ANSC30040 Animal Nutrition II Autumn 5
ANSC30170 Animal Physiology I Autumn 5
ENVB30110 Food Microbiology Autumn 5
ANSC30050 Experimental Design and Data Analysis Spring 5
ANSC30070 Professional Work Experience Spring 10
ANSC30150 Animal Physiology II Spring 5
Stage 3 Core Modules
     
Stage 3 Options - A)MIN0OF:
These modules may expand your knowledge of the Agri-Food sector and may be taken in place of electives
     
AESC30080 Agri-Environmental Issues and Policy Autumn 5
BSEN30170 Agricultural Mechanisation: Engines and Crop Machinery Autumn 5
CPSC30050 Organic Agriculture Autumn 5
RDEV30380 Knowledge Tfr for Farm Innovat Autumn 5
AESC30010 Scientific Writing and Review Spring 5
AESC30160 Agrichemicals and the Environment Spring 5
AESC30230 Climate, Carbon and Soil Spring 5
ANSC30100 Applied Biotechnology Spring 5
ANSC30340 Equine Reproduction and Breeding Management Spring 5
Stage 3 Options - A)MIN0OF:
These modules may expand your knowledge of the Agri-Food sector and may be taken in place of electives
     
Stage 4 Core Modules
     
AERD30190 Farm Business Management Autumn 5
ANSC30120 Non-ruminant Animal Production (Swine & Poultry) Autumn 5
ANSC30400 Beef Production Autumn 5
ANSC30410 Dairy Production Autumn 5
CPSC30040 Grass and Forage Production Autumn 5
AERD30210 Food and Agricultural Policy Spring 5
ANSC30130 Principles of Animal Health, Behaviour and Welfare Spring 5
ANSC30390 Sheep Production Spring 5
RDEV30060 Professional Communications Spring 5
Stage 4 Core Modules
     
Stage 4 Options - A)MIN1OF:
Students must select at least one module. Additional modules may be taken in place of electives
     
FDSC30150 Principles of Meat Science Autumn 5
AESC40140 Agri-Environmental Nutrient Management Spring 5
ANSC30380 Animal Science Industries Spring 5
ANSC40040 Advanced Dairy Production Spring 5
BSEN30020 Buildings and Environment Spring 5
CPSC40040 Developments in Grassland Spring 5
CPSC40050 Devs in Crop Production & Util Spring 5
Stage 4 Options - A)MIN1OF:
Students must select at least one module. Additional modules may be taken in place of electives
     
See the UCD Assessment website for further details

Module Weighting Info  
  Award GPA
Programme Module Weightings Rule Description Description >= <=
BHAGR001 Stage 4 - 50.00%
Stage 3 - 50.00%
Standard Honours Award First Class Honours

3.68

4.20

Second Class Honours, Grade 1

3.08

3.67

Second Class Honours, Grade 2

2.48

3.07

Pass

2.00

2.47

BHAGR005 Stage 4 - 50.00%
Stage 3 - 50.00%
Standard Honours Award First Class Honours

3.68

4.20

Second Class Honours, Grade 1

3.08

3.67

Second Class Honours, Grade 2

2.48

3.07

Pass

2.00

2.47


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