The curricula in Animal Science are designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in animal-oriented agribusiness. The millions of domestic animals that provide food, fiber and recreation for humans and the increasing populations of exotic, pet and companion animals offer an unlimited variety of career opportunities for animal science graduates.
Students completing the Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science are in demand by both the private and public sectors. Career paths include livestock production and the extensive infrastructure that provides the products and services required for management, marketing and processing of livestock and livestock products. Students receive training in nutrition, breeding, reproductive physiology, meat science, dairy products, wool, mohair, and the production and management of livestock. Extensive laboratory facilities and livestock operations located on or near campus in the new O. D. Butler, Jr. Animal Science Teaching, Research and Extension Complex facilitate practical application of the scientific principles.
Leadership skills are developed through participation in a wide array of extracurricular activities, including departmental clubs, judging teams, and continuing education/youth programs. A substantial number of students gain experience in a variety of disciplines and are able to pay for part of their college expenses through part-time employment in the department or as recipients of departmental scholarships.