Undergraduate Degree in Animal Science
As a student in Animal Science, you will gain a foundation in biological and natural sciences, animal breeding and genetics, reproduction, physiology, nutrition, production and management. We offer specialized course work that incorporates sustainable resource management and wildlife-livestock interactions. Coursework can be applied to production environments in the western United States, and three options allow you to customize your curriculum to meet your goals.
Degree Options
Livestock Management & Industry
This option stresses the application of science to livestock production, incorporating courses in agricultural economics and business. Emphasis is placed on applying skills as they relate to livestock enterprises and service industries allied to livestock production. Skills include economics, range science, genetics, business management, physiology and nutrition in sustainable livestock systems. This option incorporates flexible coursework choices to prepare graduates to manage enterprises or be employed by companies producing and marketing livestock, feeds and other products. Graduates can also be employed by a variety of communication and service organizations, including breed associations, commodity groups, publications and government agencies.
Science
The option emphasizes greater depth in basic sciences and is designed for highly motivated students who have a strong interest in graduate training or professional school. Curriculum can be tailored to prepare students for veterinary school, medical school or graduate studies in animal biotechnology, physiology, nutrition or genetics.
Equine Science
This option emphasizes science and technology combined with practical aspects of management, horsemanship and training. Graduates will have a firm foundation to meet the needs of the equine industry. This program is designed to prepare students for employment in breeding or nutrition, 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 (Non-Teaching): A secondary area of specialization and an excellent complement to several other majors offered at MSU.
Genetics Minor (Non-Teaching): Provides students with a focused experience in microbial, plant and animal genetics and allows exploration of bioinformatics and molecular, evolutionary and quantitative genetics.