School of Land and Environment Master of Agricultural Science

 This subject covers the application of genetics to the breeding of animals. The topics to be covered include: definition of breeding objectives in economic terms; the meaning of genetic parameters such as heritability; estimation of breeding values; use of genetic improvement tools such as selection and crossbreeding; the effects of inbreeding and how to minimise them; the use of molecular and reproductive technology; and design of breeding programs.

On completion of the subject students should understand the application of quantitative and molecular genetics, have a sound knowledge of practical breeding programs and be able to design and manage these programs.

Handbook Entry

This subject is taught by Dr Mike Goddard.