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The Animal Science program curriculum prepares students for rewarding careers in management of production and processing operations.
Students have the opportunity to study animal breeding and genetics, nutrition, physiology, growth, behavior, and management. Specialized careers within Animal Science include animal care, breeding, nutrition, marketing, promotions and research.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics overall employment of agricultural and food science technicians is projected to grow 9 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 4,900 openings for agricultural and food science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow as research into agricultural production methods and techniques continues. Challenges such as population growth, increased demand for water resources, management of pests and pathogens, changes in climate and weather patterns, and additional demand for agriculture products, such as biofuels, will drive higher demand for research in agricultural efficiency and sustainability.
Animal scientists will be also be in demand to meet increasing need to investigate and improve diets, living conditions, and even genetic makeup of livestock. Food scientists and technologists are needed to improve food-processing techniques to ensure that products are safe to consume, waste is limited, and food is shipped efficiently and safely. Soil and plant scientists will be necessary understand and map soil composition to improve crop yields and maximize utilization. They are needed to investigate ways to improve soils, find uses for byproducts, and selectively breed crops to resist pests and disease, or even improve taste.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for agricultural technicians was $40,430 in May 2021. The median annual wage for food science technicians was $46,590 in May 2021.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for agricultural and food scientists was $74,160 in May 2021.
Agriculture Program Student Learning Outcomes: