Swine Science Online
Have you ever wanted to focus on swine science? Concentrating on specific courses designed for continued education in courses such as swine management, sales, production or communications?
If your answer is yes, then Swine Science Online may be the undergraduate program just for you!
The first-ever undergraduate program of its kind, Swine Science Online offers students who have a specific interest in swine science an opportunity to pursue a specific undergraduate degree. Swine Science Online is an educational and training program for future pork professionals who will help benefit the pork industry by inspiring career interest through academic exercise and application.
The vision of Swine Science Online is to ensure the pork industry is led and managed by individuals who have a broad educational and production experiences which have prepared them for these roles. Swine Science Online teaches scientific principles and management skills involved in pork production for an efficient and sustainable operation. Swine Science Online courses are delivered via distance education to universities across the country through AG IDEA.
The ultimate goal of the Swine Science Online Program is to have more academically trained students entering the pork industry. After completing required and elective courses students will be able to apply for a Swine Science Online Certificate that is administered by the U.S. Pork Center of Excellence.
Swine Science Online
Find out about the 2024 SSO Course Listing, as well as a list and descriptions of the Swine Science Online courses by clicking on the button below.
Participating Universities
.Click the button below for more information about enrolling in courses at one of our host institutions
Who teaches
Swine Science Online?
Meet the instructors!
Industry Certificate
Have Questions?
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions!
Benefits of the Program
What careers might I pursue with a Swine Science Online certificate?
- Swine Genetic Sales Consultant
- Regional Swine Sales Manager
- Swine Communications Coordinator
- Swine Building Construction
- Swine Pharmaceuticals
- Swine Production Management
- Swine Feed Sales
How Swine Science Online Helped Me Grow
I recently took part in Swine Science Online, which is an educational and training program for future pork professionals. I am from the Republic of Moldova, where we have a different production system. After working on a farm in America, I wanted to learn more about how pigs are raised in the United States so I could improve and better care for animals in my care.
I first heard about the program at the North Dakota Pork Council’s annual meeting and convention. While visiting with individuals at the Pork Checkoff booth, they mentioned Swine Science Online and the educational opportunities it provides.
Swine Science Online was a very good experience. Besides the required courses for the U.S. Pork Center of Excellence – Swine Science Online Industry Certificate, I had the opportunity to choose some of my own. The online training helped me grow as a professional and be more confident in my decisions, ideas and vision for my work in the pork industry.
The professors answered questions I had about raising pigs, including everything from breeding and farrowing to finishing. They touched on new subjects each day, sharing scientific principles and management skills that I can use every day in pork production. The professors have a ton of experience and the heart to help students learn and grow their skills. North Carolina State University’s Billy Flowers, helped me with all of the courses and served as my advisor for the program.
In North Dakota, we no longer have an Extension specialist, so it was great that Dr. Flowers was more than willing to help students anytime it was needed. I still exchange emails with the breeding management professor and continue to learn from him.
For me, Swine Science Online was straightforward even though English is not my first language. People who want to make a career in pork production should be taking these courses. The courses helped me become a better farrowing supervisor, which has allowed me to move up in my company. It makes a big difference when you sit at the table and know what your boss is talking about.
Through Swine Science Online, I’ve gained more confidence and knowledge. If you want to learn something about pork production and advance in your company, Swine Science Online is definitely time well spent.
Pavel Danil
Farrowing Supervisor for the Nelson County Pig Cooperative, Lakota, North Dakota
Frequently Asked Questions
Enrollment / Course Questions
Who can take the courses?
How do I register to take a course?
If you are currently a student at one of the Swine Science Online host universities, you can register for any of the Swine Science Online courses just as you would any other course during registration. If you are not at one of the host universities, you can enroll as a non-degree seeking student at one of the host universities. After you’ve been accepted, usually a few days later, you can enroll in the specific Swine Science Online courses you’re interested in taking.
Can I take these courses if I am not enrolled in an undergraduate program?
Yes! You can enroll as a non-degree seeking student at one of the Swine Science Online host institutions. After you’re enrolled you will be able to register for the Swine Science Online courses.
I work full-time, can I take these courses?
Yes! Many of the students that take the Swine Science Online courses are actively employed in the industry, allied industry using these courses for continuing education / professional development, or some individuals enroll in Swine Science Online courses to help make a career shift.
Are there any prerequisites for the program or specific courses?
The Basic Swine Science course is the prerequisite to all the other Swine Science Online courses.
My university offers a swine production course, can I still take the Swine Science Online courses?
Yes! We encourage you to take the course(s) that are offered at your university and then enroll in additional Swine Science Online courses that are of interest to you.
Can I just take one course?
You can take one course or as many as you’d like. The U.S. Pork Center of Excellence offers a 12-credit Swine Science Online Industry Certificate, check out the details here.
When are the courses offered?
Courses are offered in the Spring, Summer and Fall semesters. Click here for a complete list of courses.
How long are the courses?
Spring and Fall semester courses are 14-weeks. Summer courses are a condensed 8-week semester.
Are there scholarships or financial aid available?
Scholarships and financial aid are available through the host universities. Check out the Swine Science Online host universities to see what they offer for scholarships and/or financial aid.
Can I test out of a course if I have already taken it elsewhere?
It is possible that a student may have already taken one or more of these courses or their equivalent for another degree or certificate program. The student must obtain approval by submitting a request to the SSO Policy Committee. Requests should be sent to USPCE, Attn: Bill Winkelman, [email protected]
Industry Certificate Questions
What is the US Pork Center of Excellence Swine Science Online Industry Certificate?
What are the course requirements to pursue the U.S. Pork Center of Excellence Swine Science Online Industry Certificate?
Required Courses (7 credits)
- Basic Swine Science (2 credits)
- Swine Health and Biosecurity (1 credit)
- Employee Management for the Swine Industry (1 credit)
- Swine Breeding and Gestation Management (1 credit)
- Farrowing Management (1 credit)
- Swine Nursery and Finishing Management (1 credit)
Elective Courses (Select 5 Credits)
- Swine Feed Mill Management (1 credit)
- Pork Product Quality and Safety (1 credit)
- Pork Export Markets (1 credit)
- Swine Environment Management (1 credit)
- Contemporary Issues in the Swine Industry (1 credit)
- Swine Business and Records Analysis (1 credit)
- Swine Manure and Nutrient Management (1 credit)
- Swine Nutrition (1 credit)
- Advanced Swine Science (1 credit)
- Swine Breeding and Gestation Management (1 credit)
- Farrowing Management (1 credit)
- Swine Nursery and Finishing Management (1 credit)
- Production Internship in the Swine Industry (1 credit)
How do I apply for the USPCE Swine Science Online Certificate?
Who is AG IDEA?
What if my university isn’t partnered with AG IDEA?
Course Listings
Fall 2023:
Courses taught over a 14 week period from August 21 – December 1, 2023.
- Basic Swine Science – Dr. Laura Greiner
- Employee Management (1 credit) – Dr. Cynthia Wood
- Swine Environment Management (1 credit) – Dr. Jay Harmon
- Swine Feed Mill Management (1 credit) – Dr. Charles Stark
- Swine Nutrition (1 credit) – Dr. Bob Thaler
Spring 2024:
Courses taught over a 14 week period
- Basic Swine Science (2 credits)
- Contemporary Issues in the Swine Industry (1 credit) – Dr. Jodi Sterle
- Farrowing Management (1 credit) – Dr. Tim Safranski
- Swine Breeding and Gestation Management (1 credit) – Dr. Billy Flowers
- Swine Health and Biosecurity (1 credit) – Dr. Locke Karriker & Kristin Skoland
- Swine Manure and Nutrient Management (1 credit) – Dr. Dan Andersen
- Swine Nursery & Finishing Management (1 credit) – Dr. Laura Greiner
Summer 2024:
Courses taught over an 8 week period.
- Internship in the Swine Industry (1 credit) – Dr. Cynthia Wood
Fall 2024:
Courses taught over a 14 week period.
- Basic Swine Science – Dr. Laura Greiner
- Employee Management (1 credit) – Dr. Cynthia Wood
- Swine Environment Management (1 credit) – Dr. Jay Harmon
- Swine Feed Mill Management (1 credit) – Dr. Charles Stark
- Swine Nutrition (1 credit) – Dr. Bob Thaler
Course Descriptions
Advanced Swine Science (2 credits)
An in depth application of basic concepts covered in Basic Swine Science, focused on the scientific principles to the economical and sustainable production of pork. Detailed analysis of benchmarking, production systems, reproduction, pig flow, ventilation and herd health are discussed. Students will become knowledgeable regarding the science, complexity, and technology applied in modern swine production businesses.
Basic Swine Science (2 credits)
Basic disciplines and concepts involved in swine production including: industry structure, trends and statistics; production phases and buildings; genetic improvement; reproduction; nutrition; health and biosecurity; nutrient management; marketing and meat quality; and career opportunities in the swine industry.
Basic Swine Science – Syllabus
Swine Breeding and Gestation Management (1 credit)
Concepts related to: reproductive physiology and endocrinology of boars and sows; genetic selection programs; development programs for future replacement gilts and boars; semen collection, evaluation, and preparation; detection of estrus and artificial insemination; pregnancy diagnosis; feeding and housing programs for gestating sows; environmental management; records; diseases; and development of quality assurance programs for identifying and solving reproductive problems.
Breeding and Gestation Management – Syllabus
Farrowing Management (1 credit)
Advanced integration and application of reproductive management
concepts during farrowing and lactation. Identification of production trends; formulation of strategies to improve productivity; and parturition and neonatal management.
Farrowing Management – Syllabus
Swine Nursery and Finishing Management (1 credit)
Overview of the critical management, housing, and financial considerations relevant to the successful operation of a swine nursery, grow-finish, or wean to finish enterprise, including: nutrient requirements; building and facility management; and marketing.
Internship in the Swine Industry (1 credit)
Specialized work on an individual basis, consisting of training and practice and actual service in a swine production operation.
Employee Management for the Swine Industry (1 credit)
Effective employee management in swine production units. Assist students in understanding the principles, policies, and practices related to procurement, development, maintenance, and utilization of employees.
Employee Management for the Swine Industry – Syllabus
Contemporary Issues in the Swine Industry (1 credit)
Evaluation of issues facing today’s swine industry including: welfare, nutrient management, and food safety and security. Development of skills needed for effective community relations such as media interviews and message points.
Contemporary Issues in the Swine Industry – Syllabus
Swine Health and Biosecurity (1 credit)
Overview of standard biosecurity protocols and identification of behavior and clinical signs of illness in pigs. Treatment administration and prevention methods. Introduction to immune system function and basic swine disease transmission.
Swine Health and Biosecurity – Syllabus
Pork Export Markets (1 credit)
Introduction to global markets; cultural preferences and differences in production costs and profitability among pork producing countries.
Marketing and Risk Management in the Swine Industry (1 credit)
Describe industry structure, markets, and risk that characterize the US swine sector. Review futures and options markets and contracts and their use to manage risks in US swine production.
Marketing and Risk Management – Syllabus
Swine Environment Management (1 credit)
Response of swine to thermal environment, ventilation system design and analysis, heating and cooling systems and examples of various designs for all phases of production. Troubleshooting ventilation systems and energy analysis of production units.
Swine Environment Management – Syllabus
Swine Manure and Nutrient Management (1 credit)
Function, application, and advantages and disadvantages of different manure management systems. Class discusses manure production rate, benefits and drawbacks associated with different manure handling systems, and manure and nutrient management planning for land application and crop production. Methods of manure storage, treatment, and odor mitigation strategies are also discussed.
Swine Manure and Nutrient Management – Syllabus
Pork Product and Quality Safety (1 credit)
Pre- and post-harvest factors affecting pork product quality and safety. Overview of pork harvesting process and traits and characteristics of quality pork products.
Pork Product and Records Analysis – Syllabus
Swine Feed Mill Management (1 credit)
Principles of feed manufacturing, equipment operation, feed and ingredient quality assurance and regulatory compliance in a modern feed milling operation. Overview of feed mill regulations and safety.
Feed Mill Management – Syllabus
Swine Nutrition (1 credit)
Principles of developing and implementing a swine feeding program. Fundamentals of feeding pigs; including nutrients, factors affecting nutrient recommendations, feeding systems and management, feed ingredients, and formulation of swine diets.
What courses are required for the USPCE Swine Science Online Industry Certificate?
Required Courses (7 credits)
- Basic Swine Science (2 credits)
- Employee Management for the Swine Industry (1 credit)
- Farrowing Management (1 credit)
- Swine Breeding and Gestation Management (1 credit)
- Swine Health and Biosecurity (1 credit)
- Swine Nursery and Finishing Management (1 credit)
Elective Courses (Select 5 Credits)
- Advanced Swine Science (2 credits)
- Contemporary Issues in the Swine Industry (1 credit)
- Pork Export Markets (1 credit)
- Pork Product Quality and Safety (1 credit)
- Swine Business and Records Analysis (1 credit)
- Swine Environment Management (1 credit)
- Swine Feed Mill Management (1 credit)
- Swine Manure and Nutrient Management (1 credit)
- Swine Nutrition (1 credit)
Meet the Instructors
Swine Science Online courses are taught by industry leaders at major universities.
Dan Andersen
Iowa State University
Course: Swine Manure and Nutrient Management
Email: [email protected]
William Flowers
North Carolina State University
Course: Swine Breeding and Gestation Management
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/an_sci/faculty/wlflower.htm
Laura Greiner
Iowa State University
Course: Basic Swine Science, and Swine Nursery & Finishing Management
Email: [email protected]
Charles Stark
Kansas State University
Course: Swine Feed Mill Management
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.grains.k-state.edu/people/faculty/stark/Stark.html
Jodi Sterle
Iowa State University
Course: Contemporary Issues in the Swine Industry
Email: [email protected]
Cynthia Wood
Virginia Tech
Courses: Employee Management’ and ‘Internship in the Swine Industry’
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.apsc.vt.edu/OurPeople/Faculty/cindywood.html
Host Universities
Swine Science Online courses are taught by industry leaders at major universities.
North Carolina State University
South Dakota State University
University of Missouri
Cost per credit hour:
2022-2023: $430
2023-2024: $435
(at all participating universities listed above)
What if my university isn’t partnered with AG IDEA?