Graduate Program

The Department of Animal Science offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs in a variety of disciplines related to animal science.

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 many areas of research specialization within the field of animal science. Research species for theses or dissertations may focus on beef or dairy cattle, sheep, swine, horses, or poultry, and laboratory species. Modern animal, computer, and library facilities support research.

Graduate assistantships are often available through faculty funding when faculty have openings in their research programs. Typically, a graduate student on an assistantship will provide a specific number of hours working on research - in addition to completing coursework and working on a thesis or dissertation. A stipend and tuition waiver will be provided during the period of the assistantship (9 credits each for fall and spring semesters and 3-5 credits for summer semester). Graduate assistants are exempt from out-of-state tuition. Graduate assistants are automatically enrolled in a health insurance plan, the premium of which is paid by the university.

More funding information can be found on the Graduate School website.