Animal Breeding and Genetics

formulas
The Department’s current Animal Breeding and Genetics group has built on this legacy of excellence and is widely recognized as one of the premier programs nationally and internationally. Recent advances in genomics and the increased utilization of genomics and other big data technologies that require advanced quantitative methods of analysis in other disciplines of the animal and biological sciences have further increased the importance of animal breeding and genetics.
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Iowa State University has a proud history of nine decades of innovative animal genetics and genomics research, education and outreach, which traces back to the pioneering days of Lush and Hazel. Many of today’s animal breeders around the world can trace their academic pedigree back to Iowa State University (see pedigree link).

The Department’s current Animal Breeding and Genetics group has built on this legacy of excellence and is widely recognized as one of the premier programs nationally and internationally. Recent advances in genomics and the increased utilization of genomics and other big data technologies that require advanced quantitative methods of analysis in other disciplines of the animal and biological sciences have further increased the importance of animal breeding and genetics.


Degrees Offered: 

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization: (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Immunogenetics (Ph.D.)
  • Molecular Genetics (Ph.D.)
  • Quantitative Genetics (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 3.3 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.0 years (Methods)

Rose Mary Ross

rmross@iastate.edu
515-294-2160
Department of Animal Science
Graduate Coordinator, 1221 Kildee Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-3150

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in Animal Sciences and related disciplines.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to Animal Sciences and related disciplines.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data and information.
  • Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings using written, oral, visual, and electronic means of communication.
  • Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Statement of Purpose (Goals) Include major program desired, species of interest, preferred faculty advisor(s), research interests
  • Resume/CV
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Any prospective student can apply though we encourage students to reach out to our graduate faculty members prior to application. The application will only be fully reviewed at the request of a faculty member. Successful admission into this thesis-seeking program will require a major professor. An application fee would be due upon admittance.
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 80
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2025) 105

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

There is no deadline for applications. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year (upon the request of a faculty member) for either a Spring, Summer or Fall semester start.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions