Animal Science, M.S.

About the Animal Science Master’s Program

The Department of Animal and Food Sciences offers a non-thesis, 30-hour Master of Science degree in Animal Science designed for students seeking advanced professional preparation with an applied focus. Students may pursue emphasis areas in livestock production (beef cattle, swine, sheep and goat, dairy cattle, equine, and poultry), agricultural product processing (meats, food, or feeds), companion animal science (biology, welfare, behavior and training), equine-assisted therapy and activities, or feedlot management. An internship or approved practical experience is required for this degree. The non-thesis Master of Science degree is considered a terminal degree. 

The Department of Animal and Food Sciences also offers a thesis-based Master of Science in Animal Science for students pursuing advanced study and research training. Graduate research may be pursued in areas of emphasis including animal physiology (nutrition, reproduction, growth and development, and muscle biology); livestock nutrition (ruminant or monogastric); animal behavior and welfare; animal food production systems; animal health; companion animal biology and training; equine science and equine-assisted therapy; and meat science. This degree requires completion of a thesis, in addition to a minimum of 24 semester credit hours of coursework and 6 thesis hours.