INTRODUCTION

Animal agriculture is undergoing rapid transition with an increasing application of science and technology in the various facets of animal production namely animal health management, animal nutrition, animal breeding, and livestock production systems. Scientific technologies such as the application of genomic information in sections of animals for breeding, manipulation of rumen ecology in animal nutrition, and computer simulation of production systems as well as traceability of animal products to the farm of origin have revolutionized the animal industry. Traditionally, animal production has been restricted to conventional species such as cattle, sheep, goats, camels pigs, bees, fish, and poultry. Development in the industry has resulted in non-conventional species from the wild being raised for economic functions, leisure as well as human consumption. With these transitions taking place in the industry, a responsive curriculum need to be designed to address the knowledge and skills required to transform the industry.

This programme responds to the increasing demand for human resources with the ability to effectively utilize advanced scientific and technical knowledge and skills of animal breeding and genetics, animal nutrition, animal production systems for research, and production for food security and social well-being. The program is focused on enhancing knowledge and skills in the application of science and technology in the three pillars (animal breeding and genetics, animal nutrition, animal production systems) of livestock production that will be achieved through planned and coordinated training and research. The application of advanced scientific technology is an increasing trend in animal production. Students enrolled in this programme will have an option to specialize in any of the three courses: animal breeding and genetics, animal nutrition, or animal production systems.

OBJECTIVES

The MSc Degree in Animal Science is designed to enable the student to be:-

1. Knowledgeable and skilled in the application of scientific principles and new technologies in animal breeding and genetics, animal nutrition, and production systems. 
2. Trained to apply advanced scientific, technological knowledge and skills of animal breeding, nutrition, and production systems for various livestock species for food security and sustainable animal genetic resource use.
3. Able to secure and generate employment in research, academia, and livestock industry. 

EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES

The curriculum is designed to help the learners develop their skills and knowledge so that they will be able to:

1. Implement efficiently and effectively animal breeding, nutrition, and production programmes with due consideration to the protection of the environment and consumers’ concerns for quality and safety. 
2. Procedurally, carry out animal science research, evaluate the outcomes and draw valid conclusions and recommendations.
3. Identify, and provide solutions to technological and management problems, and offer professional advice on livestock production.
4. Pursue doctoral studies in relevant areas of livestock science.
5. Train and mentor young upcoming animal scientists as a lecturer in institutions of higher learning.
6. Support implementation of livestock programmes as advisors, administrators, extension specialists, or trainers.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 

To qualify for admission into the Master's degree candidates shall be:

1. Holders of at least an upper second class honors degree in Animal Science of Maseno University or
2. Holders of a lower second class degree of Maseno University or any other recognized University and evidence of at least three (2) years research experience as demonstrated by publications in a peer-reviewed journal.
3. Holders of a pass degree of Maseno University or any other recognized University and Postgraduate Diploma of Maseno University or any other recognized institution and evidence of at least three (3) years research experience as demonstrated by publications in a peer-reviewed journal.
4. In addition to the above, applicants must meet the specific requirements of the Masters's programme as approved by Senate.

PROGRAMME DURATION

Period of two academic years distributed over four semesters of full/part-time attendance provided that part-time attendance shall not exceed a period of four calendar years from the date of registration.

MODE OF DELIVERY

Face-to-face sessions involving students and lecturers.

COURSE DISTRIBUTION