Frequently Asked Questions – Swine Science Online
Enrollment / Course Questions
Who can take the courses?
A unique aspect of the Swine Science Online program is that traditional university students and non-traditional students can take the courses. The courses classify as upper-level undergraduate courses. Non-traditional students may identify as currently employed in the pork industry, looking to join the pork industry, allied industry.
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, bwinkelman@usporkcenter.org
Industry Certificate Questions
What is the US 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?