In choosing a university, students who wish to major in animal sciences should consider several factors in order to determine if a school is right for them. Students who major in animal science with the plan of entering veterinary school should check to ensure that the university's program meets the admission requirements of vet school. Students may also want to determine whether a specific program grants access to labs, has internship programs, or the opportunity to participate in research. If a private university in Texas does not meet the specific program requirements desired by a student, they may want to consider going to a public university. There are several public universities in Texas that offer degrees in animal science, including Texas A&M.
Abilene Christian University is located in Abilene, Texas, and has approximately 4,700 students enrolled. It is a private Christian university affiliated with the Churches of Christ, and has a strong focus on Christian higher education. Bible courses and daily chapel attendance are required. Abilene Christian offers a Bachelor of Science in animal sciences that provides training for management and production on a farm or ranch, as well as training for research positions. There are several concentration tracks available. The first, Pre-veterinary Medicine and Health Sciences, satisfies requirements for admission to veterinary or graduate school. The Animal Industry and Business track prepares students for management positions in agribusiness. The Livestock Management track prepares student to manage livestock, wild, and domestic animals in their habitat. The Biotechnology and Research track builds students' knowledge and lab sills in biotechnology and molecular biology, and prepares students to conduct independent research.
Abilene Christian University
140 Hunter Welcome Center
Abilene, Texas 79699
325-674-2000
www.acu.edu
Lubbock Christian University is located in Lubbock, Texas, and is affiliated with the Churches of Christ. It is a small university, with under 2,000 students and a 14:1 student to faculty ratio. LCU offers two degrees in animal sciences. The first is B.S. in Animal Science, and the second is B.S. in Agriculture with a Pre-Vet Emphasis. Both groups of students receive a foundation in livestock production, plant science, and agricultural business. LCU does provide internships in the animal industry, giving students first hand experience working in the animal science field.
Lubbock Christian University
5601 19th Street
Lubbock, Texas 79407
800-933-7601
www.lcu.edu/
Southwestern University is located just north of Austin in Georgetown, Texas, and was the first university founded in Texas. It has 1,300 students and offers a full range of athletics, intramural sports, and over 90 student organizations. Their animal behavior program is taught from a biological and psychological perspective. They have a research-oriented program in which students learn how to study behavior and conduct their own research in the lab. Students also present a capstone research presentation at a scientific meeting.
Southwestern University
1001 E. University Ave.
Georgetown, TX 78626
512-863-6511
www.southwestern.edu