Animal Husbandry

Animal Husbandry is a core specialization within the discipline of Animal Sciences, itself part of the broader academic field of Agriculture & Forestry. It focuses on the science and practice of managing domestic animals for food, fiber, labor, and companionship, integrating animal biology, breeding, nutrition, health, welfare, and system management to optimize productivity and sustainability. Students in Animal Husbandry develop practical and theoretical skills in livestock production, reproductive management, animal behavior, housing and biosecurity, herd/flock health, and farm economics to support efficient, humane, and environmentally responsible animal production enterprises.

As global demand for animal products evolves alongside concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact, Animal Husbandry is central to transforming livestock systems. Combining hands-on animal handling with advances in genetics, nutritional science, precision livestock farming, and epidemiology, specialists develop approaches that improve animal productivity and welfare while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, water and land footprints, and antibiotic use.