Animal Science

The Diploma in Animal Science is suitable for students who wish to undertake advanced studies in specific components 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 diploma also aims to equip graduates with cutting edge skills and position them for 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 including immunobiology, sustainable livestock and global food systems.



Flexible programme choices enable students to focus their studies on an area of specific interest for the development of deeper expertise or tailor their module choice for a broader selection. A key strategy of the diploma is to foster the development of communication and transferable skills to enable the student to best represent their skillset and become leading ambassadors for sustainable animal production systems. It is also important to recognise that connected pathway options enable students to progress onward from the Diploma to the MSc if desired.



The suite of postgraduate options have been designed in collaboration with Industry stakeholders and will be delivered by internationally renowned discipline experts. Guest lectures and new modules will showcase the latest developments in national and international research informed by innovative projects taking place at UCD Lyons Farm.



This programme is delivered and assessed entirely online and can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. The online format of the programme enables students enrolled to combine studying while in employment.

Advanced animal reproductionANSC40270

Advanced animal nutritionANSC40280

Sustainable livestock systemsANSC40290

Livestock infection, immunity and One HealthANSC40300

Animal Genomics and Quantitative GeneticsANSC40310

Global Food SystemsANSC40320

Commun & Agri-InnovationANSC40340

Data Analyses & Interpretation (On-line)ENVB40370

Animal FoodsFDSC40890

Food Quality and Safety (O/L)HNUT40110

Creative Thinking & Innovation (Online)IA20160

Research Integrity OnlineSCI50020

Data Programming with R (Online)STAT40730

Data Prog with SAS (online)STAT40840

TEARAPVET40460

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.



Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.

The following entry routes are available:



Grad Dip Animal Science FT (D086)

Duration 1 Years

Attend Full Time

Deadline Rolling*

* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised



The following entry routes are available:



Grad Dip Animal Science PT (D087)

Duration 2 Years

Attend Part Time

Deadline Rolling*

* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised

1 Year Full Time, 2 Years Part Time.

MODE OF DELIVERY: Online

NEXT INTAKE: 2024/2025 September.

Careers & Employability

There are a wide range of potential employment opportunities for graduates from this programme. Agriculture is a global enterprise and as such progressive individuals will identify the contribution this MSc can make across a wide range of career trajectories.



Graduate Roles include:



Further education including PhD programmes nationally and abroad

Policy and advisory roles within governmental departments

Senior positions within leading nutrition, health, breeding and pharmaceutical companies