Animal and Poultry Sciences
www.apsc.vt.edu/
E-mail: apsc@vt.edu
Mark A. McCann, Department Head
Paul Mellon Distinguished Professor of Agriculture: R. J. Geor
Professors: W. E. Beal; D. M. Denbow; E. A. Dunnington; J.W. Knight;
M. A. McCann; D. R. Notter; K. E. Webb, Jr.; E. A. Wong
Associate Professors: J. D. Eifert; M. J. Estienne; D. E. Eversole;
S. P. Greiner; J. B. Hall; A. F. Harper; R. M. Lewis; A. P. McElroy; E. J. Smith;
M. L. Wahlberg; C. M. Wood
Assistant Professors: H. Jiang; C. L. Novak; G. Scaglia; R. K. Splan;
W. B. Staniar
Instructor: T. L. McDonald
Lecturer: C. C. Crisman
Adjunct Professor: P. A. Harris
Career Advisors: C. M. Wood; D. M. Denbow; D. E. Eversole
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Overview
APSC provides individuals with a broad education tailored to meet their needs and aptitudes. The program prepares students for careers in livestock and poultry production, agribusiness, research, and teaching. Preparatory curricula are also provided for subsequent training at the graduate level and in professional schools such as veterinary medicine. This major combines education in the basic sciences of animal and poultry nutrition, genetics, and physiology with management principles as applied to the raising and merchandising of beef cattle, horses, poultry, sheep, swine, and their products. Qualified undergraduates may participate in independent studies, undergraduate research, and summer internship programs. Co-op and study abroad opportunities are also available.
Students choose among three options: production/business, science (pre-vet), and biotechnology. Within each option, emphases are offered in the areas of equine, livestock, and poultry. Specific requirements may be obtained from the departmental advising office (540/231-6936), by e-mail (apsc@vt.edu), or on the web at www.apsc.vt.edu.
The department also offers opportunities for graduate specialization in the following fields: behavior, genetics, management, nutrition, and physiology. M.S. and Ph.D. programs are offered (see Graduate Catalog).
Course Requirements
| First Year |
| Fall Semester |
(15) |
| CHEM 1035, 1045: General Chemistry |
4 |
| BIOL 1105, 1115: Prin. of Biology |
4 |
| MATH 1015: College Math |
3 |
| APSC 1454, 1464: Intro. to An.& Poul. Sci. |
4 |
| Spring Semester |
(15) |
| CHEM 1036, 1046: General Chemistry |
4 |
| BIOL 1106, 1116: Prin. of Biology |
4 |
| MATH 1016: College Math |
3 |
| APSC 1504: Anim. & Poul. Science Survey |
1 |
| ENGL 1105: Freshman English |
3 |
| Second Year |
| Fall Semester |
(15) |
| ENGL 1106: Freshman English |
3 |
| AAEC 1005: Economics of Food & Fiber Sys. |
3 |
| ALS 2304: Animal Physiology & Anatomy |
4 |
| Electives* |
5 |
| Spring Semester |
(15) |
| AAEC 1006: Economics of Food & Fiber Sys. |
3 |
| BIOL 2604, 2614: Gen. Microbiology |
4 |
| ALS 3204: Animal Nutrition |
4 |
| Electives* |
4 |
| Third Year |
| Fall Semester |
(15) |
| ALS 3104: Animal Breeding & Genetics |
4 |
| COMM 2004: Public Speaking |
3 |
| AAEC 3404, 3454 or Mgt 3304 |
3 |
| Electives* |
5 |
| Spring Semester |
(15) |
| ALS 4304: Physiol. of Repro. in Dom. Anim. |
4 |
| APSC 3004: APSC Seminar |
2 |
| Electives* |
9 |
| Fourth Year |
| Fall Semester |
(15) |
| Choose one (or two): |
| APSC 4404: Poultry Management (4) |
| APSC 4444: Swine Production (4) |
4 |
| APSC 4434: Sheep Production (4) |
| Electives* |
11 |
| Spring Semester |
(15) |
| Choose one (or two): |
| APSC 4414: Beef Production (4) |
4 |
| APSC 4424: Horse Production(4) |
| Electives* |
11 |
Note: Advisors work with students to individualize the course of study.
* Electives must include Area 2, Area 6 and Area 7 selections; 27 emphasis requirements & restricted electives approved by your advisor; and free electives.
Satisfactory Progress
By the end of the academic year in which the student has attempted 72 hours (including transfer, advanced placement, advanced standing and credit by examination) "satisfactory progress" will consist of:
- a grade point average of at least 2.0
- passing at least 24 credits that apply to the University Core
- passing the following:
CHEM 1035, 1036, 1045, 1046
APSC 1454, 1464
At least 8 hours from ALS 2304, 3104 or 3204
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Undergraduate Course Descriptions (APSC)
(ALS) (FST) (BVMS)
ALS 1004: AGRICULTURE, THE ARTS AND SOCIETY
Introduction to the relationships among agriculture, society, and the arts, all of which are integral components of civilization. Pass/Fail only. (1H,1C) I, II.
1454: INTRODUCTION TO ANIMAL & POULTRY SCIENCE
Survey of systems of livestock and poultry production including: terminology pertaining to management and marketing; the breeds of livestock and poultry; and an introduction to nutrition, genetics, and physiology and management of beef cattle, horses, sheep, swine and poultry. Co: 1464. (3H,3C) I,II.
1464: ANIMAL AND POULTRY SCIENCE LABORATORY
Management practices and systems related to efficient livestock and poultry production and marketing are taught through demonstrations and hands-on experience. Co: 1454. (3L,1C) I,II.
1504: ANIMAL AND POULTRY SCIENCES SURVEY
Orientation course for new or prospective students in Animal and Poultry Sciences. Explanation of the extension, teaching and research missions of the Animal and Poultry Sciences Department; academic requirements for majors and the planning of each student's curriculum; the identification of extracurricular learning opportunities and activities; survey of job opportunities for Animal and Poultry Sciences majors. Pass/Fail only. (1H,1C) II.
1524: BEGINNING EQUITATION
Introduction to modern forward seat equitation. No previous experience necessary. Familiarization with parts of the horse, tack, gaits. Control at walk, trot, canter, including trot work over rolling terrain. Pass/Fail only. (4L,1C) I.
1624: LOW INTERMEDIATE EQUITATION
Increased riding at canter and sitting trot. Control of horse over moderately difficult terrain including galloping. Beginning cavelletti work. Pass/Fail only. Pre: 1524. (4L,1C) II.
ALS 2304: ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY AND ANATOMY
Anatomy and physiology of domestic animals including cell, neural, musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, and endocrine systems. Pre: BIOL 1106. (3H,3L,4C) I,II.
ALS 2404 (BIOL 2404): BIOTECHNOLOGY IN A GLOBAL SOCIETY
Introduction to the world-wide impact of biotechnology and molecular biology, including applications to plants, animals, and microorganisms. Explores basic concepts of genetic engineering, scientific and ethical issues, and public concerns related to biotechnology. Topics include: environmental release of genetically engineering organisms, bioremediation, safety of genetically engineered food products, transgenic plants and animals, gene therapy, and genetic screening. Pre: BIOL 1005, BIOL 1006 or BIOL 1105, BIOL 1106, CHEM 1015, CHEM 1016. (3H,3C) II.
2424: INTRODUCTION TO THE EQUINE INDUSTRY
Introduction to the horse and equine industry. Survey of breeds, conformation, breeding, management, equipment, facilities, fitting, showing, and marketing for the successful horse operation. (3H,3C) II.
2464: CARE AND WELFARE OF CAMPANION ANIMALS
The care and welfare of dogs, cats, and other animals that are used primarily for companionship and recreation requires knowledge of their evolution, natural habitats, species and breed characteristics, behavior, breeding, feeding, housing, and training. This course integrates these topics to promote a symbiotic human-animal relationship in which animal welfare is regarded as the good fit of an animal with its environment. Pre: BIOL 1106. (2H,2C)
2524: INTERMEDIATE EQUITATION
Intermediate work in horseback riding with special emphasis on development of the forward seat and skills required for jumping. Elementary dressage movements. Pass/Fail only. Pre: 1624. (4L,1C) I,II.
2624: BEGINNING EQUITATION OVER FENCES
Introduction of jumping skills for the unskilled as well as review of jumping skills for experienced riders. Rider should have skills at trot and canter. Pass/Fail only. Pre: 2524. (4L,1C) I,II.
2724: EQUINE TRAINING
Psychology and ethology of equine social behavior, reproduction and parental care. Application of fundamental behavioral concepts to training of horses and modification of undesirable behavioral patterns. Pre: 2524. (1H,3L,2C) I,II.
2964: FIELD STUDY
Pass/Fail only. Variable credit course.
2974: INDEPENDENT STUDY
Pass/Fail only. Variable credit course.
2984: SPECIAL STUDY
Variable credit course.
3004: ANIMAL AND POULTRY SCIENCE SEMINAR
Important issues in animal agriculture, problem solving and management related decision making. The transition from student life to work in the livestock and poultry industries. (1H,3L,2C) I,II.
ALS 3104: ANIMAL BREEDING AND GENETICS
Principles of genetics related to improvement of domestic farm animals. Molecular, cellular and physiological genetics, estimation of breeding values, selection, heritabilities, genetic correlations, relationships, in-breeding, heterosis, genetic abnormalities. Pre: BIOL 1106, MATH 1015. (4H,4C) I.
ALS 3204: ANIMAL NUTRITION AND FEEDING
Characteristics, sources, digestion, absorption, and metabolism of water, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Feedstuffs, diet formulation, and feeding systems for livestock and poultry. Pre: 2304, (CHEM 1016 or CHEM 1036). (4H,4C) I,II.
3214 (FST 3214): MEAT SCIENCE
Study of meat science starting with the live animal through the utilization as a muscle food. Fundamentals in live animal evaluation, slaughter, fabrication, fresh meat, byproduct utilization, and processed meats. The physical, chemical, physiological, and microbiological properties of meat as related to meat composition, quality, nutrition, and safety. Even years. Pre: ALS 2304, BIOL 604, CHEM 1015. (2H,6L,4C) I.
FST 3224: POULTRY PROCESSING AND PRODUCTS
Quality factors, and physical and chemical changes in processing and handling of egg and poultry products. Methods for maintaining high quality of these products. (1H,3L,2C) I.
3304: EMBRYOLOGY
Normal and teratological embryology are intensively examined from ovulation through hatching or birth. Environmental, nutritional and genetic factors affecting embryogenesis. Even years. Pre: ALS 2304, BIOL 3404. (2H,3L,3C) I.
3404: POULTRY EVALUATION AND SELECTION
Evaluation and grading of poultry and poultry products; selection of breeding stock; selection for egg production; factors contributing to quality. Pre: 1454. (3L,1C) II.
3524: INTERMEDIATE EQUITATION OVER FENCES
Establishment of sound jumping skills. Continuation of more advanced flat work. Study of hunter courses and cross country jumping. Pass/Fail only. Pre: 2624. (4L,1C) I,II.
3624: ADVANCED EQUITATION OVER FENCES
Advanced methods and techniques for jumping and precision riding. Pass/Fail only. Pre: 3524. (4L,1C) I,II.
3724: PRINCIPLES OF EQUINE EVALUATION
Evaluation of equine conformation related to locomotion, performance, and soundness; breed standards; performance records; rules and regulations pertaining to evaluation of conformation and performance; instruction in event evaluation. (1H,3L,2C) I.
3754: PRINCIPLES OF LIVESTOCK EVALUATION
Selection of market and breeding animals based on subjective and objective methods of evaluation. Basic understanding of evaluation principles, form-to-function, and performance records. Involves accurate decision making and oral reason presentations. (6L,2C) II.
3764: LIVESTOCK MECHANDISING
A comprehensive study of the principles and activities involved in successfully promoting and merchandising livestock. A livestock auction will be held at the conclusion of the course to provide experiences in advertising, salesmanship, facility development, sale management, and budgeting. Junior standing required. (2H,2C) I.
BVMS 4024: DISEASES OF POULTRY
Biology control and prevention of poultry diseases. Taught alternate years. (2H,2C) I.
4054 (BCHM 4054): GENOMICS
A contemporary analysis of the development, utility and application of high-resolution methods for the study and manipulation of the complete genomes of organisms. The use of new techniques for genomic, metabolic and protein engineering (functional genomics), including high-throughput methods and nanotechnology, will be emphasized. Pre: BCHM 4116 or BIOL 3774. (3H,3C) II.
4154: APPLIED MEAT ANIMAL GENETICS
The application of selection and mating systems to genetic improvement of beef cattle, swine and sheep in the United States. Description of applied breeding programs from elsewhere in the world. New findings in the inheritance of biological and behavioral traits. Future issues and concerns. Pre: ALS 3104. (3H,3C) II.
ALS 4304: PHYSIOLOGY OF REPRODUCTION
Physiological mechanisms that control and affect reproductive processes in domestic animals, birds, humans, and selected other species. Pre: 2304. (3H,3L,4C) I,II.
4404: COMMERCIAL POULTRY ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT
Production, management and reproduction of egg- and meat-type chickens and turkeys. Emphasis is on the application of basic poultry science principles as they relate to commercial poultry enterprises. The course is designed to prepare students for careers in poultry service and production management. Pre: 1454, 1464, ALS 2304, ALS 3104, ALS 3204. (3H,3L,4C) I.
4414: BEEF PRODUCTION AND INDUSTRY
Detailed study of the commercial and purebred beef cattle industries. Basic principles for successful and profitable beef production. Emphasis on applied, managerial practices during laboratory. Pre: ALS 3104, ALS 3204, ALS 4304. (3H,3L,4C) II.
4424: HORSE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
Reproduction, genetics, nutrition, health, behavior and training, economics of commercial horse farms and current issues in well-being. Pre: ALS 3104, ALS 3204, ALS 4304. (3H,3L,4C) II.
4434: SHEEP PRODUCTION
Current principles and methods for science-based production and management of sheep. Pre: ALS 3104, ALS 3204, ALS 4304. (3H,3L,4C) I.
4444: SWINE PRODUCTION
Principles for commercial and seedstock swine production; current management methods, housing and marketing. Experience in management techniques obtained during laboratory. Even years. Pre: ALS 3104, ALS 3204, ALS 4304. (3H,3L,4C) I.
4454: LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT
Overview of livestock production systems; principles of nutrition, reproduction, economics, and breeding and selection of beef cattle, swine, and sheep. For non-majors only. (3H,3C) I.
ALS 4554 (BIOL 4554): NEUROCHEMICAL REGULATION
Neurochemical transmission within the vertebrate brain will be examined. Emphasis will be placed on the chemical coding underlying the control of various behaviors and how these systems can be modified by various drugs or diet. Pre: (2304 or BIOL 3404), CHEM 2535. (3H,3C) II.
ALS 4574 (BIOL 4574): SOCIAL BEHAVIOR OF BIRDS AND MAMMALS
Animal behavior from the viewpoint of group organization during the life cycle of the organism. Emphasis is on adaptive mechanisms as they relate to the behavior-physiology-genetic interaction. Pre: BIOL 1106. (2H,2C) II.
4504: POULTRY PRODUCTION SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT
Systems management of integrated poultry operations. Economic analysis and programs management used in decision making processes. Prepares students for careers as division/company managers and decision makers. Even years. Pre: 4404. (3H,3C) II.
4964: FIELD STUDY
Pass/Fail only. Variable credit course.
4974: INDEPENDENT STUDY
Pass/Fail only. Variable credit course.
4984: SPECIAL STUDY
Variable credit course.
4994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
Pass/Fail only. Variable credit course.
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