Graduate Certificate in Animal Science

The Graduate Certificate in Animal Science is suitable for students who wish to undertake advanced studies in a specific component of animal science in pursuit of upskilling and career development in the livestock sector. This unique postgraduate programme was designed after comprehensive consultation with leading stakeholders including animal nutrition and health industries. As a component of the suite of options available for the MSc, this new certificate also aims to equip graduates with cutting edge skills and position them for progression to leadership roles in a dynamic and critically important sector of the global economy.
This innovative programme enables students to focus their studies on specific aspects of animal science including genetics & genomics, reproduction, nutrition and health. For those with an enquiring mind, a deeper understanding of scientific principles relevant to solving issues currently limiting system sustainability will be reflected in new modules developed for this MSc, including immunobiology, sustainable livestock and global food systems.
Graduates of this programme will acquire the following skills in their chosen subject areas:
A spectrum of understanding of core foundational principles in Animal Science including the latest developments in each discipline.
An understanding of the current and future challenges of animal production enterprises and how research is meeting these challenges.
The ability to comprehensively synthesize and articulate the role of education, strategic and applied aspects of agriculture in identifying the solutions for the Agri-food systems of tomorrow.
The ability to apply animal science knowledge (e.g. Nutrition, Genetics, Reproduction and Health) for the sustainable production of livestock in a welfare-friendly and ethically responsible manner.
The capacity to demonstrate and apply a foundation knowledge of how cutting-edge developments in Animal Science ensure a safe food supply for consumers.

Applicants must hold a minimum of a Second Class Honours degree in a related science discipline (or international equivalent).

Candidates with significant prior relevant work experience will also be considered. Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact the Programme Director to discuss their eligibility. Applications are assessed on a case by case basis by the Programme Director.

You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.