Feeding the world
Feeding the world. It is a big responsibility to which animal science graduates will contribute in many ways. The increasing global demand for high quality protein puts those that produce animals and food animal products in a powerful position. Whether you choose direct involvement with animals through managing a ranch, feedlot or swine operation, working with reproductive technologies or nutrition, or assuring the safety and quality of meat animal products, there is a certain gratification in knowing you are helping feed the world.
Not your typical classroom
New, premier beef and swine production facilities offer exciting opportunities! Design a unique plan from more than 50 courses, including capstone classes on cow-calf and feedlot management, horse, sheep and swine production and value-added meats. Choose specialty courses in horse training, beef seed stock merchandising and livestock selection. Experience hands-on learning by doing research in an actual cattle production environment. Work alongside scientists. Explore Australia or China. Visit producers of elite livestock. Bring your skills and ideas to life, creating a customized experience that is right for you!
Equine Studies Minor Meat Science Minor
Not your average first job
Strong demand for ³ÉÈËÊÓƵ graduates in careers at Certified Angus Beef, Cenex/Harvest States, Tyson Foods, Zoetis and Christensen Farms allow graduates to travel the country, or stay close to home. Faculty assist you in obtaining internships that often lead to these exciting careers. The United States Department of Agriculture estimates an annual shortage of 4,000 students with degrees in agriculture for some 45,000 ag-related positions, so there will be plenty of opportunities for you!
Fast Facts
- Undergraduate students: 448
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 22:1
- Student organizations: 7
- Scholarship recipients: 130
- Average starting salary: $40,000
Where can a degree in Animal Science take me?
Production management specialization - Many electives allow you to concentrate your studies where you want to – for example, concentrating in economics/business courses prepares you for a career in livestock management, livestock agribusiness and marketing, credit or service industries.
Science specialization - Adding greater depth in math, chemistry and physical sciences to the animal science core sets you on a course for advanced work in graduate study, biotechnology or other scientific/technical careers.
Science specialization, pre-veterinary focus, pre-veterinary medicine - Fulfilling veterinary medical school requirements by majoring in animal science gives you an extra edge in developing your nutrition and management skills with animals.
Equine studies minor - Providing instruction in equine health, nutrition and training, along with stable management, this minor gives you an edge in equine careers.
Meat science minor - Developing new products, creating a food safety plan, practicing quality assurance and learning what affects the eating quality of meat products are just some of the things you’ll do in completing this minor.