Master of Agriculture in Animal Production Management

Purpose

The first purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifiers with specialised knowledge, skills and applied competence in the field of animal production management, that provide for continued personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity and rewarding contributions to society.

Rationale

The second purpose of this qualification is to provide Southern Africa with specialists in the field of animal production management, who will have a clear and continuously growing understanding of animal breeding and genetics of domesticated and wild animals.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Access may be gained to the qualification through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor of Institutional Agriculture Honours in Animal Production Management, Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Agriculture, Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Animal Production Management, Level 8.

Or

• An equivalent Degree at Level 8.

1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of animal production management, based on the principles of animal breeding and genetics, animal nutrition and production physiology.
2. Demonstrate the specialised skills to efficiently manage domesticated animals in different production systems.
3. Comply with professional and ethical standards in the agricultural sciences.
4. Care for and manage a variety of domesticated animals in different production systems and identify, formulate and solve problems related to the management of domesticated animals innovatively, based on the fundamental principles and knowledge of the genetics, breeding and nutrition of domesticated animals.
5. Comply with the professional and ethical standards in the agricultural sciences.
6. Carry out research into an aspect of pasture science.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria is assessed in an integrated manner across all the Exit Level Outcomes

• Theoretical basis for problem solving in natural and biological resources.
• Advanced understanding of economic theory relevant to areas of specialisation.
• Advanced quantitative and analytical skills as it relates to pasture science applications.
• Advanced theoretical knowledge of all aspects of pasture science.
• Knowledge of agricultural institutions and systems.
• Problem solving ability through pasture science applications in natural and biological resources.
• In-depth knowledge of the problems in pasture science.
• An understanding of group dynamics.
• Ability to negotiate and plan strategically.
• Knowledge of research methodology and the ability to apply it successfully.
• Identify a relevant topic for research.
• Identify research problem.
• Do survey and analyse and present results in a logical fashion.
• Theoretical basis for problem solving in natural and biological resources.

Integrated Assessment

1. Integrated assessment.
2. Discussion sessions.
3. Practical's.
4. Assignments.
5. Intranet self-assessment and discussions.
6. Tasks and case studies.
7. Class tests.
8. Semester tests (for modules).
9. Exams (for modules/courses).
10. Seminars and presentations.
11. Mini-dissertation.

Integrated Assessment

• Simulations.
• Work-place assessments.
• Written examinations.
• Oral examinations.

Other

• Mini-dissertation.
• Paper presentations at national or international scientific conferences.
• At least one scientific publication.
• Seminars.
• Leadership skills.
• Interpersonal communication skills.
• Case studies.