Degree: B.S.

Director: Aparna Zama ( zama@rutgers.edu )

Undergraduate Program Website: http://animalsciences.rutgers.edu/undergraduate 

Department: Animal Science

Chair: Wendie Cohick

Department Website: http://animalsciences.rutgers.edu

The animal science curriculum provides training and career development for students having an interest in animal biology or related fields including veterinary medicine, biomedical research, laboratory animal care, horse management, agribusiness, and livestock production and management. The biological sciences form a basis for the study and management of animals. Options are offered in preveterinary medicine/research, companion animal science, laboratory animal science, equine science, and production animal science.

Options within the Animal Science Major

1. Preveterinary Medicine/Research. Rigorous instruction and experience are provided in the biological and molecular basis of animal sciences in preparation for further education in medical or graduate studies. This option fulfills the academic course requirements of most U.S. veterinary colleges. Students completing this option may also enter medical and dental schools or pursue graduate studies leading to advanced degrees.

2. Companion Animal Science. Instruction and practical experience in companion animal science (selection, breeding/reproduction, nutrition, physiology, behavior) and appropriate courses in business provide students the basic knowledge and skills to manage commercial or not-for-profit companion animal science enterprises.

3. Laboratory Animal Science. Instruction and practical experience are provided in research techniques and the care and use of laboratory animals. Many graduates choose careers in animal care programs as well as research laboratories of major pharmaceutical and related industries, many of which are located in New Jersey.

4. Equine Science. Instruction and practical experience in equine science (selection, breeding/reproduction, nutrition, physiology, behavior) and appropriate courses in business provide students with the basic knowledge and skills needed to manage commercial or research enterprises in the horse industry.

5. Production Animal Science. Instruction and practical experience in animal science (selection, breeding/reproduction, nutrition, physiology, behavior) and appropriate courses in business provide students the basic knowledge and skills to manage commercial or research enterprises in the livestock (dairy/beef, poultry, sheep, swine) industries, or pursue careers in related/supporting fields such as the feed and animal health care industries, zoos, or wildlife preserves.