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Emersion and Education in advancing beef technologies

44 Farms-Texas A&M International Beef Cattle Academy is a flagship component of our educational mission; a certificate program tailored to advance the knowledge of global beef production. Students have access to emerging technologies in cattle reproduction, nutrition, genetics, health, and welfare pertaining to all phases of beef production, as well as the quality and safety of beef and its products. The Department of Animal Science leads the 44 Farms-Texas A&M International Beef Cattle Academy and is based on comprehensive online coursework taught by internationally-renowned Texas A&M faculty and guest lecturers, concluding with experiential learning opportunities at the Texas A&M University – College Station campus.

Advancing knowledge to enhance beef production and quality

The ideal academy student is enthusiastic and willing to improve their understanding by learning the most up to date and emerging information in the industry.

Comprehensive online coursework taught by experts

Modules are taught with an online based format with pre-recorded lectures. Each week there is an interactive session which allows for one-on-one student/instructor interaction.  These interactive sessions are customized, unique experiences based on the needs and demands of the students. World-renowned researchers and educators teach the modules from around the globe.

Topics covered by the program include:

  • Cattle welfare and behavior
  • Forage production and utilization
  • Nutritional management and requirements
  • Reproductive physiology and management
  • Breeding and genetics
  • Immunology and herd health management
  • Beef Quality and Safety

A one-year certificate program

44 Farms-Texas A&M International Beef Cattle Academy consists of seven courses of 30 hours of interactive courses. However, six completed courses are required for certification. Following the online portion, there is an optional residency period and graduation held in conjunction with Beef Cattle Short Course.

Scholarships now available

Scholarships are now available for students accepted into the 44 Farms Texas A&M International Beef Cattle Academy (IBCA). A total of $100,000 is available to cover up to 70% of all IBCA tuition costs of scholarship recipients. To be considered for a scholarship, complete the IBCA application process and provide the information required for scholarship request. Scholarships are limited, and will be awarded based on student profile and potential contribution to the IBCA goal – advance knowledge to enhance beef production and quality across the globe.

Building a foundation for tomorrow’s beef industry

The IBCA has limited class sizes to offer an exclusive and customized learning experience to students. For questions about the IBCA class, please contact ibca@tamu.edu.

The Department of Animal Science at Texas A&M

With 115 years of formal existence and a tradition of making a positive impact, the Department of Animal Science at Texas A&M University is the most preeminent and globally-recognized department of its kind. Our exceptional faculty strives to meet the needs of citizens by providing knowledge and training through innovative and cutting-edge teaching, research, and Extension programs. Current and future challenges associated with a growing world population and an increasing demand for animal protein compel us to take the initiative in leading the world toward food security through efficient, sustainable, and profitable beef production. Our vision is to provide unparalleled leadership, best practices, and training to beef industries worldwide through excellence in research and educational ventures.


International Beef Cattle Academy Program Coordinators

Reinaldo Cooke
Professor, Coordinator
Beef Cattle Production
Ky Pohler
Associate Professor, Associate Coordinator
Beef Cattle Production
Alice Brandao
Instructional Assistant Professor, Assistant Coordinator

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