2200008 - Equine Genetics
Course Description
Learn and understand important concepts of equine genetics, how they relate to the selection and breeding of horses, and how each horse is a product of its genes. Examine how the genetics of a horse influence its potential to perform, or render it susceptible to disease, unsoundness, or genetic disorder.
You will be guided from Mendelian inheritance and medical genetics to the polygenic determination of coat colour. Study the quantitative traits determined by the interaction of multiple genes and the environment. The significance of pedigrees, methods of parentage testing, and how breeds are genetically distinct will also be covered.
What You'll Learn
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain the mechanisms of genetic variation through mutation and meiosis, and apply Mendelian principles to interpret inheritance patterns, assess the impact of breeding decisions on genetic disorders, and evaluate genetic load within populations
- Analyze coat colour genetics and its associations with other traits, using principles of inheritance to predict mating outcomes and develop evidence-based breeding strategies
- Interpret the concepts of heritability and genetic correlations among quantitative traits and incorporate these into breeding programs that promote performance while safeguarding equine welfare
- Evaluate the role of DNA testing in modern horse breeding and management, particularly in enhancing performance traits and ensuring the health and welfare of individual horses
- Investigate the genetic development of horse breeds through mechanisms such as selection, reproductive isolation, and genetic bottlenecks, and assess genetic relationships within the genus Equus to support conservation and genetic preservation initiatives
Sample Careers
This course is designed for those looking to increase their understanding of the horse, advance their careers in the equine industry and expand their knowledge and skills in the area of equine science.Additional Requirements
- This course is intended for adult learners who are at least 18 years of age.
- There are no prerequisites for this course.
- You may take this as an individual course or choose to complete one of our equine certificates or the diploma.*
- You do not need access to a horse to participate and be successful in this course.
- You can expect to spend 6-10 hours per week to complete the course material, discussions and assignments.
- Do you have more questions? Contact our Continuing Studies office.
*We recommend that you complete Management of the Equine Environment first, or very early in your course of studies. This course is offered every semester.
Sponsoring Partner
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Diploma in Equine Studies : Electives
- Equine Science Certificate : Electives
Technical Requirements
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*Course details are subject to change.