Brookings Main Campus
Communicating the Science of Animal Agriculture
Blending written and oral communication training with a strong science background positions graduates of this specialization to communicate and advocate regarding animal agriculture and the science involved in today’s livestock production. Graduates hold positions as public relations and communications directors and other communications related positions focused on telling the stories and explaining the science of today’s animal agriculture businesses and organizations.
Animal Science Fast Facts
Undergraduates
Degrees Awarded
(in 2022-23)
Scholarship Recipients
Internship Employers
Internship employers per year with different employment foci including animal nutrition, ranch management, veterinary services, swine industry, meats industry, livestock genetics, horsing training, and more.
Student Organizations & Judging Teams
Department based student organizations and judging teams including Little International, the country’s largest student run livestock exposition, nationally competitive rodeo team, and nationally competitive judging teams in livestock, meats and wool.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are passionate about informing the public about animal agriculture.
- Demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills.
- Are involved in FFA, 4-H or other ag-related activities.
- Enjoy working with or around livestock.
- Enjoy food - specifically meat and animal products.
Career Opportunities
- Livestock business communications director
- Allied industry (e.g. feed, animal health) public relations
- Breed association representative
- Meat products consumer information
- Livestock publications writer/social media
- Marketing and sales coordinator
Recent Employers
- CHS
- Pipestone System
- Riverview, LLP
- University of Minnesota Extension
- Rembrandt Foods
Internship Opportunities
- American Foods Group
- Exemplar Genetics
- New Vision Co-op
- New Fashion Pork
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Dual Majors
Suggested Minors
Clubs and Organizations
- Block and Bridle
- Judging Teams
- Little International
- Rodeo
- Swine Club
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.