
About our Department
With nationally recognized faculty, state-of-the-art facilities within walking distance of campus, and a vibrant community of students, we offer transformative experiences that prepare graduates to lead in science, industry, and beyond.

Mission
The Department of Animal Science, within the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR), will provide citizens of the State of Connecticut and beyond with modern, comprehensive programs that address human interaction with agricultural and companion animals. It will accomplish this by meeting the Land Grant missions of teaching, research, and extension/outreach as they relate to sustainable approaches for improving human, animal, and environmental health.
Specific Mission Goals
- Providing science-based curricula and relevant experiential learning opportunities that will enrich students’ knowledge and awareness through critical thinking, communication, and self-awareness to prepare the next generation of the workforce for a diverse range of careers in food, agriculture, and veterinary sciences. This will support students pursuing AAS, BS, MS, and PhD degrees.
- Pursuing continued excellence as national and international leaders in Animal Science research geared towards supporting the changing global agricultural climate and meeting sustainability goals.
- Supporting the agricultural community, state agencies, and general public in Connecticut, the Northeast and beyond through educational extension and outreach activities, including 4-H and FFA.
Advisory Board
The ANSC Advisory Committee advises the department head on promoting the department’s achievements, fundraising efforts, and strengthening relationships with alumni and stakeholders. Its members, drawn from diverse professional and personal backgrounds across the country, bring a wide range of expertise. This diversity ensures that we consider multiple perspectives as we continue to provide the citizens of the State of Connecticut with a first-class comprehensive program to meet our tripartite missions of teaching, research, and service to animal agriculture.
Committee Members
Dr. Kim Brinton
Country Companions Veterinary Services
Robert “Bob” Cacchione
Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association
Nicole McKay
Hillandale Farms
Rebecca Rose
Lyman Hall High School
Luigi Sartori
Northeast District Department of Health
Pete Sepe
Sepe Farm, LLC
Jim Smith
Cushman Farm
Kevin Woolam
CT Sheep Breeders Association
Real-World Impact

Education
Our students learn in the classroom, lab, and barn, with access to state-of-the-art facilities within minutes of walking distance on campus and hands-on instruction from day one.

Research
Opportunities exist for students to work along nationally recognized faculty on impactful research across animal health, nutrition, genetics and more.

Extension and Outreach
Extension programs empower communities by building a network of awareness and knowledge. Our Department’s Extension specialists are here to answer your questions and provide assistance.
Join Our Community
Through innovative coursework and experiential learning, you’ll discover how to turn your passion for animals, people, and the planet into a meaningful profession. Connect with us to learn about our programs.
How to Apply
Meet our Faculty
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Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that the land on which we work within Connecticut is the territory of the Mohegan, Mashantucket Pequot, Eastern Pequot, Schaghticoke, Golden Hill Paugussett, Nipmuc, and Lenape Peoples, who have stewarded this land throughout the generations. We thank them for their strength and resilience in protecting this land and aspire to uphold our responsibilities according to their example.