Animal breeding can be a hobby, a business or a highly specialised and sophisticated career. What’s important, whether working in zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, agricultural research stations or from a home-based business, is a genuine interest in and empathy for animals.
The Certificate of Animal Breeding is a professional development program that will provide you with essential knowledge and skills to enter the animal breeding industry, whether starting a business or as an employee for commercial or conservation purposes.
In this online program, you’ll learn about genetic influence on the characteristics exhibited by animals, factors that interact with genes to produce non-conformity, animal straight and cross-breeding and how to select animals for a breeding program.
On completion of this course, you’ll have gained the foundation knowledge in animal biology, health care and basic genetics to pursue a career in the breeding industry or to operate your own business.
Course Structure
Unit - Animal Breeding
Unit 1 – Introduction to genetics
- Plant cells
- Animal cells
- Cell division – mitosis (asexual reproduction); meiosis (sexual reproduction)
- Genes – phenotype and genotype; homogenous and heterogenous
- Terminology
- The work of Mendel
- Sex determination
Unit 2 – Genetics
- Gene mutations
- Lethal genes
- Effect of the environment
- Hybrid vigour
- Genetics in agriculture
- Heritability
Unit 3 – Selection
- Animal breeding programs
- Agriculture
- Decide on your priorities
- Dual purpose animals
- Artificial selection
- Gene groups
- Regression
- Domestic animals – Dogs, cats etc.
Unit 4 – Pure breeding
- Inbreeding – close breeding and line breeding
- Genetic effects of inbreeding
- Advantages and disadvantages
Unit 5 – Introduction to cross breeding
- The effects of cross breeding in farm animals
- Genetic effects, phenotype effects, heterosis, and genotype effect
- Cross breeding in sheep
- Cross breeding in domestic animals
Unit 6 – Cross breeding
- Practical cross breeding
- Two breed or single cross
- Back cross or crisscrossing
- Cyclical crossing
- Rotational crossing
- Advantages of cross breeding
- Reciprocal recurrent selection
- Breed societies
- Grading up
Unit 7 – Livestock improvement
- Performance Testing
- Sib Testing
- Progeny testing
- Relative breeding Values (RBV)
- Artificial insemination
- Synchronised heats
- Ova transplants
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Testimonials
I’ve learnt so much while studying Certificate of Animal Breeding and new information I wasn’t aware of before, the online courses help me be able to complete when I have time and isn’t based off in-class learning which is great with my full time job too.
C. Chen, Rossmore, NSW | Certificate of Animal Breeding
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no entry requirements or pre-requisites for entry into this program.
How long will it take to complete this course?
The approximate study hours for this course is 50 hours. We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply).
Can I purchase optional printed materials?
While printed materials are not available for purchase, PDF copies are available for download and self-printing for this program.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of this course?
Yes! You will receive a Certificate of Attainment upon successful completion of your assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our e-learning system and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
- Animal Breeder
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