Animal Sciences
The Department of Animal Sciences delivers a science-based research and education program that supports the needs and interests of communities throughout Colorado, and around the world. We are driven by our collective goal to develop the next generation of industry leaders who prioritize the health of our animals, the landscapes that support them, and the people who work with them.
Our students develop their passion for animals through an industry-oriented approach to animal health, productivity, and shaping the future of sustainable agricultural and environmental stewardship.
What is Animal Science?
Together, we work to improve the wellbeing of animals, people and the environment.
The Department of Animal Sciences plays a pivotal role in the stewardship of Colorado’s large and varied equine, livestock and meat industries. Students experience a deeper connection with animals by taking an active role in their health and welfare.
Our approach to animal science starts by building a foundational understanding of the natural world through hands-on relationships between our students and animals. Through coursework and experiential learning, students develop the skills and knowledge to understand the intimate connection between animals and their environments.
Animal Sciences Research Programs
Our rigorous research programs challenge faculty and students to explore critical solutions to challenges faced by industry, communities, and the world. We prioritize our work with an emphasis on animal, human and environmental health, and focus on areas like livestock health and welfare, genetics, nutrition, animal management systems, and meat safety.
Outreach and Engagement
We give back to our Colorado communities by sharing research-based solutions through outreach and engagement programming like student-run livestock sales, state and national symposiums, and equine-assisted services through the Temple Grandin Equine Center.
Legends of Ranching Performance Horse Sale
Students are drawn to the Equine Sciences program for the opportunity to participate in the Legends of Ranching program, an immersive, experiential learning model within our curriculum. Through LOR, students engage directly with industry partners, established ranches, and consignors while applying natural horsemanship training principles in the colt development process. This program integrates technical skill development, professional communication, and industry collaboration to prepare students for successful careers in the equine industry.
Story of Impact
Maggie Murphy
After an accomplished collegiate equestrian career and time as an assistant coach, Maggie Murphy is now focused on developing winners — both in the classroom and in competition.
Murphy has built an impressive resume in the equine world. She was a top-10 finalist in horsemanship at the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association National Championship from 2015 to 2018 while competing for West Texas A&M University, and she placed in the top 10 at multiple horse judging competitions. After competing at the national level, she went on to serve as an assistant coach for WTAMU’s nationally recognized equestrian and horse judging teams while earning her Ph.D. in agricultural systems.
Named head coach of Colorado State University’s Horse Judging Team in early 2025 — and later the Ranch Horse Team — Murphy brings a competitive mindset and a passion for teaching to her role as an instructor in equine science.
Upcoming Department Events and News
Jumping into the saddle: How Maggie Murphy builds winners in the arena and the classroom
First class of livestock business management students graduates from CSU
Animal Science Degrees and Programs
Undergraduate Degrees
Equine Science
Develop in-depth scientific knowledge of the horse and apply those principles to the growing industry. Gain a broad understanding of the business, recreational and production aspects of the industry.
Animal Science
Develop an industry-oriented, science-based education that focuses on food-producing animals while learning technical, practical, and business skills involved in livestock production.
Livestock Business Management Major
Use an interdisciplinary, systems approach to effectively manage livestock businesses for the benefit of humans and animals.
Graduate Degrees
M.S. in Animal Science
Develop an industry-oriented, science-based education that prepares you for careers in animal agriculture or one of many industries associated with livestock production.
Ph.D. in Animal Science
Study breeding and genetics, livestock/beef management systems, livestock behavior and welfare, meat science/food safety-microbiology nutrition and reproduction.
Master of Agriculture (M.Agr.) in Agricultural Sciences – Integrated Resource Management – Online
Understand how agricultural resource systems work together in a comprehensive way, and how to apply them in an agricultural management setting.
Get Started Today
Contact the Department of Animal Sciences
Animal Sciences Building
350 W. Pitkin St.
Campus Delivery 1171
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1171
(970) 491-6672
CAS_Ansci@mail.colostate.edu