For more than a century, Cal Poly’s animal science department
has provided learning opportunities for young people, implemented
cutting-edge technologies through the “learn by doing” philosophy
and developed the careers of many who will become leaders in agriculture
on the local, state and national level. With dedicated faculty, staff
and students, the department has been very successful in meeting
its mission to “provide the highest quality undergraduate education
in the science and art of animal stewardship through formal and experiential
methods.”
The animal science department is proud of its heritage, programs,
students, graduates and contribution to animal agriculture. The department
has a unique and unparalleled educational program. The quality of
the program and environment is rigorous enough so that students are
qualified to pursue graduate and veterinary schools, and a variety
of professional opportunities.
Department Head Dr. Andrew J. Thulin established a vision of excellence
for the department when he joined Cal Poly in 1998. Part of this
vision is the development of a strong relationship between the animal
science department and industries that support animal agriculture
in California and the United States. Through his guidance, the department
grew from 400 students to more than 600 students. The department
can only accept the top 50 percent of student applications due to
the growth in student demand during the past few years.
