Animal Science

cows
The graduate major in animal science offers students the option of pursuing MS- and PhD-level study with a broader focus than the department's other majors. Students in this major take courses in the five main sub-fields of animal science.
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The graduate major in animal science offers students the option of pursuing MS- and PhD-level study with a broader focus than the department's other majors. Students in this major take courses in the five main sub-fields of animal science: breeding, nutrition, physiology, reproduction, and meat science, while focusing on one species of domestic animals.  Animal science majors frequently focus on research problems related to livestock production systems. 

Over the past five years, the vast majority of graduates from this major have taken jobs in agricultural industries and agribusiness, while the balance have pursued additional degree work or assumed appointments in extension services around the country. 


Degrees Offered:

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

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 3.6 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.1 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) (if not sent electronically with application): 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