Department of Fisheries, Animal and Veterinary Sciences

This major is designed for students interested in applied animal science careers. Options are available to students interested in veterinary medicine, animal sciences, and laboratory animal science. The major requires a minimum of seven credits in introductory animal science and genetics; three credits in biology; eight credits in inorganic chemistry; and three credits in mathematics. Also required are nine to 12 credits in basic science, 24 credits of concentration courses, and 26-29 credits of supporting electives approved for the major.

Animal Science Option

This option includes animal nutrition, physiology, behavior, and disease. Students will normally emphasize one or more of these areas. A strong preparatory background in the basic sciences is needed. Students in this option seek employment in technical areas and/or continue their studies in specialized graduate programs.

In addition to the requirements of the major, students choosing this option must complete the following basic science requirements: four to eight credits in organic chemistry, three credits in introductory calculus, and four credits in microbiology. A course in animal anatomy and physiology is required in the concentration. The remaining credit requirements will be selected from the concentration courses and supporting electives approved for this option.

Preveterinary Option

This option prepares students for admission to veterinary schools offering the D.V.M. degree and requires a demonstrated capability in the basic sciences. Because admission requirements among schools are not totally uniform and are subject to change, students should determine specific requirements of the schools in which they are interested. Those who are not accepted for veterinary training will be well prepared to pursue graduate programs in animal physiology and health.

In addition to the requirements of the major, students must complete the following basic science requirements: eight-credit, two-semester sequence in organic chemistry, three credits in biochemistry, four credits in microbiology, eight credits in general physics, three credits in introductory calculus, and three credits in intermediate calculus or statistical methods in research. Three credits in animal anatomy and physiology are required in the concentration. The remaining credits will be selected from the concentration courses and supporting electives approved for this option.

Laboratory Animal Option

Research techniques and procedures for animal care are emphasized along with a strong background in the sciences. Students with this training and animal experience would be employed in research and teaching facilities as animal technicians, animal technologists, supervisors of animal technicians, and assistant research project leaders.

In addition to the requirements of the major, students must complete the following basic science requirements: four to eight credits in organic chemistry, three credits in introductory calculus, four credits in microbiology, and three credits in statistical methods. Six credits in animal management, three credits in animal anatomy and physiology, and three credits of general nutrition are required in the concentration. The remaining credits will be selected from the concentration courses and supporting electives approved for this option.