Vet & AnSci Course Descriptions

Curriculum & Courses

Vet & AnSci Course list
Vet & AnSci Undergraduate Handbook

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DESCRIPTION OF MAJORS

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ANIMAL SCIENCE

The undergraduate program leads to the Bachelor of Science (BS) degree and offers two specialty majors. However, all incoming freshmen students enter our program as Animal Science Majors since students must qualify to change to the Pre-Veterinary Major.

• Animal Science Major - This major provides a sound background in the basic sciences to prepare students for a broad range of jobs in agriculture and related biomedical fields.

• Pre-Veterinary Major - This major is primarily designed to provide pre-professional training to students planning to continue their education in Veterinary, Graduate or Medical school, or who are contemplating joining the teaching profession.

To be eligible to enter the Pre-Veterinary major, students must achieve and maintain an average grade of B- or better in the following required courses:

Animl Sci 103 - Intro to Animal Management

Animl Sci 200 - Animal Cell & Molecular Biology

Animl Sci 220 - Anatomy & Physiology

Biology 100/101 or Biology 102/103

Chemistry 111 and Chemistry 112 -Inorganic Chem

Chemistry 261,262 and 269 - Organic Chemistry

Math 127 - Calculus

Students may enter the Pre-Veterinary major at any time when the above requirements are met. Students who are unable to maintain an average grade of B- or better in those courses will have ample time to tailor their class choices to suit their interests and future career goals and generate an emphasis in a relevant area.

AREAS OF EMPHASIS

In addition to the two majors, many electives are available to create an Emphasis in Equine Studies, in Livestock Studies or in Biotechnology & Research. Such emphases are especially relevant to those majoring in Animal Science since the Pre-Veterinary major has many more hard-wired requirements as well as entry level requirements that preclude the addition of many departmental electives.

Equine Studies Emphasis The size and diversity of the horse industry provides a variety of careers. These include working directly with horses as professional riders or trainers, stud farm managers, farriers, horse transporters, and farm managers. Graduates are also employed as riding instructors for schools, colleges and private stables, as extension agents, in sales of feed, tack or pharmaceutical businesses, equine publications, and related industries. Some students continue their education and become equine veterinarians, researchers and college or university professors. Equine Studies offers two areas of concentration:

• Horsemanship Skills

• Equine Management

The Horsemanship Skills Concentration primarily prepares students for positions as riding instructors and provides opportunities to develop riding skills and experience in horse training and development. The Theory and Methods of Equitation Instruction course introduces students to the teaching of riding. Advanced students put theory to practice in the Practice Teaching of Equitation course. The Horse Training course covers the initial training of young horses including lunging, long lining, and ground training projects. Riding classes are offered at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. The classes specialize in the classical balanced seat. Students may also take up dressage and combined training.

The Equine Management Concentration involves all phases of the selection, breeding, care, and management of the horse and prepares students for a career in horse farm management or related professions. The courses cover anatomy and physiology, feeding, stabling, health programs, genetics, reproduction, business, and general care. Students are actively involved in the maintenance of the horse herd. Students are also encouraged to participate in the numerous extracurricular activities that are available including the Intercollegiate teams and other extracurricular opportunities such as horse shows, field days, clinics, and short courses on campus. Students are exposed to the horse industry on field trips, and are encouraged to enroll in internships, practica, or cooperative education experiences in the field which provide valuable experience as well as academic credit and/or pay. These experiences often become the introduction to a permanent position after graduation.

Livestock Studies Emphasis Our large animal population consisting of alpacas, goats, horses, llamas, sheep, and Belted Galloways maintained on the Hadley Farm and at our South Deerfield Complex provides the basis for much of the animal experience we offer whether one is interested in applying to veterinary school or seeking employment opportunities after graduation. Along with our curricular offerings of reproduction, nutrition, and management, we offer numerous extra-curricular activities to all interested students. These have included participation in the Regional and National Dairy Challenges, the Genex Open House and tour of Cornell Veterinary School, Winter Traveling Dairy Tour, NESA (the Northeast Intercollegiate Animal Science Competition), and our Artificial Insemination Certification class. These events all promote positive student to student, student to faculty, and student to industry representative interaction, which can lead to post-baccalaureate internships, employment, and graduate school opportunities. We encourage students to develop and pursue their research interests. Animals contribute to human health through their companionship, their role as models for diseases, as well as a source of food and fiber. There is a need for graduates that are familiar with animals to serve as lab technicians in the laboratories of both public and private research institutions. We encourage all students, regardless of their professional goals to participate in as many of these offerings as possible.

Associates Degree Program

A two year Associate of Science Degree is offered through the Stockbridge School of Agriculture with less emphasis in basic sciences and more applied courses in horse management and equitation. Visit the Stockbridge School of Agriculture web site for more information.

Course Offerings

Check Spire course schedule for class time and location.

(I) Fall semester (II) Spring semester

ANIML SCI H01 - Honors Colloquium for ANIML SCI 200 (Spring) Alfandari, Telfer (1 credit)

ANIML SCI 200 covers molecular and cell biology and how advances in knowledge in this field impact upon human and animal health. The honors colloquium for this course emphasizes the understanding of and the ability to present information from primary journal articles. The students choose a primary Journal article describing experiments testing a scientific hypothesis in an area of cell and molecular biology that they are interested in. After approval of the paper by the course instructor, the students analyze the background of the scientific questions addressed, experimental design and data interpretation. The course instructor assists the students with analysis of their papers on an individual basis. The students present their conclusions to the rest of the colloquium, who participate in the discussion of the paper. The grade for this endeavor will be determined by the oral presentation of the student's chosen paper and participation in the discussion of other students' papers.

ANIML SCI H02 - Honors Colloquium for ANIML SCI 220 (Fall) Howe (1 credit)

Introduction to the history and theory of various types of alternative medicine for animals and humans. Emphasis will be placed upon the accepted physiological/mechanism for each discipline with documented results from their application. Guest lecturers as well as available equipment will be available to the students. No prerequisites and open to all students. Students must also be enrolled in ANIML SCI 220.

ANIML SCI H03 - Honors Colloquium for ANIML SCI 332 (Fall) Huyler (1 credit)

In addition to what is learned in ANIML SCI 332, which is "Detailed study of macro and micro nutrients, their digestion, absorption, and metabolism by various domesticated animal species for maintenance and production as well as introduction to feeding programs", students will learn about methodologies, statistical models and make critical evaluations of published nutritional research papers. Students must also be enrolled in ANIML SCI 332.

ANIML SCI H04 - Honors Colloquium for ANIML SCI 521 (Fall) Visconti (1 credit)

This course covers in depth the most recent cellular and molecular findings related to mammalian fertilization as well as the technical and ethical issues associated with the application of newly developed assisted reproductive technologies such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and cloning of animals. The application of these technologies is discussed whether it applies to animals of agricultural importance, wildlife, or humans. In addition, students are required to select a subject from one of the discussed topics in the class. This subject of choice must be then thoroughly researched followed by a 15 minute presentation towards the end of the course. Students will be graded based on class participation as well as the content and style of the presentation of the selected topic. Students must also be enrolled in ANIML SCI 521.

ANIML SCI H06 - Honors Colloquium for ANIML SCI 472 (Spring) Baldwin, Osborne (1 credit)

ANIML SCI 472 covers basic immunology and the response of the immune system to infectious diseases. This honors section will expand upon the basics of immunology and cover the immune response to tumors and cancer immunology. In particular, through guided readings and tutorials, the students will learn the important features how the immune system recognizes and responds to tumors. The grade for this endeavor will be determined by a 5 page paper. Additionally, the participants of the honors section will make a PowerPoint presentation to the class at the end of the semester.

ANIML SCI 101 - Introduction to Animal Science (Fall) Malcuit (4 credits)
With lab. Modern animal agriculture and the many scientific disciplines it encompasses. The roles of genetics, nutrition, economics, physiology, and pathology in animal research and production. The dairy, meat, recreational, and laboratory animal industries are evaluated in their role serving humankind. Lab experience working with various animal species.

ANIML SCI 103- Introduction to Animal Management (Spring) Malcuit (4 credits)

With lab. In depth presentation of animal agriculture and its economic implications. Concepts of nutrition, reproduction, husbandry and marketing will be presented for beef and dairy cattle, sheep, swine, poultry, horses, and non traditional species such as llamas and alpacas. Prerequisite: ANIML SCI 101. Lab emphasizes application of selected management practices for these animal species.

ANIML SCI 150 - Beginner I - Equitation (Fall) (Spring) Mente (1 credit)
Lab. For those with no previous riding experience or formal instruction. Grooming, bridling, saddling and other basic stable skills; walk, trot (sitting and rising), and canter. Basic riding theory is introduced. Instructor consent required. Riding fee will apply. Can be taken for repeat credit.

ANIML SCI 151 - Beginner II - Equitation (Fall) (Spring) Mente (1 credit)
Lab. A continuation of ANIMLSCI 150. Position at the basic paces more fully developed; work without stirrups, elementary jumping. Riding theory and horsemanship discussed and developed. Instructor consent required. Riding fee will apply. Can be taken for repeat credit.

ANIML SCI 152- Intermediate I - Equitation (Fall) (Spring) Mente (1 credit)
Lab. The balance seat positions at all basic paces with and without stirrups. Jumping skills developed over low fences and gymnastics. Basic school figures and theory as it pertains to horsemanship, dressage, and combined training. Prerequisite: previous formal instruction and consent of instructor. Riding fee will apply. Can be taken for repeat credit.

ANIML SCI 153 - Intermediate II - Equitation (Fall) (Spring) Mente, Schurink (1 credit)
Lab. An extension of Intermediate I (ANIML SCI 152) with the riders secure in their position at the basic paces. School figures, work over fences including gymnastics, stadium, and cross country type fences. Development of skills and knowledge of horsemanship, specifically dressage and jumping. Instructor consent required. Riding fee will apply. Can be taken for repeat credit.

ANIML SCI 154 - Advanced Equitation (Fall) (Spring) Schurink (1 credit)
Lab. Riders are expected to be proficient in all areas covered through Intermediate II

(ANIML SCI 153). Dressage, cross country, and stadium jumping are more fully developed. Emphasis on development of feel for the horse and becoming a more effective rider. Instructor consent required. Riding fee will apply. Can be taken for repeat credit.

ANIML SCI 155 - Special Problems in Riding (Fall) (Spring) Schurink (1 credit)

Lab. Equitation by arrangement. Instructor consent required. Can be taken for repeat credit.

ANIML SCI 196 - Independent Study (Fall) (Spring) All Staff, by arrangement (1-6 credits)

See departmental requirements for presenting your results; approval of the program and registration at Undergraduate Program Office, 309 Stockbridge Hall, required. Can be taken as an HONORS course with "H designation", i.e. 196H. Can be taken for repeat credit.

ANIML SCI 200 - Animal Cell and Molecular Biology (Spring) Telfer, Alfandari (3 credits)

The molecular and cellular basis of biotechnology, with an emphasis on the experimental approach to biological problems. Includes discussion of disease diagnostics, treatment of cancer and AIDS, forensics, genome analysis, assisted reproduction, genetic testing, and the germline modification and cloning of animals. Prerequisite: Grade of C- or better in Biol 100 or Biol 102 AND Grade of C- or better in Chem 110 or Chem 111. An optional 1 credit honors colloquium is also available.

ANIML SCI 220 - Anatomy and Physiology of Domestic Animals (Fall) Howe (4 credits)
With lab. Integration of gross structural and organ anatomy to physiological systems, function and regulation. Emphasis on relationship of structure to function and system control in both animals and humans. An optional 1 credit honors colloquium is also available.

ANIML SCI 241 - Breaking and Training the Horse (Spring) Schurink (3 credits)
With lab. Basic training techniques, the methodology and psychology of breaking and training of horses. Includes halter breaking, lunging, driving, breaking the horse to ride. Instructor consent required.

ANIML SCI 247 - Horse Breeds, Types and Selection (Spring) Schurink (3 credits)

The history and development of the breeds and their present day type, conformation, and use. Emphasis on the importance of anatomy and conformation and the relationship of form to function. A systematic approach to selection.

ANIML SCI 290G - Ruminant Animal Management I (Fall) Huyler, Malcuit, Purdy (3 credits)

With lab. Team-taught course designed to introduce students to basic methods, techniques, and practices involved in raising large and small ruminants. Fundamentals of animal handling, feeding, housing, medical needs, and breeding will be stressed. Students are expected to declare an interest in one of three ruminant species (sheep, goats, or beef) and to attend the specie-specific lab section. There will be an additional time requirement (1 hour/week) assisting with routine barn chores, and assisting with required animal practices that fall outside of the regularly scheduled lecture and lab times. Additionally, there will be an expectation of at least two Community Service Sessions. These sessions may include participation as student guides for monthly "Open Barns", assisting local livestock producers, and serving as a contact for undergraduate student recruitment.

Prerequisites: ANIML SCI 101 and 103.

ANIML SCI 296 - Independent Study (Fall) (Spring) All Staff, by arrangement (1-6 credits)

ANIML SCI 297A - Special Topics - Basic Therapeutic Riding Practices (Fall)(Spring) Mente (1 credit)

Students will participate in teaching a therapeutic riding class by working as sidewalkers, leaders and assistants. Classes are offered to riders from the community who will benefit from this form of therapy. Classes are taught by trained instructors, and they may also include participation by allied professionals such as physical therapists. Students will gain insight into the theory and methods of therapeutic riding through class participation, work with instructors and writing a research paper.

ANIML SCI 297B - Special Topics - A.I. Certification (Spring) Balise, Malcuit (1 credit)

This course is conducted during spring break of each year to introduce students and area cattle farmers to the concepts and procedures involved in the artificial insemination of dairy and beef cattle. The course is held in NY and participants earn a certificate of completion. The instructor is a professional from the A.I. industry.

ANIML SCI 297L – Special Topics - Livestock Classic (Spring) Purdy (1 credit)

Grooming and showing cattle, swine, sheep, goats, llamas, alpacas, and horses are taught by hands-on experience and presentation of the animals in a show organized by the students each spring and open to the public. Other requirements may apply. No previous experience needed.

ANIML SCI 297O - Special Topics - Camelid Management Part I (Fall) Purdy (3 credits) This lecture and laboratory course is designed to acquaint animal science students with the management, preventative medicine, and reproductive aspects of camelids. It is of particular relevance to those students considering a job as an alpaca farm manager or camelid veterinarian in the future. The department's alpaca herd is used to demonstrate these subjects. The course is primarily hands on with major emphasis on familiarity with all aspects of the handling and care of alpacas. Students get experience with all aspects of the alpaca industry and the teaching herd is managed just like that of any breeding farm. Topics covered include: behavior, housing, injection techniques, foot care, dentistry, nutrition, intestinal parasites and control, vaccinations, eye examinations, meningeal worm disease, basic reproduction, conformation and breeding practices, and reproductive behavior. Visits to local farms and attendance at shows are used to familiarize students with the alpaca industry.

ANIML SCI 298 - Practicum (off campus) (Fall) (Spring) All Staff, by arrangement (1-6 credits per semester)

See departmental requirements for presenting your results; approval of the program and registration at Undergraduate Program Office, 309 Stockbridge Hall, required. Can be taken for repeat credit up to 15 credits total for career.

ANIML SCI 300 - Writing in the Animal Sciences (Fall) (Spring) Barlow (3 credits)
Writing assignments in the sciences underlying animal research and animal agriculture and in the husbandry and management of animals for food and recreation. Emphasis on writing/revising and peer editing and oral reports. Satisfies the junior-year writing requirement for Animal Science majors only. Prerequisites: ENGLWRIT 112 or 113 and at least two courses in Animal Science. Juniors and Seniors only.

ANIML SCI 311 - Animal Genetics and Breeding (Fall) Staff (3 credits)
Identification, transmission, expression, makeup, and arrangement of the hereditary material. This course emphasizes principles affecting qualitatively inherited traits of animals. Prerequisite: Biology 101 or 103 or consent of instructor. An optional 1 credit honors colloquium is also available.

ANIML SCI 332- Basic Animal Nutrition and Feeding (Fall) Huyler (4 credits)
With lab. A detailed study of macro and micro nutrients, their digestion, absorption and metabolism by various domesticated animal species for maintenance and production. Introduction to feeding programs. Prerequisite: ANIML SCI 103 or 220.

An optional 1 credit honors colloquium is also available.

ANIML SCI 344 - Theories and Methods of Equitation Instruction (Fall) Schurink (3 credits)

With lab. For potential instructors. Awareness of teaching responsibilities. Knowledge and skills applicable to instructing a group of riders, including theory and practical application. Prerequisite: ANIML SCI 152, 153 or 154 level riding ability. Instructor consent required.

ANIML SCI 360 - Farm Animal Care and Welfare (Fall) Grande (3 credits)
The moral and ethical theories of animal rights and welfare as they pertain to farm animals. Exploration of the history of farm animal welfare and the assessment of the animal rights and welfare movement today. Special attention will be given to the economic, ethical and welfare aspects of current animal husbandry practices.

ANIML SCI 372 – Animal Diseases (Spring) Anguita, Purdy (3 credits)

Introduction to animal diseases and immunity. Topics include infectious organisms, infection and the immune response, and specific diseases of selected companion and production species. Principles of vaccination and preventative management discussed. Open to Animal Science and Pre-Veterinary majors only. Prerequisites: ANIMLSCI 103, 200, and 220.

ANIML SCI 397I is an accompanying laboratory course limited to 20 students which emphasizes a hands on approach to livestock disease problem solving.

ANIML SCI 385 - Introductory Biotechnology Lab - (Spring) Arcaro, Burand, Cousin (4 credits)

An introduction to the methodology fundamental to the practice of modern agricultural biotechnology. Techniques covered include establishment and manipulation of plant and animal cell cultures, preparation and analysis of DNA and RNA, production of recombinant protein expression vectors, isolation and characterization of proteins, and use of immunoassays. Major emphasis on the student's performance of laboratory exercises which provide direct experience with each of the techniques mentioned. Prerequisites: CHEM 112, BIOLOGY 101 or consent of instructor.

ANIML SCI 390G - Ruminant Animal Management II (Spring) Huyler, Malcuit, Purdy (3 credits)

This course is designed to introduce students to advanced methods of raising large and small ruminants on a production scale. Methods of production, breeding, profitability, value added products, marketing, and environmental impacts will be stressed. Students will be expected to declare an interest in one of three animal species (sheep, goats, or beef) and will attend that specific laboratory section. Students will also be required to spend an additional 1 hour/week assisting with barn chores and animal related events that fall outside the lecture and lab sections. Additionally, students will be expected to write a business plan for a commercial scale ruminant livestock enterprise. Prerequisites: ANIML SCI 101, 103 and 290G.

ANIML SCI 392A - Seminar - Careers in Animal Science (Spring) Chickering-Sears, Grande (1 credit)

The seminar series will feature presentations by agricultural and animal science professionals in the fields of Animal Health, Animal Nutrition, Genetics, Biotechnology and others. Topics will include resume preparation, interview skills, internship opportunities and eb-based employment search guides. Pass/Fail only grading.

ANIML SCI 396 - Independent Study (Fall) (Spring) All Staff, by arrangement (1-6 credits)

ANIML SCI 397A - Special Topics - Horse Breeding (Spring) Gradil (1-3 credits)

Horse breeding will provide understanding and hands on opportunity in equine eproduction. Specifically, semen collection, evaluation and processing practice; discussion in mare breeding management and use of hormones; preparation of the mare for breeding ; introduction to embryo transfer. Additionally, mares in the breeding program at the Hadley Farm will be worked-on during labs and students will be able to participate in teasing and decision-making on breeding management and assisting in foaling. Client based cases may also be introduced during labs. Restrictions: Open to Animal Science and Pre-veterinary majors and Stockbridge Seniors only. Stockbridge students must take concurrently with ANIML SCI 445.

ANIML SCI 397B - Special Topics - Behavior of Domestic Animals (Spring) Howe (3 redits)

This course contains an in depth study of normal and abnormal behavior of farm and companion animals. Emphasis is placed upon the application of the course material as it applies to the practical aspects of the Animal Industry. Topics include developmental behavior, sexual and maternal behavior, aggression, ingestive behavior and behavioral disorders.

ANIML SCI 397F - Special Topics - Community Riding Instruction (Fall) (Spring) Mente (1-3 credits)

Teaching riding by undergraduates under the supervision of the assistant riding instructor.

Prerequisite: ANIML SCI 344

ANIML SCI 397G - Special Topics - Therapeutic Riding Instruction (Spring) Mente (3 credits)

Teaching riding by undergraduates under the supervision of the assistant riding instructor. Prerequisites: ANIML SCI 151 or 297A with grade of "C" or better

ANIML SCI 397I - Special Topics - Livestock Disease, Diagnosis and Treatment (Spring) Purdy, Anguita (1 credit)

Optional lab component of ANIML SCI 372. This is a "grand rounds" type of course where tudents view and discuss the current clinical cases in the livestock and equine barns with faculty that includes DVMs. Prerequisites: concurrent or prior enrollment in ANIML SCI 372 or 472.

ANIML SCI 397J - Special Topics - Camelid Management Part II (Spring) Purdy (3 credits)

This lecture and laboratory course provides the student with a more in depth exposure to alpaca husbandry and diseases than Camelid Management I. It is of particular relevance to those students considering a job as an alpaca farm manager or camelid veterinarian in the future. The department's alpaca herd is used to demonstrate these subjects. The course is primarily hands on with major emphasis on familiarity with all aspects of the handling and care of alpacas. Students get experience with all aspects of the alpaca industry and the teaching herd is managed just like that of any breeding farm. Topics covered include advanced reproduction, pregnancy, birthing, neonatology, lactation and cria growth, common diseases, camelid research, and biosecurity. Clinical cases are used to illustrate principles of diagnosis and treatment of camelid infertility problems. Visits to local farms and attendance at shows are used to familiarize students with the alpaca industry.

ANIML SCI 398 - Practicum (on campus) (Fall) (Spring) All Staff, by arrangement (1-6 credits per semester)

See departmental requirements for presenting your results. Approval of the program and registration at Undergraduate Program Office, 309 Stockbridge Hall, required. Can be taken for repeat credit up to 15 credits total for career.

ANIML SCI 432 - Advanced Animal Nutrition (Spring Semester - even numbered years) Huyler (3 credits)

The nutrition of domesticated animals with emphasis on dietary programs for production and health. Focus on monogastric, ruminant, and cecal digesting species in lecture. There is an optional lab offered (ANIMLSCI 497S). Prerequisite: ANIMLSCI 332.

ANIML SCI 442 - Practice Teaching of Equitation (Fall) (Spring) Mente (3 credits)
Students plan, direct and teach Beginning Equitation under staff supervision. Prerequisite: ANIMLSCI 344.

ANIML SCI 445 - Equine Stud Farm Management (Spring) Howe, Gradil (3 credits)
With lab. Physiological basis and regulation of equine reproduction. Emphasis on application to horse breeding and management. The course provides an optional lab experience with breeding techniques (ANIML SCI 397A). Open to Animal Science and Stockbridge students only or by consent of instructor.

ANIML SCI 452 - Canine and Feline Management (Fall) Howe (3 credits)

The management of dogs and cats including housing, breeding, diseases and behavior. The course emphasizes practical management of breeding and training including management of problem behaviors. No prerequisites. Juniors, Seniors only. Others by permission of instructor.

ANIML SCI 454 - Dairy Herd Management (Spring Semester - odd numbered years) Huyler (4 credits)

With lab. Managerial problems and practices associated with successful dairying in the Northeast and the U.S. Includes dairy cattle nutrition, selection, breeding, lactation and waste management. Students are expected to participate in lectures. Prerequisites: Some nutrition, genetics and physiology or consent of instructor. Prerequisite: ANIML SCI 332.

ANIML SCI 455 - Research Animal Management (Spring) Balise (4 credits) With lab. Humane care, handling, and management of mice, rats, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, dogs, and non-human primates used in research, nutrition, breeding, disease control, gnotobiology, anesthesiology, surgery, and necropsy. Juniors and Seniors only.

ANIML SCI 459 - Horse Management (Fall) Purdy (4 credits) With lab. History, development, nutrition, selection, reproduction, health and management of the horse. The pleasure horse is emphasized but all aspects of the horse industry are explored. Field trips to a variety of horse farms. Restricted to Animal Science and Pre-veterinary majors or by consent of instructor.

ANIML SCI 472 - Infection and Immunity (Spring) Baldwin, Osborne (3 credits) Introduction to immunology and how mammals control pathogenic organisms including bacteria, viruses, protozoa and helminths. The lab will include sample collection, preparation and analysis of serologic and cellular responses. Prerequisites: ANIML SCI 200; Juniors and Seniors only, or by consent of instructor. An optional 1 credit honors colloquium is also available.

ANIML SCI 490C –Fundamentals of Reproduction (Fall) Gradil (3 credits )

This course is designed to provide knowledge in animal reproduction. The course will provide a basic introduction into the principles and mechanisms of normal and abnormal aspects of reproduction and current approaches to reproductive care and management. The aim is to empower the student with entry level, current knowledge for the reproductive aspects of any modern animal husbandry. Content includes functional anatomy, reproductive life cycles and terminology, discussion of breeding management, common causes of intertility, and assisted reproductive technologies. Whenever possible a laboratory component will demonstrate applied aspects of animal reproduction. Prerequisites: ANIML SCI 220. Open to Junior and Senior Animal Science and Pre-veterinary students.

ANIML SCI 496 - Independent Study (Fall) (Spring) All Staff, by arrangement (1-6 credits)

ANIML SCI 497A - Special Topics -Equine Diseases and Health Management (Spring) Gradil (3 credits)

This practical course is designed for students interested in a career in horse farm management. The course is directed toward hands on experience in general management practices and cooperative work with veterinarians, farriers and other practitioners. The course will include: common pharmaceuticals administered by veterinarians, dental care, hoof care and shoeing, vaccinations, internal parasites and their control, wound types and management, dealing with colic, lameness, periparturient problems in mares, care and diseases of the newborn foal, care of the older horse. Prerequisite: ANIML SCI 459.

ANIML SCI 497L - Special Topics - Winter Traveling Dairy Management Huyler (1 credit)
This course is conducted collaboratively with other New England Land Grant institutions. Students and faculty collectively tour dairies and dairy related facilities during the first week in January. UMass students meet with the faculty advisor for a series of weekly discussion sessions to talk about each of the destinations.

ANIML SCI 497S - Special Topics - Techniques in Nutritional Research (Spring Semester - even numbered years) Huyler (2 credits)

Lab. This course provides students with an introduction to the scientific technique. A series of nutrition-related experiments will be conducted throughout the semester which will familiarize students with the challenges of experimental design, sample collection and analysis, and statistical analysis.

ANIML SCI 498Y - Practicum, year long. (Fall) (Spring) All Staff, by arrangement (1-12 credits for year long practicum)

See departmental requirements for presenting your results; approval of the program and registration at Undergraduate Program Office, 309 Stockbridge Hall, required. Can be taken for repeat credit up to 15 credits total for career.

ANIML SCI 521 - Physiology of Reproduction (Fall) Fissore,Visconti (4 credits)
With lab. Comparative aspects of anatomy, embryology, endocrinology and physiology of reproduction and lactation. Participation required. Prerequisite: ANIML SCI 220 or equivalent. An optional 1 credit honors colloquium is also available.

ANIML SCI 555 - Environmental Toxicology in Context (Fall Semester - alternate years) Clark (3 credits)

Concepts and principles of environmental toxicology. Chemical structure activity relationships; their interaction with the environment. Basic principles; the predicted and observed fate of chemicals in various components of the biosphere. Hazard evaluation; fate and effects of chemicals in soil, plants, wildlife, aquatic organisms, and humans. Prerequisite: Introduction to Environmental Toxicology.

ANIML SCI 585 - Animal and Environmental Toxicology (Fall Semester - alternate years) Clark (3 credits)

All aspects of insecticide chemistry, including toxicity, classification, pharmaco-dynamics and metabolism, mechanisms of action, resistance, and environmental toxicology. Also examines veterinary drugs that control eco- and endo-parasites. For those with animal science, toxicological, agricultural, or environmental interests. Prerequisite: Organic Chemistry

ANIML SCI 596 - Independent Study (Fall) (Spring) All Staff, by arrangement (1-6 credits)

See departmental requirements for presenting your results. Approval of the program and registration at Undergraduate Program Office, 309 Stockbridge Hall, required. Generally this level is used by upper level undergraduates but can be used by beginning graduate students. Can be taken as an HONORS course with "H designation", i.e. 596H. Can be taken for repeat credit.

ANIML SCI 597A - Special Topics in Immunology (Fall) Goldsby (3 credits)
The immune response is a consequence of the developmentally programmed or antigen triggered interaction of a complex network of interacting cell types. These interactions are controlled by regulatory molecules and often result in the production of highly specific cellular or molecular effectors. This course will present the principles underlying the immune response and describe the methods employed in immunological research. In addition to lectures, a program of seminars will provide an introduction to the research literature of immunology. (Off Campus - Amherst College)