The Bachelor of Science in Animal Science

The Bachelor of Science in animal science is a science-based program stressing production and management of livestock, with an emphasis on animal nutrition, reproduction, genetics, and growth. The major in animal science is designed to provide the student with a sound foundation in the science upon which the production of animals depends. Students learn to integrate business, animal production, plant production, and issues which face the agricultural industry in today's sensitive food production environment.

The lower-division core of courses introduces the student to the basic principles of animal science, plant science, soils, mechanics, agribusiness, chemistry, and statistics. The upper-division core provides the student with the opportunity to develop an understanding of how agricultural production fits into the world through courses in agroecology, natural resource economics, and holistic range/livestock management. In addition, the student is trained in problem solving through courses in agricultural research methods, management experience, and dealing with agricultural issues. This major gives further preparation through courses in genetics, nutrition, health, and reproduction. In consultation with their advisors, students create a concentration of courses that best match their career goals. There are three recommended areas of study including: Animal Production, Animal Industry, and Pre-professional: Food Animal Veterinary Medicine.

Resources:
Major Academic Plan
Course Offerings

Faculty: Clay Carlson, Cindy Daley, Dave Daley, Patrick Doyle, Jack Griffiths, Celina Johnson, Wes Schager

Co-curricular activities:  Student clubs and teams

Livestock Units: Beef Unit, Organic Dairy Unit, Sheep and Goat Unit, Swine Unit

Internships: Although students are not required to complete an internship as part of the major, many take advantage of this opportunity to network with industry contacts and gain invaluable experience. Students who complete internships are also eligible to receive units of upper division elective credit. Internship Opportunities

Service and Outreach Opportunities: Students in the Animal Science major have the opportunity to participate in numerous service activities throughout the campus and local communities. Additionally, some of the outreach activities directly related to the major include the statewide FFA Field Day, Beef Day, Swine Education Day, Sheep and Goat Day, the Circle of Champions Jackpot Show, and the Northern Exposure Junior Cattle Show.

Student Projects: Numerous students have conducted undergraduate research projects in the field of animal science.  Some examples of previous research include:

• Phenotypic relationships of residual feed intake with growth and carcass performance traits of spring-born Angus bulls (presented at the 2009 Western Section American Society of Animal Science)
• Effect of low and high concentrate supplementation on milk production, milk quality, and overall profitability in a pasture-based organic dairy (poster presented at the 2009 Agriculture and Applied Economics Association annual meeting)
• Relationship between residual feed intake and growth performance, EPD profiles, and values indices of spring-born Angus bulls (presented at the 2008 Western Section American Society of Animal Science)

Career Opportunities: Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to enter graduate studies, professional school, or a career in the field of animal science. Career opportunities are available in a variety of areas including: biotechnology, animal breeding and genetics, animal nutrition, animal health, veterinary science, and farm and rangeland management. Other career opportunities for graduates are also found in: management, training, sales, human resources, communications, and production agriculture. Current Job Opportunities