AGS203 Agricultural Biotechnology (8)

This subject will introduce students to the critical aspects of biotechnology in agriculture. Students will learn the key principles behind the fundamental biochemical processes and their underlying genetic basis. The application of these skills is essential in all aspects of food production, and is of increasing importance for nutritional security.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
On Campus
Wagga Wagga Campus
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: AGS203. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences

Assumed Knowledge
First year chemistry (equivalent to CHM108 or CHM107) and plant/microbial biology (as covered in MCR101 or BIO100 or AGR130)

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to describe the structure and function of the four major classes of biological macromolecules and apply this knowledge to describe the properties of enzymes and cofactors in biological systems;
  • be able to describe the linkage between genotype and phenotype;
  • be able to apply the principles and extensions of Mendelian genetics in plant and animal breeding programs;
  • be able to relate the implications of genetic change to agricultural systems;
  • be able to formulate and explain the application of both conventional and molecular breeding; and
  • be able to outline the social and regulatory issues relating to recombinant DNA technology in an agricultural context.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Structure and function of major macromolecules;
  • Enzyme function;
  • Mendelian genetics and regulation of metabolic pathways;
  • Major metabolic pathways such as glycolysis (aerobic and anaerobic), fatty acid metabolism and amino acid metabolism;
  • Linkage and chromosome mapping;
  • Qualitative genetics; and
  • Conventional and molecular approaches to plant and animal breeding including regulation of DNA technology in Australia.

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of AGS203 in Session 1 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Mini test 1
8
2
Mini test 2
8
3
Mini test 3
8
4
Mini test 4
8
5
Mini test 5
8
6
Cgs report
15
7
Final exam
45

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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