Animal Science (Graduate Field)

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Field Description

Expertise of faculty in the field of animal science spans a broad range of topics related to the physiology and management of domestic animals for enhanced health and productivity. Areas of research emphasis include animal nutrition and metabolism, growth, reproduction, genetics, immunology and infectious disease and systems analysis.  Additionally, there is a focus on the development of modern technologies to monitor animal behavior and physiology to increase productivity and ensure animal welfare, factors which will contribute to the sustainability of animal industries and food production.  In concert with this, students have the opportunity to train with teams of scientists focusing on the sustainability of animal production and opportunities to both mitigate and adapt to environmental challenges such as climate change.

Students training towards MS and PhD degrees in the field develop a unique program applicable to their particular goals under the mentorship of a special committee composed of faculty with the relevant expertise.  In addition to doing research, students are encouraged to gain experience in teaching, extension and public outreach.

The Master of Professional Studies (Agriculture) degree is intended primarily for applicants who want to further their academic training in animal science but whose interests may not be oriented toward research. It's a special non-thesis degree program requiring a minimum of two residence units and the satisfactory completion of 30 hours of coursework related to the professional interests of the candidate. Approval of the report of a problem-solving project is also required.

In addition, the M.P.S. (Agriculture and Life Sciences) program has a Peace Corps option in which the student undertakes two semesters of academic work at Cornell and a Peace Corps assignment. For information and instructions on how to apply, visit the M.P.S. (Agriculture and Life Sciences)/Peace Corps Web site, or contact International Programs, 33 Warren Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853; phone 607-255-3037; email mpsag_peacecorps@cornell.edu.

Data and Statistics

Field Manual