Animal and Range Sciences

The animal and range sciences (A&RS) program encompasses physiology, nutrition, genetics, marketing and management of livestock and the utilization of livestock products. Rangeland management and the interrelationship between plants and animals are included as aspects of animal and range sciences.

The Program

Our department offers programs of study and co-curricular activities that provide the student with tools and techniques necessary to meet the challenges of a diverse agricultural industry.

The Curriculum

Animal and range sciences offers three options:

• Production/Business -- This option is designed for students desiring a background in the principles of livestock business operations and economics. It leads to broad training in animal husbandry, production, business and management. Employment opportunities include careers in agribusiness, livestock production, allied support fields and in agricultural extension for the Cooperative Extension Service.
• Range Science -- This option offers courses emphasizing range ecology and management to prepare students for employment with federal, state and foreign land management agencies, in agribusiness fields, or to continue with graduate studies.
• Science -- This option offers students a more scientific approach to animal science, preparing them for veterinary medicine, graduate research in animal science, teaching, food technology and the biotechnology industry. Pre-vet students may receive an A&RS degree while meeting academic requirements for vet school.

High School Preparation

High school preparation should include course work in biology, chemistry, English and algebra.

Career Opportunities

Animal and range sciences majors qualify for many varied occupations that involve animal and agriculture business, livestock products and land management. Graduates find employment with colleges and universities, private industry and foreign assignments, as well as federal and state land management agencies. Specific employment opportunities are available in the areas of extension service; financial lending; the promotion, management and sale of livestock and meat; feed sales; and farm, ranch and natural resource management. The increasing need for research in animal and range sciences has encouraged many students (15%) to enter graduate school.

Co-Curricular Activities

The Saddle and Sirloin Club is an active student organization which sponsors the Little International Livestock Show, the Hall of Fame Banquet, various 4-H and FFA livestock judging contests, the Spring Pig and Lamb Sale, Spring Livestock and Meat Judging Contests and other campus activities. Animal and range sciences students often belong to the Judging Club, Dairy Club, Rodeo Club, Range Club or Collegiate FFA Chapter.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Part-time work and work-study programs in the six livestock units, animal science laboratories and offices are available through the department. Freshman scholarships are awarded by the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources (contact the Office of the Dean of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources). Numerous awards and 24 A&RS scholarships are available to sophomore, junior and senior animal and range sciences majors. Scholarships are announced in the spring semester and awarded fall semester.

Sample Curriculum

*P/B - Production/Business

*S - Science

*RS - Range Science

This sample curriculum is not intended to serve as a curriculum guide for current students, but rather an example of course offerings for prospective students. For the curriculum requirements in effect at the time of entrance into a program, consult with an academic adviser or with the Office of Registration and Records.

Contact Information

Department of Animal and Range Sciences

North Dakota State University
Hultz Hall 100
Fargo, ND 58105

Tel: (701) 231-7641
Fax: (701) 231-7590
E-mail: ndsu.ansci@ndsu.edu
Web: http://www.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu/ars/

Office of Admission

North Dakota State University
124 Ceres Hall
Fargo, ND 58105

Tel: (701) 231-8643
Fax: (701) 231-8802
Email: NDSU.Admission@ndsu.edu
Web: http://www.ndsu.edu/prospective/students/

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