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Bovine Reproduction

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Diploma in Bovine Reproduction

A Diploma in Bovine Reproduction (DBR) is a master’s degree awarded for a postgraduate programme in bovine health research.

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Course overview

This two-year, part-time Diploma in Bovine Reproduction provides postgraduate veterinary education in bovine reproduction health and is recognised by both the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the European College of Animal Reproduction. It’s delivered primarily at the Leahurst campus in the heart of rural Cheshire, 12 miles south of Liverpool which is home to two farms, two referral hospitals, and two of the Institute's veterinary practices.

Please note, this programme is available to start every other year.

Introduction

Successful reproduction is the cornerstone of the dairy industry and the Diploma in Bovine Reproduction (DBR) programme has been successfully completed by over 100 vets, many being leading farm animal vets practicing in the UK whilst working in full time clinical practice. They have also contributed back into the course to maintain its relevance to modern cattle practice.

The course focuses on the study of reproduction in cattle, but it also includes reference to other species to establish biological principles or to illustrate concepts for which information is not available in cattle and also covers key areas impinging on fertility such as nutrition and infectious disease.

Gaining this qualification will mean that you will achieve a widely-based and deep understanding of bovine reproduction, enabling you to provide sound scientific advice to the cattle industry. After completing this course you will be able to apply in-depth knowledge of herd management and monitoring of fertility in cattle, artificial manipulation of reproduction in cattle, the principles of genetic selection for breeding purposes, analyse and diagnose the causes of infertility in herds and understand legislation as applied to the health, management, and welfare of cattle and food production in the UK.

The programme is modular in structure, with eight residential weeks spaced over two years.

Who is this course for?

This course is for veterinary graduates (who are able to apply for registration with the RCVS). You must have been working in a university for at least three years or for five years in general practice with a substantial component of cattle work.

While studying you must be able to maintain an involvement in bovine fertility work throughout the duration of the programme and carry out regular fertility work in at least three cattle herds, each of reasonable size. Consideration may be given to candidates with less than five years’ experience who have sufficient farm animal experience

 

What you'll learn

  • Management and monitoring of fertility in the herd
  • Critically evaluate the role of the veterinary surgeon in planned cattle fertility management and production
  • Artificial manipulation of reproduction and its legislation; be able to apply this knowledge to herd management.
  • Reproductive management of herds, understand the principles of genetic selection for breeding; advise upon the pre-breeding assessment and evaluation for breeding purposes.
  • Causes of infertility in herds to evaluate reproductive performance of the herd and the individual and diagnose the causes.
  • Understand the legislation relating to the health, management, and welfare of cattle and food production in the UK.

Accreditation

Diploma in Bovine Reproduction, a qualification recognised by both Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and European College of Animal Reproduction (ECAR).

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

The programme is structured around the reproductive cycle of the cow with modules focussing on a key period in the cycle or factor effecting fertility. Each comprises a residential week, with pre-week guided reading and access to speaker presentations.

All modules are mandatory and taken in sequence as they follow a logical build accumulation of knowledge and skills that follows the reproduction cycle of cattle.

Your dissertation will run over the full two years to allow data collection within the working period and will usually involve testing a hypothesis directly relevant to the clinical decision that you will need to make. You will receive guidance on literature searching, critical review of literature, study design, statistics, research ethics and the Animal Scientific Procedures Act.

Compulsory modules

The non-pregnant cow (DBRM611)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is designed for master level veterinary graduates in clinical cattle practise to give up to date information regarding the endocrine control of reproduction in the non pregnant beef and dairy cow and a systematic approach to evaluating fertility on beef and dairy herds. The module comprises lecture and tutorials during a residential week at the Leahurst campus, and farm visits and guided group work to produce a farm fertility report. Assessment is via a fertility report for a beef and dairy farm, contribution to discussions and a MCQ.

NUTRITION AND FERTILITY (DBRM612)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

To give a comprehensive scientific and theoretical background with which participants will be able to assess and enhance their knowledge concerning nutrition of mammals. • To introduce candidates to new practical and communication skills while developing an enthusiastic approach to reproductive problems and research. • To produce postgraduates capable of an advanced level of veterinary/mammalian nutrition to meet market demand

POST-PARTUM COW (DBRM613)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is designed for master level veterinary graduates in clinical cattle practise to give up to date information regarding the physiology and pathophysiology of the reproductive system in the post-partum beef and dairy cow. The module comprises lecture and tutorials during a residential week at the Leahurst campus, farm visits and guided group work to produce a farm fertility report. Assessment is via a fertility report for a beef and dairy farm, contribution to discussions and a MCQ.

THE BULL (DBRM614)

Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session

This module is designed for Masterslevel veterinary graduates in clinical cattle practice to provide up todate information on physiology and pathophysiology of male reproductive system in cattle. The module comprises seminars during a residential week at the Leahurst campus and visits to a bull stud. Assessment is via i) Report clinical examination of bulls ii) Practical assessment of semen samples, iii) contribution to discussions and iv) a MCQ.      

GENETICS OF CATTLE (DBRM615)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is designed for Masters level veterinary graduates in clinical cattle practice to provide up to date information on genetic assessment and selection of cattle. This includes the underlying science and recent developments including genomic selection. The module comprises seminars and practical session during a residential week at the Leahurst campus. Assessment is via reports on the genetic assessment of a i) dairy and ii) beef herds and recommendations for genetic improvement, iii) contribution to discussions and iv) a MCQ.

EARLY PREGNANT COW (DBRM616)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is designed for master level veterinary graduates in clinical cattle practise to give up to date information regarding early pregnancy in beef and dairy cow including a systematic approach to evaluating fertilization and embryo survival in cattle herds. The module comprises lecture and tutorials during a residential week at the Leahurst campus. Assessment is via i) a technical report on the cost/benefit of pregnancy diagnosis in cattle and subsequent advice /decisions. ii) Report on findings of 10 cows using different methods of pregnancy diagnosis, iii) contribution to discussions and iv) a MCQ.  

LATE PREGNANCY AND PARTURITION IN CATTLE (DBRM617)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is designed for master level veterinary graduates in clinical cattle practise to give up to date information regarding late pregnancy and parturition in beef and dairy cow including a systematic approach to evaluating parturition and perinatal mortality in cattle herds. The module comprises lecture and tutorials during a residential week at the Leahurst campus. Assessment is via i) Report of postmortem findings of two cases or perinatal mortality ii) Reflective portfolio of 5 cases of dystocia, iii) contribution to discussions and iv) a MCQ.

THE FUTURE OF CATTLE REPRODUCTION (DBRM618)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is designed for Masters level veterinary graduates in clinical cattle practice to provide up to date information on recent advances in reproductive technologies, farm economics, management of heifers (young female animals) and business models for moving into consultancy work once graduated. The module comprises lectures and tutorials during a residential week at the Leahurst Campus. Assessment is via a farm report focussing on advising the farm regarding future options for animal health and the business and oral, written and practical examinations.

DBR Research Dissertation (DBRM621)

Credits: 60 / Semester: semester 2

To introduce candidates to the skills of formulating a hypothesis, study design, research ethics, data gathering, analysis and presentation of findings in writing and orally. Critical review and survey of peer-reviewed literature will be introduced. Students in completing their dissertation will, with the support of their supervisor, carry out a study demonstrating the application of knowledge and a critical understanding of how professional knowledge and practice is advanced through research.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Your experience

Our purpose-built Veterinary School and specialist Leahurst campus in the heart of the beautiful rural Cheshire countryside means you can get hands-on with animals from the start with teaching by University staff and invited external contributors, each a recognised authority in a specialised field. You’re getting full experience with the herds, and utilising your RCVS competencies from day one.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

An exciting place to study

  • Ranked consistently amongst the top Veterinary Schools in the world
  • Two on-site working farms, two referral hospitals, three first opinion practices
  • Top ranked Veterinary School for research in REF2021
  • Liverpool University Veterinary Society is the largest student society with a variety of special interest sub-societies
  • Access to Virtual Learning Environment as well as residential schools and clinical placements.

Careers and employability

Most Veterinary Science graduates are employed in general practice however graduates are increasingly tending to specialise in particular areas of farm or companion animal practice, and continue their professional development by studying for postgraduate certificates and diplomas awarded by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and at European level.

Career planning

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Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

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We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

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You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

Your future

As well as working in general practice, veterinary science graduates also work in veterinary and medical schools, medical research institutes and those institutes that deal expressly with animal health and disease. Some go into research at either universities or research institutes, or go into industry, animal charities (e.g. RSPCA) or Government bodies such as DEFRA.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Part-time place, per year £6,100
International fees
Part-time place, per year £12,800
Fees stated are for the academic year 2024/25 and are subject to change for 2025/26. The listed fee totals are inclusive of bench fees. These are currently £1,550 per year of study, equalling £3,100 in total.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies..

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

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Chilean National Agency for Research and Development (ANID) Scholarship

  • International students
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If you’re a Chilean student joining a master’s degree, you could be eligible to apply for a 20% discount on your tuition fees with a Chilean National Agency for Research and Development (ANID) Scholarship.

Chevening Scholarships

  • International students
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If you’re an international student from an eligible country, joining a one-year master’s course, you could be eligible to apply for a Chevening Scholarship. If your application is successful, you could expect to have your master’s fees paid, up to a maximum of £18,000, and receive additional help with living costs.

Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnologia (CONACyT) Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

If you’re a Mexican student joining a master’s degree, you could be eligible to apply for a 30% discount on your tuition fees with a CONACyT Award.

Fund for the Development of Human Resources (FIDERH) Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

If you’re a Mexican student joining a master’s degree and you’re in receipt of a FIDERH graduate loan, you could be eligible to benefit from a 20% discount on your tuition fees with a FIDERH Award.

Fulbright Scholarship

  • International students
  • United States

If you’re a USA student joining a master’s degree, you can apply to be considered for a tuition fee discount of £20,000 with a Fulright Scholarship. One Fulbright Scholarship for master’s study is available in each academic year.

FUNED Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

If you’re a Mexican student joining a master’s degree and you’re in receipt of a FUNED loan, you can apply to be considered for a 20% tuition fee discount. A total of up to 50 awards will be available to master’s and PhD students per academic year.

HRH Princess Sirindhorn University of Liverpool Scholarship (Thailand)

  • International students
  • Thailand

If you’re a student from Thailand joining a one-year master’s degree, you might be eligible to apply to have your tuition fees paid in full and receive help with living costs. One award is available and only students who are new to the University will be considered.

JuventudEsGto Scholarship

  • International students
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If you’re a resident of the state of Guanajuato in Mexico joining a master’s degree, you could be eligible for a 10% discount on your tuition fees with a JuventudEsGto Scholarship.

Marshall Scholarship

  • International students
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If you’re a USA student joining an eligible master’s with us, you could be eligible to apply for a Marshall Scholarship. If your application is successful, your master’s tuition fees will be paid in full. One Marshall Scholarship for master’s study is available in each academic year.

Turkish Ministry of Education Scholarship

  • International students
  • Turkey

If you’re a Turkish student joining a master’s degree, you could be eligible to apply for a 20% discount on your tuition fees with a Turkish Ministry of Education Scholarship.

University of Liverpool International College Excellence Scholarship

  • International students

Completed a Pre-Master’s at University of Liverpool International College (UoLIC)? We’re offering a £5,000 fee discount off the first year of master’s study to some of the highest achieving students joining one of our non-clinical master’s courses from UoLIC.

University of Liverpool International College Impact Progression Scholarships

  • International students

If you’re a University of Liverpool International College student awarded a Kaplan Impact Scholarship, we’ll also consider you for an Impact Progression Scholarship. If selected, you’ll receive a fee discount worth £3,000 off the first year of your master’s course.

Vice-Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship for Mainland China

  • International students
  • China

Are you a high-achieving graduate from the People’s Republic of China with a degree from a Chinese university? You could be eligible to apply for a £5,000 fee discount if you’re joining an eligible master’s course. Up to 15 eligible students will receive this scholarship.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

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Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

Postgraduate entry requirements

You must have been working in a university for at least three years or for five years in general practice with a substantial component of cattle work.

Consideration may be given to candidates with less than five years’ experience who have sufficient farm animal experience

International qualifications

If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this Diploma in Bovine Reproduction, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS The IELTS requirements for this course are currently being confirmed. We'll update this information as soon as possible.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new application cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted on the website.

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Fees and Finance

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Changes to Bovine Reproduction DBR

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

23 March 2023: New postgraduate taught course pages

New course pages launched.