For Students Seeking the Master of Science or Master of Professional Studies Degree
- As a minimum, potential applicants must have a baccalaureate degree in Animal Science, Dairy Science, Poultry Science, or another biological science from an accredited institution upon admission to our graduate program with a junior-senior grade-point average of at least 3.0 (4.0 basis). The student's program must have included courses in biological science, chemistry, and mathematics. In addition, students trained in Computer Programming, Data Science, or Machine Learning with an interest in precision agriculture can also apply. Exceptions to the minimum grade-point average may be made for students with special backgrounds, abilities, or interests.
- Proof of English proficiency if native language is not English. Please refer to policy GCAC-305
For Students Seeking the Ph.D. Degree
- As a minimum, potential applicants must have a baccalaureate degree in Animal Science, Dairy Science, Poultry Science, or another biological science from an accredited institution upon admission to our graduate program with a junior-senior grade-point average of at least 3.0 (4.0 basis). The student's program must have included courses in biological science, chemistry, and mathematics. In addition, students trained in Computer Programming, Data Science, or Machine Learning with an interest in precision agriculture can also apply. Exceptions to the minimum grade-point average may be made for students with special backgrounds, abilities, or interests.
- A thesis-based M.S. degree in biological sciences is preferred but not required. Research publications are also preferred but not required.
- Research experience in biological sciences is required.
- Proof of English proficiency if native language is not English. Please refer to policy GCAC-305
Admission Procedures
Applications for admission to the Graduate Program in Animal Science are accepted year-round. However, in order to meet the annual nomination deadline for College of Agricultural Sciences and Graduate School special fellowships and awards, including top-off funds, applications must be completed by December 15. Applications are screened by the Graduate Program Committee, which considers the following criteria:
- Overall grade-point average (GPA) and Jr./Sr. GPA)
- Courses completed
- Course deficiencies
- GRE scores, if available but not required
- Area(s) of interest
- Research experience
- Career statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Whether a thesis adviser has been identified
Following the vote of the Animal Science Graduate Program Committee, a recommendation of acceptance or rejection is made to the Graduate School by the Director of Graduate Studies in Animal Science, and the applicants are subsequently informed of the decision via email.
To apply to the Graduate School, complete the online application.
General inquiries about admission procedures for the Graduate Program in Animal Science should be made to:
Dr. Ramesh Ramachandran
Director of Graduate Studies in Animal Science
Department of Animal Science
The Pennsylvania State University
302 AVBS Building
University Park, PA 16802
Phone: 814-865-5202
Email: rur11@psu.edu
