Undergraduate Degree in Animal Science
As a student in the Animal Science program, you will gain a foundation in biological and natural sciences, animal breeding and genetics, reproduction, physiology, nutrition and livestock production, and management. We also offer specialized course work that incorporates sustainable resource management and wildlife-livestock interactions. Course work can be directly applied to production environments in the western United States. Options leading to a bachelor of science degree in Animal Science allow you to customize your curriculum to meet your goals.
Degree Options
Livestock Management & Industry Option (ASLV)
The livestock management and industry option stresses the application of science to livestock production. This option incorporates courses in agricultural economics and business. Emphasis is placed on applying skills as they relate to livestock enterprises and service industries closely allied to livestock production. These skills include principles of economics, range science, genetics, business management, and physiology and nutrition in sustainable livestock production systems. This option incorporates flexible coursework choices to prepare graduates to manage livestock enterprises, or to be employed by companies producing and marketing livestock, animal feeds and health products. Graduates can also be employed by a variety of communication and service organizations, including breed associations, commodity groups, livestock publications and government agencies.
Science Option (ASSE)
The science option emphasizes greater depth in the basic sciences. This option is designed for highly motivated students who have a strong interest in graduate training or professional school. Individual curriculum can be tailored to prepare students for veterinary school, medical school, or graduate studies in animal biotechnology, physiology, nutrition or genetics.
Equine Science Option (ASEQ)
The equine science option emphasizes science and technology combined with practical aspects of management, horsemanship and training. Graduates of this program will have a firm foundation to meet the growing needs of the equine industry. This program is designed to prepare students for employment in equine breeding or nutrition, or managing facilities and land. Graduates can also be employed in the allied industries, such as sales, feed, tack, and equipment. Students can tailor their program to emphasize science, business, or rangeland ecology and management. Click here to learn more.
Minors
Animal Science Minor (Non-Teaching): A secondary area of academic specialization, a minor in Animal Science can serve as an excellent complement to several other majors offered at MSU, as well as expand career opportunities.
Genetics Minor Courses (Non-Teaching): A minor in Genetics provides students with a focused experience in microbial, plant, and animal genetics, and allows exploration of areas such as bioinformatics, and molecular, evolutionary and quantitative genetics.