Master of Science in Animal Science

FVSU’s Master of Science in animal science degree program provides the opportunity for advanced study of livestock and other animal species as it relates to their biological systems, behavior, health, reproduction, growth, and management of their living environments. Students have three options for specialization: animal products technology, animal nutrition and forages, and animal reproductive physiology and cell biology. Students will be required to take 37 credit hours of graduate-level courses, including six credit hours of thesis research. Full-time students may complete the program in 5 semesters (at most).

The primary objectives of the M.S. degree program in animal science are: to increase the number of students currently underrepresented in graduate education in the area of animal science, prepare students for study toward a terminal degree, enhance the scientific and technical knowledge base of students, to prepare students for leadership roles in a technologically advanced society through the study of important and modern aspects of animal science, such as animal biotechnology, cell biology, nutrition, and product technology, with an emphasis on small ruminants. FVSU’s Master of Science Degree Concentration in Animal Science Program is administered through the Graduate Studies Department and the College of Agriculture, Family Sciences, and Technology.

Course Requirements for the MS in Animal Science (37 Credit Hours)

Core Requirements (13 Credit Hours)

Major Degree Requirements (24 Credit Hours)

Admission Application Requirements

1. A Completed Graduate Application
2. Application Processing Fee (non-refundable)
   • $20 – Domestic Applicants
   • $75 – International Applicants
3. A Professional Resume
4. A Statement of Purpose
   • The statement must be between 550-600 words. The Statement of Purpose should be in essay format and include personal characteristics/disposition, professional goals, academic background, research, work/volunteer experience and why you wish to pursue a graduate degree in the respective area.
5. Three Professional Recommendations
   • Letters of recommendation must be submitted using the FVSU Recommendation form for Graduate Admission.
6. Official Transcripts from each postsecondary institution (College/University) attended. The transcript should show all degrees and coursework, the dates awarded, and grades earned.
7. Immunization records
   • International Transcript Evaluation: Transcripts from educational institutions outside the United States must be evaluated by any current member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) (https://www.naces.org/members.html) with a course-by-course evaluation and grade point average (GPA) included. The transcript must be received directly from the evaluation service/agency.