Print Syllabus

Syllabus

HV0132 Breeding 2, 7.5 Credits

Avel 2

Subjects

Animal Science Biology Animal science Biology

Education cycle

Bachelor’s level

Modules

Title	Credits	Code
Single module	7.5	0201

Advanced study in the main field

First cycle, has at least 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Bachelor’s level (G2F)

Grading scale

Language

Swedish

Prior knowledge

Knowledge equivalent:

- 60 credits animal science or biology and 5 credits mathematics/statistics

Objectives

The aim of the course is to provide general knowledge in livestock breeding applicable for different situations of breeding with domestic animals and for assessing consequences of breeding programs.

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• carry out simple calculations with matrix algebra and describe its applications in livestock breeding,

• write simple linear models to analyse and interpret biological data,

• describe relationships between genotype and phenotype as well as variation that arises through the mendelian inheritance,

• carry out calculations to estimate genetic variation and animals’ breeding values with different methods,

• discuss strategies for selection and cross breeding in different environments and also predict genetic progress,

• compare breeding programs in different situations at a general level (e g animal species, population size) and also discuss ethical issues and the sustainability of the breeding programs as well as discuss measures to minimise inbreeding and preserve animal genetic resources.

Content

The course contains the following subject blocks: matrix algebra, methods to estimate genetic parameters, strategies for selection, estimation of genetic progress and breeding programs. Ethical questions are treated continuously through the course.

Lectures are often followed by computer and calculation exercises. The student strengthens his/her knowledge through group discussions. Compulsory components occur in e.g. group discussions.

In the course, the following general skills are trained: problem-solving, communication in speech and writing.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Passed written and oral examinations as well as approved participation in compulsory course elements.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.
• For the examination of a degree project (independent project), the examiner may also allow the student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Transitional provisions

Exams: At least three retake sessions (renewed exams) must be offered within two years of the decision to cancel the course. Compulsory elements: At least one opportunity for a retake session must be offered within two years of the decision to cancel the course.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

The course includes 6 credits genetics/breeding as well as 1.5 credits mathematics/statistics. The course assumes knowledge of - basic genetics, regulation of gene expressions, biological variation and inbreeding, population genetics and conservation biology. - the principles to estimate allelic frequencies, heritability, genetic correlations as well as animals’ individual breeding values. - the structure of breeding program - how one organises data in matrisform - basic statistical knowledge such as average, variation and statistical error margin and statistically ensured difference as well as analysis and interpretation of relationships between variables - how one can use linear models for analysing biological data Students who have passed the mathematics and statistics section in the courses HV0123, HV0110, HV0113 hold necessary prior knowledge in mathematics and statistics.

Responsible department

Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics