About Department of Animal Science

Animal Science Program of Wallaga University, located in Shambu Campus, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, offers an Animal Science program within its College (Faculty) of Agriculture. The Department of Animal Science was launched on the Nekemte Campus in 2000 E.C. It is one of the oldest Departments in the history of the university. Currently, the program is running the teaching and learning process in both Bachelor of Science Degree and Master of Science Degree programs in the Shambu Campus, Oromia, Ethiopia. Below is a comprehensive overview of the program:

Program Overview

The Animal Science program at Wallaga University is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of animal production, management, and health. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications to address the challenges in the livestock sector.

Degree Levels Offered

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Degree in Animal Science: A four-year undergraduate program focusing on various aspects of animal production and management.
• Master of Science (M.Sc.) Degree in Animal Production and Master of Science (M.Sc.) Degree in Animal Genetics and Breeding: A graduate program offering advanced studies and research opportunities in specialized areas of animal production, genetics and breeding.

Specializations and Focus Areas

The program encompasses several key areas, including:

• Animal Nutrition: Study of feed resources, diet formulation, and the impact of nutrition on animal health and productivity.
• Animal Breeding and Genetics: Exploration of genetic principles and breeding techniques to improve livestock quality.
• Animal Health and Disease Management: Understanding common diseases affecting livestock and strategies for prevention and control.
• Livestock Production Systems: Examination of various livestock farming practices and their sustainability.
• Forage and Pasture Production and Management: Management of grazing lands and forage crops to support animal production.

Curriculum Structure

The undergraduate program typically includes courses such as:

• General Biology and Chemistry
• Principles of Animal Science
• Anatomy and Physiology of Farm Animals
• Animal Nutrition and Feeding
• Genetics and Animal Breeding
• Different Livestock (Farm Animal) Production and Management
• Animal Health and Diseases Control
• Forage and Pasture Production and Management
• Research Methods in Animal Science

Students also engage in practical attachment (training) and internships to gain hands-on experience.

Research and Facilities

Wallaga University supports research in animal science through facilities such as:

• Livestock Farms: Housing various species for practical learning and research.
• Laboratories: Equipped for studies in nutrition, genetics, and disease diagnostics.
• Forage Demonstration Sites: Areas dedicated to the cultivation and study of forage crops.

Faculty and students engage in research projects addressing local and national challenges in animal production and health.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Animal Science program can pursue careers in:

• Livestock Farm Management
• Animal Nutrition Consultancy
• Breeding and Genetics Research
• Animal Health Services
• Extension Services and Community Development
• Agricultural Education and Training
• Policy and Regulatory Agencies

The program equips students with the skills needed to contribute effectively to the national and international agricultural sector.

Vision: To have proven competence in animal science training, research and extension by producing highly competent and skilled professionals in the areas of the livestock sector and conducting multidisciplinary research which is innovative, result oriented and demand driven.

Mission: The mission of Animal Science program is to offer training of high caliber, practically oriented, competent and responsive professionals in the fields of animal sciences with integrated, applied and problem-solving research and extension services.