Program Overview

Animal Science (B.S.) – Food Animal Health Specialization

The Animal Science (B.S.) – Food Animal Health Specialization is a program designed to meet the course requirements of the preveterinary medicine curriculum for the SDSU Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine and some other veterinary schools. This specialization provides a strong background in the sciences, including animal nutrition, reproduction and growth, as well as meat science.

Program Overview

Innovations in animal science contribute to improved management, growth, efficiency, health, and performance of livestock. Discovering new knowledge in animal science requires a strong foundation in the sciences, which this specialization will provide. The food animal health specialization is designed to prepare students for veterinary school and a career in veterinary medicine.

Admission Requirements

Students will be required to complete at least one year of courses at South Dakota State University and be successfully admitted to the accelerated track for the SDSU professional (DVM) program in veterinary medicine to declare this specialization. The accelerated program will allow students to complete 19 credits of coursework for their bachelor's degree and the Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine.

Career Opportunities

Possible career opportunities with this degree include:

• Large or mixed/small animal veterinary practice
• Animal health research
• Animal disease diagnostics
• Public health and governmental veterinary work

Internship Opportunities

Available internship opportunities include:

• Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory at SDSU
• Area veterinary clinics and hospitals
• On-campus laboratory research with professors
• Area animal research companies
• SDSU animal units (cow-calf, dairy, horse, etc.)

Clubs and Organizations

Extracurricular clubs available for participation include:

• Preveterinary Club
• Block and Bridle
• Collegiate 4-H
• Horse Club
• Swine Club

Suggested Certificates, Dual Majors, and Minors

Suggested certificates include:

• Workplace Intercultural Competence Certificate (Undergraduate)
• Livestock and Animal Products Evaluation Certificate (Undergraduate)
• Global Agricultural Leadership Certificate (Undergraduate) Suggested minors include:
• Animal Health Minor
• Equine Studies Minor
• Dairy Industry Minor

Is This Program for You?

This program will be a good fit if you:

• Have an interest in science and the livestock industries
• Like to work with livestock and pets
• Are interested in medicine and well-being of animals
• Are a problem solver and analytical thinker
• Enjoy biology and other sciences

As a veterinarian, you will use your knowledge of science and problem-solving skills to directly help animals, ensure a wholesome and safe food supply, and help protect public and environmental health. Veterinarians have a broad set of skills that make them valuable in clinical, research, educational, and government settings.