The Animal Science major (food animals) provides students with an industry-oriented, science-based education that prepares them for careers in animal agriculture or one of many industries associated with livestock production. The curriculum focuses on in-depth scientific knowledge of food-producing animal physiology and function and how to relate those scientific principles to animal production. Animal Science majors choose from specialized courses to enhance their technical, practical, and business skills related to production, marketing, and processing of livestock, meat and byproducts to develop a broad understanding of animal agriculture and production.

Learning Outcomes

Successful students will be able to:

Describe the role of livestock and meat production systems in our global society

Discuss biological principles and apply these principles into food animal management systems

Identify business/economic principles and their application to food animal production enterprises

Critically evaluate livestock industry issues

Apply problem-solving and leadership skills that enhance professional success

Potential Occupations

Managers of production units such as ranches, feedlots, meat processing facilities and dairy farms

Sales representatives for feed companies, pharmaceutical firms, and livestock service organizations

Meat product development or food safety/quality assurance

Employment with organizational groups/associations such as breed organizations, clientele groups, and beef companies

Cooperative extension and other educational positions

Enrollment in graduate and professional schools