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College of Agriculture and Life Sciences 
Animal Science
Abby Whitaker

Undergraduate Programs

Hands-on learning. Top-notch instruction.
Endless opportunities.

Your Future Starts Now

Whether you begin your college career with us, switch from a different major, or transfer from another university or community college, we’re here to help you thrive.

Our departmental advisers work closely with you to help select courses that fulfill degree requirements, provide opportunities to enhance your college career through activities and clubs, and build a foundation for future success.

Our programs

Student on a cow pasture.

Bachelor of Science

We offer three exciting tracks toward a bachelor’s degree in animal science.

Pick your path 
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Accelerated Program

If you participate in the accelerated degree program, you will follow a structured curriculum and can graduate in five years with both a B.S. degree and a Master of Animal Science degree.

View the curriculum and apply 
Students learning animal anatomy from teachers's model of cow

Minor or Certificate

We offer additional programs that allow you to obtain a minor or undergraduate certificate in animal science.

Learn if a minor or certificate is right for you 

Transfer Students

Want to make a move to NC State or from another department? We can help you transfer to the animal science department so you can hit the ground running.

Transfer to NC State
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Bachelor of Science

Professor with a vet school student

The Veterinary Bioscience track offers the required prerequisite courses needed to apply to the NC State Veterinary School.

Vet Bioscience Concentration
A student looking into a beaker

This track is designed for students interested in graduate or medical school or careers that require a strong science background.

Science Concentration
A student milking a cow.

The Industry track prepares students for careers in production animal agriculture and related fields.

Industry Concentration

Undergraduate Minor and Certificate

Open to all undergraduate students, the minor in Animal Science allows students to become familiar with animal production and its related industries. Students must complete 15 credit hours with a grade of ‘C-‘ or higher in each course.

Visit the Undergraduate Catalog for the animal science minor requirements and curriculum.

The certificate program offers education in the basics of livestock, horse and companion animal nutrition. Students can complete the four required courses on-campus, online or in combination. This flexibility allows students to move at their own pace.

Visit the Online and Distance Education website for more information about the undergraduate certificate in animal nutrition, and to apply.

UNDERGRADUATE student resources

Undergraduate Advising

Contact Dr. Melissa Merrill, Director of Undergraduate Programs, for questions or more information about our undergraduate programs. 

FAQs

For more information about admissions into our programs, view our frequently asked questions and answers. 

Student Opportunities

From clubs and workshops to internships, enrichment activities enhance your studies and allow you to network with classmates. 

Undergraduate Courses

We design our coursework so that each student graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to hit the ground running. 

Food Animal Scholars

We provide a clear pathway for students desiring a veterinary career in food animal agriculture. Undergraduate students with excellent academic records and sincere interest in animal agriculture are encouraged to apply. 

Careers

Our science-intensive programs translate across multiple industries, giving students plenty of career options.