MSc in AnimAl Science (RepRoduction) · animal reproduction into practice, and develop competence in research methods relevant to specific areas of animal reproduction. Students will

UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science

www.ucd.ie/agfood

MSc in AnimAl Science (RepRoduction)

tAuGHt GRAduAte pRoGRAmmeS

Duration: One year

Delivery: Full Time

eligibility: Students must have an undergraduate degree in Animal Science, Science or a related discipline.

Why should I choose thisprogramme?The aim of the MSc in Animal Science (Reproduction) is to provide advanced education and training in the application of the sciences underpinning best practice in animal reproduction, to enable the development of key transferrable skills, such as communication and research expertise in reproductive technologies, and prepare students for opportunities in animal science-related industries. The MSc in Animal Science (Reproduction) will develop a new generation of graduates with the ability to translate knowledge of specific aspects of animal reproduction into practice, and develop competence in research methods relevant to specific areas of animal reproduction.

Students will be based in the Embryo Laboratory at Lyons Research Farm where they will integrate with other postgraduate students in reproduction. The programme will be delivered via a series of taught modules and via a major research project. Each module will contain self-directed learning materials, such as course notes and additional reading. Some of the modules will contain a practical laboratory-based component. Assessment will be via continuous assessment strategies and end of semester written examinations.

Career Opportunities:The agri-food and fisheries sector is Ireland’s most important indigenous industry and is one of the most significant contributors to the economy. It is widely recognised as having a key role to play in Ireland’s export-led economic recovery.

There is an ongoing need to attract the best people to the sector and to enhance the leadership and management skills of those working in the industry. Graduates of the Taught Masters in Animal Science (Reproduction) will fulfil this need. This programme aims to fill a gap which will provide a bridge from a knowledge-based science degree to the application in best practice in animal science.

Graduates of this programme will have:

1. An in-depth knowledge of animal reproduction and technologies used to manipulate reproduction

2. An ability for critical thinking, analysis and reflection

3. Effective oral and written communication skills

Course ContentProposed modules for students enrolling on the Animal Science (Reproduction) programme include:

• Comparative Reproductive Biology

• Reproductive Biotechnologies

• Manipulation of Reproduction in Farm Animals

• Reproductive Immunology

• Laboratory Practice and the Scientific Method

• Animal Science Research project

Animal Science Research at UCDResearch in the School of Agriculture and Food Science strongly underpins undergraduate teaching in Animal Science. All of the staff in the Animal and Crop Sciences Section are research-active and are collectively responsible for the largest share of extramural research funding in the School, from a variety of sources including the European Union, Science Foundation Ireland, the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine and from industry. The Section hosts world renowned research programmes in animal reproduction, animal genetics and animal nutrition. The proposed MSc in Animal Science (Reproduction) will be intimately linked to the ongoing research programmes in animal reproduction within the School.

The Reproduction group at UCD is particularly strong and includes academics who individually and collectively have secured major funding to address fertility related issues, particularly in cattle. Of particular note is the establishment of a Science Foundation Ireland-funded Strategic Research Cluster in Reproductive Biology (2007-2013) valued at over 7 million euro. The group is at the cutting edge of research in reproductive biology and will bring this expertise to the delivery of the MSc programme.

application information

If you are interested in this programmes and are unsure if you are eligible, please contact the UCD Agriculture and Food Science Programme Office at [email protected] for further details.

Application is online at www.ucd.ie/apply

COntACt DetAIlS: Karen Holland Room G10, UCD Agriculture and Food Science Centre Tel: 01 7167193 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ucd.ie/agfood

MSc in AnIMAl SCIenCe (Reproduction)