Course Description
Unlock the secrets of advanced cattle breeding with our comprehensive course on bull semen analysis and morphology. Our course not only covers the theoretical aspects but also provides hands-on training in microscope skills, ensuring you gain practical experience in identifying and assessing sperm morphology. With expert instructors, state-of-the-art equipment, and a curriculum designed for both beginners and seasoned professionals, this course is your gateway to enhancing productivity and success in the cattle industry. Join us to elevate your expertise and make a significant difference in livestock management.
Course Outcome
MSL973028 – Perform microscopic examination
(Unit Release 1 – 20 Dec 2022)
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to set up a light microscope for optimum resolution, to prepare routine samples and to observe, identify and report sample characteristics.
This unit of competency applies to laboratory assistants and technicians in all industry sectors. The unit of competency covers limited interpretation and analysis of results. Troubleshooting of equipment and procedures is not required.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
Orion Training (RTO Code: 30915) holds Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) approval in every state where our courses are delivered. This is based on our training practices that ensure the safe handling of livestock in accordance with individual state regulations, legislation and standards.
No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication. However, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements for laboratory operations exist, so local requirements should be checked. Relevant legislation, industry standards and codes of practice within Australia must also be applied.
Entry Requirements
There are no pre-requisites for this course however students will need to meet the following entry requirements:
- AQF level II written and spoken English;
- Numeracy skills to meet the Foundation skills required for this unit of competency;
- Completion of a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment;
- General knowledge and practical skills gained through vocational experience in farming; and
- Access to a computer (device) and internet to complete the online training component.
Training Duration and Schedule
Students complete preliminary online learning in their own time and location prior to attendance on-site. The practical component is delivered over several days depending on the facilities and equipment available and specific learning outcomes. Please contact Orion Training for more information on the duration and schedule of the course.
Training Venue and Delivery Mode
Students complete work-related training and assessment activities in an appropriate training facility using a face a face approach with their trainer.
Orion’s Livestock Breeding courses are delivered throughout regions of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and/or Tasmania where AEC approval has been granted. Training programs are conducted on individual farms that meet the facility and equipment requirements for training as well as strict requirements of Animal Ethics and all other relevant legislation in that State. Courses may also take place at professional facilities where the necessary facilities and equipment are in place and available.
Student candidates will be offered a place in the nearest course to their locality or in their preferred location. Confirmation of delivery location will be provided via email.
Assessment
To demonstrate competency in this unit, the candidate must provide evidence that they can;
- set up a microscope for Köhler illumination on 10x, 40x and 100x magnification on at least 3 occasions
- safely prepared, examined, and taken basic measurements and/or recorded observations of different sample types, including 3 of the following:
- stained smear or film with a monolayer of cells
- wet mount
- sample in a counting chamber
- hand-cut samples.
Training Cost
Course fees are structured based on the facility where the course is delivered. Please contact Orion for more information on fees in your location. Fees will be invoiced in advance and must be paid by the agreed party prior to the commencement of the course. Please refer to Orion Student Handbook for further information about payment terms, refunds and complaints and appeals policies.
Course Materials and Equipment
To complete the preliminary online activities, Students will need access to a computer and reliable internet. On-site training incorporates a comprehensive theoretical component. Orion will provide Students with learning and assessment materials to complete the theory and the written final assessment requirements.
Orion will provide all necessary training facilities and equipment to undertake the mandatory practical training and assessment activities.
Ordinarily, Students are not required to provide any materials or equipment in order to undertake training and assessment. However, where a training venue stipulates a need for Students to bring a specific item, Students will be notified prior to the scheduled start date.

