Mar 28, 2024  
2010-2011 General Catalog 
    
2010-2011 General Catalog ARCHIVED CATALOG: To search archives, MUST use search box to left. Current catalog: catalog.usu.edu.

Animal Science, PhD


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Doctor of Philosophy


The PhD degree in animal science is offered with four specializations. It is available to qualified students with degrees in related disciplines. Exceptionally well-qualified applicants may be considered for admission to a postbaccalaureate PhD program. The PhD degree in bioveterinary science is available to qualified students holding a DVM or a master’s degree in a related discipline, or exceptionally well-qualified postbaccalaureate applicants. The PhD is a terminal research degree that is awarded upon successful completion of a comprehensive program of coursework and original research in an approved area of specialization.

Course Requirements


Course requirements are determined by the student in consultation with and upon agreement by his or her supervisory committee. Depending on the research emphasis selected and the student’s background, these requirements may be different for each student. Students working toward an MS or PhD degree must complete appropriate graduate-level statistics courses, as well as participate in the Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences departmental seminar.

Specializations in Animal/Dairy Science


Animal Nutrition


This specialization involves studies in biochemistry, principles of nutrition, animal management, nutritional physiology, and animal feedstuffs. Cooperation with producers, feed industry groups, other departments of the University, and USDA collaborators, along with research funding from private industry, strengthens the graduate program in this area.

Breeding and Genetics


This specialization involves studies in quantitative genetics, applied animal genetics, statistics, and animal management. Cooperation with other departments, particularly the Department of Biology and the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, and collaboration with other research institutions, livestock producers, and commercial animal breeding companies broadens the resources of this graduate program.

Molecular Biology


This specialization involves studies in molecular genetics, biochemistry of nucleic acids, cell biology, reproductive physiology, and bioveterinary science. Cooperation with other departments, particularly the Department of Biology and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the Biotechnology Center, and collaborators at other research institutions allows for a strong graduate program in this area.

Reproductive Biology


This specialization involves studies in physiology and endocrinology of reproduction; embryo technology, including collection, culture, manipulation, storage, and transfer of embryos; disease transmission, cytogenetics and molecular genetics; and environmental and toxicological influences on reproductive processes and fetal development. Cooperation with other departments and research centers of the University and with USDA collaborators allows for a strong graduate program in this area.

Animal or Dairy Management (MS Only)


This specialization involves studies in the applications of the principles of genetics, reproductive biology, and nutrition to animal or dairy management at an advanced level. Appropriate emphasis is also placed on statistics, economics and business administration, and range  management. The management specialization offers the option of degree programs with or without thesis (Plan A or Plan B). Graduates in management from a program including thesis (Plan A) may pursue advanced studies in more specialized fields. The MS in management without a thesis (Plan B) is considered a terminal degree.

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