Why Study Animal Science - Meat Animal?

Major | Animal Science/​Science/​Agriculture | CAFES

As an animal science – meat animal major, you’ll learn all aspects of farm animal production, including feeding, breeding, health and management, in addition to learning about processing food and fiber products derived from production animals. We offer two campus laboratory farms providing extensive hands-on experience. Plus, you’ll have the option to focus on one of two emphases - science or management - allowing you to find your passion and focus your studies.

Interested in our Farm and Industry Short Course? Click here to learn more about this unique and exciting opportunity!

76%

Of Students Completed At Least One High-Impact Practice Before Graduation

20+

Countries Represented in the Student Body

99%

Of Grads are Employed or Attending Grad School

Portrait of Ashlynn Kirk
I was taking both meat processing and animal welfare courses and I was genuinely interested in learning more about these topics so I met with the professor after class. We had the first discussion of many about how I could get more involved and he even recommended an internship opportunity for me to learn hands-on in a meat plant. I am confident that this was a turning point in my life and since then, I have gotten many research experiences, joined the UWRF Animal Welfare Lab/Judging Team and found my passion for making contributions to the meat and animal science industries.
Ashlynn Kirk

Animal Science - Meat Animal

cafes@uwrf.edu // 715-425-3535

Your Degree:

Undergraduate

Area of Study:

Animal Science/​Science/​Agriculture

Sheep and Goat Production class pose while out on a field trip

Skills and Learning Outcomes

  • Apply science-based knowledge and best management practices to the effective management of beef, swine or sheep herds for efficient, profitable production.
  • Understand animal behavior and how to use it for effective animal handling and production.
  • Apply basic biochemical and physiological concepts and utilize practical skills to the harvesting and processing of animal food products.
  • Effectively interpret and communicate the latest scientific findings in animal production and apply them to practical farm or ranch situations.

Types of Courses

  • Ag Economics
  • Animal Science Careers
  • Animal Welfare Assessment
  • Applied Animal Breeding
  • Foundations of Biochemistry
  • Intro to Plant Science
  • Intro to Ruminant Production
  • Meat & Meat Products
  • Science of Food
Three Animal Science students study pigs in a pen at the campus farm
A professor and student overlook a field of cows

Potential Careers

With a degree in animal science – meat animal, you’ll be prepared for a wide variety of future roles, including:

  • Animal or Meat Inspector
  • Artificial Breeding Technician
  • Feedlot or Herd Manager
  • Livestock Buyer
  • Market News Reporter
  • Nutrition Consultant
  • Production Line or Quality Control Supervisor
  • Researcher

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