Pathway Description

This pathway focuses on the scientific principles that underline the breeding, care, and management of agricultural animals and the production, processing, and distribution of agricultural animal products. This includes developing better, more efficient ways of producing and processing meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products, as well as studying genetics, nutrition, reproduction, growth and development of animals.

Animal Science Course Progression

Animal Science Course Descriptions

Principles of Agricultural Science and Technology

This course provides instruction in the foundations of various segments of the agricultural industry. Agricultural career opportunities will be emphasized. Animal science, plant and land science, and agricultural mechanics skills will be the focus of the curriculum. The selection and planning of a supervised agricultural experience program and related record keeping will be presented.

Animal Science

Animal Science develops basic knowledge and skills pertaining to animal identification, selection, nutrition, reproduction and genetics, health management, and marketing of farm and companion animals commonly produced in Kentucky. The latest production technologies, as well as biotechnological applications, will be included.

Small Animal Technology

This course develops scientific knowledge, management practices, and marketing strategies in small and specialty animal technology. The curriculum includes identification, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, health, selection, and care of small animals. Species addressed typically include dogs, cats, rabbits, companion birds, ostriches, emus, tropical fish, and fur bearers. Content will be enhanced with appropriate applied scientific laboratory activities.

Agriculture Employability Skills

Agriculture Employability Skills provides opportunities to develop skills in: job searching, preparing resumes, writing letters of application, job interview, attitude, communicating effectively, human relations and accepting responsibilities. Content may be enhanced with appropriate computer applications.

Agricultural Education Co-op

Cooperative Education for CTE (Career and Technical Education) courses provides supervised work site experience related to the student’s identified career pathway. A student must be enrolled in an approved pathway course during the same school year that the co-op experience is completed or have already completed the pathway the previous year.