Animal Breeding and Reproduction Biotechnology
- 10th Edition: 2026/2028
- Start date: October 2026
- Barcelona and Valencia (Spain)
- 976 716 000
- iamz@iamz.ciheam.org
Organised by:
INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
The general objective of the Master is to train young professionals and enable them to establish, develop, evaluate and execute breeding programmes in companies of the livestock breeding sector, and conduct high-level research in breeding and biotechnology applied to livestock production at research centres.
Participation in the Master enables participants to:
- update the scientific grounds of the disciplines that constitute animal breeding;
- acquire experience in the application of the most advanced methods and techniques and in the formulation of breeding strategies related to the main species of zootechnical interest;
- gain the necessary expertise to join programmes dealing with molecular genetics, genetic improvement, reproduction biotechnology, and conservation of genetic resources, and provide alternatives that improve their effectiveness;
- respond to the specific demands of administrations or firms;
- engage in research, critically applying acquired knowledge, skills and abilities to solve real problems related to animal breeding;
- share enriching experiences and exchange points of view through a programme developed in close collaboration with the sector in an interprofessional and international environment.
MODULES
The programme delivered in Part One (60 ECTS) has a professional focus and includes lectures, individual and group practical work.
Subject 1 – Molecular genetics (20 ECTS)
- Molecular bases of animal genetics
- Animal genomics
- Laboratory of molecular genetics
- Bioinformatics practicals
Subject 2 – Applied breeding (27.5 ECTS)
- Fundamentals of statistical genetics
- Quantitative genetics I
- Quantitative genetics II
- Quantitative genetics III
- Management and conservation of genetic resources
- Breeding programmes in livestock species
Subject 3 – Reproduction biotechnology (12.5 ECTS)
- Reproduction fundamentals and techniques
- Practical in reproduction techniques
- Reproduction biotechnologies per specie
TOTAL – 600 contact hours, 900 hours of personal work, 60 ECTS
Part Two of the Master (60 ECTS) consists of a tutored initiation to research and a Master Thesis based on an original research work, submitted under the supervision of a thesis director. The research work will be conducted at the organising institutions or different collaborating entities for an approximate period of 10 months.
Subject 4 – Principles and techniques associated with research (30 ECTS)
- Initiation to scientific research
- Techniques and data analysis
- Scientific documentation
Subject 5 – Master thesis (30 ECTS)
The Master thesis will be an original research project carried out by the student on a subject proposed by the Master’s Study Commission, supervised by a tutor (with a PhD degree), also approved by the Commission. Exceptionally, students may propose another director or laboratory with a solid international scientific reputation, subject to approval by the Commission.
REASONS TO STUDY THIS PROGRAMME
Why choose this Master of Science?
1. International and multicultural experience
A unique opportunity to study and establish a network of contacts and collaboration with participants and experts from different countries. This international and multicultural experience is an essential differentiating factor in today’s competitive job market.
2. Lectures of recognised experience
Well qualified lecturers from international organisations, universities, research institutes and private companies from 7 different countries.
3. Interuniversity Master
Live in Barcelona and Valencia and learn at two top Spanish universities.
4. Official Spanish master’s degree awarded by the UPV and Master of Science degree awarded by CIHEAM
Official Spanish master’s degree awarded by the UPV and Master of Science degree awarded by CIHEAM (equivalent to the official master’s degree of the Spanish university system). Postgraduate Specialisation Diploma awarded by CIHEAM upon completion of the first year.
5. High employability rate of alumni.
High employability rate of alumni.
master coordination
TESTIMONIALS
Admission
Part One of the Master is designed for approximately 20 participants fulfilling the following requirements:
- Eligibility to pursue postgraduate studies in their country of origin or accrediting the equivalent of 240 ECTS in graduate studies.
- A degree in agronomy, veterinary science, biology, biotechnology, or related subjects.
- Knowledge of genetics and statistics. Previous professional experience in this field is valued.
Spanish and English are the working languages of the Master, Spanish being the main language of instruction. Applicants from non-Spanish-speaking countries should accredit knowledge of Spanish at B1 level or higher. Candidates from non-English-speaking countries should accredit knowledge of English at A2 level or higher.
Registration fees are approximately 1660 euro per academic year for EU students and 3320 euro per academic year for non-EU students. Check all the information about academic fees.
Spanish students and EU students with knowledge of Spanish can apply online at the following website: https://www.upv.es/entidades/SA/mastersoficiales/592623normalc.html
Candidates from CIHEAM member countries (Albania, Algeria, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia and Türkiye) may request a scholarship before 10 May at the following address: https://www.admission.iamz.ciheam.org
FAQS
Dates and deadlines
The first year of the Master will be held from October 2026 to June 2027.
The second year will begin in September 2027 and run for approximately 10 months.
Application deadlines* are as follows:
- Candidates from non-EU countries applying for scholarship: 10 May 2026
- Candidates from Spain or from EU countries with knowledge of Spanish:
-Phase 1: 2 March to 30 April 2026
-Phase 2: 15 June to 26 June 2026
-Phase 3: 31 July to 7 August and 24 August to 4 September 2026
*Non-European candidates should be aware of visa application deadlines.
Scholarships
Candidates from CIHEAM member countries (Albania, Algeria, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia and Türkiye) may request a scholarship to cover registration fees and/or accommodation. They will be awarded according to academic merit. Priority will be given to applicants from low and lower-middle income CIHEAM member countries according to the World Bank. Candidates may request this scholarship before 10 May at the following address: https://www.admission.iamz.ciheam.org.
The CIHEAM Zaragoza – INIA-CSIC scholarship offers an opportunity to undertake this Master’s programme, covering full tuition fees for the two-year duration, a monthly allowance, health and accident insurance, as well as an online Spanish course prior to the start of the programme for non-Spanish-speaking students. In addition, it may include travel support. This scholarship is intended for candidates who are not nationals of CIHEAM member countries. Priority will be given to applicants from low and lower-middle income countries according to the World Bank. Candidates may request this scholarship before 10 May at the following address: https://www.admission.iamz.ciheam.org.
Candidates from other countries seeking finance should apply directly to other national or international institutions.
Degrees
Postgraduate Specialisation Diploma awarded by CIHEAM Zaragoza (60 ECTS)
Official Spanish master’s degree awarded by the UPV and Master of Science degree awarded by CIHEAM (120 ECTS).
Insurance
It is compulsory for students attending the master to have medical insurance valid for Spain. Proof of insurance cover must be given at the beginning of the master. Those who so wish may participate in a collective insurance policy taken out by the Organisation, upon payment of the stipulated sum.
In collaboration with:
