Batchelor of Science in Agriculture - Animal Science

Our degree programs are taught in English

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE  - ANIMAL SCIENCE

Program Overview
Candidates need to complete a total of 120 credits to satisfy the academic requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Animal Science

Study Program Objectives
Livestock, sheep, cattle, pig and poultry production is one of the major sectors in agriculture and contributes substantially to the economy of many countries. Animal science is the science of livestock production, with a focus on animal breeding and genetics, animal nutrition, and production animal physiology (growth and reproduction physiology). Animal science covers all aspects of animal production and animal welfare in intensive and extensive production systems. This includes the husbandry of several livestock species (sheep, cattle, goats, pigs, poultry, ostriches and horses), and the products derived from them (meat, milk and dairy products, wool, mohair, eggs, skins, leather and feathers). It is also includes the nutrition and breeding of companion animals.

The ideal candidates are those who has a passion for science and working with livestock, game and companion animals, as well as those interested in sustainable animal production for food and profits.

Course Outline

Year 1: Introduction to Agriculture and Animal Science
• Introduction to Agriculture and Agribusiness
• Principles of Animal Science
• Animal Anatomy and Physiology
• General Biology
• Chemistry for Agriculture
• Mathematics for Agriculture

Year 2: Fundamentals of Animal Husbandry
• Livestock Production and Management
• Animal Nutrition
• Animal Genetics and Breeding
• Introduction to Animal Health
• Forage Crop Production
• Agricultural Economics and Farm Management

Year 3: Specialized Animal Science Courses
• Animal Reproduction and Reproductive Technologies
• Animal Behavior and Welfare
• Meat Science and Technology
• Dairy Science and Technology
• Poultry Science and Technology
• Aquaculture and Fisheries Management

Year 4: Advanced Topics and Capstone Project
• Advanced Animal Nutrition and Feeding
• Animal Health Management and Disease Control
• Biotechnology in Animal Science
• Animal Farming Systems and Sustainability
• Research Methods in Animal Science
• Capstone Project: In-depth research or practical project in Animal Science

Electives: Throughout the program, students may have the option to choose elective
courses based on their interests and career goals. Elective options might include
courses on sustainable agriculture, agricultural policy, or advanced topics in animal
science.

Course Duration / Time Planning
You will work at your own pace and there are no deadlines except those set by yourself. You are given 4 years to complete the course. If, for some reason, you are unable to complete the course within 4 years, we have a simple facility to extend your period of study.  Our commitment!  We will teach you until you pass! The work is self-pacing which means that you will determine your own rate of progress.  You will be provided with the best tuition available and given support towards achieving your ambitions.

Method of Study

The medium of distance study education or home study has achieved worldwide recognition as a most effective means of learning.  Some of the benefits are:

  • Study at your own pace
  • Study in the privacy of your home
  • Study in your own time so that you can still earn from your job
  • Plan your study schedule to suit yourself, not your teacher
  • No travel to and from classes – saving your time and money
  • Distance education is usually the most affordable option

Course Material

The course is developed on the self-study unit system (eBooks) which will be provided in electronic format via OneDrive, drop box, email or on a CD-ROM or Flash Disk.  It is recommended that you take one subject at a time and finalize the assignment. You will be able to pass the course by concentrating on the study material which will increase your confidence in applying skills and by completing the assignments which form an integral part of the course content.  This enables you to monitor your own progress as well as feedback on your assignments. You can then progress steadily and confidently to successful completion.  The most important element of the assignments is that it should enhance your learning.  A modern computer with Word and Adobe Reader is required as well as access to the internet for research work and for online resources as well as email submission of your assignments.

Language Medium
The language of the study material and assignments is English.

Tutoring & Mentoring
Tutoring and mentoring by Horn Training Group (Pty) Ltd will be provided on a one-to-one basis which make it easier for you to achieve your full academic potential

Assessment & Grading
No examination stress! You will be required to complete and submit for evaluation all assignments in this course program.  These assignments will be graded, and you will receive those grades.  Grading is an important part of the learning experience.  It helps the instructor know where more reinforcement is needed, and it helps the student know areas of weakness and areas that need improvement.

Allocation of Marks
Content = 60%; Comprehension = 20%; Presentation = 10%; Bibliography = 10%; Total = 100%

Grade Values
A = Superior; B = Average; C = Passing; D = Poor