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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 grounded by our diversity and 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 diverse 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.

The Annual CSU Bull and Female Sale

February 15, 2025

Seedstock Merchandising students take the lead in this annual event, helping to select and prepare the animals, and shaping the marketing efforts.

Cora Schrock

Story of Impact

Cora Schrock

Junior Cora Schrock credits her hardworking spirit and fierce love for livestock to the environment she was raised in, one that taught her compassion and hard work, with lessons passed down through generations.

Upcoming Department Events and News

Four CSU leaders featured among Who’s Who in Agriculture for 2022

The leaders made the Denver Business Journal list based on their innovative work within the agricultural industry. The post Four CSU leaders featured among Who’s Who in Agriculture for 2022 appeared first on College of Agricultural Sciences.

A lifetime of inspiration fuels CSU alum to give back

For Jeff Tovar, the ripple effect of three professors continues decades later. The post A lifetime of inspiration fuels CSU alum to give back appeared first on College of Agricultural Sciences.

Animal Science Degrees and Programs

Undergraduate Degrees

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.

Degree Details for Animal Science

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.

Degree Details for Equine Science

Livestock Business Management Major

Use an interdisciplinary, systems approach to effectively manage livestock businesses for the benefit of humans and animals.

Degree Details for Livestock Business Management Major

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.

Degree Details for M.S. in Animal Science

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.

Degree Details for Ph.D. in Animal Science

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.

Degree Details for Master of Agriculture (M.Agr.) in Agricultural Sciences – Integrated Resource Management – Online

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