Delivery Type	Delivery length / details
Lecture	1 x 1 hour lecture per week
Seminars / Tutorials	10 x 1 hour seminars over two semesters
Practical	3 x 3 hour practicals over two semesters

Assessment Type	Assessment length / details	Proportion
Semester Assessment	Seminar/report Outcomes assessed: 4, 5, 6	30%
Semester Exam	3 Hours Outcomes assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7	70%
Supplementary Assessment	3 Hours Examination Outcomes assessed: All	100%

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module students should be able to :

1. Describe the key gross and microscopic components of the equine reproductive systems.

2. Demonstrate a detailed and comparative knowledge of the control of equine reproduction.

3. Demonstrate a detailed and comparative knowledge of the physiology of pregnancy, parturition and lactation in the mare.

4. Evaluate in detail the principles, merits and limitations of various equine stud management systems.

5. Evaluate in detail the principles, merits and limitations of various forms of reproductive technology in use in equine stud management.

6. Critically analyse and evaluate historical, current and future research in equine reproduction and stud management

7. Identify and evaluate the procedures for assessing reproductive competence and fertility in both the mare and stallion.

Brief description

This module will consider in detail the gross and microscopic functional anatomy of the reproductive systems of the mare and the stallion. Equine embryology and placentation will be covered in detail along with the endocrine control mechanisms that govern all aspects of reproductive function in both the stallion and the mare. Equine lactation, its anatomy, physiology and function will also be detailed. Comparative anatomy and function will be considered throughout. The application of physiological knowledge gained to equine breeding management will be made. The use of reproductive technology and artificial manipulation will be evaluated in detail including the use of hormone therapies, embryo transfer, artificial insemination, ultrasonic scanning etc. Evaluation and detailed understanding of the factors affecting fertility and the selection of breeding stock based on reproductive competence will be included.

Transferable skills

.1 Independent project work
Students will select an appropriate seminar topic to investigate in the literature; this will develop and assess their independent project work skills.

.2 IT and information handling
Retrieval of information for all aspects of the module, but in particular the seminar presentation, will include the use of Web of Science and appropriate web sites. This will develop IT and information handling skills, which will be assessed.

.4 Writing in an academic context
These skills will be developed and assessed via :
i) the production of an overview or report of their seminar presentation with a list of key references
ii) written examination

.5 Oral discussion and presentation
The seminar presentation will develop and assess oral skills and allow for group discussion of issues raised.

.6 Careers need awareness
Knowledge and skills developed within this module will be directly applicable to a future career in equine stud management or related research and teaching.

.7 Self-management
The use of initiative, self management and self discipline will be developed through the requirement to prepare for and present seminars.

.8 Group activity
Group activity will be an integral part of anatomy practicals, and as such will be developed.

Course Delivery

Assessment

Learning Outcomes

Brief description

Transferable skills

Reading List

Notes