HV0220, Biology of lactation, 7.5 Hp
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Syllabus

Finalized by: PN-VH, 2024-11-14
Valid from : Autumn semester 2025 (2025-09-01)

Level

Second cycle (A1N)

Main field of study

Animal Science, Biology

Subject

Science

Biology Area

Cell 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

English

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The aim of the course is to provide in-depth knowledge of factors that affect milk synthesis and interactions between reproduction, nutrition, behavior and lactation, including effects of lactation on the lactating animal.

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

• describe the anatomy, physiology and genetics of milk synthesis, and relate this to milk yield and milk composition,
• in detail describe the function of a milking machine,
• identify critical steps in milking routines, and give suggestions on how interactions between humans, animals and their environment including technology can benefit animal welfare, food safety, milk production and the processability of the milk,
• evaluate and summarize research studies within the field of lactation biology.

Content

Subject-related content

The course content cover udder anatomy, udder physiology, milk synthesis, milk extraction, udder health, care routines, milking technology and milking equipment. In addition, the course covers the effects of genetics, breeding, feeding, housing and milking management on milk yield and milk composition.

In the course, comparisons between animal species are primarily made for production animals kept for milk production, such as cattle, domestic water buffalo, goat, sheep and camels. Some comparisons are made also with other mammalian species, including humans. The course builds on basic university level knowledge in primarily cell biology, physiology and nutrition. Additionally, some aspects of ethology, animal welfare, food science, production systems, sustainability and the interaction between humans, animals and technology will also be covered.

Teaching formats

To further student learning and promote discussion, a variety of methods are used: lectures, exercises, study visits and group discussions.

Course literature consists of relevant research articles. Flipped classroom pedagogy is implemented throughout the course, which means that the students perform independent self-studies before scheduled sessions with the teachers.

The course focuses on the following generic competencies

Critical thinking, scientific communication and oral presentation.

The following components are compulsory

Course information, dissection exercises, and literature seminar.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Passed oral examination, passed written examination, approved oral presentation and approved participation in compulsory components.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Applied Animal Science and Welfare

Supplementary information

Included in program

• Agronom djur
• Husdjursvetenskap - masterprogram
• Agriculture with a Specialisation in Animal Science

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Exercises and half-time exam	2.5	0001
Written exam	5.0	0002

The Course Replaces

HV0194

Other Information

To assimilate the course content, students should have basic university level knowledge in nutrition, endocrinology and physiology.