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Animal Sciences

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Animal Sciences Department
S104A Animal Sciences Research Center
Columbia, MO 65211
Phone: 573-882-2644
Fax: 573-882-6827
E-mail: animalsci@missouri.edu
 
Major Curriculum*
Course Credit
First Semester
Animal Science 3
College Algebra 3
Chemistry I 3
History 3
Humanities Elective 3
 
Second Semester
Animal Science Lab Practicum 3
Economics of Food and Agriculture 3
Intro to Biological Systems 5
English Composition 3
Chemistry II 3
 
Third Semester
Intro to Ruminant Livestock Production 3
Chemistry III 3
Speech Communication 3
Applied Macroeconomics 3
Humanities Elective 3
 
Fourth Semester
Societal Issues Facing Animal Agriculture 2
Intro to Monogastric Production 3
Physiology of Domestic Animals 5
Statistics 3
Elective 3
 
Fifth Semester
Principles and Application of Animal Nutrition 5
Organic Chemistry 5
Principles of Meat Science 3
Humanities Elective 3
Elective 3
 
Sixth Semester
Agricultural Plant and Livestock Genetics 5
Biochemistry 3
Poultry Production 3
Physiology of Reproduction 3
Physics 4
 
Seventh Semester
Beef Production and Mgmt 3
Swine Production 3
Reproductive Management 3
Physics 4
Elective 3
 
Eighth Semester
Ruminant Nutrition 3
Physiology and Biochemistry of Muscle as Food 3
Fundamentals of Communication 3
Other Electives 6
 
*Individual degree program may vary.
 
Minor Curriculum
  • Minors programs shall include a minimum of 15 hours of course credit in animal sciences.
  • Students must complete a minimum of nine hours course work in animal sciences courses numbered 3000 or above.
  • Students may select any combination of animal sciences courses excluding problems and internships to meet the above requirements; however, all students will be expected to meet prerequisites of animal sciences courses.
 

Humans have been improving the value of animals as companions, transportation, laborers and food since the first dogs, horses, donkeys and cattle were domesticated. Today, animal husbandry is the scientific foundation of many industries, including livestock production, veterinary medicine and zoos.

Animal Sciences

If you're interested in applying the latest in genetics, physiology and nutrition to any of these diverse fields, then consider a career in animal sciences.

Career Opportunities

A bachelor's of science degree in animal sciences from the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) will provide you with all the skills you'll need to succeed in a wide variety of animal sciences careers.

You can individualize your degree program to fit the career field that most interests you. By employing a whole-animal approach to your science background, your animal sciences degree will prepare you for any number of careers, including:

  • Sales and management positions with feed and pharmaceutical companies such as: Purina Mills, MFA, Pfizer and Elanco.
  • Managers of various farm companies, such as: Tyson Foods, Premium Standard Farms, Murphy Family Farms and other private companies.
  • Laboratory technicians in industry and academia.
  • The study of veterinary medicine. Typically self-employed, vets are responsible for providing animal healthcare. Some vets specialize to care for companion animals, such as dogs and cats, while others focus their practice on livestock or horses.
  • Managing the care and well-being of a zoological park's collection. They may work with one species, providing all of its daily requirements, or work with a number of species, providing a specific service. In addition to animal care, zookeepers can also be involved with research and conservation efforts.

Research/Internship Opportunities

As an animal sciences student, your chances to gain real-world field experience through research and internships are almost limitless. Work side-by-side in the laboratory with MU animal sciences faculty and get hands-on experience with research in nutrition, physiology and reproduction.

Opportunities exist for on-campus internships and part-time employment as lab technicians, both of which provide valuable experience, especially if you're interested in pursuing a professional career in animal sciences. Internships that provide you with real-world work experience also are available. Spend a summer working for an agribusiness such as Tyson Foods or Purina Mills, a veterinary clinic, or a pharmaceutical or life sciences company.

Get Involved on Campus

Want to have fun and develop your leadership skills and professional contacts at the same time? Then join one or more of the College’s student clubs and organizations. There are more than 30 to choose from, and each gives you the opportunity to apply what you’re learning in the classroom while making lifelong friends.

  • Block & Bridle: If you love livestock, this club's for you. Block and Bridle is an award-winning animal science based club. The club mainly consists of animal science and other agricultural majors, but anyone is welcome to join. Ham curing, showing livestock in their own Little American Royal, hosting a junior steer and heifer show, and attending National Convention are just a few of the activities that go on throughout the school year. Membership dues are $10 for new members and $5 for renewals.

    Animal Sciences Department
    S108 Animal Sciences Research Center, 573-882-8336

  • Collegiate Cattle Women Association: The Collegiate Cattle Women Association is a group of young women who are passionate about the beef industry. We assist the Missouri Cattlemen's Association, Missouri Cattlemen's Foundation, Missouri Cattle Women's Association, and the Missouri Beef Council with promotions for the welfare of the beef industry. We are dedicated to beef education, promotion and community service. Some of our activities include cosponsoring a Farm Safety College for high school students, Adopt-A-Highway, beef demonstrations, promotions, hay rides and barbecues. CCW meets the first and third Tuesday of each month.

    Animal Sciences Department
    S108 Animal Sciences Research Center, 573-882-8336

  • Collegiate Horseman's Association: Collegiate Horseman's Association welcomes students from all majors, with or without equine experience. We participate in numerous events through the year, including trail rides, farm visits, hay rides and the national ACHA convention. The club meets the first and third Tuesday of the month in the ASRC building. We are a growing club and are always looking for new members and events!

    Animal Sciences Department
    S108 Animal Sciences Research Center, 573-882-8336

  • Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club informs and educates its members about veterinary medicine while examining career possibilities and developing leadership skills. Social activities throughout the year allow members to meet veterinary students and faculty and familiarize themselves with the MU School of Veterinary Medicine.

    Animal Sciences Department
    S108 Animal Sciences Research Center, 573-882-8336

  • Rodeo Club is open to all MU students with or without previous rodeo experience. Through its affiliation with the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, the club's goal is to increase and maintain interest in the sport of rodeo. Annual activities include the ever-popular Stick Horse Rodeo during CAFNR Week and the annual Bull Riding Bonanza. The club also hosts a Missouri High School Rodeo Association event in the spring.

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