Master in Animal Science
School of Science and Engineering
Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose
Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University
The AIU Master’s in Animal Science is a flexible, up-to-date, and innovative graduate program for people with a strong interest in animal biology, nutrition, genetics, and welfare. This program applies state-of-the-art laboratory animal science master degree research and practical applications. Students learn from the latest research on the animal system, allowing them to develop their online master in animal science research skills, research methods, and other practical experience necessary to create sustainable agriculture, management, and health solutions for animals now and into the future. Through AIU’s self-paced, student-centered learning method, master in animal science students customize their education, gaining the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in many careers including animal science, livestock management, research, etc.
What are the Core Courses & Topics for a Master in Animal Science ?
Important: Below is an example of the topics or areas you may develop and work on during your studies. By no means is it a complete or required list, as AIU programs do not follow a standardized curriculum. It is meant solely as a reference point and example. Want to learn more about the curriculum design at AIU? Check here: Course and Curriculum
The Master of Science in Animal Science program provides students with an extensive variety of core courses that promote advanced foundational knowledge concerning animal health & well-being, nutrition and genetics, reproduction and biotechnology, agricultural production systems for livestock, and the ethical management of environmentally sustainable farm enterprises. In addition to animal science graduate program courses covering essential animal physiology, molecular genetics, nutrition & feed formulation, disease prevention, breeding programs, etc., the curriculum for this degree contains msc in animal science applied research methodology, statistical analysis of data, environmentally sustainable practices, and humane animal care, thereby allowing students to develop both depth of scientific knowledge and practical skills adequate for employment in this field.
Students of master in animal science will also experience interdisciplinary educational opportunities and perform applied research that will enhance their ability to develop solutions for global food security, veterinary healthcare systems, agribusiness development, WNEW18 developing innovative solutions for animal production systems.
- Advanced Animal Physiology
- Animal Nutrition and Feed Science
- Animal Genetics and Breeding
- Reproductive Physiology and Biotechnology
- Animal Health and Disease Management
- Veterinary Microbiology and Immunology
- Animal Welfare and Ethics
- Epidemiology in Animal Science
What are the Orientation Courses for Master in Animal Science ?
The Master Degree program’s Orientation courses assist in developing a solid academic foundation for students and their preparation for advanced level education through the application of research. Generally, these introductory courses include topics that cover writing for academic, communicating science, methodology for doing research, fundamental statistical methods for biostatistics, critical thought within the discipline of agriculture and ethical issues associated with research concerning animals. In addition, students will be introduced to online master in animal science degree digital resources for research, databases for managing data, and an interdisciplinary view of the field of Animal Science.
Through the orientation experience, learners will develop critical thinking skills, have a clear understanding of program requirements, and possess the essential academic, technical and research competences necessary for completing advanced coursework and completing the thesis project.
- Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
- Seminar Administrative Development (Book Summary)
- Organization Theory (Portfolio)
- Seminar Cultural Development (Practical Experience)
- Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
- Seminar International Development (Publications)
What are the Research Projects for a Master in Animal Science ?
The research projects conducted as part of the Master’s in Animal Science degree program will help to develop new knowledge and understanding of animal health; nutrition; genetics; reproduction; livestock production systems; and sustainable agriculture.
Students can choose to conduct either applied or experimental studies in such areas as feed optimization, genetic improvement strategies, disease prevention/control, reproductive technologies, dairy/poultry productivity, animal welfare assessment, and reducing environmental impact from livestock systems. A strong emphasis is placed on using empirical analysis of data; conducting laboratory or field-based research; and developing innovative solutions for real world problems associated with animal production and food security.
Through supervised research and development of a thesis, students will have the opportunity to make significant contributions to the body of knowledge that exists on the subjects outlined above and will also be able to develop advanced analytical, technical, and problem solving skills.
- MBM300 Thesis Proposal
- MBM302 Masters Thesis (5,000 words)
Publication – Research, innovation, and scientific contribution are at the heart of all student publications within the Master’s of Animal Science program. Students are encouraged to publish their findings from research projects, case studies, review articles, and technical papers in peer-reviewed journals, academic publications, and industry-based publications related to animal health, nutrition, genetics, biotechnology, and sustainable livestock management.
All of these publications come from a variety of sources including thesis work, field work, lab work or other cooperative projects with affordable master in animal science faculty and industry members. Through the process of writing and publishing research, students not only gain additional resources for their resumes, they also gain credibility as professionals while at the same time supporting the advancement of the science of animals both nationally and globally.
Thesis Defense
The final stage of a master’s in Animal Science program is prepared by presenting and defending a student’s original research proposal before an academic review committee. The doctoral candidate demonstrates mastery in his or her given specialization (animal nutrition, genetics, reproduction, health management/sustainable livestock systems) by describing all aspects of the research; i.e., the purpose, methods, analysis of data, and implications of the results.
The thesis defense of animal nutrition and breeding master evaluates the scientific soundness of the research, the level of innovation demonstrated, and how the results will be applied in the real world, and measures the distance learning animal science masters student’s ability to think critically and solve problems.
Master in Animal Science Student Experience
In the Master of Animal Science program, students will learn in a non-traditional manner of education through independence and the absence of typical supervision. Each course has opportunities for academic and professional development. Students will have numerous opportunities to perform hands-on animal nutrition research while creating their own dissertation or research project. There will also be many opportunities for students to share their animal genetics research project outcomes with the scientific community. In addition, students will have several opportunities each semester to work on livestock production summer research contracts with faculty members and/or charitable organisations.
The curriculum and research projects of the MS in Animal Science programme will foster critical thinking, creativity and collaboration. Students will develop additional skills to improve their employability in the Animal Sciences while receiving mentorship from faculty members, and academic coaching; and witnessing the use of new technologies in animal biotechnology and production systems. Students will gain confidence in their leadership skills through these activities, and will graduate with an international outlook. Additionally, students will be prepared for a variety of meaningful job opportunities in the Animal Sciences or Agriculture, as both academically and professionally competent individuals.
Community & Social
The Master of Animal Science program’s community and societal involvement component allows students to enact change in society through the application of their knowledge beyond the classroom setting. Students are involved in outreach programs, initiatives that promote awareness of sustainable farming, provide livestock health camps, advocate for animal welfare, and provide support to local farmers for dairy science and agricultural organisations.
All these activities encourage the responsible management of animals; food security, environmental sustainability, and ethical livestock practices are the focus of all these activities. By collaborating with various organisations and interacting with many different animal breeding communities and groups in the agriculture industry, students will develop their leadership abilities and communication skills, as well as develop a sense of social responsibility, while making a positive contribution towards improving animal health, rural development & poultry science and developing sustainable agricultural systems.
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Academic Resources
The supporting resources for academic achievements within the Master of Animal Science program have been created to enable the student to pursue advanced research and development (innovation) in their chosen field of study while attaining an excellent level of professionalism. These supporting resources are electronic libraries, subscription-based scientific and technical journal publications, searchable research databases, virtual laboratory simulations, tools for statistical analysis, and supplemental reading material for the major areas of study such as animal nutrition, genetics, biotechnology, livestock production management, and veterinary medicine.
In addition, the student will receive assistance with developing his or her thesis through mentoring and research-based guidance as well as access to cross-disciplinary knowledge bases which enhances their ability to think critically or use scientific methods during their research projects. The supporting resources for the Master’s of Animal Science program are intended to give the students the ability to perform quality research, remain current with advances in animal science, and develop evidence-based solutions to challenges faced by the agriculture and livestock industries.
Virtual Campus
Complete assignments online or offline at your convenience with 24/7 access to distance learning through AIU’s Virtual Campus. Step by Step guides including videos, tutorials, live webinars and examples for each course. All materials can be access on all web browsers as well as via AIU's Mobile App which brings all the features of the Virtual Camus to your Mobile Device.
My AIU Elements
MyAIU’s primary goal is to go beyond Academics, it looks to guide students through 11 elements that are key to living life optimally in all aspects. By identifying and reflecting on these key areas, an opportunity arises to holistically address them, through positive change, habits, reinforcement and tools to keep students on their chosen path.
AIU TV & Radio
The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.
AIU Campus Mundi
AIU Campus Mundi is a monthly magazine that gathers the most notable news and information about the university and its members in one convenient place. The magazine allows our community to be well informed, involved and keep in tough regardless of their geographic location. AIU Campus Mundi publishes, news, research, events, awards, academic achievements.
Graduation Ceremony
Each year AIU organizes graduation ceremonies where the students can assist and share their experiences with fellow students and academic members Participation in the ceremony is optional, the day’s events include conferences, research presentations, group meetings, networking, lunch and formal dinner.
Symposiums & Webinars
Students enrolled in a Master’s in Animal Science program will have the opportunity to attend symposiums that serve as an international forum for students to interact with researchers, industry professionals, veterinarians and agricultural innovators. The topic covered at these symposiums will focus on new developments in the following areas: Animal biotechnologies, genetic improvements, sustainable animal industries.
Live Classes
The Master’s in Animal Science has 2 classes per day to support continuous academic participation, allow real-time interaction, and promote greater mastery of subject material. Live classes give students direct access to the faculty members who teach and demonstrate their expertise on advanced topics such as animal nutrition; genetics; biotechnological applications to food production; animal husbandry including feedlot livestock production systems; and sustainable agricultural practices including organic farming methods.
A mixture of lecture-style classes, interactive discussions, case studies and current research trends create opportunities to collaboratively learn with each other while encouraging active participation in Q&A sessions and sharing ideas among their peers across multiple time zones using live technology. Participating in regularly scheduled live engagement opportunities will assist students in developing their critical thinking ability, clearing up complex scientific theories, and remaining connected to their course or career development throughout the term.
Special Projects, Research Publications, & Co-Authoring
With the Special Projects, Research Publications, and Co-Authoring Components of the Master in Animal Science at Atlantic International University, students can take successful steps toward helping to advance science, and move beyond just taking traditional classes. Through AIU’s self-directed/ research-driven model, students create special projects aligned to their professional aspirations; projects varying from sustainable livestock production systems and animal bio-technology to genetic improvement and animal health care management.
Students have the opportunity to publish articles in a scholarly and/or technical journal and/or case study format and work collaboratively with either a faculty mentor and/or an industry expert to become co-authors. Consequently, they are able to create an academic presence, achieve higher visibility in their area of expertise through published research, and develop an extensive professional portfolio that will position them to be ‘thought-leaders’ and innovators amongst their peers globally.
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Career Center for Master in Animal Science
The Master in Animal Science graduate program’s Career Center is an important resource for those seeking to move into a leadership position in the animal health and production, livestock production, agribusiness, and biotechnology industries. The Career Center provides personalized guidance in career exploration, including resume writing assistance, interview preparation, industry networking opportunities, and many of the tools necessary for utilizing the global marketplace.
The Career Center is also committed to supporting entrepreneurial endeavours in sustainable agriculture and animal production by connecting students to industry professionals and providing a wealth of resources to support research and career development within these industries. All of the Career Center’s services ensure that graduates will be not only academically prepared but also well-positioned for future long-term development and success in the animal science field.
Job Description
Graduates who earn a Master in Animal Science are prepared for many different and high-impact careers within the field. Examples of this include: Animal Nutritionist, Livestock Production Manager, Animal Breeder, Dairy Farm Consultant, Veterinary Consultant, Animal Health Specialist, etc. In addition to these careers many of the graduates will also pursue careers in Agribusiness, or as a consultant in the field of agriculture or the animal industry. In addition to working in the aforementioned areas, graduates will also be able to make a contribution toward the areas of food security, animal welfare, scientific advancement, and sustainable development worldwide.
Tools for Master in Animal Science
The Animal Science programme offers a master’s degree which combines the use of advanced digital tools and world-wide research platforms to help with data analysis, genetic research, livestock management, as well as doing scientific publication. Below is a selection of common databases or applications used as part of research and/or professional practice within the field of animal science:
Associations for Master in Animal Science Professionals
The Master of Animal Science program supports connecting and engaging with various professional organisations in order to advance research excellence, promote animal welfare, establish industry standards, and enhance global cooperation.
These organisations allow students to gain access to published research through scientific journal articles and allow students to attend relevant conferences, receive up-to-date policy information, to receive opportunities to certify their credentials, and allows for professional networking – all of which enhance students’ professional growth and academic progress. Through these engagements with national and international animal science organisations, students will be able to benefit from information regarding new developments, advances in technology, and other best practices in the fields of livestock production, veterinary research, and sustainable agriculture; thereby all helping to better establish students’ credibility as professionals and provide them with a means through which they can make a positive contribution to globalisation.
- American Society of Animal Science (ASAS)
- European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP)
- World Association for Animal Production (WAAP)
- International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG)
- World Veterinary Association (WVA)
- World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
- National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI)
- Indian Society of Animal Production and Management (ISAPM)
- Poultry Science Association (PSA)
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Master in Animal Science Admission Requirements
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required for admission into the Master’s of Animal Science program, along with the successful submission of an official transcript from that institution; thoroughly written CV (i.e., résumé); and an appropriate Statement of Purpose outlining what the applicant’s academic interests and career objectives will be following graduation from the Program. In particular cases, applicants may need letters of reference or suitable work experience (in agriculture/livestock research/agriculture business.) may need proof of English proficiency as an international student. All applications will be assessed holistically considering whether the applicant is academically prepared to begin the MS program, has demonstrated research potential and can reasonably achieve program goals.
How Can You Apply?
In order to enroll into the Master of Animal Sciences Program, potential candidates will need to take the following actions:
- Complete an online application (the link can be found via the website application page), which will require applicants to provide personal information and any academic history that they have from their high school diploma through an accredited Bachelor’s degree.
- Provide a copy of an official transcript from each college/university attended as well as a copy of the completed Bachelor’s degree.
- Write a statement of purpose explaining your educational background, experience(s) and future career aspirations related to Animal Sciences.
- Include the following types of supplemental information: updated CV/resume, letters of reference or any other information that may be helpful in assessing your professional ability.
- Upon completion of the above requirements, applications will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee (which consists of faculty members with expertise in evaluating the academic and research abilities of applicants).
- Notification of acceptance or denial will be sent to applicants following the admissions committee’s determination.
- Upon receipt of notification, further payments and/or required documents required for enrollment after which were accepted into the program may be submitted to the program office.
After successfully completing all required steps listed above, applicants will be eligible for attendance at classes and completion of their Animal Sciences degrees.
Financial Support & Scholarships
Students applying for a Master’s Degree in Animal Science have a wide variety of financial aid options available to them so that students who demonstrate academic achievement and/or financial need can pursue a post-secondary education with minimal financial burdens. All students have access to both merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid such as research assistantships which reduce tuition and provide additional monetary support to help improve academic performance.
There are additional funding sources for students including travel awards for travel associated with completing research and grants to attend conferences, each of which allows students to connect and build relationships with industry sponsors, professional associations and fellow students in their specific areas of interest. Students should explore all potential financial aid resources and contact their institution’s financial aid office for the appropriate documentation, deadlines for submission, and guidance in identifying potential financial resources. These financial aid resources are designed to allow students to prioritize their studies and work towards the pursuit of their individual career goals in animal science.
What’s the Cost Per Year for Pursuing a Master in Animal Science at AIU?
At Atlantic International University, pursuing a Master in Animal Science can be flexible and affordable because of the University’s goal to provide international access to higher education. Tuition is provided through customized payment plans that fit individual needs so that students can pay for their educational investment on a schedule that’s comfortable for them. Because AIU uses a self-directed distance learning model, the costs are generally lower than those for many traditional on-campus graduate programs; therefore, students are encouraged to reach out to either the admissions department or financial support department in order to receive a personalized tuition plan based on their academic plan and when they want to enroll.
FAQs
What is a master in animal science?
Master of Animal Science is a degree that allows individuals to become advanced scholars in their area. This degree will provide you with knowledge about topics such as animal biology, nutrition, genetics/reproduction/health management/livestock production systems, etc. There are many different professions for people with this type of degree: scientists, agribusinesses, animal health professionals, sustainable agriculture practitioners, biotechnology experts, etc. In addition to acquiring the information necessary for your career, you will also have an opportunity to develop analytical skills along with several other skills like scientific skill, management skills, etc. related to animal science.
What are the eligibility requirements for a master in animal science?
Bachelors in Animal Science or any relevant degree.
Can I study master in animal science online?
Yes, AIU offers a master in animal science online.
How long does it take to complete a master in animal science?
Approximately 2 years.
