Department of Animal Science

The animal science program is designed to prepare students for a variety of career opportunities through education on scientific principles of biology and animal agriculture developed from various animal models. The program also provides information on the application of animal management procedures in agricultural operations.

Animal science at MSU revolves around the animals themselves, including beef and dairy cattle, horses, sheep, swine, poultry and companion animals.

The animal science major, which leads to a Bachelor of Science degree, provides flexibility for students through careful guidance from academic advisors and career mentors. Animal science is a common degree path for pre-veterinary students.

CURRENT STUDENTS: Connect with your academic advisor for advising appointments or to change your major/minor.

Set up a personal meeting to learn more!

Core areas of study include:

• Breeding and genetics.
• Nutrition.
• Physiology.
• Management.
• Animal behavior welfare.

In addition to the core areas, students select at least one concentration area.

Concentrations include:

• Animal Industry
• Animal Biology or Pre-Veterinary Medicine
• Companion & Exotic Animal Biology
• Dairy Industry
• Production Animal Scholars

Learn more about requirements and courses in Animal Science.

Apply to Michigan State University!

Animal Science Graduates

See career outcomes for MSU animal science graduates, including salaries, top employers and employment locations.

Career Opportunities

The livestock industry, animal agriculture and related fields are a major component of the U.S. economy and career opportunities are excellent for graduates trained in animal science.

Animal science not only involves livestock production, but also marketing, public affairs, transportation, processing, research, companion animal management and other allied specialties.

Animal Science prepares students for a variety of career paths:

• Animal production and management.
• Food processing.
• Animal feed, environmental and health industries.
• Communication and service organizations.
• Research.
• Education and public service.

Faculty members and advisors maintain close relationships with partners in animal science and veterinary industries, which can help with internships, scholarships and employment in a variety of fields.

Student Stories

Schedule advising appointments online or stop by the undergraduate advising office in room 1250 of Anthony Hall. (More details: MSU Student Information System resources.)

Find out more about Advising & Registration in the Department of Animal Science.

Student Life

In addition to student jobs and internships, there are education abroad and undergraduate research opportunities through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Department of Animal Science.

In addition, there are a variety of student clubs and organizations available:

• Animal Science Undergraduate Research Student Association (ASURSA).
• Animal Welfare Club.
• Avian Science Club.
• Block and Bridle.
• Dairy Club.
• Driving Club.
• Horseman’s Association (Equestrian Teams, Dressage, Polo).
• Leader Dog Club.
• Rodeo Club.
• Intercollegiate Judging Teams.

Apply to Michigan State University!