The Department of Animal Science offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs in a variety of disciplines related to animal science. In some cases Interdisciplinary Options are also available.

Programs of study are based on the strengths of the department and the goals of individual students. Although individual student programs vary, all graduate programs in animal science are designed to:

• Provide a strong foundation in biological science and an in-depth knowledge of a specific biological discipline of importance to animal agriculture.
• Develop creative potential and foster independent thought.
• Improve technical skills.
• Provide the foundation for effective, independent careers in extension, research, teaching or agribusiness.

The department offers the following areas of research specialization within the field of animal science:

• Animal Breeding, Statistical Genetics, and Molecular Genetics
• Animal Health
• Animal Production Systems and Management
• Behavior and Welfare
• Exercise Physiology
• Functional Genomics and Bioinfomatics
• Growth Biology and Meat Science
• Lactation Biology
• Non-ruminant Nutrition
• Nutritional and Digestive Physiology
• Microbiology
• Reproduction and Endocrinology
• Ruminant Nutrition
• Skeletal Physiology
• Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer
• Toxicology

Research species for theses or dissertations may focus on beef or dairy cattle, sheep, swine, horses, poultry, or fur-bearing and laboratory species. Modern animal, computer and library facilities support research.

Environmental Toxicology

If you are interested in more advanced toxicology graduate education and research related to the harmful health effects of environmental or other chemicals, you can enroll in a multidisciplinary dual-Ph.D. program in Environmental and Integrative Toxicological Sciences (EITS). The EITS program is administered through MSU's Center for Integrative Toxicology (CIT) and, in conjunction with our graduate program, offers outstanding training in basic biomedical science coupled with training and credentials in the discipline of toxicology that can open additional career opportunities. Before enrolling in this program, students must first be accepted for graduate study in a cooperating program such as animal science.

To find out more about this cooperating program, visit the CIT's graduate programs in toxicology website, call 517-353-6469, or e-mail tox@msu.edu.

Food Safety

The graduate specialization in food safety is designed for students who are interested in enhancing the focus of their study on food safety to help societal problems. The specialization is available to students enrolled in a Master's degree program. For further information see the MSU National Food Safety & Toxicology Center website.

CANR Certificate in College Teaching

The MSU Certification in College Teaching Program (CCTP) is an initiative of the Graduate School in partnership with departments and colleges. The program is designed to assist and prepare graduate students interested in entering academia or other professional programs where communication of ideas is required. The program includes course work, attendance to workshops and seminars, mentored teaching experience and the creation of a teaching portfolio to showcase the participant's teaching philosophy and pedagogical growth.

Other Interdisciplinary Options at MSU...