Professional Dairy Farming Diploma

A structured path from beginner
to farm manager

Eighteen modules across three levels. Hybrid learning - self-paced online study, graded assignments, quizzes, and three supervised practical sessions. The full diploma takes 24 weeks.

Apply for the Diploma Explore the curriculum
24Weeks - full diploma
3Levels, each certificated
18Structured modules
HybridOnline + 3 practicals

The three-level curriculum

Each level is independently certificated and builds on the one before. You can enter at Level 1 and progress through to the professional diploma, or - if you already have farm experience - apply to enter at Level 2 or Level 3 directly.

L1
Level 1
Foundation: Dairy Farming Essentials
No prior experience required - Entirely online
Build a complete mental model of the dairy cow, the farm environment, feeding fundamentals, and the African dairy business opportunity. This level is designed for complete beginners and is the prerequisite for all higher levels.
6
weeks
- Certificate of Completion - Dairy Farming Essentials
Module 01 1 week
Understanding the dairy cow
Cow anatomy Senses & behaviour Social ranking 5 Freedoms Reading cow signals
Quizzes Forum
Module 02 1 week
Housing and barn design
Barn types Ventilation Cubicle design Drainage African roofing options
Quizzes Assignment
Module 03 1 week
Introduction to feeding and water
Feed selection basics Trough height & access Water quality Feed hygiene
Quizzes Forum
Module 04 1 week
The dairy business opportunity in Africa
Africa's milk gap Market opportunity Startup pathways Employment & impact
Quizzes Assignment
Module 05 1 week
Heifer selection - finding your first cow
Breed overview Holstein Friesian Body condition scoring What to look for
Quizzes Forum
Module 06 1 week
Revision and Level 1 examination
Full module review Practice questions Timed examination
Exam Assignment
L2
Level 2
Practitioner: Dairy Farm Operations
Prerequisite: Level 1 - Online + 1 practical session
Master the full operational cycle of a working dairy farm. Covers feeding science, calf management from birth to weaning, udder health, mastitis prevention, milking protocols, hoof care, and the science of maximising milk yield from Holstein Friesian cattle.
10
weeks
- Practitioner Certificate in Dairy Farm Operations
Prerequisite: Level 1 certificate or equivalent demonstrated experience
Module 07 1.5 weeks
Heifer feeding strategy and nutrition science
Dry matter basics Protein requirements Forage types Concentrates Molasses Mineral blocks
Quizzes Assignment
Module 08 1.5 weeks
Calf management - birth to weaning
Colostrum protocol Cuddle box setup Week-by-week feeding schedule Navel care Deworming
Quizzes Forum Assignment
Module 09 1 week
Weaning calves - the 4-stage protocol
Preparation Separation methods Post-separation monitoring Post-weaning nutrition Stress reduction
Quizzes Assignment
Module 10 1.5 weeks
Udder health and mastitis management
Udder anatomy Clinical mastitis signs Subclinical mastitis CMT test Milking hygiene Teat dipping
Quizzes Forum
Module 11 1 week
Milking protocols and equipment
Milking routine Machine settings & pressure Forestripping Pre/post teat dipping 3- daily schedule
Quizzes Practical
Module 12 1 week
Hoof care and lameness prevention
Trimming schedule Foot rot & digital dermatitis Footbath formula Flooring requirements
Quizzes Assignment
Module 13 1.5 weeks
Maximising milk yield - the Holstein Friesian system
Yield targets Daily ration design for 20-25L cows Feeding schedule Heat stress management Adjustment rule
Quizzes Assignment
Module 14 1 week
Revision and Level 2 examination
Full operational review Farm scenario practice Timed examination
Exam Assignment
L3
Level 3
Farm Manager: Dairy Business & Herd Management
Prerequisite: Level 2 - Online + 2 practical sessions
Develop the management skills to run and grow a profitable dairy operation. Covers reproduction and fertility management, dry period protocols, farm records, staff management, herd health KPIs, and a full capstone farm business plan that you keep after the programme.
8
weeks
- Professional Diploma in Dairy Farming
Prerequisite: Level 2 certificate or minimum 2 years operational experience
Module 15 1.5 weeks
Reproduction, heat detection and fertility
Heat signs & detection Insemination timing Pregnancy management Calving preparation Calving pen setup
Quizzes Forum
Module 16 1.5 weeks
Dry period management and transition
Drying off protocol Antibiotic dry cow therapy Teat seal application 8-week plan Transition feeding BCS monitoring
Quizzes Practical
Module 17 2 weeks
Farm management, records and staff
Daily checklists Health & production records Staff training protocols Farm economics Culling decisions Herd KPIs
Quizzes Assignment Forum
Module 18 3 weeks
Capstone project and diploma examination
Full farm business plan Herd health audit Financial projection Live presentation Final diploma exam
Exam Assignment Practical
How the programme works

Hybrid learning built for Africa

Delivery model

-
Self-paced online study

All lessons, readings, and video content are available in your student dashboard 24/7. Study at your own pace - no fixed schedule except for exam windows.

-
Graded assignments

Each module includes at least one written or practical assignment - ration calculations, farm plans, observation reports - submitted online and marked by a tutor.

-
Forum discussions

Graded peer discussions in every level. You must post, respond, and engage - not just read. This is where real learning happens between cohort members.

-
3 supervised practical sessions

Milking protocols (Level 2), dry period management (Level 3), and the capstone presentation (Level 3). Conducted in-person or via supervised live video session.

Assessment types

Quizzes Short knowledge checks after each lesson. Auto-marked, unlimited retries before the exam window.
Exam Timed, randomised end-of-level exam. Minimum passing mark is 70%. One free resit per level.
Assignment Written or practical task submitted through the platform. Tutor-marked with written feedback within 5 working days.
Forum Graded discussion. Each trainee must post a substantive response and engage with at least two peers.
Practical Physical or live-supervised session. Three required for the full diploma. Dates scheduled after enrolment.
Progression rule
You must pass the end-of-level exam (70%+) and complete all assignments before your certificate is issued and Level 2 access is unlocked. Level certificates are issued automatically.

Ready to begin your journey?

Apply for the diploma, enrol in Level 1, and start learning today. No prior experience needed to begin.

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