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Animal Science

Students with interest in an undergraduate program in Animal Science, which includes becoming a veterinarian, will learn in a hands-on, science-based curriculum under knowledgeable and friendly faculty. Animal Science students explore the science, production, and business of domestic food, fiber, and companion animal species, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, and companion animals.  Also included are disciplines such as nutrition, reproduction, genetics, behavior, meat science, management, health, and biotechnology. 

Animal Science students can “learn by doing” through work with herds of beef cattle, swine, and dairy cattle at the MTSU farm laboratories. In addition, several extracurricular animal-related student organizations, including the Block and Bridle Club, Dairy Science Club, Poultry Science Club, and Pre-Veterinary Medical Society, provide unparalleled opportunities for involvement.  Competitive teams include the Animal Science Academic Quadrathlon team, Poultry Judging team, and Dairy Challenge team. The Animal Science program is unique in Tennessee by offering a minor in Poultry Science. The Poultry Science minor provides excellent opportunities for students to prepare for a career in the poultry industry.

Extracurricular Activities promote professional development and leadership skills

Students have several options when considering student organizations supported by the School of Agriculture.  Animal Science students have leadership roles in the Block & Bridle Club, Dairy Science Club, Poultry Science Club, Pre-Veterinary Medical Society, and Collegiate FFA. 

This program is approved for the Academic Common Market.

What We're Doing

Standing out in the herd

Standing out in the herd

MTSU's state-of-the-art dairy farm is responsible for milk served on campus and to local area vendors. Home to the university's herd of about 100 dairy cows, the teaching, research, and production facility features a double-eight parallel milking parlor with rapid-exit gates that can milk 16 cows at a time. A computer-controlled milking system with leg bands allows us to record milk production and track activity levels of each cow.  Students in dairy production, livestock management, and other animal science courses learn how to operate a modern dairy farm and many are involved in undergraduate research projects at the farm.

Animal Science students are active in research

Animal Science students are active in research

Animal Science students conduct undergraduate thesis research projects as part of the University Honors College or independently with a faculty mentor.  Students have the opportunity to present their research at university, state, regional, and national meetings including University Scholar’s Week, the Tennessee Academy of Science, American Dairy Science Association, American Society of Animal Science, Poultry Science Association, and the International Poultry Scientific Forum.

Related Media

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A degree in Animal Science affords students a wide array of career opportunities after graduation or helps prepare them for continued study beyond the undergraduate level, including graduate degree programs (M.S. or Ph.D.) or professional programs in veterinary medicine (DVM). Some career opportunities with a degree in Animal Science from MTSU might include

  • Animal feed manufacturer
  • Animal health technician
  • Animal laboratory technician
  • Animal nutrition salesperson
  • Animal product processing supervisor
  • Animal shelter manager
  • Canine performance trainer
  • County extension agent
  • Government regulatory specialist
  • Livestock journalist
  • Livestock marketer
  • Livestock production manager
  • Pharmaceutical salesperson
  • Poultry production technician
  • Quality assurance manager
  • Veterinary technician
  • Vocational agriculture teacher
  • Wildlife technician
  • Zookeeper

Employers of MTSU alumni include

  • ADM
  • Aviagen
  • Cal-Maine Foods
  • Cargill
  • Farm Credit Services of Mid-America
  • Heritage Farms
  • Mars Petcare
  • Merck Animal Health
  • MWI Veterinary Supply
  • PIC International
  • Pilgrim’s Pride
  • Tennessee Department of Agriculture
  • Tennessee Department of Education
  • Tennessee Farm Bureau
  • Tennessee Farmer’s Cooperative
  • Tractor Supply Company
  • Tyson Foods
  • UT/TSU Extension

Undergraduates in the Animal Science program can pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree, following the industry path to pursue a career in animal science after graduation, or choose to follow the pre-veterinary medicine path of study in preparation to apply for admission to a college of veterinary medicine. Also available is a B.S. with a concentration in Horse Science.

For complete curriculum details, click on the REQUIREMENTS button to the right.

Other majors in the School of Agriculture leading to a B.S. are Agribusiness, Fermentation Science  and Plant and Soil Science.

Students may also take courses in pursuit of an Agricultural Education Certificate. Undergraduate and graduate minors are available in Agriculture.

Graduate study includes the Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Horse Science with concentrations in Equine Education, Equine Physiology, and Industry Management.

Professional Licensure Disclosure

The Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) College of Education’s teacher licensure preparation programs are accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and are eligible for accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Animal Science with teacher licensure program at MTSU is designed to meet the licensure requirements set by the Tennessee Department of Education. Students should be aware that licensure requirements vary from state to state and are subject to change. MTSU has not made a determination whether a specific program will meet all of the requirements of another US state or territory. MTSU recommends that students who plan to seek licensure outside the state of Tennessee contact the appropriate licensing agency and discuss their plans with their advisor. To obtain current information about each state’s and territory’s licensure requirements and any additional regulations, students should consult the US Department of Education’s website for state contacts.

Graduates of MTSU teacher education programs certified to teach in Tennessee are eligible for certification reciprocity in many states. Reciprocity is not an automatic or complete transfer of certification, thus individuals should consult the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) site and the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) site at as well as the US Department of Education state contacts site for information about any additional state requirements.

Animal Science, B.S.

Animal Science, B.S.

Agriculture 
615-898-2404
Jessica Carter, program coordinator
Jessica.Carter@mtsu.edu 

The program leading to a major in Animal Science offers preparation for leadership careers in animal agriculture and related fields.

Academic Map

Following is a printable, suggested four-year schedule of courses:

Animal Science, B.S., Academic Map  

Degree Requirements

General Education41 hours
Major Requirements46 hours
Supporting Courses27-28 hours*
Electives5-14 hours
TOTAL120 hours

*This program requires courses that can also fulfill requirements of the General Education curriculum. If program requirements are also used to fulfill General Education requirements, the number of elective hours will increase.

General Education (41 hours)

General Education requirements (shown in curricular listings below) include courses in Communication, History, Humanities and/or Fine Arts, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Social/Behavioral Sciences.

The following courses required by the program meet General Education requirements:

Major Requirements (46 hours)

  • AGBS 1210 - Principles of Agribusiness

    3 credit hours

    An overview of the food and agriculture industry, agricultural markets, agriculture supply chains, and the structure of agribusinesses.

  • AGRI 1000 - Orientation in Agriculture

    1 credit hour

    Covers topics related to agriculture including career opportunities, industry trends, and controversial issues. Familiarizes students with School of Agriculture facilities, extracurricular activities, faculty, and academic programs.

  • ANSC 1410 - Introduction to Animal Science  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    ANSC 1410 - Introduction to Animal Science

    3 credit hours

    Overview of the science, production, and management of domestic animal species, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals. Topics include reproduction; breeds, breeding, and genetics; nutrition and feeding; animal health; management; and products processing and marketing.

  • ANSC 1401 - Introduction to Animal and Veterinary Sciences

    3 credit hours

    Focuses on the introduction and overview of the animal and veterinary sciences disciplines. Reproduction, breeding and genetics, nutrition and feeding, animal health, management, and products processing and marketing of beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals included. 

  • ANSC 1411 - Introduction to Animal Science Lab

    1 credit hour

    Focuses on applied learning concepts presented at the introductory animal science level. Topics include livestock, poultry, and companion animal breed identification; animal nutrition, feeds, and forages; reproductive science and management techniques; animal breeding and genetics; and basic experiential aspects of beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, horses, poultry, and companion animal production and management.

  • ANSC 3000 - Careers in Animal and Veterinary Science

    2 credit hours

    Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. Explores career opportunities in various areas of animal agriculture, allied fields, and some non-traditional career paths in the animal and veterinary sciences.

  • PLSO 1610 - Elements of Plant Science

    3 credit hours

    Fundamental plant processes; plant tissues, structures, environment, growth, development, reproduction, and propagation. Lecture/Lab.

 

  • PLSO 3340 - Fundamentals of Soil Science  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    PLSO 3340 - Fundamentals of Soil Science

    3 credit hours

    Introduces soil science with emphasis placed on soil physical, biological, and chemical properties. Relates soil conditions to land use applications, plant growth, and environmental quality. Lecture/Lab.

  • PLSO 4310 - Forage Crops  3 credit hours  

    PLSO 4310 - Forage Crops

    3 credit hours

    Adaptation, distribution, establishment, management, culture, and utilization of forage legumes and grasses. Lecture/lab.

 

  • ANSC 3420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Basic principles of genetics, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include use of quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • ANSC 3440 - Livestock Management

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; junior or senior standing. Management practices for farm animal species. Practices include animal handling, restraint techniques, feeding, milking, castrations, identification methods, and herd health problems. Lecture/lab.

  • ANSC 3550 - Animal Feeds and Feeding

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410/ANSC 1411; junior-level classification or higher. Focuses on practical application of nutrition to the feeding of domestic animal species. Topics include identification and characteristics of common feedstuffs; computer ration formulation procedures; life cycle nutritional management of beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, small ruminants, poultry, and companion animals; feed stuff composition analysis procedures; feed processing, evaluation, and grading; feed control laws; and nutrition research methodology.

  • ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition  3 credit hours  

    ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021 or CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the processes of digestion and nutrient utilization in domestic animal species. Topics include monogastric and ruminant digestive anatomy and physiology; carbohydrate, lipid, protein, vitamin, and mineral utilization.

  • ANSC 4510 - Domestic Animal Reproductive Physiology

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the anatomy, physiology, and endocrinology of reproduction in domestic animal species. Topics include male and female reproductive anatomy, hormonal control of reproductive processes, reproductive development, the estrus cycle, male physiology, and lactation. Current techniques to control animal reproduction described. Offered Spring only.

  • Upper-division Animal Science electives 12 credit hours
  • Agribusiness or Plant and Soil Science elective 3 credit hours

Supporting Courses (27-28 hours)

  • BIOL 1110 - General Biology I  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 1110 - General Biology I

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: MATH 1710 with C- or better of MATH ACT of 19 or higher. Corequisite: BIOL 1111. Primarily for Biology majors and minors and other science-oriented students. Biological principles and processes, including introduction to the nature of science, cells (structure, function, metabolism, division), genetics, evolution, viruses, bacteria, protists, and fungi. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory. While BIOL 1110 can be used to fulfill half the 8-hour General Education requirement for Natural Sciences, it is the first semester of a two-semester sequence primarily designed for science majors. TBR Common Course: BIOL 1110

  • BIOL 1111 - General Biology I Lab  0 credit hours  
    (may be counted in General Education)(may be counted in General Education)  dotslash:(may be counted in General Education) title:(may be counted in General Education) 
    (may be counted in General Education) 

    BIOL 1111 - General Biology I Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: BIOL 1110. TBR Common Course: BIOL 1111

 

  • BIOL 1120 - General Biology II  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 1120 - General Biology II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111. Corequisite: BIOL 1121. Primarily for Biology majors and minors and other science-oriented students. Survey of plants and animals emphasizing evolution, structure, function, reproduction, growth, and ecology. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: BIOL 1120

 

  • BIOL 2230 - Microbiology  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 2230 - Microbiology

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111 and BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121 or BIOL 2010/BIOL 2011 and BIOL 2020/BIOL 2021. Concepts and techniques pertaining to the morphology, physiology, reproduction, isolation, cultivation and identification of microorganisms with particular emphasis on bacteria. Topics include the impact of microorganisms in our daily lives, both adverse and beneficial. Background in General Chemistry is strongly recommended. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory.

 

  • CHEM 1010 - Introductory General Chemistry I  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 1010 - Introductory General Chemistry I

    4 credit hours

    Corequisite: CHEM 1011. For students with no prior courses in chemistry; to be taken before CHEM 1110/CHEM 1111. Fundamental concepts of chemistry: measurements, matter, chemical bonds, chemical reactions, nuclear chemistry, states of matter, solutions, and electrolytes. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. Will not count toward a major or minor in Chemistry. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1010

OR

  • CHEM 1110 - General Chemistry I  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 1110 - General Chemistry I

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: High school chemistry and MATH 1710 with grade of C (2.0) or better or MATH ACT score of 19 or higher or CHEM 1010 with grade of C (2.0) or better. Corequisite: CHEM 1111. Fundamental concepts of atomic structure, molecular structure and bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometric relationships, periodic properties of the elements, thermochemistry, and properties of gases. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1110.

  • CHEM 1111 - General Chemistry I Lab  0 credit hours  
    (may be counted in General Education)(may be counted in General Education)  dotslash:(may be counted in General Education) title:(may be counted in General Education) 
    (may be counted in General Education) 

    CHEM 1111 - General Chemistry I Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: CHEM 1110. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1111

 

  • CHEM 1020 - Introductory General Chemistry II  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 1020 - Introductory General Chemistry II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 1010/CHEM 1011. Corequisite: CHEM 1021 Topics include hydrocarbons, organic functional groups, isomerism, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids and proteins, enzymes, and metabolism. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. Will not count toward a major or minor in Chemistry. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1020

OR

  • CHEM 1120 - General Chemistry II  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 1120 - General Chemistry II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: C- or better in CHEM 1110/CHEM 1111. Corequisite: CHEM 1121. Chemical equilibrium, solid and liquid states of matter, chemistry of acids and bases, principles of chemical kinetics, precipitation reactions, elementary thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1120

 

  • CHEM 2030 - Elements of Organic Chemistry  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 2030 - Elements of Organic Chemistry

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021 or CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121. Corequisite: CHEM 2031. Aspects of organic chemistry fundamental to an understanding of reactions in living organisms. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory.

OR

  • CHEM 3010 - Organic Chemistry I  3 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 3010 - Organic Chemistry I

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121 or equivalent with grade of C- or better. Corequisite: CHEM 3011. Types of carbon compounds, their nomenclature, reactions, and physical properties. Three hours lecture per week.

  • CHEM 3011 - Organic Chemistry I Lab

    1 credit hour

    Corequisite: CHEM 3010. Laboratory course introducing techniques in organic chemistry, including spectroscopy. One three hour laboratory.

 

Electives (5-14 hours)

  • Minimum of 9 (or 5) must be upper-division

Curriculum: Animal Science

Curricular listings include General Education requirements in Communication, History, Humanities and/or Fine Arts, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Social/Behavioral Sciences categories.

Freshman

 

  • AGRI 1000 - Orientation in Agriculture

    1 credit hour

    Covers topics related to agriculture including career opportunities, industry trends, and controversial issues. Familiarizes students with School of Agriculture facilities, extracurricular activities, faculty, and academic programs.

  • ANSC 1410 - Introduction to Animal Science  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    ANSC 1410 - Introduction to Animal Science

    3 credit hours

    Overview of the science, production, and management of domestic animal species, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals. Topics include reproduction; breeds, breeding, and genetics; nutrition and feeding; animal health; management; and products processing and marketing.

  • ANSC 1401 - Introduction to Animal and Veterinary Sciences

    3 credit hours

    Focuses on the introduction and overview of the animal and veterinary sciences disciplines. Reproduction, breeding and genetics, nutrition and feeding, animal health, management, and products processing and marketing of beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals included. 

 

  • ANSC 1411 - Introduction to Animal Science Lab

    1 credit hour

    Focuses on applied learning concepts presented at the introductory animal science level. Topics include livestock, poultry, and companion animal breed identification; animal nutrition, feeds, and forages; reproductive science and management techniques; animal breeding and genetics; and basic experiential aspects of beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, horses, poultry, and companion animal production and management.

  • PLSO 1610 - Elements of Plant Science

    3 credit hours

    Fundamental plant processes; plant tissues, structures, environment, growth, development, reproduction, and propagation. Lecture/Lab.

  • ENGL 1010 - Expository Writing  3 credit hours  
    (Comm)(Comm)  dotslash:(Comm) title:(Comm) 
    (Comm) 

    ENGL 1010 - Expository Writing

    3 credit hours

    The first General Education English course. Emphasis on learning to adapt composing processes to a variety of expository and analytic writing assignments. Minimum grade of C- required to meet degree requirements.

  • ENGL 1020 - Research and Argumentative Writing  3 credit hours  
    (Comm)(Comm)  dotslash:(Comm) title:(Comm) 
    (Comm) 

    ENGL 1020 - Research and Argumentative Writing

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: ENGL 1010. The second General Education English course. Emphasis on analytic and argumentative writing and on locating, organizing, and using library resource materials in the writing. Minimum grade of C- required to meet degree requirements.

  • Mathematics 3 to 4 credit hours ( MATH 1710 recommended)
  • Humanities and/or Fine Arts 3 credit hours
  • Social/Behavioral Sciences 3 credit hours

 

  • BIOL 1110 - General Biology I  4 credit hours  
    AND(Nat Sci) AND  dotslash:(Nat Sci) AND title:AND 
    (Nat Sci) AND 

    BIOL 1110 - General Biology I

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: MATH 1710 with C- or better of MATH ACT of 19 or higher. Corequisite: BIOL 1111. Primarily for Biology majors and minors and other science-oriented students. Biological principles and processes, including introduction to the nature of science, cells (structure, function, metabolism, division), genetics, evolution, viruses, bacteria, protists, and fungi. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory. While BIOL 1110 can be used to fulfill half the 8-hour General Education requirement for Natural Sciences, it is the first semester of a two-semester sequence primarily designed for science majors. TBR Common Course: BIOL 1110

  • BIOL 1111 - General Biology I Lab  0 credit hours  
    (Nat Sci)(Nat Sci)  dotslash:(Nat Sci) title:(Nat Sci) 
    (Nat Sci) 

    BIOL 1111 - General Biology I Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: BIOL 1110. TBR Common Course: BIOL 1111

 

  • BIOL 1120 - General Biology II  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 1120 - General Biology II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111. Corequisite: BIOL 1121. Primarily for Biology majors and minors and other science-oriented students. Survey of plants and animals emphasizing evolution, structure, function, reproduction, growth, and ecology. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: BIOL 1120

Subtotal: 31-32 Hours

Sophomore

 

  • AGBS 1210 - Principles of Agribusiness

    3 credit hours

    An overview of the food and agriculture industry, agricultural markets, agriculture supply chains, and the structure of agribusinesses.

  • ANSC 3000 - Careers in Animal and Veterinary Science

    2 credit hours

    Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. Explores career opportunities in various areas of animal agriculture, allied fields, and some non-traditional career paths in the animal and veterinary sciences.

  • COMM 2200 - Fundamentals of Communication  3 credit hours  
    (Comm)(Comm)  dotslash:(Comm) title:(Comm) 
    (Comm) 

    COMM 2200 - Fundamentals of Communication

    3 credit hours

    Introduces principles and processes of effective public oral communication including researching, critical thinking, organizing, presenting, listening, and using appropriate language. Counts as part of the General Education Communication requirement. TBR Common Course: COMM 2025

  • Humanities and/or Fine Arts 3 credit hours

 

  • ENGL 2020 - Themes in Literature and Culture  3 credit hours  
    OR(Hum/FA) OR  dotslash:(Hum/FA) OR title:OR 
    (Hum/FA) OR 

    ENGL 2020 - Themes in Literature and Culture

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. Traces a specific theme or idea through a number of literary texts that reflect different historical and cultural contexts. Subject will vary.

  • ENGL 2030 - The Experience of Literature  3 credit hours  
    OR(Hum/FA) OR  dotslash:(Hum/FA) OR title:OR 
    (Hum/FA) OR 

    ENGL 2030 - The Experience of Literature

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. The reading of a variety of literary types which illuminate themes and experiences common to human existence.

  • HUM 2610 - World Literatures  3 credit hours  
    (Hum/FA)(Hum/FA)  dotslash:(Hum/FA) title:(Hum/FA) 
    (Hum/FA) 

    HUM 2610 - World Literatures

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. Representative works of French, German, and Hispanic authors in English translation. No foreign-language proficiency required. Carries General Education credit.

 

  • CHEM 1010 - Introductory General Chemistry I  4 credit hours  
    (Nat Sci)(Nat Sci) AND  dotslash:(Nat Sci) AND title:(Nat Sci) 
    (Nat Sci) AND 

    CHEM 1010 - Introductory General Chemistry I

    4 credit hours

    Corequisite: CHEM 1011. For students with no prior courses in chemistry; to be taken before CHEM 1110/CHEM 1111. Fundamental concepts of chemistry: measurements, matter, chemical bonds, chemical reactions, nuclear chemistry, states of matter, solutions, and electrolytes. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. Will not count toward a major or minor in Chemistry. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1010

  • CHEM 1011 - Intro to General Chemistry I Lab  0 credit hours  
    (Nat Sci)(Nat Sci)  dotslash:(Nat Sci) title:(Nat Sci) 
    (Nat Sci) 

    CHEM 1011 - Intro to General Chemistry I Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: CHEM 1010. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1011

OR

  • CHEM 1110 - General Chemistry I  4 credit hours  
    AND(Nat Sci) AND  dotslash:(Nat Sci) AND title:AND 
    (Nat Sci) AND 

    CHEM 1110 - General Chemistry I

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: High school chemistry and MATH 1710 with grade of C (2.0) or better or MATH ACT score of 19 or higher or CHEM 1010 with grade of C (2.0) or better. Corequisite: CHEM 1111. Fundamental concepts of atomic structure, molecular structure and bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometric relationships, periodic properties of the elements, thermochemistry, and properties of gases. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1110.

  • CHEM 1111 - General Chemistry I Lab  0 credit hours  
    (Nat Sci)(Nat Sci) (pre-vet)  dotslash:(Nat Sci) (pre-vet) title:(Nat Sci) 
    (Nat Sci) (pre-vet) 

    CHEM 1111 - General Chemistry I Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: CHEM 1110. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1111

 

  • CHEM 1020 - Introductory General Chemistry II  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 1020 - Introductory General Chemistry II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 1010/CHEM 1011. Corequisite: CHEM 1021 Topics include hydrocarbons, organic functional groups, isomerism, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids and proteins, enzymes, and metabolism. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. Will not count toward a major or minor in Chemistry. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1020

OR

  • CHEM 1120 - General Chemistry II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: C- or better in CHEM 1110/CHEM 1111. Corequisite: CHEM 1121. Chemical equilibrium, solid and liquid states of matter, chemistry of acids and bases, principles of chemical kinetics, precipitation reactions, elementary thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1120

 

Choose one:

  • MATH 1530 - Applied Statistics

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: Two years of high school algebra and a Math Enhanced ACT 19 or greater or equivalent. Descriptive statistics, probability, and statistical inference. The inference unit covers means, proportions, and variances for one and two samples, and topics from one-way ANOVA, regression and correlation analysis, chi-square analysis, and nonparametrics. TBR Common Course: MATH 1530

  • MATH 1710 - College Algebra  3 credit hours  

    MATH 1710 - College Algebra

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: DSPM 0850 or two years of high school algebra; a Math Enhanced ACT 19 or greater or COMPASS placement. Course satisfies the General Education Mathematics requirement. Topics include functions--linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic; analysis of graphs; linear systems; inequalities; counting principles; and probability. Graphing calculator required. Course may be taken by correspondence. Not open to those who have had MATH 1730. TBR Common Course: MATH 1710

  • MATH 1720 - Plane Trigonometry

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: Strong background in algebra recommended. Trigonometric functions of the acute and general angle, circular functions, graphs of trigonometric and inverse functions, identities, solutions of right and general triangles, equations, complex numbers, and vectors. Not open to those who have had MATH 1730. Graphing calculator required. [TBR Common Course: MATH 1720]

  • MATH 1730 - Pre-Calculus  4 credit hours  

    MATH 1730 - Pre-Calculus

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: MATH 1710 or successful completion of high school precalculus course. An integrated and rigorous study of the algebra and trigonometry needed to successfully attempt calculus. Emphasis on functions, their analysis and their applications. Level of algebraic sophistication developed above that found in MATH 1710. Topics include exponentials and logarithms, analysis of graphs, and word problems. Graphing calculator required. TBR Common Course: MATH 1730

  • MATH 1910 - Calculus I  4 credit hours  

    MATH 1910 - Calculus I

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: MATH 1730 with a grade of C or better or Math ACT of 26 or better or satisfactory score on Calculus placement test. An introduction to calculus with an emphasis on analysis of functions, multidisciplinary applications of calculus, and theoretical understanding of differentiation and integration. Topics include the definition of the derivative, differentiation techniques, and applications of the derivative. Calculus topics related to trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions also included. Course concludes with the fundamental theorem of calculus; the definition of antidifferentiation and the definite integral; basic applications of integrations; and introductory techniques of integration. Graphing calculator required. TBR Common Course: MATH 1910

  • AGRI 2210 - Introduction to Agricultural Engineering

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: MATH 1710 or MATH 1010 or approval of instructor. Basic principles, mechanics, combustion engines, electricity, building construction, and machinery with applications of problem solving techniques. Lecture/Lab.

 

Choose 6 hours from:

  • HIST 2010 - Survey of United States History I

    3 credit hours

    Survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects. Discusses the era from the beginning to 1877. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement. HIST 2010 is NOT a prerequisite for HIST 2020. TBR Common Course: HIST 2010

  • HIST 2020 - Survey of United States History II

    3 credit hours

    Survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects. Discusses the era from 1877 to the present. May be used to satisfy one part of the the General Education History requirement. HIST 2010 is NOT a prerequisite for HIST 2020. TBR Common Course: HIST 2020

  • HIST 2030 - Tennessee History

    3 credit hours

    The role of the state in the development of the nation. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement. TBR Common Course: HIST 2030

  • HIST 2040 - Survey African American History I

    3 credit hours

    The role of African Americans in establishing and shaping the American nation. Covers their historical development and contributions to American art, music, literature, and religion. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement.

    NOTE: HIST 2040 is not a prerequisite for HIST 2050.

  • HIST 2050 - Survey African American History II

    3 credit hours

    The role of African Americans in shaping the American nation and creating a twentieth-century racial identity. Covers their historical development and examines their contributions to American art, music, literature, and religion. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement.

Subtotal: 31-32 Hours

Junior

 

  • BIOL 2230 - Microbiology  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 2230 - Microbiology

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111 and BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121 or BIOL 2010/BIOL 2011 and BIOL 2020/BIOL 2021. Concepts and techniques pertaining to the morphology, physiology, reproduction, isolation, cultivation and identification of microorganisms with particular emphasis on bacteria. Topics include the impact of microorganisms in our daily lives, both adverse and beneficial. Background in General Chemistry is strongly recommended. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory.

 

  • PLSO 3340 - Fundamentals of Soil Science  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    PLSO 3340 - Fundamentals of Soil Science

    3 credit hours

    Introduces soil science with emphasis placed on soil physical, biological, and chemical properties. Relates soil conditions to land use applications, plant growth, and environmental quality. Lecture/Lab.

  • PLSO 4310 - Forage Crops  3 credit hours  

    PLSO 4310 - Forage Crops

    3 credit hours

    Adaptation, distribution, establishment, management, culture, and utilization of forage legumes and grasses. Lecture/lab.

 

  • CHEM 2030 - Elements of Organic Chemistry  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 2030 - Elements of Organic Chemistry

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021 or CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121. Corequisite: CHEM 2031. Aspects of organic chemistry fundamental to an understanding of reactions in living organisms. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory.

OR

  • CHEM 3010 - Organic Chemistry I  3 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 3010 - Organic Chemistry I

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121 or equivalent with grade of C- or better. Corequisite: CHEM 3011. Types of carbon compounds, their nomenclature, reactions, and physical properties. Three hours lecture per week.

  • CHEM 3011 - Organic Chemistry I Lab

    1 credit hour

    Corequisite: CHEM 3010. Laboratory course introducing techniques in organic chemistry, including spectroscopy. One three hour laboratory.

 

  • ANSC 3440 - Livestock Management

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; junior or senior standing. Management practices for farm animal species. Practices include animal handling, restraint techniques, feeding, milking, castrations, identification methods, and herd health problems. Lecture/lab.

  • Social/Behavioral Sciences 3 credit hours
  • Upper-division Animal Science electives 6 credit hours.*
  • PLSO/AGBS elective 3 credit hours

  • ANSC 3550 - Animal Feeds and Feeding

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410/ANSC 1411; junior-level classification or higher. Focuses on practical application of nutrition to the feeding of domestic animal species. Topics include identification and characteristics of common feedstuffs; computer ration formulation procedures; life cycle nutritional management of beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, small ruminants, poultry, and companion animals; feed stuff composition analysis procedures; feed processing, evaluation, and grading; feed control laws; and nutrition research methodology.

Subtotal: 29 Hours

Senior

 

  • ANSC 3420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Basic principles of genetics, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include use of quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition  3 credit hours  

    ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021 or CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the processes of digestion and nutrient utilization in domestic animal species. Topics include monogastric and ruminant digestive anatomy and physiology; carbohydrate, lipid, protein, vitamin, and mineral utilization.

  • ANSC 4510 - Domestic Animal Reproductive Physiology

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the anatomy, physiology, and endocrinology of reproduction in domestic animal species. Topics include male and female reproductive anatomy, hormonal control of reproductive processes, reproductive development, the estrus cycle, male physiology, and lactation. Current techniques to control animal reproduction described. Offered Spring only.

  • Upper-division Animal Science electives 6 credit hours*
  • Upper-division electives 9 credit hours
  • Electives 5 credit hours

Subtotal: 29 Hours

NOTE:

*Electives must come from the following courses: ANSC 3450, ANSC 3470, ANSC 3480, ANSC 3500, ANSC 3540, ANSC 3710, ANSC 4260, ANSC 4470, ANSC 4490, ANSC 4520, ANSC 4860, HORS 3430, HORS 4090, POUL 3000, POUL 3490, POUL 3600.

Animal Science, Agricultural Education Certification 

Animal Science, Agricultural Education Certification, B.S.

Agriculture 
615-904-8037
Chaney Mosley, program coordinator
chaney.mosley@mtsu.edu

Animal Science majors seeking certification to teach agricultural education in secondary schools (grades 7-12) must complete (1) the Animal Science major, (2) an MTeach minor, and (3) professional agricultural education courses.

The program leading to a major in Animal Science offers preparation for leadership careers in animal agriculture and related fields.

Academic Map

Following is a printable, suggested four-year schedule of courses:

Animal Science, Agricultural Education Certification, B.S., Academic Map  

Degree Requirements

General Education41 hours
Major Requirements43 hours
     Animal Science Core   13 hours
     Major Courses   30 hours
Supporting Courses14 hours*
MTeach Minor30 hours
TOTAL120-128 hours

*This program requires courses that can also fulfill requirements of the General Education curriculum. If courses for this program are also used to fulfill General Education requirements, the program of study may be completed in 120 hours.

General Education (41 hours)

General Education requirements (shown in curricular listings below) include courses in Communication, History, Humanities and/or Fine Arts, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Social/Behavioral Sciences.

The following courses required by the program meet General Education requirements:

Major Requirements (43 hours)

Animal Science Core (13 hours)

  • AGBS 1210 - Principles of Agribusiness

    3 credit hours

    An overview of the food and agriculture industry, agricultural markets, agriculture supply chains, and the structure of agribusinesses.

  • AGRI 1000 - Orientation in Agriculture

    1 credit hour

    Covers topics related to agriculture including career opportunities, industry trends, and controversial issues. Familiarizes students with School of Agriculture facilities, extracurricular activities, faculty, and academic programs.

 

  • ANSC 1410 - Introduction to Animal Science  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    ANSC 1410 - Introduction to Animal Science

    3 credit hours

    Overview of the science, production, and management of domestic animal species, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals. Topics include reproduction; breeds, breeding, and genetics; nutrition and feeding; animal health; management; and products processing and marketing.

  • ANSC 1401 - Introduction to Animal and Veterinary Sciences

    3 credit hours

    Focuses on the introduction and overview of the animal and veterinary sciences disciplines. Reproduction, breeding and genetics, nutrition and feeding, animal health, management, and products processing and marketing of beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals included. 

 

  • PLSO 1610 - Elements of Plant Science

    3 credit hours

    Fundamental plant processes; plant tissues, structures, environment, growth, development, reproduction, and propagation. Lecture/Lab.

  • AGED 4000 - Foundations of Agricultural Engineering and Applied Technologies Education

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: AGED 2230. Students pursuing agricultural education certification will explore theory and practice of common agricultural engineering and applied technologies concepts including carpentry, welding, plumbing, electricity, and others in a lecture/lab setting.

Major Requirements (30 hours)

  • AGED 2230 - Introduction to School-Based Agricultural Education

    3 credit hours

    Provides a foundational resource that covers the three essential elements of school-based agricultural education: laboratory/classroom instruction, supervised agricultural experience, and FFA. Focuses on historical and current content, terminology, and practices.

  • AGRI 3010 - Debate and Discussion in Agricultural Contexts

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: AGRI 1000, ANSC 1410, or PLSO 1610 or approval of instructor. Debate and discussion strategies related to agriculture industries and organizations; fundamentals of parliamentary law, principles of debate, group discussion techniques; review of local, state, and national agricultural organization meeting and policy creating structures.

  • PLSO 3340 - Fundamentals of Soil Science

    3 credit hours

    Introduces soil science with emphasis placed on soil physical, biological, and chemical properties. Relates soil conditions to land use applications, plant growth, and environmental quality. Lecture/Lab.

  • ANSC 3440 - Livestock Management

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; junior or senior standing. Management practices for farm animal species. Practices include animal handling, restraint techniques, feeding, milking, castrations, identification methods, and herd health problems. Lecture/lab.

  • Animal Science electives 9 credit hours

 

  • ANSC 3420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    ANSC 3420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Basic principles of genetics, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include use of quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • ANSC 4510 - Domestic Animal Reproductive Physiology

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the anatomy, physiology, and endocrinology of reproduction in domestic animal species. Topics include male and female reproductive anatomy, hormonal control of reproductive processes, reproductive development, the estrus cycle, male physiology, and lactation. Current techniques to control animal reproduction described. Offered Spring only.

 

  • PLSO 3600 - Horticulture in Our Lives  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    PLSO 3600 - Horticulture in Our Lives

    3 credit hours

    Emphasis on the role of horticulture in everyday living, through principles of growing plants in the home, floral design, home landscaping, and gardening. Lecture/lab.

  • PLSO 4620 - Greenhouse Management

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121. Analysis of soils, fertilizers, irrigation techniques, container preparation, ventilation, growth regulation, and carbon dioxide enrichment for greenhouse operation. Two-hour lecture and two-hour lab.

 

  • ANSC 3550 - Animal Feeds and Feeding  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    ANSC 3550 - Animal Feeds and Feeding

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410/ANSC 1411; junior-level classification or higher. Focuses on practical application of nutrition to the feeding of domestic animal species. Topics include identification and characteristics of common feedstuffs; computer ration formulation procedures; life cycle nutritional management of beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, small ruminants, poultry, and companion animals; feed stuff composition analysis procedures; feed processing, evaluation, and grading; feed control laws; and nutrition research methodology.

  • ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition  3 credit hours  

    ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021 or CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the processes of digestion and nutrient utilization in domestic animal species. Topics include monogastric and ruminant digestive anatomy and physiology; carbohydrate, lipid, protein, vitamin, and mineral utilization.

Supporting Courses (14 hours)

  • AGED 4220 - Methods of Teaching Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

    3 credit hours

    Connects teaching and learning theory to agriculture, food, and natural resource education. Explores topics related to assessment strategies, differentiated instruction, lesson planning, and laboratory instruction.

  • AGED 4230 - Program Planning in School-Based Agricultural Education

    3 credit hours

    Program development in school-based agricultural education. Conceptual understanding of agricultural education programs of study and course standards, course scope and sequence, unit lesson planning, advisory boards, and community engagement.

 

  • BIOL 1030 - Exploring Life  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 1030 - Exploring Life

    4 credit hours

    Corequisite: BIOL 1031. Designed for non-majors. Offers understanding, experiences, and skills related to common biological issues. Includes class discussions, small group activities, lectures, selected readings, and laboratory investigations. Students earning an A in BIOL 1030/1031 and wishing to declare a major or minor in Biology may substitute BIOL 1030/BIOL 1031 for BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111 toward meeting the requirement for the major or minor. Three hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory.

  • BIOL 1031 - Exploring Life Lab  0 credit hours  
    (may be counted)(may be counted in General Education)  dotslash:(may be counted in General Education) title:(may be counted) 
    (may be counted in General Education) 

    BIOL 1031 - Exploring Life Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: BIOL 1030.

 

  • PSCI 1030 - Topics in Physical Science  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    PSCI 1030 - Topics in Physical Science

    4 credit hours

    Corequisite: PSCI 1031. Language, development, structure, and role of physical science (physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology) as it relates to the knowledge and activities of the educated person. For nonscience majors. Three hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory. (A General Education course [Nat Sci]. Does not count toward any major or minor.) TBR Common Course: PSCI 1030

  • PSCI 1031 - Topics in Physical Science Lab  0 credit hours  
    (may be counted)(may be counted in General Education)  dotslash:(may be counted in General Education) title:(may be counted) 
    (may be counted in General Education) 

    PSCI 1031 - Topics in Physical Science Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: PSCI 1030. TBR Common Course: PSCI 1031

MTeach Minor (30 hours)

See MTeach for further information.

Curriculum: Animal Science, Agricultural Education Certification

Curricular listings include General Education requirements in Communication, History, Humanities and/or Fine Arts, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Social/Behavioral Sciences categories. 

Freshman

 

  • MSE 1010 - Step 1: Inquiry Approaches to Teaching

    1 credit hour

    Prerequisite: An interest in exploring teaching. Readings, discussions, and activities associated with the planning and instruction of inquiry-based mathematics and/or science lessons. Includes field-based teaching.

  • MSE 2010 - Step 2: Inquiry Lesson Design

    1 credit hour

    Prerequisite: MSE 1010. Builds on the lesson design skills developed in MSE 1010. Readings, discussions, and activities associated with the planning and instruction of inquiry-based mathematics or science lessons in the middle school. Includes field-based teaching.

  • AGBS 1210 - Principles of Agribusiness

    3 credit hours

    An overview of the food and agriculture industry, agricultural markets, agriculture supply chains, and the structure of agribusinesses.

  • AGRI 1000 - Orientation in Agriculture

    1 credit hour

    Covers topics related to agriculture including career opportunities, industry trends, and controversial issues. Familiarizes students with School of Agriculture facilities, extracurricular activities, faculty, and academic programs.

  • ANSC 1410 - Introduction to Animal Science

    3 credit hours

    Overview of the science, production, and management of domestic animal species, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals. Topics include reproduction; breeds, breeding, and genetics; nutrition and feeding; animal health; management; and products processing and marketing.

  • PLSO 1610 - Elements of Plant Science

    3 credit hours

    Fundamental plant processes; plant tissues, structures, environment, growth, development, reproduction, and propagation. Lecture/Lab.

  • AGED 2230 - Introduction to School-Based Agricultural Education

    3 credit hours

    Provides a foundational resource that covers the three essential elements of school-based agricultural education: laboratory/classroom instruction, supervised agricultural experience, and FFA. Focuses on historical and current content, terminology, and practices.

  • Mathematics 3 to 4 credit hours
  • Humanities and/or Fine Arts 3 credit hours
  • ENGL 1010 - Expository Writing  3 credit hours  
    (Comm)(Comm)  dotslash:(Comm) title:(Comm) 
    (Comm) 

    ENGL 1010 - Expository Writing

    3 credit hours

    The first General Education English course. Emphasis on learning to adapt composing processes to a variety of expository and analytic writing assignments. Minimum grade of C- required to meet degree requirements.

  • ENGL 1020 - Research and Argumentative Writing  3 credit hours  
    (Comm) (Comm)  dotslash: (Comm) title:(Comm) 
     (Comm) 

    ENGL 1020 - Research and Argumentative Writing

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: ENGL 1010. The second General Education English course. Emphasis on analytic and argumentative writing and on locating, organizing, and using library resource materials in the writing. Minimum grade of C- required to meet degree requirements.

 

  • BIOL 1030 - Exploring Life  4 credit hours  
    (Nat Sci)(Nat Sci) AND  dotslash:(Nat Sci) AND title:(Nat Sci) 
    (Nat Sci) AND 

    BIOL 1030 - Exploring Life

    4 credit hours

    Corequisite: BIOL 1031. Designed for non-majors. Offers understanding, experiences, and skills related to common biological issues. Includes class discussions, small group activities, lectures, selected readings, and laboratory investigations. Students earning an A in BIOL 1030/1031 and wishing to declare a major or minor in Biology may substitute BIOL 1030/BIOL 1031 for BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111 toward meeting the requirement for the major or minor. Three hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory.

  • BIOL 1031 - Exploring Life Lab  0 credit hours  
    (Nat Sci)(Nat Sci)  dotslash:(Nat Sci) title:(Nat Sci) 
    (Nat Sci) 

    BIOL 1031 - Exploring Life Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: BIOL 1030.

Subtotal: 31-32 Hours

Sophomore

 

  • AGED 4000 - Foundations of Agricultural Engineering and Applied Technologies Education

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: AGED 2230. Students pursuing agricultural education certification will explore theory and practice of common agricultural engineering and applied technologies concepts including carpentry, welding, plumbing, electricity, and others in a lecture/lab setting.

  • AGRI 3010 - Debate and Discussion in Agricultural Contexts

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: AGRI 1000, ANSC 1410, or PLSO 1610 or approval of instructor. Debate and discussion strategies related to agriculture industries and organizations; fundamentals of parliamentary law, principles of debate, group discussion techniques; review of local, state, and national agricultural organization meeting and policy creating structures.

  • PLSO 3340 - Fundamentals of Soil Science

    3 credit hours

    Introduces soil science with emphasis placed on soil physical, biological, and chemical properties. Relates soil conditions to land use applications, plant growth, and environmental quality. Lecture/Lab.

  • COMM 2200 - Fundamentals of Communication  3 credit hours  
    (Comm)(Comm)  dotslash:(Comm) title:(Comm) 
    (Comm) 

    COMM 2200 - Fundamentals of Communication

    3 credit hours

    Introduces principles and processes of effective public oral communication including researching, critical thinking, organizing, presenting, listening, and using appropriate language. Counts as part of the General Education Communication requirement. TBR Common Course: COMM 2025

 

  • ENGL 2020 - Themes in Literature and Culture  3 credit hours  
    OR(Hum/FA) OR  dotslash:(Hum/FA) OR title:OR 
    (Hum/FA) OR 

    ENGL 2020 - Themes in Literature and Culture

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. Traces a specific theme or idea through a number of literary texts that reflect different historical and cultural contexts. Subject will vary.

  • ENGL 2030 - The Experience of Literature  3 credit hours  
    OR(Hum/FA) OR  dotslash:(Hum/FA) OR title:OR 
    (Hum/FA) OR 

    ENGL 2030 - The Experience of Literature

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. The reading of a variety of literary types which illuminate themes and experiences common to human existence.

  • HUM 2610 - World Literatures  3 credit hours  
    (Hum/FA)(Hum/FA)  dotslash:(Hum/FA) title:(Hum/FA) 
    (Hum/FA) 

    HUM 2610 - World Literatures

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ENGL 1010 and ENGL 1020. Representative works of French, German, and Hispanic authors in English translation. No foreign-language proficiency required. Carries General Education credit.

 

  • Social/Behavioral Sciences 3 credit hours
  • ANSC elective 3 credit hours

 

  • PSCI 1030 - Topics in Physical Science  4 credit hours  
    (Nat Sci) AND(Nat Sci) AND  dotslash:(Nat Sci) AND title:(Nat Sci) AND 
    (Nat Sci) AND 

    PSCI 1030 - Topics in Physical Science

    4 credit hours

    Corequisite: PSCI 1031. Language, development, structure, and role of physical science (physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology) as it relates to the knowledge and activities of the educated person. For nonscience majors. Three hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory. (A General Education course [Nat Sci]. Does not count toward any major or minor.) TBR Common Course: PSCI 1030

  • PSCI 1031 - Topics in Physical Science Lab  0 credit hours  
    (Nat Sci)(Nat Sci)  dotslash:(Nat Sci) title:(Nat Sci) 
    (Nat Sci) 

    PSCI 1031 - Topics in Physical Science Lab

    0 credit hours

    Corequisite: PSCI 1030. TBR Common Course: PSCI 1031

 

Choose 6 hours from:

  • HIST 2010 - Survey of United States History I

    3 credit hours

    Survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects. Discusses the era from the beginning to 1877. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement. HIST 2010 is NOT a prerequisite for HIST 2020. TBR Common Course: HIST 2010

  • HIST 2020 - Survey of United States History II

    3 credit hours

    Survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects. Discusses the era from 1877 to the present. May be used to satisfy one part of the the General Education History requirement. HIST 2010 is NOT a prerequisite for HIST 2020. TBR Common Course: HIST 2020

  • HIST 2030 - Tennessee History

    3 credit hours

    The role of the state in the development of the nation. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement. TBR Common Course: HIST 2030

  • HIST 2040 - Survey African American History I

    3 credit hours

    The role of African Americans in establishing and shaping the American nation. Covers their historical development and contributions to American art, music, literature, and religion. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement.

    NOTE: HIST 2040 is not a prerequisite for HIST 2050.

  • HIST 2050 - Survey African American History II

    3 credit hours

    The role of African Americans in shaping the American nation and creating a twentieth-century racial identity. Covers their historical development and examines their contributions to American art, music, literature, and religion. May be used to satisfy one part of the General Education History requirement.

Subtotal: 31 Hours

Junior

 

  • AGED 4230 - Program Planning in School-Based Agricultural Education

    3 credit hours

    Program development in school-based agricultural education. Conceptual understanding of agricultural education programs of study and course standards, course scope and sequence, unit lesson planning, advisory boards, and community engagement.

  • ANSC 3440 - Livestock Management

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; junior or senior standing. Management practices for farm animal species. Practices include animal handling, restraint techniques, feeding, milking, castrations, identification methods, and herd health problems. Lecture/lab.

  • AGED 4220 - Methods of Teaching Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

    3 credit hours

    Connects teaching and learning theory to agriculture, food, and natural resource education. Explores topics related to assessment strategies, differentiated instruction, lesson planning, and laboratory instruction.

  • Social/Behavioral Sciences 3 credit hours
  • Humanities and/or Fine Arts 3 credit hours
  • Elective 3 credit hours

  • YOED 3520 - Knowing and Learning in Science and Mathematics

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: MSE 1010 and MSE 2010. Focuses on issues of what it means to learn and know science and mathematics. Included are topics related to standards of knowing and understanding powerful ideas in mathematics and science, links between knowing and developing in learning theory, and the content and evolution of scientific ideas. Students required to conduct interviews with public school practitioners.  

  • YOED 3550 - Classroom Interactions in Mathematics and Science

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: YOED 3520. Continues the process of preparing candidates to teach mathematics and science in upper elementary and secondary settings and to learn how content and pedagogy combine to make effective teaching. Focuses on building awareness and understanding of equity issues and their effects on learning.  

 

  • PLSO 3600 - Horticulture in Our Lives  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    PLSO 3600 - Horticulture in Our Lives

    3 credit hours

    Emphasis on the role of horticulture in everyday living, through principles of growing plants in the home, floral design, home landscaping, and gardening. Lecture/lab.

  • PLSO 4620 - Greenhouse Management

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121. Analysis of soils, fertilizers, irrigation techniques, container preparation, ventilation, growth regulation, and carbon dioxide enrichment for greenhouse operation. Two-hour lecture and two-hour lab.

 

  • ANSC 3420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    ANSC 3420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Basic principles of genetics, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include use of quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • ANSC 4510 - Domestic Animal Reproductive Physiology

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the anatomy, physiology, and endocrinology of reproduction in domestic animal species. Topics include male and female reproductive anatomy, hormonal control of reproductive processes, reproductive development, the estrus cycle, male physiology, and lactation. Current techniques to control animal reproduction described. Offered Spring only.

Subtotal: 30 Hours

Senior

 

  • ANSC elective 3 credit hours
  • AGRI 4740 - Research Methods  3 credit hours  

    AGRI 4740 - Research Methods

    3 credit hours

    (Same as BIOL/CHEM/GEOL/PHYS/MATH 4740.) Prerequisite: YOED 3520. Provides secondary science and mathematics teacher candidates with the tools that scientists use to solve scientific problems. Students will use these tools in a laboratory setting, communicate findings, and understand how scientists develop new knowledge.

  • YOED 4040 - Residency I: MTeach

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: Admission to teacher education program; successful completion of YOED 3520 and YOED 3550; overall grade point average maintained at a minimum of 2.75; grade point average in the major at a minimum of 2.5; and senior standing. A school-based clinical experience in a problem-based learning format in biology, chemistry, mathematics, or physics education.

    NOTE: All students must obtain a grade of B or better in this course to move forward to Residency II.

  • YOED 4050 - Project-Based Instruction in Mathematics and Science

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: Admission to the MTeach Program (Mathematics and Science majors only). Readings, discussions, and activities associated with the planning and instruction of inquiry-based STEM lessons. Field-based teaching, including out-of-school research and instructional settings.  

  • YOED 4400 - Residency II  12 credit hours  

    YOED 4400 - Residency II

    12 credit hours

    Prerequisites: Admission to Teacher Education program; successful completion (with grade of B or better) of YOED 2500, YOED 3000, YOED 3300, YOED 4020,YOED 4030, or YOED 4040; passing score(s) on the specialty area exam(s) of Praxis II; overall grade point average maintained at a minimum of 2.75; grade point average in the major at a minimum of 2.50; and senior standing. A full-day, full-semester supervised teaching experience in a public school classroom. Pass/Fail grading.

 

  • ANSC 3550 - Animal Feeds and Feeding  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    ANSC 3550 - Animal Feeds and Feeding

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410/ANSC 1411; junior-level classification or higher. Focuses on practical application of nutrition to the feeding of domestic animal species. Topics include identification and characteristics of common feedstuffs; computer ration formulation procedures; life cycle nutritional management of beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, small ruminants, poultry, and companion animals; feed stuff composition analysis procedures; feed processing, evaluation, and grading; feed control laws; and nutrition research methodology.

  • ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition  3 credit hours  

    ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021 or CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the processes of digestion and nutrient utilization in domestic animal species. Topics include monogastric and ruminant digestive anatomy and physiology; carbohydrate, lipid, protein, vitamin, and mineral utilization.

Subtotal: 28 Hours

NOTE:

*Electives must come from the following courses: ANSC 3450, ANSC 3470, ANSC 3480, ANSC 3500, ANSC 3540, ANSC 3710, ANSC 4260, ANSC 4470, ANSC 4490, ANSC 4520, ANSC 4860, HORS 3430, HORS 4090, POUL 3000, POUL 3490, POUL 3600.

Veterinary Medicine Study Preparation 

Veterinary Medicine Study Preparation

Agriculture 

Students who wish to pursue admission to a professional DVM program should follow the appropriate minimum admissions prerequisites for the institution(s) to which they intend to apply. The following curriculum will satisfy the admissions requirements for many, but not all, colleges of veterinary medicine. It is imperative that interested students fully apprise themselves of the specific admissions requirements.

Academic Map

Following is a printable, suggested four-year schedule of courses:

Veterinary Study Academic Map  

Minimum Requirements

  • ENGL 1010 - Expository Writing

    3 credit hours

    The first General Education English course. Emphasis on learning to adapt composing processes to a variety of expository and analytic writing assignments. Minimum grade of C- required to meet degree requirements.

  • ENGL 1020 - Research and Argumentative Writing

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: ENGL 1010. The second General Education English course. Emphasis on analytic and argumentative writing and on locating, organizing, and using library resource materials in the writing. Minimum grade of C- required to meet degree requirements.

 

  • BIOL 1110 - General Biology I  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 1110 - General Biology I

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: MATH 1710 with C- or better of MATH ACT of 19 or higher. Corequisite: BIOL 1111. Primarily for Biology majors and minors and other science-oriented students. Biological principles and processes, including introduction to the nature of science, cells (structure, function, metabolism, division), genetics, evolution, viruses, bacteria, protists, and fungi. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory. While BIOL 1110 can be used to fulfill half the 8-hour General Education requirement for Natural Sciences, it is the first semester of a two-semester sequence primarily designed for science majors. TBR Common Course: BIOL 1110

 

  • BIOL 1120 - General Biology II  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 1120 - General Biology II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111. Corequisite: BIOL 1121. Primarily for Biology majors and minors and other science-oriented students. Survey of plants and animals emphasizing evolution, structure, function, reproduction, growth, and ecology. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: BIOL 1120

 

  • BIOL 2230 - Microbiology  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 2230 - Microbiology

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111 and BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121 or BIOL 2010/BIOL 2011 and BIOL 2020/BIOL 2021. Concepts and techniques pertaining to the morphology, physiology, reproduction, isolation, cultivation and identification of microorganisms with particular emphasis on bacteria. Topics include the impact of microorganisms in our daily lives, both adverse and beneficial. Background in General Chemistry is strongly recommended. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory.

 

  • BIOL 3250 - Genetics  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 3250 - Genetics

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111 and  BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121. Corequisite: BIOL 3251. An introductory course in genetics. Surveys and explores the sub-disciplines of genetics, including classical, molecular, and evolutionary genetics. Emphasis on the experiments, techniques, and theories forming the foundation of modern genetic research and its applications. Three hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory.

 

  • BIOL 4210 - Cell and Molecular Biology  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    BIOL 4210 - Cell and Molecular Biology

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: BIOL 3250/BIOL 3251, BIOL 2230/BIOL 2231, and CHEM 2030/CHEM 2031 or CHEM 3010/CHEM 3011. Corequisite: BIOL 4211. Cellular morphology and function. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory.

 

  • CHEM 1110 - General Chemistry I  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 1110 - General Chemistry I

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisites: High school chemistry and MATH 1710 with grade of C (2.0) or better or MATH ACT score of 19 or higher or CHEM 1010 with grade of C (2.0) or better. Corequisite: CHEM 1111. Fundamental concepts of atomic structure, molecular structure and bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometric relationships, periodic properties of the elements, thermochemistry, and properties of gases. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1110.

 

  • CHEM 1120 - General Chemistry II  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 1120 - General Chemistry II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: C- or better in CHEM 1110/CHEM 1111. Corequisite: CHEM 1121. Chemical equilibrium, solid and liquid states of matter, chemistry of acids and bases, principles of chemical kinetics, precipitation reactions, elementary thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory. TBR Common Course: CHEM 1120

 

  • CHEM 3010 - Organic Chemistry I  3 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 3010 - Organic Chemistry I

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121 or equivalent with grade of C- or better. Corequisite: CHEM 3011. Types of carbon compounds, their nomenclature, reactions, and physical properties. Three hours lecture per week.

  • CHEM 3011 - Organic Chemistry I Lab

    1 credit hour

    Corequisite: CHEM 3010. Laboratory course introducing techniques in organic chemistry, including spectroscopy. One three hour laboratory.

 

  • CHEM 3020 - Organic Chemistry II  3 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 3020 - Organic Chemistry II

    3 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 3010/CHEM 3011 with grade of C- or better. Corequisite: CHEM 3021. A continuation of CHEM 3010. Three hours lecture per week.

  • CHEM 3021 - Organic Chemistry II Lab

    1 credit hour

    Corequisite: CHEM 3020. Laboratory course focusing more on reactions and synthesis in organic chemistry.  One three-hour laboratory.

 

  • CHEM 3530 - Principles of Biochemistry  4 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    CHEM 3530 - Principles of Biochemistry

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: CHEM 2030/CHEM 2031 or CHEM 3010/CHEM 3011. Corequisite: CHEM 3531. Structure, properties, and functions of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids and their reactions in living organisms. Three-hour lecture and one three-hour lab. Does not count toward Biochemistry major.

 

  • PHYS 2010 - Non-Calculus-Based Physics I  0 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    PHYS 2010 - Non-Calculus-Based Physics I

    0 credit hours

    Prerequisite: MATH 1710, MATH 1730, MATH 1810, or MATH 1910 with a minimum grade of C (2.0). Required corequisite: PHYS 2011. Web-based discussion class to be taken in conjunction with cooperative-learning based problems lab PHYS 2011. Classical mechanics traditionally covered in a first-semester college physics course. Kinematics, forces, momentum, angular motion, calorimetry, and sound waves. Class time used for discussion of the Web-lecture material and for the administration of exams. TBR Common Course: PHYS 2010

  • PHYS 2011 - Physics Problems Laboratory I

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: MATH 1710, MATH 1730, MATH 1810, or MATH 1910 with a minimum grade of C (2.0). Required corequisite: PHYS 2010. Group-oriented problems course taken in conjunction with the Web-based discussion class PHYS 2010. Students work in groups with the topics presented in the PHYS 2010 discussion class. Covers kinematics, forces, momentum, angular motion, calorimetry, and sound waves. Skills associated with the development of experimental investigations including graphical analysis and estimation of uncertainties emphasized. Two two-and-one-half-hour laboratory sessions. TBR Common Course: PHYS 2011

 

  • PHYS 2020 - Non-Calculus-Based Physics II  0 credit hours  
    ANDAND  dotslash:AND title:AND 
    AND 

    PHYS 2020 - Non-Calculus-Based Physics II

    0 credit hours

    Prerequisite: PHYS 2011. Required corequisite: PHYS 2021. Web-based discussion class taken in conjunction with the cooperative-learning based problems lab PHYS 2021. Fundamentals of optics, modern physics, and electronics traditionally covered in a second-semester college physics course. Reflection and refraction, vision, diffraction effects, quantum mechanics, atomic and nuclear physics, and analog and digital electronics. Scheduled class time is used for discussions of the Web-lecture material and for the administration of exams. TBR Common Course: PHYS 2020

  • PHYS 2021 - Physics Problems Laboratory II

    4 credit hours

    Prerequisite: PHYS 2011. Required corequisite: PHYS 2020. Group-oriented problems course to be taken in conjunction with the Web-based discussion class PHYS 2020. Students work in groups with the topics presented in the PHYS 2020 discussion class. Optics, modern physics, and electronics traditionally covered in a second-semester college physics course. Reflection and refraction, vision, diffraction effects, quantum mechanics, atomic and nuclear physics, and analog and digital electronics. The skills associated with the development of experimental investigations including graphical analysis and estimation of uncertainties emphasized. Two two-and-one-half-hour laboratory sessions. TBR Common Course: PHYS 2021

 

  • Humanities and Social Science 18 credit hours
  • Math 0-6 credit hours

Subtotal: 72-78 hours

NOTE:

The above requirements represent the minimum. Those students with inadequate knowledge of and experience with food and fiber species should highly consider taking additional courses in the animal sciences. Most students accepted into a professional DVM program first complete the B.S. degree in Animal Science at MTSU.

 

 

Dr. Jessica Gentry Carter

Professor

Dr. Kevin M Downs

Professor

Dr. Jessica Gentry Carter

Professor

Dr. Kevin M Downs

Professor

Our adjunct faculty bring outstanding professional experience to our programs. Many are industry leaders with decorated careers and honors. Importantly, they are innovative educators who offer hands-on learning to our students to prepare them to enter and thrive in a dynamic, and oftentimes emerging, industry and professional world. They inspire, instruct, and challenge our students toward academic and professional success.

Animal Science

ANSC 1401 - Introduction to Animal and Veterinary Sciences
3 credit hours

Focuses on the introduction and overview of the animal and veterinary sciences disciplines. Reproduction, breeding and genetics, nutrition and feeding, animal health, management, and products processing and marketing of beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals included. 

ANSC 1410 - Introduction to Animal Science
3 credit hours

Overview of the science, production, and management of domestic animal species, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, horses, and companion animals. Topics include reproduction; breeds, breeding, and genetics; nutrition and feeding; animal health; management; and products processing and marketing.

ANSC 1411 - Introduction to Animal Science Lab
1 credit hour

Focuses on applied learning concepts presented at the introductory animal science level. Topics include livestock, poultry, and companion animal breed identification; animal nutrition, feeds, and forages; reproductive science and management techniques; animal breeding and genetics; and basic experiential aspects of beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, horses, poultry, and companion animal production and management.

ANSC 3000 - Careers in Animal and Veterinary Science
2 credit hours

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. Explores career opportunities in various areas of animal agriculture, allied fields, and some non-traditional career paths in the animal and veterinary sciences.

ANSC 3310 - Animal Care and Welfare
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: ANSC 1410 or permission of the instructor. Applied aspects of animal care and welfare, including physical condition, feeding, proper housing, and environmental adaptation of animals to human interaction.

ANSC 3420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Basic principles of genetics, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include use of quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

ANSC 3440 - Livestock Management
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; junior or senior standing. Management practices for farm animal species. Practices include animal handling, restraint techniques, feeding, milking, castrations, identification methods, and herd health problems. Lecture/lab.

ANSC 3450 - Anatomy and Physiology of Domestic Animals
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; ANSC 1410; junior or senior level. The parts, functions, and anatomical relationships of various organs and systems of domestic animals. Lecture/lab.

ANSC 3470 - Beef Cattle Production
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; junior-level classification or higher. Management practices essential for economic beef production including breeding, feeding, and herd health. Purebred, commercial, stocker, feedlot, and processing segments evaluated. Lecture/lab. Offered fall only.

ANSC 3480 - Swine Production
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; junior-level classification or higher. Understanding management of the pig's environment and genetics to maximize profits. Includes nutrition, reproduction, genetics, housing, herd health, and management practices. Lecture/lab.

ANSC 3500 - Small Ruminant Production
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: ANSC 1410. The study of efficient sheep and goat production and management in the U.S. Topics include genetics and selection, reproduction, health and parasite control, nutrition, forages and grazing management, and product quality and marketing. Lecture/lab.

ANSC 3540 - Dairy Production
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: ANSC 1410; juniors and seniors only. Feeding and management, ruminant digestion, physiology of milk secretion, production testing and official records, sanitary regulations, handling and marketing of raw milk. Lecture/lab.

ANSC 3550 - Animal Feeds and Feeding
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410/ANSC 1411; junior-level classification or higher. Focuses on practical application of nutrition to the feeding of domestic animal species. Topics include identification and characteristics of common feedstuffs; computer ration formulation procedures; life cycle nutritional management of beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, small ruminants, poultry, and companion animals; feed stuff composition analysis procedures; feed processing, evaluation, and grading; feed control laws; and nutrition research methodology.

ANSC 3710 - Rabbit Production
3 credit hours

Principles of rabbit production and management focused on the commercial, show, and pet sectors. Topics include rabbit breeds and genetics; nutrition and feeding; reproduction; management; health and diseases; and rabbit products.

ANSC 3810 - Milk Processing and Marketing
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PSCI 1030/PSCI 1031 or CHEM 1010/CHEM 1011 and CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021, or CHEM 1110/CHEM 1120. Biological, chemical, and physical properties of cow's milk and its value as an animal food source; techniques of processing and marketing; governmental regulations; laboratory testing. Lecture/lab.

ANSC 4260 - Behavior of Domestic Animals
3 credit hours

Behavior aspects of raising and managing domestic animals to include equine, swine, goats, cattle, sheep, dogs, and cats. Communication, ingestive, sexual, social, aggressive, and abnormal behaviors emphasized. Lecture/lab.

ANSC 4410 - Animal Nutrition
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021 or CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the processes of digestion and nutrient utilization in domestic animal species. Topics include monogastric and ruminant digestive anatomy and physiology; carbohydrate, lipid, protein, vitamin, and mineral utilization.

ANSC 4430 - Internship in Animal Science
3 to 6 credit hours

Prerequisite: Approval of instructor. In-depth practical experience in a specific area of animal science pertinent to the individual's interest. Students work with producers and agencies that have agreed to cooperate in the program and to provide adequate salary and guidance.

ANSC 4470 - Advanced Beef Production
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410 and ANSC 3470 or approval of instructor. In-depth analysis of various systems of beef production. Extensive field trips to cow-calf, feedlot, stocker, and purebred operations. Offered Spring only.

ANSC 4490 - Livestock Evaluation
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: Approval of instructor. Comparative evaluation of beef cattle, swine, sheep, and horses. Develops defense of placing through an organized set of reasons involving terms describing the animal's characteristics. Importance of these characteristics to the animal function stressed. Lecture/lab.

ANSC 4500 - Reproductive Management Techniques for Livestock
1 credit hour

Prerequisite: ANSC 1410; junior or senior standing. Training in artificial insemination (A.I.) techniques for livestock species, including certification in cattle A.I. Includes study of estrous synchronization methods and embryo transfer.  Lecture and lab activities.

ANSC 4510 - Domestic Animal Reproductive Physiology
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410; BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121; junior-level classification or higher. Advanced study of the anatomy, physiology, and endocrinology of reproduction in domestic animal species. Topics include male and female reproductive anatomy, hormonal control of reproductive processes, reproductive development, the estrus cycle, male physiology, and lactation. Current techniques to control animal reproduction described. Offered Spring only.

ANSC 4520 - Companion Animal Management
3 credit hours

A comprehensive study of dog and cat management. Topics include canine and feline history; selective breeding; functional anatomy; reproductive physiology and management; nutrition and feeding management; diseases and health management; behavior, communication, and training. Service role of the dog and cat highlighted.

ANSC 4860 - Meat Science and Technology
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: ANSC 1410 and sophomore-level classification or higher. Selecting, inspecting, grading, fabricating, packaging, preserving, and cooking red meat products. Other topics include anatomy, structure, and composition of muscle, food safety, and microbiology. Offered Spring only.

ANSC 4900 - Undergraduate Research in Animal Science
1 to 3 credit hours

Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing. Faculty-student collaboration to gain independent research experience in an animal science discipline area.

Agribusiness and Agriscience

Plant and Soil Science

PLSO 1101 - Introduction to Ornamental Horticulture
3 credit hours

Ornamental horticulture from the scientific basis to commercial operations and management systems. Emphasis on the role of horticulture in everyday living through the introductory study of growing, maintenance, and utilization of plants to benefit people and the environment. Topics include basis of plant science and history, scope, and nature of ornamental horticulture including coverage of such diverse topics as production, craftsmanship, and business management skills.

PLSO 1610 - Elements of Plant Science
3 credit hours

Fundamental plant processes; plant tissues, structures, environment, growth, development, reproduction, and propagation. Lecture/Lab.

PLSO 3330 - Field Crop Production
3 credit hours

Economic importance, adaptation, origin, and history; botanical characteristics; cultural methods, uses, breeding, and pests of field crops. Lecture/Lab.

PLSO 3340 - Fundamentals of Soil Science
3 credit hours

Introduces soil science with emphasis placed on soil physical, biological, and chemical properties. Relates soil conditions to land use applications, plant growth, and environmental quality. Lecture/Lab.

PLSO 3350 - Soil Fertility and Fertilizer
3 credit hours

Fundamentals of managing plant nutrients in soils for crop, horticulture, and other plant production. Nutrient requirements, nutrient availability in soils, soil acidity and liming, organic and inorganic fertilizers, and environmental effects of fertilizers. Lecture/Lab.

PLSO 3360 - Irrigation and Drainage
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 3340. Comparative evaluation and interpretation of irrigation and drainage systems; water supply development; interrelationships of the environment and plants; scheduling irrigation; examination of economic and legal factors. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 3370 - Soil Analysis
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 3340. Analysis of soils in laboratory. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 3600 - Horticulture in Our Lives
3 credit hours

Emphasis on the role of horticulture in everyday living, through principles of growing plants in the home, floral design, home landscaping, and gardening. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 3630 - Agroforestry
3 credit hours

Culture, conservation, management, and utilization of forest stands. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 3640 - Woody Landscape Plants
3 credit hours

Distribution, characteristics, relationships, and adaptation of native and exotic trees shrubs, and vines for landscape use. One-hour lecture and four-hour lab.

PLSO 3660 - Vegetable Gardening
3 credit hours

Principles of home and commercial vegetable production; adaptation, culture, fertility, diseases, and insects of vegetables. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 3670 - Fruit Production
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or 4 hours of biology. Introduces art and science of fruit production in the United States. Focuses on temperate fruit production, but also includes a general overview of citrus production. Conveys a general understanding of fruit production in the United States including propagation, orchard management, pollination, harvest, cultural practices, pests, and trends in the industry.

PLSO 3700 - Fundamentals of Precision Agriculture
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610. Fundamental concepts and principles of site-specific farming, current technology, and its capabilities and limitations in precision agricultural practices.

PLSO 3850 - Wine Science and Industry
3 credit hours

(Same as FERM 3850.) The science and marketing of wine, including grape production, fruit processing, and fermentation technologies. Explores wine marketing in Tennessee, the U.S., and the world. Student must be 21 years of age to enroll. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 4000 - Agroecosystems Remote Sensing Using UAS
3 credit hours

Multidisciplinary course to train students on the key concepts of agricultural remote sensing using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Precision agriculture and remote sensing concepts and the use of some open-source image processing software for analyzing UAS-based remote sensing data. 

PLSO 4200 - Fruit and Vegetable Marketing
3 credit hours

(Same as AGRI 4200.) Prerequisite: BIOL 1030/BIOL 1031 or CHEM 1010/CHEM 1011 or CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021 or CHEM 1110/CHEM 1111 or CHEM 1120/CHEM 1121 or PSCI 1030/PSCI 1031 or approval of instructor. Basic biochemistry of respiration, handling techniques and practices, quality assessment and marketing of fruit and vegetable crops. Both domestic and international marketing of fruit and vegetable products discussed. Examines the economic impact of improper handling on both the local producer and the end user.

PLSO 4300 - Plant Protection
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or 4 hours of biology. Principles of protecting crop plants from damage by weeds, insects, diseases, and other biotic factors. Pest control by chemical, cultural, and biological methods with an emphasis on integrated pest management.

PLSO 4310 - Forage Crops
3 credit hours

Adaptation, distribution, establishment, management, culture, and utilization of forage legumes and grasses. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 4320 - Plant Physiology
4 credit hours

(Same as BIOL 4500.) Prerequisites:BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121, CHEM 1020/CHEM 1021, PLSO 3340. Plant mineral nutrition, photosynthesis, growth, development, and metabolism at the cellular and whole plant levels. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory.

PLSO 4330 - Turf Management
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121 or PLSO 1101. Establishment and management of turf grasses for lawns, golf courses, and parks. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 4340 - Genesis of Soil Landscapes
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 3340 or instructor approval. The co-evolution of soil landscapes, important morphological soil properties, and influence of geologic and geomorphic settings on soil development. The role of water in the development of soil horizons. Factors and processes of soil genesis. Lecture/Lab.

PLSO 4350 - Soil Survey and Land Use
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 3340 or instructor approval. Soil properties used to determine the suitability of soils for various uses.Tasks and reports involved in soil survey. Methods of soil evaluation and interpretation. Use of electronic database for land use decisions. Lecture/Lab.

PLSO 4370 - Soil and Water Conservation
3 credit hours

History of soil conservation/soil problems in ancient civilizations. Conservation practices with respect to topsoil, soil productivity, and fertility. Land management practices for soil and water conservation. Current issues in soil and water conservation and environmental sustainability. Lecture/Lab.

PLSO 4380 - Interior Landscaping
3 credit hours

Principles and practices of designing, installing, and maintaining landscapes in malls, public buildings, and other indoor environments. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 4390 - Urban and Sports Turf Soils
3 credit hours

Describe, design, manage, and evaluate urban and sports turf soils. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 4500 - Agroecology
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: PLSO 1610 or 4 hours of biology. Theories of agroecology; focuses on sustainable agricultural practices and concepts. The impact of specific agricultural technologies and land use practices on the productivity of agricultural ecosystems, environmental quality, and human health. Examines the environmental science and agronomy of both conventional and alternative sustainable practices including benefits and limitations. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 4610 - Arboriculture
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121. The culture of trees, shrubs, and vines in the landscape. Planting, transplanting, fertilizing, irrigation, pruning, problem diagnosis, and damage repair included. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 4620 - Greenhouse Management
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121. Analysis of soils, fertilizers, irrigation techniques, container preparation, ventilation, growth regulation, and carbon dioxide enrichment for greenhouse operation. Two-hour lecture and two-hour lab.

PLSO 4630 - Floriculture
3 credit hours

Propagation and other cultural practices for the production and maintenance of plants and flowers in the home. Two-hour lecture and two-hour lab.

PLSO 4640 - Landscaping
3 credit hours

Application of the principles of design, the use of proportionate-sized woody landscape plants, and other practices to produce low-maintenance-cost landscapes. One-hour lecture and four-hour lab.

PLSO 4660 - Nursery Management
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121. Principles and practices of nursery management as a business. Nursery administration, financial management, and marketing. Cultural management of field- and container-grown nursery plants. Lecture/lab.

PLSO 4670 - Plant Propagation
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121. Anatomical features and physiological principles involved in propagating plants from seed and by division, cutting, budding, and grafting. Use of growth regulators and environmental factors. Two-hour lecture and two-hour lab.

PLSO 4680 - Internship in Plant and Soil Science
3 to 6 credit hours

Prerequisite: Approval of instructor. Practical experience in a specific area of agronomy, horticulture, or soils. Classroom material related to practical application.

PLSO 4690 - Crop Ecophysiology
3 credit hours

Focuses on crop/plant physiology and crop/plant-environment interaction. Topics include plant canopy architecture, plant root morphology, physiology of growth and yield, photosynthesis and crop yield, source-sink relationships and crop yield, carbon dioxide and crop yield, physiology of drought in crop plants, and physiology of mineral nutrition.

PLSO 4730 - Soil Physical Properties
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: PLSO 3340; MATH 1010, MATH 1530, or MATH 1710; junior or standing level. Study of concepts related to soil physical properties and processes important for crop productivity and environmental quality. Topics include soil water content and energy, water infiltration, transport of solutes, gas, and heat.

PLSO 4750 - Agricultural Biotechnology
3 credit hours

Prerequisites: BIOL 1110/BIOL 1111, BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121, BIOL 3250/BIOL 3251; PLSO 1610. Introduces the process and reasoning behind the human manipulation of plant and animal species for agricultural purposes. Focuses on plant biotechnology with an introduction to animal biotechnology. Topics include plant tissue culture, plant cell transformation, general molecular biology techniques, and molecular marker-assisted breeding techniques. Three hours lecture and two hours lab.

PLSO 4760 - Herbs, Spices, and Medicinal Plants in Our Lives
3 credit hours

Prerequisite: PLSO 1610 or BIOL 1120/BIOL 1121. The history, traditional uses, biological basis, botany, cultivation, and applications of specialized plants used as culinary herbs, spices, and in medicine.

Online or Hybrid Programs at a Glance

This program is available .

For More Information or Explore Your Options​

Contact your department / program coordinator or advisor for more details about the program OR work one-on-one with your advisor to explore your options.

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The Online Advantage​

With over 25 years of experience in online teaching and learning, MTSU Online offers students access to innovative, high-quality programs. Designed with students in mind, our courses allow maximum flexibility for those unable to participate in person. ​

Resources and services for online students are available from MTSU Online or contact us at distance@mtsu.edu.

Contact Information

Dr. Jessica Carter
Jessica.Carter@mtsu.edu
615-898-2523

Who is My Advisor?

Jessica Lance
Jessica.Lance@mtsu.edu
615-898-2031 | DSB 120

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Mailing Address

School of Agriculture
Middle Tennessee State University
MTSU Box 5
1301 East Main Street
Murfreesboro, TN 37132

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