About the Program
You know us as the place for pre-vet. However, our animal science major also opens up a wealth of options in addition to becoming a veterinarian. Using an evidence-based holistic approach, you will study the whole animal, from the cellular DNA level to the organismal level. Study genetics, breeding principles, reproductive physiology, nutrition, animal behavior, production and showmanship. Learn immunology and invent new vaccines. Go into the animal industry and business management or food safety and public health. You’ll learn by doing on acres of teaching farms with more animals on campus than any other college in Southern California.
The Polytechnic Experience
The animal industry is huge and getting bigger, and you can grow with it. Gain hands-on experiences that set you apart. Create smarter pet food or better pharmaceuticals. Study microbiology and genetics to make food safer. Learn medicine and science in real-world settings, not just in the classroom. Work with animals on campus and off, from dairies to wildlife refuges. Witness breeding of mares, monitor the pregnancy and be there when your foal enters the world. Formulate animal diets and learn to examine animals for diseases. From nutrition, immunology and genetics to using animals for people-therapy, we take a holistic approach so you can find your calling.
Career Outcomes
Program Emphasis
Courses
We offer a four-year curriculum leading to a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science with subplans in Pre-veterinary Science/Graduate School, and Animal Science (general). Our department offers a wide range of hands-on laboratory courses designed to complement theoretical learning and provide students with practical experience in various aspects of animal and veterinary sciences. Specialized laboratories are provided for wool and animal production. The department maintains 330 acres of range land and 100 acres of irrigated pasture. Livestock includes a breeding herd of beef cattle; flocks of sheep, goats, and a herd of various commercial breeds of swine. The renowned Kellogg Arabian horses are located at the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center, which has close collaborations with the department.
Our Mission
The Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences
We train students to understand and critically evaluate food animal and companion animal production, nutrition, health and physiology. The depth and breadth of our programs will prepare students to compete for admission to graduate/professional schools or careers in Agriculture/Animal Science or similar industries.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Nagao received her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Nagao worked in general practice (both private and corporate owned) for 17 years. During the pandemic, she transferred her focus to animal...Vivian Nagao Assistant Professor, Department of Animal & Veterinary Science
What is the Difference?
Animal Science vs. Animal Health Science
The Animal Science program includes two options, General and Pre-Vet/Graduate School. The Pre-Vet/Graduate School path meets the admission requirements for most veterinary medicine programs and graduate programs in animal nutrition, meat science, animal breeding and more. The general option is for those looking to work in animal industries outside of veterinary medicine or graduate school. The Animal Health Science program helps prepare you to become a registered veterinary technician (RVT). RVTs are equivalent to nurses of veterinary medicine.
