Print Syllabus

Syllabus

HV0220 Biology of lactation , 7.5 Credits

Laktationsbiologi

Subjects

Animal Science Biology Science

Education cycle

Master’s level

Advanced study in the main field

Second cycle, has only first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Master’s level (A1N)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

180 credits and

30 credits biology or 

30 credits animal science or 

30 credits veterinary medicine or 

30 credits veterinary nursing or 

30 credits equine science or 

30 credits reproductive health and

English 6

Objectives

The aim of the course is to provide in-depth knowledge of factors that affect milk synthesis and interactions between reproduction, nutrition, behavior and lactation, including effects of lactation on the lactating animal.

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

• describe the anatomy, physiology and genetics of milk synthesis, and relate this to milk yield and milk composition,
• in detail describe the function of a milking machine,
• identify critical steps in milking routines, and give suggestions on how interactions between humans, animals and their environment including technology can benefit animal welfare, food safety, milk production and the processability of the milk,
• evaluate and summarize research studies within the field of lactation biology.

Content

Subject-related content

The course content cover udder anatomy, udder physiology, milk synthesis, milk extraction, udder health, care routines, milking technology and milking equipment. In addition, the course covers the effects of genetics, breeding, feeding, housing and milking management on milk yield and milk composition.

In the course, comparisons between animal species are primarily made for production animals kept for milk production, such as cattle, domestic water buffalo, goat, sheep and camels. Some comparisons are made also with other mammalian species, including humans. The course builds on basic university level knowledge in primarily cell biology, physiology and nutrition. Additionally, some aspects of ethology, animal welfare, food science, production systems, sustainability and the interaction between humans, animals and technology will also be covered.

Teaching formats

To further student learning and promote discussion, a variety of methods are used: lectures, exercises, study visits and group discussions.

Course literature consists of relevant research articles. Flipped classroom pedagogy is implemented throughout the course, which means that the students perform independent self-studies before scheduled sessions with the teachers.

The course focuses on the following generic competencies

Critical thinking, scientific communication and oral presentation.

The following components are compulsory

Course information, dissection exercises, and literature seminar.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Passed oral examination, passed written examination, approved oral presentation and approved participation in compulsory components.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

It is recommended that the student has basic university level knowledge in nutrition, endocrinology and physiology.

Responsible department

Department of Applied Animal Science and Welfare