AGRI 110 - Introduction to Animal Science

4 Credit (3 lecture, 2 lab) 5 Contact Hours

Objectives:

1. Discuss the history of animal agriculture. 
2. Explore the relationship between people and animals. 
3. Identify animal products used by humans. 
4. Describe the economics of the animal industry in the county, state, nation and world. 
5. Identify and describe the major agencies involved in regulating the animal industry.  

Goal 2:  Discuss the requirements of companion and exotic animals. 

Objectives:

1. Define “companion” and “exotic” animals. 
2. Identify organizations and regulatory agencies involved in companion/exotic animals.  
3. Describe the uses of companion animals. 
4. Identify the requirements to raise, handle or own companion animals. 
5. Visit a local exotic animal organization.  

Goal 3:  Describe animal nutrition in production and companion animals. 

Objectives:

1. Compare digestive systems between ruminant and non-ruminant animals. 
2. Describe the basic nutrients required by all animals: needs, uses, sources, etc. 
3. Identify various feeds used to raise production animals. 
4. Describe feed ratios to meet dietary requirements for growth and milk production animals.  

Goal 4:  Compare animal production in small and large-scale operations. 

Objectives:

1. Describe animal handling and behavior. 
2. Compare principles of animal management in small vs. large scale production operations. 
3. Discuss the economics of large and small-scale production. 
4. Discuss manure management.  

Goal 5:  Describe the major animal industries: Dairy, beef, equine, poultry, swine and sheep. 

Objectives:

1. Define terminology and nomenclature respective to each species. 
2. Identify equipment used in each species’ industry. 
3. Discuss species specific characteristics, growth requirements, breeds, etc. 
4. Compare production differences and similarities between species. 
5. Discuss genetic traits and records when choosing animals to breed. 
6. Describe milk and milk production. 
7. Describe egg characteristics and production.  

Goal 6:  Compare animal structure, function and reproduction as it relates to producing animal products. 

Objectives:

1. Relate structure and conformation of animals to production needs. 
2. Describe carcass characteristics in meat animals. 
3. Calculate dressing percentages. 
4. Discuss meat inspection and grading. 
5. Identify basic reproduction anatomy. 
6. Compare reproduction needs and technology in production animals.  

Goal 7:  Explore career options in animal science. 

Objectives:

1. Identify species specific career opportunities. 
2. Visit various production systems and agribusinesses in the area. 
3. Interview selected animal producers. 
4. Discuss transfer requirements for an animal science degree from MSU. 
5. Introduce different types of research going on in animal & food industry.