WSU Animal Sciences - Undergraduate Studies

Your Major

Animal Sciences

The study of animal sciences encompasses a variety of scientific disciplines that explain the functioning of biological systems related to livestock and other animal species. Animal sciences applies this scientific base to the production and management of animals and includes the study of animal behavior, well-being, and husbandry. Products resulting from the care and management of livestock (meat, milk, and fiber) are integral components within the field of animal sciences.

In addition, there are many important animal contributions to society that benefit animals and humankind, such as recreation (horseback riding, fishing), companionship and therapy (dogs, cats, horses), and biomedical research.

As an animal sciences student at Washington State University, you will gain in-depth knowledge into the relationship between humans and animals, and have the necessary training to make an impact in the agricultural, business, or research industries.

Your Course of Study

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ANIMAL SCIENCES

All animal science majors take courses in animal nutrition, reproduction, animal breeding, and genetics, and have hands-on
opportunities to apply their coursework to dairy cattle, beef cattle, and swine. In addition, you may choose from two animal sciences options, and tailor your coursework to help you achieve your personal and academic goals.

The pre-veterinary medicine/science option places emphasis on the basic sciences, preparing students for careers in veterinary medicine, graduate school, and biotechnology.

The animal management option emphasizes the business and economic aspects of animal production and well-being. Students develop practical management skills through participation in the department's dairy, beef, and swine centers.

piglet As an animal sciences student, you can immediately apply what you learn in the classroom. The department offers a variety of experiential learning opportunities, such as student-managed herds of dairy cows and swine, a student-managed beef feedlot, and many opportunities to conduct innovative research that addresses some of the most pressing issues for animals and humans.

AS 330-Animal Genetics
AS 350 and 351 (lab}--Physiology of Reproduction
AS 380-Careers in Animal Sciences

Additional coursework in animal management includes business and economics, agricultural sciences, animal products and food safety, animal management labs, and animal production.

Students who choose the pre-veterinary medicine/science option complete required courses for admission to professional DVM programs, in addition to courses related to the biological systems and functioning of animals.

Schedule an appointment with an academic advisor to discuss your options and design a program that meets your needs.

Animal Sciences Advisors - 11k pdf file
Animal Sciences Advising Sheet with Course Checklist - 84k pdf

For high achieving students we offer a combined program leading to Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences & Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees. Consult your advisor for further information.

Note: You should consult the General Catalog for course planning and must meet course requirements for your major, as outlined in the catalog, to graduate.

For the most up-to-date information on course sequences, financial aid, and more, visit our Web site at www.academics.wsu.edu.

What You Can Do with Your Degree

Animal Sciences graduate Emily Purbaugh with tiger cub

A degree in animal sciences offers exciting opportunities for personal and professional development. The program prepares students for diverse careers in a wide variety of areas, including:

Biotechnology
Farm and ranch management
Environmental sustainability
Animal welfare and behavior
Food safety
Medicine
Graduate studies
Agribusiness

Animal scientists explore ways to address current and future challenges faced by stakeholders, industry, and society. Employment and career opportunities abound in industries related to beef and dairy cattle, feedlots, swine, aquaculture, allied industries, animal shelters, vivaria, zoos, and agribusiness. The pre-veterinary medicine/science option is recommended for students planning to work in an area of science or biotechnology or planning to apply to a professional program leading to the doctor of veterinary medicine degree or graduate school.

Suggested Strengths and Areas of Interest

Students planning to study animal sciences should take chemistry, biology, and mathematics and have solid communication and writing skills from high school. Students wanting to attend community colleges and then transfer to WSU should contact the department to coordinate their coursework.

Strengths of the Program

We offer one of the strongest animal sciences programs in the nation, and the only four-year animal sciences degree in Washington.
Multidisciplinary instruction provides students with an integrated knowledge of animal management, agriculture, science, and research issues.
Renowned faculty mentors serve as academic and career advisors, and are dedicated to helping students reach their goals.

Tour the lab

Learn hands-on in research laboratories and livestock centers using innovative science-based methods.
Develop career and leadership skills through participation in student cooperatives, student clubs, and internship opportunities.

Department of Animal Sciences , 116 Clark Hall, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-6310
Phone: 509-335-5523, Fax: 509-335-1082, Email