Equine science, animal care and animal health and welfare will be the subject of a series of new degrees available to Aberdeen students later this year.
The Department of Agriculture has set up the new BSc programmes, the first of their kind in Scotland, in response to an increasing public concern for animal welfare. The official launch of the new degree programmes will take place at the Royal Highland Show at Ingliston this week (June 24-27).
The BSc in Animal Care will be co-ordinated jointly by the University and Aberdeen College (Clinterty Campus). It will aim to describe the operation and management of the animal care industry and to relate understanding of the physiology, nutrition and welfare of domestic animals to practice in the industry. It will also show how scientific knowledge can be used to improve the welfare and management of domestic animals.
Students of Animal Health and Welfare will look at the science underlying the understanding of animal health and relates physiology, nutrition and management to animal health and welfare. They will also learn about the principles of disease occurrence and important diseases of animals.
Meanwhile, horse lovers will be introduced to the basis of the equestrian industry and of the science underlying its operation in the Equine Science degree. They will also receive an understanding of the physiology, development, nutrition and welfare of horses. The degree will also be run jointly by the University and Aberdeen College.
Two additional degree programmes run by the Department of Agriculture will also start in October. Applied Biology for the Land Based Industries will combine courses in a wide range of applied plant sciences with specific reference to application of knowledge in the land-based industries. It will involve a strong element of industrial experience.
Finally, the new MA in Rural Development represents a response to the changing demands on the countryside and rural resources, and a recognition that the old distinction between farmers and foresters and other rural businesses is fast breaking down. It is also a response both to changing policy at UK and European level and to the need to sharpen the business skills of those engaging in economic activity in rural areas.