College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences

Animal Science (M.S.)

College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences

Animal Science (M.S.)

From Nutrition to Reproduction — Earn Your MS in Animal Science

NMSU’s Department of Animal and Range Sciences offers the Master of Science in Animal Science for students ready to deepen their knowledge in areas such as animal breeding, meat science, nutrition and reproductive physiology. With a minimum of 30 semester credits of graduate-level coursework and required thesis research (or approved non-thesis option in specific cases) you will engage in hands-on labs, field experiments, and direct mentorship by faculty leading research in livestock systems. You’ll build the expertise to tackle real-world challenges in animal production, management, and science-based agriculture.

Learn more about the experience
Quick Facts

Admission Deadlines

Fall admission: February 15; spring admission: October 1


  • Total credits: 30

Delivery Format

In-person

Career Pathways

Graduates of the MS in Animal Science are well prepared for mid- and early-career roles where applied animal science knowledge and research experience matter. Possible career paths include:

  • Animal nutritionist or feed specialist in livestock companies
  • Reproductive physiologist or breeding program specialist in cattle, swine, or dairy industries
  • Meat science technician or quality control lead in processing plants
  • Extension specialist or field scientist working with livestock production and sustainability
  • Research associate or lab manager in animal science research facilities
  • Preparation for Ph.D. study, veterinary school or leadership roles in animal sciences
a woman standing in front of cattle

Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Master of Science in Animal Science? Fill out our inquiry form.

The Experience

Why choose a MS in Animal Science at NMSU?

Choosing NMSU’s MS in Animal Science means joining a department committed to practical research, mentorship, and professional growth. The program gives you direct exposure to livestock herds, nutrition labs, physiology labs and production systems. According to the graduate program page, areas of study at the Master’s level include animal breeding, meats, nutrition and reproductive physiology. With strong faculty guidance, state-of-the-art facilities including experimental herds and labs, and a focus on applied solutions for the industry, you’ll graduate equipped to make meaningful impact in animal systems.

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No GRE Required

We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.

The Master of Science in Animal Science requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate work with at least 15 credits in courses numbered 500 or above, at least 15 credits in Animal Science courses, and at least 15 credits (exclusive of ANSC 598) taken with other than a single professor.

Take classes like:

  • A ST 512 - Quantitative Analysis for Business Decisions
  • ANSC 484 - Ruminant Nutrition
  • ANSC 480 - Environmental Physiology of Domestic Animals
  • ANSC 507 - Laboratory Techniques in Nutrition
  • ANSC 510 - Range Nutrition Techniques
  • ANSC 509 - Endocrinology of Domestic Animals
View more courses and degree road map
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Scholarships and Financial Aid

At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.

Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.

NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.



Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu

Accreditation

New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.