Overview

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of dairy cow health and nutrition, focusing on physiological changes around calving and their impact on nutrient needs. Students will learn about production diseases, major metabolic changes, and key biomarkers of health and disease. The course addresses common health problems in dairy cows and the role of biomarkers in diagnosis and management. A systems approach to nutritional management is emphasized, exploring how genetics, cellular networks, and dietary components influence cow health and productivity. Expert instructors will guide learners through practical applications to optimize dairy cow health and production This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs, including the graduate certificate, "Dairy Nutrition for Udder Success" that can be stacked toward an advanced degree in the College of ACES. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit ACES Online @ aces.illinois.edu/online.

Syllabus

Orientation & Module 1 | Key Determinants of Dairy Cow Health

In the course orientation, you'll get to know the course, your classmates, and our learning environment, and gain the technical skills needed. Then, learn about the significant changes in dairy cows around birth and their nutritional needs. We'll discuss homeostasis, homeorhesis, and the importance of good nutrition during this period. By the end of this module, you'll be able to identify these changes and manage cow nutrition effectively.

Module 2 | What are the key biomarkers of health and disease?

In this module, you will look at common diseases that affect dairy cows and how to diagnose them. You will learn about tests that measure substances in the blood to find out if a cow is sick. We will also talk about the role of calcium and other minerals in keeping cows healthy, especially around the time they give birth. By the end of this week, you will be able to recognize key terms related to these diseases and understand how to use blood tests to diagnose them.

Module 3 | Common Health Problems

In this module, you will study common health problems that dairy cows face after giving birth. You will learn about issues like mastitis, lameness, and ketosis, and understand what causes them. We will also cover how to prevent and manage these problems through good nutrition and care practices. By the end of this week, you will be able to identify these health problems and know how to help prevent and manage them.

Module 4 | Systems Approach to Nutritional Management for Health and Production & Conclusion

In this module, you will be introduced to the concepts of systems biology and nutrigenomics. You will learn how scientists use computer tools to study the nutrition and health of dairy cows. We will also explore how nutrients can affect the genes of cows and impact their health and milk production. By the end of this week, you will understand these key concepts and how they can be applied to improve dairy cow nutrition and health. At the conclusion of this module, you will be ready to complete the final assessment for the course and earn your Coursera certificate!