Graduate
Degree Information

South Dakota State University
Department of Animal and Range Sciences
Graduate Program

Department Requirements -- The Department of Animal and Range Sciences offers graduate programs leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Animal Science, or the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biological Sciences. Faculty and graduate students are actively involved in basic and/or applied research in the fields of nutrition, reproductive physiology, muscle biology, range science, animal breeding, meat science, and animal production.

The department is committed to providing graduate students with quality educational and research experiences and preparing them to meet the challenges of a very competitive job market upon graduation.

Degrees Offered:
  • Master of Science
 Animal Science
  • Doctor of Philosophy
 Animal Science
Biological Sciences (with an area of study in Animal and Range Sciences)
Available Options:
  • Master of Science
 Option A
  • Doctor of Philosophy
 60-credit plan
90-credit plan

See the SDSU Graduate Bulletin for descriptions

Areas of Study:
  • Animal Breeding
  • Muscle Biology
  • Meats
  • Range Science
  • Swine Nutrition
  • Reproductive Physiology
  • Ruminant Nutrition

Additional Admission Requirements:
  • GRE: Not required
  • TOEFL: The Department has a requirement of 550.
  • The department requires applicants to submit a current resume and a letter of application that outlines interests and goals in addition to materials required by the Graduate School.
Core Requirements:
M.S. students are required to have 1 credit of Graduate Seminar.
Ph.D. students are required to have 2 credits of Graduate Seminar.
All students are required to present a seminar on thesis or dissertation.

Note:  A personal interview with the head of the major department should be arranged prior to registration.