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Introductory Animal and Dairy Science


Course Description

Basic principles of breeding, feeding, and management of beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, swine, horses and companion animals.


Athena Title

Intro Animal and Dairy Science


Equivalent Courses

Not open to students with credit in ADSC 2010


Non-Traditional Format

This course will be taught 95% or more online.


Semester Course Offered

Offered summer semester every year.


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Course Objectives

The objectives of this course are: 1) to develop in Animal Science majors a foundation of terminology and understanding of the science of animal production systems necessary for successful completion of advanced animal science courses; 2) to introduce the fundamentals of genetics, nutrition, endocrinology, reproductive physiology, growth and development, muscle biology, and animal health involved in the production of food and companion animals; 3) to enhance students' awareness of the breadth and scale of the animal science field and career opportunities associated with it; 4) to provide an opportunity for students outside the Animal Science major to gain an understanding and appreciation for large animal production systems.


Topical Outline

Uses and contributions of animals to society Global markets and the role of animals in the economy Important terms and definitions Reproduction tracts Puberty and reproduction hormones Pregnancy, gestation, and parturition Lactation Digestive tracts Monogastric digestion Ruminant digestion Feed stuffs and rations Nutrients and nutrient utilization Genetics Breeding and breeding systems Biotechnology and breeding advances Animal behavior Behavior and movement Animal welfare Animal health Meat science Food safety Swine production Poultry production Beef production Dairy production Sheep and goat production Horse production Aquaculture Companion animals Exotic animals