RVC 35-hour modules

Simulation models have become important for the control of infectious diseases. They examine 'what if' scenarios for current disease control and herd production, plus a mechanism for generating hypotheses about the components of epidemiological systems. This module introduces the concepts of deterministic and stochastic disease modelling.

Learn how computer software can be used to interrogate and handle databases to generate summary statistics and graphs. Get to grips with some of the technical language used to describe databases, and learn more about the important points to consider when designing them.

Learn about the animal welfare issues involved in the handling, transport, and slaughter of livestock, and how auditing systems can maintain welfare levels. This module prepares you to provide advice on the design and management of facilities for loading and unloading animals, stockyards, and restraint equipment to prevent welfare problems.

Applying epidemiology to the improvement of livestock health and production requires responsible management of information. From milk production on a single farm to countrywide diseases, data management is essential. Find out about the types of data you might encounter, methods of collecting and storage, and tools that will help you extract useful information.

This module introduces the role that economics plays in animal health decision making. Assess the issues, then learn about concepts used in animal health economics. The conclusion is a practical session, which guides you through how to calculate the output of livestock enterprises.

Investigate the methodologies used for decision making in animal health and production so you can critically evaluate studies. Explain the basic principles involved and familiarise yourself with the techniques of partial and benefit-cost analysis, as well as the economic tools used to analyse the risk and uncertainty associated with livestock production.

The welfare of extensively farmed animals is influenced by factors including climate, food availability, handling, parasites, predators, etc. As these factors interact in a complex way, there are no simple answers regarding animal welfare. Understand the complex interplay between them and the dilemmas they bring.

Intensive farming systems, including small-space confinement, have led to many animal welfare issues. Scientists and agricultural engineers are working on enclosures and environments to better meet the needs of animals. Explore these issues in detail and gain a better understanding of the economic and political ramifications involved in improving husbandry systems.