The mission of the Louisiana State University School of Animal Sciences is the generation, preservation, dissemination and application of basic and applied knowledge in animal science for the benefit of the university, the citizens of Louisiana, the nation, and the global community.

As part of the flagship institution of the state, the vision of the Louisiana State University School of Animal Sciences is to be a premier animal sciences program, challenging faculty, staff, and students to achieve the highest levels of intellectual and personal development.

Faculty members are involved in a number of extension activities that make research-based information accessible to those who need it. AgCenter research stations regularly hold cattle and forage field days. These events give attendees a chance to meet our personnel, learn about their latest research and see demonstrations on pasture care, forages, nutrition, waste management, reproduction and genetic improvements.

Animal sciences faculty also help coordinate livestock programs for youth in 4-H and FFA clubs; lead livestock training programs for 4-H agents; serve as advisers to producer groups and governmental agencies; assist with parish-level Master Cattleman and Master Horseman classes; and make farm visits to answer producers’ questions.

To ensure the continued success of these activities and the animal industry, the School of Animal Sciences curriculum has recently undergone important changes. Until this academic year, the school awarded an undergraduate degree in animal, dairy and poultry sciences. We have retitled the degree to be one in animal sciences, reflecting a new focus on providing students a well-rounded education in all aspects of this field.

Our goal is to give students the scientific background they need to be successful, whether they pursue a career as a cattle rancher, veterinarian or laboratory researcher, or even in a related field such as the pharmaceutical or food industries. It is critical that students are knowledgeable of animal science as a whole and understand how different specialized areas are linked.

New undergraduate classes are being offered on basic animal husbandry, equine topics and meat products. Laboratory components have been added to a number of existing courses. There also is a new mechanism to provide course credit to students who complete internships, which is highly encouraged. Internships enhance the material students learn about in the classroom and give them real-world experience that makes them more attractive job candidates upon graduation.

Through research and education, the School of Animal Sciences gives producers the information they need today while making scientific discoveries that will benefit them tomorrow. Above all, our desire is to make sure animals, humans and the environment are all safe and healthy. We believe our school plays a valuable role in accomplishing this in Louisiana.

Innovate . Educate . Improve Lives

The LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture