Animal Science M.P.S. (Ithaca)

Field of Study

Animal Science

Program Description

The Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Animal Science is a one-year, STEM-designated, course-based master’s degree program ideal for career-focused students interested in the thorough study of issues and advancements in animal science. 

Though similar to a Master of Science (MS) degree in its academic rigor, the MPS degree differs from a traditional MS degree in its structure and focus. An MS prepares students for a research-based career, with students developing an original research thesis over the course of two or three years. In contrast, the MPS degree is a one-year, course-based program, designed to impact knowledge and skills in a given area of concentration. Instead of a thesis or research project, MPS students complete a capstone project which allows them to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical manner.

A hallmark of the MPS program is the balanced portfolio of technical knowledge, analytical skills, and professional development built into the curriculum, designed to equip students with the skill set and knowledge necessary for careers in industry, government, or non-profit agencies.

The Animal Science MPS program has two main components:

• Coursework (24-28 credit hours): Students work with a faculty advisor to map out their individualized course of study based on their areas of interest. The majority of courses (20 credits) will be within CALS; however, students have the opportunity to take courses across Cornell.
• Capstone Project (2-6 credit hours): With the guidance of a faculty advisor, students work on solving a collaborative project and/or real-world problem.

Contact Information

Website: calsprofprograms@cornell.edu
Email: calsprofprograms@cornell.edu
Phone: 607-255-2215

149 Morrison Hall
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY  14853

Concentrations by Subject

• animal genetics (M.S., M.S./Ph.D., Ph.D. only)
• animal genomics (M.S., M.S./Ph.D., Ph.D. only)
• animal health (M.P.S. only)
• animal nutrition
• animal nutrition (M.P.S. only)
• animal production sustainability (M.P.S. only)
• animal science (general)
• dairy business management (M.P.S. only)
• physiology of reproduction (M.S., M.S./Ph.D., Ph.D. only)

Tuition

Visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadlines:

Fall Admission: February 15 (priority deadline), April 15 (general deadline)

Applicants will be notified within two weeks after the deadline about their application status. Excellent applicants for the program will be invited to interview before a final decision is communicated. Not all applicants will be selected for an interview.

Requirements Summary:

1. Complete Cornell’s Online Graduate School Application. Get started by setting up an ApplyWeb account.  Once you have an account, you can go to the online application to begin the process
2. Submit unofficial copies of official college and university transcripts
3. Submit your résumé or CV
4. Submit a Statement of Purpose
5. Submit a Personal Statement
6. 2-3 letters of recommendation
7. All applicants must meet the Graduate School minimum requirements including the English Language Proficiency Requirement
8. The GRE general test is not accepted

Learning Outcomes