Michigan State University

What you'll study

The Animal Sciences curriculum combines foundational biological and quantitative coursework with applied animal courses and practical experience. Core subjects typically include animal anatomy and physiology, nutrition, genetics and breeding, reproduction, growth and development, behaviour and welfare, health and disease, and meat and dairy science. Students also study supporting topics such as microbiology, biochemistry, statistics and animal production systems.

Program structure usually blends lectures, laboratory classes and fieldwork. Labs and practicum courses give hands‑on experience in handling, animal husbandry, herd/flock management, feed formulation and diagnostic techniques. Many students undertake an honours project or research placement with faculty, and there are opportunities for internships on the university’s teaching farms and with external partners.

• Typical modules: Introductory Animal Science, Animal Nutrition, Reproductive Physiology, Animal Genetics, Animal Health and Disease, Behaviour and Welfare, Meat/Dairy Science, Applied Livestock Management, Experimental Methods in Animal Science.
• Practical elements: farm rotations, laboratory techniques, herd health clinics, feed mill and processing visits, and capstone/undergraduate research projects.
• Optional specialisations and elective pathways allow focus on production animals, companion animals, pre‑veterinary preparation, or research‑focused careers.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a strong secondary school record with emphasis on science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes biology and chemistry; additional coursework in algebra, calculus and physics is beneficial. Admission evaluates overall academic achievement, letters of recommendation, and personal statements that demonstrate interest in animal science and practical experience where available.

International applicants will need to provide equivalent academic transcripts and demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or university pathway. Transfer applicants from community colleges are considered, and credits for relevant coursework and laboratory experience may be applied toward the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates in Animal Sciences pursue a wide range of careers across agriculture, industry, government and research. Common entry roles include livestock or herd manager, feed and nutrition technician, animal health technician, production specialist, meat or dairy processing roles, and positions in animal care for zoos and parks. Many graduates continue to professional or graduate training in veterinary medicine, animal nutrition, animal breeding/genetics, or research.

Other pathways include work in extension and outreach, quality assurance and regulatory agencies, pharmaceutical and feed industries, animal welfare organisations, and education. The programme’s practical training and industry connections also support entrepreneurship in farming, breeding and related services.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State offers a longstanding, research‑active Department of Animal Science within a large land‑grant university, providing access to teaching farms, research herds/flocks, modern laboratories and pilot processing facilities. Students benefit from hands‑on learning on campus farms and through extension programmes, plus opportunities to participate in faculty research projects.

The campus network includes collaborations with state agricultural research stations, Cooperative Extension, and industry partners, which support internships, employment and applied projects. Dedicated pre‑professional advising, clubs and student associations focused on animal science and livestock, and career services help students gain practical experience and transition into postgraduate study or the workforce.

Overall, Michigan State’s combination of experiential learning, research opportunities and industry links makes it a strong choice for students seeking a comprehensive, career‑oriented education in animal sciences.