The aim of the unit is to give students an introduction to different areas of study within Animal Science. This unit gives the basic skills and knowledge base for further development in the program. The unit will include a balance of theoretical and practical work in the areas of classification, behaviour and handling, structure and locomotion, basic health care, feeding, reproduction and growth and development.

This unit will study the basic biology, ecology, conservation and management of selected terrestrial animals (amphibian, reptiles, birds and mammals) grouped according to their taxonomic affiliations. It will examine the various strategies used in the management of both wild roaming and captive reared animals including those propagated for human use. Students will learn the different management systems and research methods used in the conduct of wildlife research. The use of wildlife as a sustainable resource will be analysed within the context of ecological sustainable development and animal ethics.

This unit aims to give students a good understanding of nutrient requirements of different types of animals and the nutrient composition of common feeds so that they can evaluate and formulate rations to meet a range of animal requirements at different stages of growth, reproduction, lactation and production.

This unit aims to provide students with a sound understanding of reproduction of both domestic and non domestic animals so that they can design and manage a breeding program for a species of choice. Topics will include anatomy and physiology of male and female reproductive tracts; hormonal control of reproduction; fertilisation, pregnancy, parturition and lactation; artificial reproductive techniques.

Students studying at Campbelltown campus should refer to 300555 - Proteins and Genes. This unit develops understanding of the structure, function and synthesis of proteins, principles of enzyme function and regulation, and the structures and roles of nucleic acids, chromosomes and genes. Topics include the characteristic features of the four levels of protein structure and their significance for protein function; protein denaturation; enzyme function, kinetics and inhibition, allosteric enzymes, and mechanisms of enzyme regulation; structure of DNA, RNA, chromosomes, genes; the molecular events in transcription and translation in bacteria and eukaryotes, and protein modification and targeting. Some campus specific topics, such as complex carbohydrate biochemistry and protein glycosylation at Parramatta may be included.

The scientific study of heredity is called genetics. This unit is designed to introduce the student to a wide range of genetic concepts. To begin, the principles of heredity will be introduced. The student will investigate the nature and organisation of heredity; the various levels and mechanisms of expression of inheritance, the basis of variation within populations; and the genetic basis of biological evolution. Modern genetics underlies such diverse fields of study as biotechnology, agriculture, plant and animal breeding, biodiversity and ecosystem management, and accordingly the unit will include a series of case studies that demonstrate the importance and diversity of genetics as a discipline.

This unit aims to provide the student with an understanding of the physiological mechanisms which operate to maintain homeostasis. The structure and normal functioning of some of the major body systems are examined, as well as certain disturbances to normal functioning caused by disease processes or environmental factors.

This unit aims to develop an understanding of the major animal production systems used for food and fibre in Australia (beef, dairy, pigs, poultry and sheep) and to apply this knowledge to improving problematic issues and understanding topical issues. Topics will focus on the applications of animal production principles to these production systems.

Focusing on a variety of wildlife and companion animal species, his unit will teach and demonstrate to students the many areas of animal behaviour and the importance of understanding these behaviours in animal management. Students will observe and work with groups of animals on the UWS campus as well as witnessing and participating in events with industry that highlight the importance of knowledge and acceptance of animal behaviour.

This unit aims to build plant protection skills for students wishing to learn a detailed understanding of arthropods causing plant damage, their characteristics, physiology and behaviour, ecology and taxonomy.

This unit will begin with an introduction to the evolutionary placement of the vertebrates and the relative age and importance of the different groups. The focus will then shift to an investigation of the comparative anatomy, function and behaviour from an evolutionary perspective. There will be a particular emphasis on environmental adaptations.