![[Dept. of Animal Sciences]](../images/animalsciences.gif "[Dept. of Animal Sciences]"){kind=small}
Animal Science is a popular program for many students enrolled at the Rutgers University School of Environmental and Biological Sciences. Over 300 upper class students are enrolled as majors. In addition, 75 first-year and 25 transfer students declare Animal Science as their major each year. Minors are also offered in Animal Science and Equine Science.
The curriculum provides students with the science, skills, and experience to be competitive for entrance into professional schools (veterinary, graduate, medical, etc.) or employment in animal science related fields. Graduates are regarded very highly by professional schools and employers. Each year approximately 10 to 15 graduates are admitted to veterinary schools. Other students elect to continue their education in graduate or medical schools. Many companies located in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania that conduct large and small animal research and develop and market human and animal health and nutritional products provide numerous employment opportunities for our graduates with B.S. degrees. Commercial dairy, horse and livestock farms, historical agricultural farms, and zoos also provide employment opportunities.
A farm complex is maintained on-campus for dairy cattle, deer, goats, horses, sheep, and swine. Laboratory animals are also maintained for research and instructional purposes. These animal facilities are very important as they supplement formal coursework and permit students to take practicums and conduct independent research projects, thus receiving "hands-on" experience in the handling, management, feeding, reproduction, physiology, and behavior of animals.
All faculty members have a Ph.D. degree in their area of specialization; several also have a veterinary degree. Their responsibilities include teaching, student advising, and conducting research and outreach activities in fields related to animal science. The faculty are instrumental in providing students with experience in state-of-the-art techniques used in molecular biology, nutrition, physiology, and behavior of animals. Students may also gain practical hands-on experience in off-campus employment through the Cooperative Education Program with Animal Science faculty as advisors.
Five student organizations act in support of the Animal Science program: Society of Animal Science, Veterinary Science Club, Seeing Eye Puppy Raising Club, Animal Behavior Club and Equine Science Club. Each club sponsors invited speakers, field trips, and career orientation presentations that are both social and educational. These clubs contribute greatly to the success of Ag Field Day. The Animal Fitting and Showmanship contests and the Petting Zoo are top Ag Field Day attractions due to the leadership of the Society of Animal Science and Veterinary Science Club, respectively.
The Animal Science program offers a great opportunity to achieve an excellent undergraduate education in a pleasant, friendly, and stimulating environment.