Program: Animal and Range Sciences - South Dakota State University

2006-2008 Graduate Catalog

Apr 08, 2025

This is a collaborative program among the Departments of Animal and Range Sciences, Dairy Science, Veterinary Science, and Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering. Successful completion of requirements leads to a Master of Science in Animal Sciences with specialization in Nutrition; Genetics and Reproduction; Meats, Muscle Biology and Growth; Range Science; Production and Processing Systems; or Veterinary Science.

This program allows for considerable latitude in the education and training of students. Identification of a major professor with resources to support the student’s thesis project is required for unconditional acceptance into the program. An advisory committee will be formed for each student. The advisory committee will work with the student to design a unique and individualized plan of study to meet the interests and needs of the student. While the training of most students is largely directed to a single discipline represented within one of the participating departments, cross-discipline training is available and encouraged.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees
Master of Science: Option A

Doctor of Philosophy: 60-Credit Plan
90-Credit Plan

See Master’s Degrees and Options and Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements for descriptions of available options.

Core Requirements

Experience Seminar

Students are required to take AS 798, Thesis for 5-7 credits and AS 790, Seminar for 1-2 credits. This is a common experience seminar for all enrolled students.

At least three courses (8-9 credits) from the following courses are also required

Additional courses from this list may be taken toward the discipline course requirement. The courses will be determined by the student and their advisory committee and identified on the student’s Plan of Study no later than the end of the first year of study.

BOT 727 Advanced Plant Physiology Credits: 4

12-14 credits of discipline specific courses are required for a requirement of 30 credits total.

The student, major advisor and Advisory Committee will select the discipline specific courses. The discipline courses prepare students in a specific emphasis area. The courses will be identified on the student’s Plan of Study no later than the end of the first year of study.

Core Requirements for Doctor of Philosophy

2 credits of Graduate Seminar
Present seminar on dissertation

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: required score of 550 paper-based, 213 computer-based, 79-80 Internet-based
Letter of interest and intent
Minor or supporting courses required (8 credits minimum)

General Requirements (Master’s Degree and Ph.D.)

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate work.

See Master’s Degree Requirements and Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements.