HV0222, Animal breeding and genetics, 15.0 Hp
Print syllabus

Syllabus

Finalized by: PN-VH, 2024-11-14
Valid from : Spring semester 2026 (2026-01-19)

Level

First cycle (G1F)

Main field of study

Animal Science, Biology

Grading Scale

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.

Course language

Swedish

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The course aims to provide general knowledge of animal breeding applicable to different situations in breeding of domestic animals, and for assessing the consequences of breeding programmes.

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

• perform simple calculations using matrix algebra, and describe their applications in animal breeding,
• set up simple linear models for analysing and interpreting biological data,
• define basic genetic concepts, as well as explain in an easy-to-understand way what the purpose of animal breeding is,
• explain the concept of biological variation, its causes and how it can be described for traits controlled by single genes as well as for traits controlled by many genes and by the environment,
• perform calculations to estimate allele frequencies, genetic variation, heritabilities and genetic correlations, breeding values and degree of inbreeding using different methods,
• discuss strategies for selection and crossbreeding in different environments, and predict genetic progress,
• provide an overall comparison of breeding programmes under different conditions (e.g. animal species, population size) and discuss sustainability aspects, as well as a comparison of measures that can be taken to minimise inbreeding and preserve animal genetic resources.

Content

Subject-related content

The course begins with an overview of animal breeding and its purpose. The course includes the following subject blocks: analysis of variance, population genetics, methods for estimating genetic parameters and breeding values, selection strategies, estimation of genetic progress, and breeding programmes. Throughout the course, there will be discussions on sustainability issues such as the impact of breeding programmes on farmers’ economy, the environment and climate, consumer acceptance and animal ethics issues. Variance components estimation using ANOVA are included and the basics of matrix algebra are introduced for use with simple linear models.

Teaching formats

The course uses various teaching formats to promote student learning and discussions. These include lectures alongside computer and calculation exercises. Students consolidate their knowledge through group discussions.

The course focuses on the following general skills

Problem solving, written and oral communication.

The following components are compulsory

Group discussions.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Passed written examination and approved participation in compulsory components.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Animal Biosciences

Supplementary information

Included in program

• Animal Science and Sustainability (BSc)
• Agriculture with a Specialisation in Animal Science

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Population genetics	2.5	0001
Analysis of variance and matrix algebra	2.5	0002
Animal breeding - mandatory elements	5.0	0003
Animal breeding - written examination	5.0	0004

Other Information

To assimilate the course content, students should have a basic knowledge of genetics, regulation of gene expression and basic statistical knowledge such as average and variation, statistical margin of error and statistically significant difference, as well as analysis and interpretation of relationships between variables.

The entry requirement of 5 credits statistics may be fulfilled through completed course ST0061 Basic Statistics for Biologists, ST0059 
Basic mathematics and statistics for biologists, HV0139 Basic science – evolution and ecology or HV0141 Basic science - agriculture and animal science.