SAC established the Poultry Science MSc in the 1980s but has recently adapted the course's content and format in consultation with the poultry industry, including the British Poultry Council (BPC). The course is now available part-time and online, enabling UK students to fit study commitments around the demands of their careers and offering access to international applicants.

Course participants come from a wide range of backgrounds and include nutritionists, breeders, vets and other poultry sector workers who wish to develop their career and businesses. Many students come to the course with a high level of experience in the poultry industry but seeking to upgrade their skills, including managers from companies such as Aviagen, Cherry Valley, Bernard Matthews, PD Hook and Crown Chickens.

Speaking of his time on the course, David Harrower, Head of Production Support with Aviagen said: "I found the distance learning MSc a very rewarding experience and there was always someone I could telephone or email if I required any help or advice. The work requires dedication but the benefits gained in terms of knowledge and learning made this one of my best ever decisions. The subject material is excellent and always relevant to the poultry industry. Students completing the MSc will find themselves well equipped for a future within this diverse industry."

The Brisitsh Poultry Council (BPC) is very supportive of the course. Richard Griffiths, BPC Senior Executive Officer, said: "The British Poultry Council is keen to develop stronger links between the poultry industry and the education sector and we are delighted to see new students on this high quality poultry course. The poultry industry is a successful and growing sector of the agricultural economy and there is always a need for well qualified people who are keen to build a career."

Nick Sparks, Head of SAC's Avian Science Research Centre, said: "In re-designing the course as a distance learning programme, we were responding in particular to requests from those in the poultry industry who wanted to improve their skills without giving up a year to study full-time. We are particularly heartened therefore at the number of high-calibre students in this year's intake and look forward to a stimulating year for staff and students alike."

For more information about the MSc in Poultry Science, click here.