Animal Science

The animal science major at North Dakota State University encompasses physiology, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, marketing, management and husbandry of livestock and companion animals; the important scientific understanding for the utilization of animal products; and experiences necessary for leadership in, and advocacy for, industries providing animals and animal products that benefit humans.

The faculty and staff conduct teaching, research and extension programs to support production and utilization of many types of animals, including beef and dairy cattle, sheep, swine, horses and poultry, as well as those providing other types of food and fiber, companion animals and animals in zoos.

The Curriculum

Five study options are available for the animal science major.

Animal Production, Management and Husbandry – This option is designed for students wanting a background in the principles of animal management and husbandry. It includes broad training in animal husbandry, production and management. 

Animal Biomedical Science – This option offers students a more scientific approach to animal science, preparing them for positions in research, teaching or veterinary medicine. Students receive an animal science degree while meeting academic requirements for application to veterinary schools.

Animal Agribusiness – This option is designed for students desiring a background in the business and economic principles of the livestock industry. 

Livestock Media – This option offers students an opportunity to acquire skills in journalism, advertising and public relations in addition to the fundamentals of animal science. 

Meat Science – This option provides the opportunity to emphasize knowledge about the science of muscle biology and evaluation and processing of red meat. 

High School Preparation

High school preparation should include course work in biology, chemistry, English and algebra.

Career Opportunities

Animal science students qualify for many varied occupations that involve animal and agriculture business, livestock products and land management. Graduates find employment in careers fields such as nutrition and pharmaceutical sales and support; areas of Extension; financial lending; the promotion, management and sale of livestock and meat; and farm, ranch and natural resource management. Students may also choose to continue their education in graduate school, veterinary school, or other graduate-level professional programs.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Animal science students belong to a variety of clubs including Saddle and Sirloin, Dairy Club, Rodeo Club, Pre-Vet Club, Horseman’s Association, Collegiate Cattlewomen, Range Club, Anthrozoology Club, and Collegiate FFA. The Saddle and Sirloin club is the largest club on campus, and sponsors events such as the Little International Livestock Show, the Hall of Fame Banquet, and Kiddie Days. In addition to clubs, students participate in intercollegiate contests including livestock, meat, and dairy evaluation teams; equestrian and rodeo teams; and academic quadrathlon. 

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Part-time work and work-study programs are available at the equine center, in several different livestock units, and in animal science laboratories within the department. Over $50,000 in departmental scholarships are awarded to Equine Science, Animal Science and Veterinary Technology students annually. In addition, the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources awards scholarships each year to incoming freshman and current NDSU students. Contact the Office of the Dean, College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources, for more information on college scholarships https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/academics/scholarships

Student loan, grant and work-study information is available from the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, and One Stop https://www.ndsu.edu/onestop/finaid/

Sample Program Guide

Please note this is a sample program guide and not an official curriculum.  Actual student schedules for each semester will vary depending on start year, education goals, applicable transfer credit, and course availability. Once admitted, students are encouraged to work with their assigned academic advisor on a regular basis to review degree progress.

This sample plan of study applies to the Animal Production, Management, and Husbandry study option (Option 1).  For other study options, see examples on the departmental website.