The Department of Animal and Food Sciences offers a combined 41 Bachelor of Science (BS) in Animal Bioscience and a Master of Science (MS) in Animal Science program that allows students to complete both degrees in a total of five years of full-time study. Students must be at least in their junior year of study and have completed at least 60 credits to apply for the 41 BS/MS program. Students must select the non-thesis option for the MS portion of the degree, and they may select a concentration in either Veterinary Biosciences, Biotechnology and One Health (VBBOH) or Business, Entrepreneurship and Leadership (BELC). Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis by the department's graduate committee.
Animal Bioscience majors are needed to answer questions related to how animals and animal systems function. Students interested in the fundamental biology of any species of animal will find this to be a focused, hands-on major with a variety of in-demand career options available after graduation. Students that graduate from this major are prepared to pursue postgraduate, research-based degrees (M.S. and/or Ph.D.) in the animal biosciences. The curriculum includes an animal science core (anatomy, nutrition, physiology, health, genetics, and behavior) and interest areas in advanced animal nutrition and advanced animal health. The curriculum also includes prerequisite courses suggested for admission to graduate programs in animal science and in biology (calculus, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and microbiology.) Students are encouraged to engage in undergraduate research experiences. Examples of animal bioscientists are university faculty, employees of USDA, FDA, and agricultural and pharmaceutical companies who are engaged in research and education in animal nutrition, animal virology, animal immunology and animal genetics.
Animal Science majors are prepared to enter the workforce in careers associated with the global demand for food and fiber and/or the education and conservation of non-domesticated animals housed in zoos, aquariums and sanctuaries. They will contribute to a greater understanding of the complex relationships between domestic animals (livestock and pets), wild animals, humans and our shared environment. The curriculum includes an animal science core (anatomy, nutrition, physiology, health, genetics, and behavior) and advanced animal science courses in several animal disciplines.
