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.



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.



Knowledge on how to employ a range of media to effectively communicate with the multiple and diverse stakeholders in the Irish and International Agri-food sector.



The ability to apply relevant scientific evidence and other knowledge, to positively affect policy, regulation and public health relating to animal production systems.



The self-actualisation skills to occupy leadership positions and to take active roles in societal discussions surrounding sustainable animal production systems.



NFQ Level: 9 (60 credits)

Level: Graduate Taught

Award: Graduate Diploma

Stage 1 Options - A) Min 30CR:

Animal Science modules

Students will need to complete a minimum of 30 credits and a maximum of 40 credits from this block.

Please refer to the Animal Science Programme handbook for further information,

ANSC40270: Advanced animal reproduction

ANSC40290: Sustainable livestock systems

ANSC40300: Livestock infection, immunity and One Health

ANSC40280: Advanced animal nutrition

ANSC40310: Animal Genomics and Quantitative Genetics

ANSC40320: Global Food Systems



Stage 1 Options - B) Min 20CR:

Associated and Transferrable Skills modules

Students will need to complete a minimum of 20 credits and a maximum of 30 credits from this block.

Please refer to the Animal Science Programme handbook for further information,

ANSC40350: Animal Welfare & Society

ENVB40370: Data Analyses & Interpretation (On-line)

STAT40730: Data Programming with R (Online)

IA20160: Creative Thinking & Innovation (Online)

SCI50020: Research Integrity Online

VET40460: TEARAP

ANSC40360: Equine Reproduction&Fertility

FDSC40890: Animal Foods

HNUT40110: Food Quality and Safety (O/L)

ANSC40340: Commun & Agri-Innovation

STAT40840: Data Prog with SAS (online)

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.



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 (https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax) for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

Delivery: Online

D086: 1 year full-time

D087: 2 years part-time

D086: Graduate Diploma Animal Science

Full-Time: Commencing September 2025



D087: Graduate Diploma Animal Science PT

Part-Time: Commencing September 2025



Graduate Taught