California Polytechnic State University, Pomona

Programme overview

This degree combines advanced coursework with individualized research in animal science. Students work with an appointed advisory committee and a department mentor to develop a tailored study plan and a thesis addressing an area such as animal health, nutrition, physiology, production, or management. An internship option is available to complement technical and theoretical training.

What you'll study

The program requires a minimum of 30 semester units and centers on a thesis. Study elements include:

• Required basic core courses
• Additional courses in a chosen specialization area
• Electives and independent study
• A research thesis, including registration for the required thesis course (AVS 6960)

Course-level and credit rules: at least 18 units must be graduate-level 5000–6000; no more than 14 units may be 4000-level; 3000-level courses outside the department are permitted with the graduate coordinator’s approval. Deficiencies in undergraduate preparatory coursework must be completed in addition to the 30 required semester units.

Entry requirements

Unconditional admission requires a bachelor’s degree in an animal-related field and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Conditional admission may be granted with departmental approval but must be resolved within one semester. Applicants must have a department faculty member agree to serve as mentor before admission and must provide three letters of evaluation addressing academic qualifications and graduate potential. Admission to the program does not automatically confer candidacy for the degree; university graduate admissions rules also apply.

Career prospects

The degree prepares graduates for research roles and further specialized training, including professional schools or doctoral programs. Thesis work and optional internships can position students for employment in areas related to animal health, nutrition, physiology, production, or management in industry, government, or academia.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Students should explore departmental and university graduate funding sources, such as research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and competitive scholarships administered by the department or graduate division. Funding opportunities and requirements vary; consult the Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences and the university graduate office for current options and application procedures.