Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational coursework with specialised study and applied research. Students pursue either a thesis (research) or non‑thesis (coursework plus practicum) option. Core topics commonly covered include animal physiology, nutrition and feed evaluation, reproductive biology, genetics and breeding, animal behaviour and welfare, and production systems for ruminants, swine, poultry and equine species.

• Typical modules: Advanced Animal Nutrition; Reproductive Physiology; Comparative Animal Physiology; Animal Genetics and Breeding; Animal Health and Disease; Meat Science and Product Technology.
• Research and methods: Experimental design and statistics for animal science, laboratory techniques in physiology and molecular biology, and applied herd/flock trial methods.
• Applied learning: Access to research herds, teaching farms and specialised facilities supports practicum experiences in production management, nutrition trials, artificial insemination/embryo handling, and meat processing/quality assessment.
• Thesis vs non‑thesis: Thesis students complete an original research project under faculty supervision and defend their findings; non‑thesis students complete advanced coursework plus a practicum or internship and a capstone report.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in animal science, agriculture, biology or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Successful candidates typically demonstrate solid preparation in core animal science areas such as physiology, nutrition and genetics, and have experience with laboratory or production settings.

• Academic record: A competitive undergraduate GPA and coursework relevant to animal sciences.
• Supporting documents: Personal statement outlining research or career goals, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Research fit: Prospective thesis students are advised to contact potential faculty supervisors whose research interests align with theirs prior to applying.
• English language proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt by prior study in English.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Animal Sciences go on to a wide range of careers across academia, industry and public service. The degree prepares students for roles that require advanced technical knowledge, research skills and applied problem‑solving.

• Research scientist or technician in university, government or private research organisations
• Nutritionist, feed formulation specialist or technical services representative for feed and ingredient companies
• Production manager, herd/flock specialist or operations supervisor in livestock and poultry enterprises
• Extension specialist, industry consultant or animal welfare advisor
• Pathway to doctoral study or professional programmes such as veterinary medicine

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University’s Department of Animal Sciences is part of a college with strong emphasis on applied agricultural research and extension. The programme benefits from extensive hands‑on facilities, including teaching and research farms, species‑specific centres and laboratories that support both basic and applied research.

• Practical facilities: Students gain experience with on‑campus herds and flocks, meat science labs and animal health research facilities.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: Close collaborations with departments such as veterinary sciences, ecology and bioagricultural sciences allow multidisciplinary research projects.
• Industry and extension links: Strong regional and national connections provide internship and employment pathways through extension services and industry partners.
• Research mentoring: Faculty supervise small research teams, enabling direct mentorship and frequent opportunities to present and publish findings.