Strengths of the Program
The Department of Animal Sciences fosters student success through strong mentoring, innovative research, and hands-on learning, giving students the opportunity to work directly with animals—from salmon and cattle in field settings to advanced laboratory research in genomics, nutrition, reproduction, and environmental science.
- One of the nation’s top animal sciences programs—and the only 4-year degree in Washington
- Multidisciplinary curriculum blending science, agriculture, and animal management
- Dedicated faculty providing academic and career mentorship
- Hands-on learning in labs and livestock facilities
- Career and leadership opportunities through internships, clubs, and cooperatives
Admission to the Major
After being admitted to WSU, students can join the Animal Sciences major by declaring their interest with the department, usually during orientation.
Advisors
Nancy Hernandez
Email: n.hernandez@wsu.edu
Phone: 509-335-0672
Office: Clark 123
📅 Meet with Nancy
Lisa Hunter
Email: hunterl@wsu.edu
Phone: 509-335-0671
Office: Clark 121
📅 Meet with Lisa
Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences
All animal sciences majors study nutrition, reproduction, breeding, and genetics while gaining hands-on experience with dairy cattle, beef cattle, swine, and aquaculture (salmon). Students can choose between two program options to align their coursework with their interests and career goals.
Pre-veterinary Medicine/Science Option
Prepares students for veterinary school, graduate study, and biotechnology careers through a strong foundation in the biological sciences and required prerequisites for DVM programs.
Animal Science, Technology, and Production Option
Focuses on the business, management, and production aspects of animal agriculture, with practical experience across multiple species.
Students apply what they learn through hands-on experiences, including student-managed livestock operations and research addressing challenges in animal and human health. High-achieving students may also pursue a combined B.S./D.V.M. program.
Common requirements
- 5 Foundational Courses 16 credits
- 3 Inquiries 16 credits
- 4 Inquiry in the Natural Sciences 16 credits
- 2 Math 4-5 credits
Animal Sciences core (20 credits)
- ANIM_SCI 101: Introductory Animal Science 3 credits
- ANIM_SCI 180: Animal Sciences Orientation 1 credit
- ANIM_SCI 240: Intro to Domestic Anatomy & Physiology 3 credits
- VET_PH 308: Functional Anatomy and Physiology of Domestic Animals 1 credit
- ANIM_SCI 313: Feeds and Feeding 4 credits
- ANIM_SCI 330: Animal Genetics 3 credits
- ANIM_SCI 350: Physiology of Reproduction 3 credits
- ANIM_SCI 351: Physiology of Reproduction Lab 1 credit
- ANIM_SCI 380: Careers in Animal Science 1 credit
- 1 ANIM_SCI Lab Management Course 1 credit
- 2 ANIM_SCI Group 1 Electives 5-6 credit
- 1 ANIM_SCI Production Course 3 credits
Technology and Production Major
- 4 ANIM_SCI Group 2 Electives 10-15 credits
- 2 Business/Economics Electives 6 credits
- 1 Agricultural Sciences Elective 1-5 credits
Pre-Veterinary/Science Major
- 1 ANIM_SCI Health Elective 3-4 credits
- 3 ANIM_SCI 400 Electives 7-15 credits
- 1 Pre-Vet Requirement for WSU 4 credits
Minor in Animal Sciences
A minor in Animal Sciences requires a minimum of 16 ANIM SCI credits, including at least 9 upper-division credits completed at WSU or through approved study abroad or exchange programs. Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA in ANIM SCI courses.
Students may declare the minor after completing 60 credits and being admitted to a major. For specific course planning and current requirements, students are encouraged to work with an academic advisor.
What can you do with your degree?
The hands-on extracurricular clubs, activities and leadership opportunities that I participated in as a WSU animal science student elevated my skillset and expanded my industry network in ways that continue to benefit me today.”
KIMMI DEVANEY, ANSCI ‘10
EDITOR & PODCAST HOST
PROGRESSIVE DAIRY MAGAZINE
Animal scientists address challenges facing industry and society, with careers spanning animal production, aquaculture, agribusiness, and animal care. The pre-veterinary option prepares students for veterinary medicine, biotechnology, and graduate study.
- Agribusiness
- Animal Management
- Animal Welfare
- Aquaculture
- Biotechnology
- County Extension agent
- Environmental Sustainability
- Farm and Ranch Management
- Food Safety
- Genetics
- Livestock Reproduction Services
- Nutrition
- Pharmaceutical sales and development
- Professor
- Veterinary Medicine
- Zoo Management
Suggested Strengths and Areas of Interest
Students planning to study animal sciences should take chemistry, biology, and mathematics and have solid communication and writing skills from high school. Students wanting to attend community colleges and then transfer to WSU should contact the department to coordinate their coursework.