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751-6602-00L 3 Credits MSC D-USYS

Pig Science

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Giuseppe Bee, Dr. Wim Gorssen
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:13:56

Abstract

The aim of this course is to provide in-depth knowledge of the organisation of pig breeding, applied breeding value assessment and nutrition. Students understand the interrelationships and their effects on product quality and the economic efficiency of pig production.

Objective

The students - understand the complex relationships between nutrition and product quality, - know the division of labour in pig breeding (breeding, reproduction and production) - understand the current methods of data collection and genomic breeding value estimation - can critically analyse a current breeding programme in practice and make suggestions for possible improvements in the form of an evaluation - are able to critically analyse published research results analyse published research results - are able to present a scientific paper orally present a scientific paper

Content

The following topics will be presented: - Pig feeding - Meat quality - pig breeding in Switzerland and abroad - applied breeding value estimation (with exercises) - Efficient pigs - Precision livestock farming technologies in pigs - excursion to the AgroVet Strickhof (keeping and evaluation of pigs (linear description and classification) - Preparation of a presentation on a self-selected topic

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handouts/scripts are being individually distributed by the the lecturers.

Literature

Specific literature is being indicated individually by the lecturers.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Written exam at the end of the semester (60% of the final grade). Graded presentation (40% of the final grade).

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Pig Science
An excursion will take place to the Agro-Vet Strickhof - it is strongly recommended to participate in this excursion (date tbc).
  • Wed 08:15-10:00 (LFW B 2)
  • 03.06 Date 08:15-10:00 (LFW B 2)
2 h weekly

Offered In