The Department of Animal Science offers research-based graduate programs leading to the Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. A student is expected to pursue an independent research program for each degree under the guidance of a major professor.
The Ph.D. degree program is administered by a Supervisory Committee approved by the Department Graduate Committee and the Office of Graduate Studies. Course work and dissertation research areas are developed by the student and the major professor and must be approved by the Supervisory Committee.
Students in both M.S. and Ph.D. programs are encouraged to consider serving as teaching assistants in undergraduate or graduate courses. In addition, opportunities exist for students to gain first-hand Cooperative Extension experience by interacting with faculty specialists.
In addition to our seven graduate specializations, we also offer two graduate minors and two badges for those looking to enhance their education.
Please read our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Prospective Animal Science Graduate Students for answers to the most common questions that we receive from potential graduate students.
Areas of Specialization
Animal Health, Welfare, & Precision Management
Breeding & Genetics
Extension & Education
Meat Science & Muscle Biology
Non-Ruminant Nutrition
Physiology
Ruminant Nutrition
- Typically completed in 2 years
- 30 credit hours required
(including 6-10 research thesis hours)
- Typically completed in 4-5 years after the B.S. degree or 2-3 years beyond the M.S. degree.
- One half (90 credit hours beyond the B.S. degree) must be completed at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
- A professional degree in agricultural science, community development and natural resources at the master’s level
- Flexibility that allows you to design an area of study that addresses your educational goals
- Online courses allowing you to earn the degree remotely
- Animal Science
- Beef Cattle Nutrition
- Extension Education Experience
- Teaching Engagement Experience
Admissions and Application Information
Prior to applying, directly contact a specific animal science faculty member of your area of interest.
Complete Admissions information can by found at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Office of Graduate Studies.
Graduate Admissions and/or the Department of Animal Science require all materials to be submitted for graduate admission consideration:
- Completed Application (available online only). $50 nonrefundable fee.
- A copy of unofficial transcripts
- Three Letters of Reference (Use pdf format)
- Statement of Purpose
- List three faculty members that you are interested in working with (see research areas here)
Additionally for International Students:
- Verification of English Proficiency (See below for TOEFL requirements)
- Financial Resource Information
Deadlines for Applying
Admissions are reviewed on a continual basis; however, it is strongly encouraged to submit all materials to Graduate Admissions no later than:
- January 7 to be considered for financial support in the coming academic year.
- March 1 for fall (August start)
- September 1 for spring (January start)
- February 1 for summer (June or July start)
Tests of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Requirement
Complete Information regarding the Tests of English as a Foreign Language proficiency can by found at International Graduate Applications.
Demonstrate English proficiency by providing at least one of the following:
- Paper-based TOEFL score of at least 550
- Internet-based TOEFL score of at least 79
- IELTS score of at least 6.5
- Duolingo English Test Graduate minimum score of 120
TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo scores are valid for two years.
Ready to Apply?
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