College of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Personal attention is a key aspect of all college programs, and undergraduate research is promoted and encouraged. The college offers a highly student-oriented advising system. Students are assigned an academic advisor to suggest courses and career emphases. In the student-advisor relationship, the capabilities, aspirations and goals of the students remain paramount throughout their academic careers. Academic advisors work closely with students from the time they express an interest in the major, and undergraduate research is encouraged in all majors.

For students who desire one of the degree options available through the college, but wish to delay their choice of a specific major until a later date, a no–preference program is offered. Under this arrangement, freshmen enrolled in the Undergraduate University Division may designate their major preference as Agriculture and Natural Resources No–Preference. Students selecting this major preference are advised by faculty members in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Through careful selection of courses, they are encouraged to explore a variety of areas to help in selecting a major. The key element of this program is its flexibility. Students may remain in it until they attain junior standing, or they may select other major preferences at any time before becoming juniors.

Bachelor of Science degree programs are offered in the following areas: Agribusiness Management; Agriscience; Agriculture and Natural Resources Communications; Animal Science; Construction Management; Crop and Soil Sciences; Dietetics; Entomology; Environmental Economics and Policy; Environmental Soil Science; Environmental Studies and Applications; Fisheries and Wildlife; Food Industry Management; Food Science; Forestry; Horticulture; Packaging; Park, Recreation and Tourism Resources; Plant Pathology; and Technology Systems Management. A Bachelor of Arts degree program in Interior Design and a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture degree program in Landscape Architecture are also offered.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources cooperates with the College of Engineering in offering an undergraduate program in Biosystems Engineering. The college also participates with the College of Social Science in offering an undergraduate program in Urban and Regional Planning.

 

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources encourages honors students to develop enriched and distinctive undergraduate programs. In each of the career pathways offered in the college, members of the faculty are carefully selected to serve as departmental Honors College advisors. These advisors assist each Honors College student in planning a rigorous and balanced program that reflects individual interests and competencies. In  addition to the university–wide array of introductory Honors courses available to exceptional students, the college encourages participation in research and enrollment in graduate courses and independent study.

 

In furthering the students’ training, the flexible nature of the program in each major makes it possible for students to pursue areas of special interest through regular course work, special seminars, research and travel. By anticipating new and growing areas of need for trained personnel, the college makes it possible for students to prepare themselves adequately in these areas. Following are a few of the opportunities for special emphasis available to students in any major within the college.

International Study. The college offers opportunities for short-term and semester-length study abroad programs around the world. Undergraduates are encouraged to make a study abroad experience part of their curriculum. In addition, students in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and others interested in agricultural development abroad, may select courses from numerous subject areas. Offerings in agricultural economics, agricultural engineering, animal science, crop and soil sciences, extension personnel development, forestry, horticulture and resource development have special relevance to international agriculture and rural development. Emphasis is placed on environmentally sound crop and animal production, application of new technical knowledge, planning and administration, and efficient use of human and natural resources for developing countries.

Science Emphasis. Many students realize early in their college years that they wish to prepare for careers in research or university teaching. Academic advisors assist them in selecting science courses (biological, physical and social) that will offer the best possible preparation for graduate study.

 

Students meeting the general requirements for admission shown in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog are enrolled in the Undergraduate University Division.  However, they  may declare a major preference in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and be assigned an academic advisor in the College. Freshmen who declare a major will usually have both an Undergraduate University Division advisor and an advisor in their major.

 

1. Completion of a minimum of 56 credits acceptable to the college with an academic record, which at least meets the requirements of Academic Standing of Undergraduate Students.
2. Acceptance as a major in one of the academic programs of the college.

The number of students admitted as juniors to the construction management major and the packaging major are limited.  For additional information, refer to the statements on the School of Planning, Design and Construction and the School of Packaging.  

 

1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog.
   Alternative tracks to Integrative Studies in General Science have been approved for selected majors leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in the college.  For additional information, refer to the lists of requirements for the major and degree programs that appear in the statements on the departments.
   
   The completion of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources mathematics requirement referenced in item 2. a. below may also satisfy the University mathematics requirement.
2. The requirements of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for the Bachelor of Science degree that are listed below:
   a.    The mathematics requirement may be met by completing one of the following or may be satisfied by placing into a calculus course 
           based on the Mathematics Services Placement Exam.
           (1)    Mathematics 103 and Statistics and Probability 200 or 201.
           (2)    Mathematics 103 and 114.
           (3)    Mathematics 116.
   b.    Economics 201 or 202.
   c.    At least 26 credits in courses in the college.
   d.    The specific requirements for a major in the college.

Students who are enrolled in bachelor's degree programs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources may elect a Specialization in Environmental Studies.  For additional information, refer to the Specialization in Environmental Studies statement in the College of Natural Science section of this catalog.

Through its graduate programs, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources seeks to provide opportunities for advanced study, original research and supervised experience in teaching, coupled with a broadening of a student’s educational background.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources offers graduate study leading to the Master of Science degree in the following majors: agricultural economics; animal science; biosystems engineering; construction management; community, agriculture, recreation and resource studies; crop and soil sciences; dietetics; fisheries and wildlife; food science; forestry; horticulture; human nutrition; packaging; plant breeding, genetics and biotechnology–crop and soil sciences; plant breeding, genetics and biotechnology–forestry; plant breeding, genetics and biotechnology–horticulture; plant breeding, genetics and biotechnology-plant biology; and plant pathology. A master’s degree program is offered jointly with the College of Business. Qualified students may earn joint master’s degrees in forestry and business administration.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources offers graduate study leading to the Master of Arts degree in two areas: (1) environmental design and (2) interior design and facilities management.

The Master of Urban and Regional Planning degree program with a major in urban and regional planning is offered through the College of Social Science. For information about that program, refer to the statement on the School of Planning, Design and Construction in the College of Social Science section of this catalog.

Students may complete a professional dietetics internship certificate program through the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree may be earned with majors in agricultural economics; agricultural engineering; animal science; biosystems engineering; community, agriculture, recreation and resource studies; construction management; crop and soil sciences; entomology; fisheries and wildlife; food science; forestry, horticulture; human nutrition; human nutrition—environmental toxicology; packaging, plant breeding, genetics and biotechnology – crop and soil sciences; plant breeding, genetics and biotechnology—forestry; plant breeding, genetics and biotechnology—horticulture; plant breeding, genetics and biotechnology-plant biology; and plant pathology.

The following dual Juris Doctor (J.D.) programs with Michigan State University College of Law are available through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources: Michigan State University M.S. degree program with a major in Fisheries and Wildlife and Michigan State University College of Law J.D.; Michigan State University M.S. degree program with a major in Forestry and Michigan State University College of Law J.D.

The departments of Plant Pathology; Crop and Soil Sciences; Entomology; Fisheries and Wildlife, Forestry, and Horticulture are affiliated with the Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior. For additional information, refer to the statement on the doctoral program in ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior in the College of Natural Science section of this catalog.

The regulations and requirements presented here are the minimum for the college as a whole and must be fulfilled by all students in all departments. Any requirements not set forth herein or in university regulations are matters of departmental policy. Individual departments may have additional requirements beyond the minimum established for the college. Admissions to graduate programs may be limited by unit resources.

 

Students who are enrolled in master’s degree programs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources may elect the master’s Specialization in Agribusiness.  For additional information, refer to the Specialization in Agribusiness Management statement in the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science degree programs in the departments of Plant Pathology; Crop and Soil Sciences; Entomology; Fisheries and Wildlife; Forestry or Horticulture may elect a Specialization in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior. For additional information, refer to the statement on the specialization in the College of Natural Science section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in doctoral degree programs in departments and programs emphasizing environmental science and policy may elect the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Science and Policy. For additional information, refer to the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Science and Policy statement in the College of Social Science section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in master’s and doctoral degree programs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Natural Science, and the College of Veterinary Medicine may elect the Graduate Specialization in Fish and Wildlife Disease Ecology and Conservation Medicine. For additional information, refer to the statement on Graduate Specialization in Fish and Wildlife Disease Ecology and Conservation Medicine.

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science degree programs in the departments of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Animal Science, Entomology, Food Science and Human Nutrition, Horticulture, Packaging, and Plant Pathology may elect a Specialization in Food Safety.  For additional information, refer to the statement on the specialization in the College of Veterinary Medicine section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition may a elect Specialization in Infancy and Early Childhood. For additional information, refer to the statement on Interdepartmental Graduate Specializations in Infancy and Early Childhood in the College of Social Science section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs in the departments of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics; Fisheries and Wildlife; or Forestry may a elect Specialization in Environmental and Resource Economics. For additional information, refer to the statement on Interdepartmental Graduate Specializations in Environmental and Resource Economics.
Students who are enrolled in master's and doctoral degree programs at Michigan State University may elect a Specialization in Food and Agricultural Standards. For additional information, refer to the statement on Graduate Specialization in Food and Agricultural Standards in the College of Social Science section of this catalog.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

Acceptance of an applicant is determined by the department in which the applicant wishes to do his or her major work, with the approval of the dean of the college, after consideration of the applicant's academic record, experience, personal qualifications, and objectives. Applicants who are admitted are classified in one of two groups: regular, for students who are fully qualified to undertake master's degree programs, or provisional, for students who have some remediable inadequacy of qualifications, or deficiency in subject matter preparation.

Normally an undergraduate grade–point average of 3.00 (B) or higher is required for admission to any status. Credits earned in regular or provisional status are acceptable as part of a student's degree requirements upon approval of the major professor and the dean.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree

PROGRAM. The student, in consultation with the major professor, develops the prescribed program of study. The program should be established at the earliest possible date, consistent with departmental requirements, and filed with the department and the dean. Two plans of study are available:
 
Plan A—Completion of a research program and preparation of a satisfactory thesis are required. Research credits must equal at least 6, but not more than 10.
 
Plan B—Preparation of a thesis is not required. The program may include research or special problems not exceeding 6 credits.
 
EXAMINATION. The candidate must pass an oral final examination on the program of study and research before a committee selected by the major professor and approved by the department chairperson. The committee consists of at least three members including the major professor and at least one member from another department. Other faculty members may attend at the department chairperson's or school director's discretion.

In case of a failure, the student may appear for re–examination at a time specified by the examining committee.

Academic Standards

FOR RETENTION. The major professor and department in which the student is majoring review and make a decision concerning the retention of any student failing to fulfill departmental requirements, and may dismiss a student at the end of any semester. Notice of dismissal from a departmental program is given to the student by the department chairperson, and the dean is notified of such action.

Residence

The student should spend at least one full semester in residence on campus. At least 8 credits excluding research must be taken in course work on the campus in East Lansing.

 

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is granted for distinctive attainment by the student in a special field, as evidenced by a dissertation which shows independent and creative thought and by passing detailed examinations over the student's chosen fields.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

Acceptance of an applicant is determined by the department in which the applicant wishes to do his or her major work, with the approval of the dean of the college, after consideration of the applicant's academic record, experience, personal qualifications, and objectives. Applicants who are admitted are classified in one of two groups: regular, for students whose records and qualifications show that they are ready to pursue a course of study toward the doctorate, or provisional, for students who, although their previous work appears to have been at an acceptably high academic level, nevertheless lack some important requirements for the course of study they intend to follow toward the doctorate. Such deficiencies will often necessitate the completion of collateral courses for which credit will not be counted toward the degree.

Normally a grade–point average of 3.00 (B) or higher in all previous academic work is required for admission to regular or provisional status.

Admission is open to students with a master’s or bachelor’s degree or their equivalents; however, applicants meeting these requirements are not guaranteed admission into a doctoral program. Some departments may require completion of a master’s degree prior to admission into the doctoral program.

Credits earned in regular or provisional status are acceptable as part of a student's degree requirements upon approval by the guidance committee and the dean.

Examinations

COMPREHENSIVE. A comprehensive knowledge of the student's major and related fields must be demonstrated by examination, written or written and oral, to the guidance committee. If the student fails to pass, there may not be a reexamination until after one semester of additional work toward the degree is completed.

FINAL. The final oral examination, primarily in defense of the dissertation, is conducted by the guidance committee, supplemented, at the discretion of the dean, by two appointed faculty members. Other faculty members may attend at the chairperson's discretion. The final oral examination cannot be conducted before the dissertation is in the final form unbound.

Academic Standards

FOR RETENTION. The guidance committee and the department in which the student is majoring review and make a decision concerning the retention of any student failing to fulfill departmental requirements, and may dismiss a student at the end of any semester. Notice of dismissal from a departmental program is given to the student by the department chairperson, and the dean is notified of such action.

Residence

One academic year of residence after completion of the master's degree or its equivalent is required. This permits the student to work with and under the direction of the faculty, and to engage in independent and cooperative research utilizing university facilities. Normally, the year of residence will be made up of two semesters involving completion of at least 9 credits of graduate work each semester.

 

The interdepartmental graduate program in Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology is jointly administered by the departments of Crop and Soil Sciences, Forestry, Horticulture, and Plant Biology. Faculty who have been identified by the chairpersons of these departments are members of the Plant Breeding,  Genetics and Biotechnology Program. One member of the faculty is designated as the Coordinator and oversees the program.

The interdepartmental graduate program in Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology is designed to:

1. Provide contemporary graduate education and training in the field of plant breeding and genetics, so that students may be prepared to teach, conduct independent research, and use modern technologies.
2. Enable students to gain knowledge in the various disciplines that support plant breeding activities through course work in such fields as biochemistry, plant physiology, entomology, plant pathology, and food science.
3. Provide an intellectual and resource environment conducive to graduate research.
4. Foster an awareness of plant breeding and genetics programs in both the public and private sectors.

Master of Science

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

A student seeking admission to the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology program at the master's level must have completed a Bachelor of Science degree in a plant science or related field with an emphasis on plant breeding and genetics. A minimum grade–point average of 3.00 in courses in agricultural, biological, and physical sciences and an academic background sufficient to indicate probable success in the program are required.

To be considered for admission to the program, the student must be accepted as an advisee by a faculty member in the student's major department who is also a member of the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty. Admission to the program is by approval of one of the four participating departments, the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty, and the Coordinator of the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology Program. In special cases, applicants with deficiencies in background courses may be admitted on a provisional basis. Such students will not be considered for advanced degrees until they have fulfilled the requirements for admission to regular status.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree

The student's guidance committee, selected in consultation with the student and the major professor at the time that the student is admitted to the program, plans the student's course of study with the student's particular interests, capabilities, and professional goals in mind. The student's guidance committee is composed of three faculty members; the student's major professor and at least one other person must be members of the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty. At least one member must be from a department other than the one that administers the student's major.

Only Plan A (with thesis) is available. The student is required to complete courses, learn research methodologies, and conduct thesis research pertinent to the plant species under study. The student must complete two credits of Horticulture 892, and two core courses as specified by the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty. Credits in Master's Thesis Research (course number 899) must total at least 6 but not more than 10. One semester of teaching experience is also required. The student's program will be reviewed by the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty. The degree is conferred upon recommendation of the department, the Coordinator of the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology Program, and the Dean of the college.

Doctor of Philosophy

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

A student seeking admission to the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology program at the doctoral level must have completed a Bachelor or Master of Science degree in the plant sciences with an emphasis on plant breeding and genetics. A minimum grade–point average of 3.00 is required.

To be considered for admission to the program, the student must be accepted as an advisee by a faculty member in the student's major department who is also a member of the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty. Admission to the program is by approval of one of the four participating departments, the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty, and the Coordinator of the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology Program.

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree

The guidance committee, selected in consultation with the student and the major professor at the time that the student is admitted to the program, plans the student's course of study with the student's particular interests, capabilities, and professional goals in mind. The student's guidance committee is composed of four faculty members; the student's major professor and at least one other person must be members of the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty. At least one member must be from a department other than the one that administers the student's major.

The student is required to complete courses, learn research methodologies, and conduct dissertation research pertinent to the plant species under study. The student must complete at least 12 credits in 800–level plant breeding and genetics courses including four credits of Horticulture 892, and two core courses as specified by the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty. One semester of teaching experience is also required.

The student's program is subject to review by the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology faculty. The degree is conferred upon recommendation of the department, the Coordinator of the Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology Program, and the Dean of the college.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Engineering, the College of Natural Science, and the College  of Veterinary Medicine administer the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology.  The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is the primary administrative unit.

The specialization is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in master's degree programs in the departments of Animal Science, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies, Crop and Soil Sciences, Entomology, Fisheries and Wildlife, Food Science and Human Nutrition, Geological Sciences, Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, and Zoology.  The specialization is designed for students who are interested in combining study in their disciplines with study in environmental toxicology, and in applying their knowledge to solve environmental problems.

A faculty member who is in the department that administers the student's degree program and who is associated with the Specialization in Environmental Toxicology will serve as the student's academic advisor for the specialization.  The academic advisor will assist the student in planning a program of study that is related to the student's interests, capabilities, and professional goals.  With the approval of the department and college that administer the student's degree program, the courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the specialization may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the master's degree.

Requirements for the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology

The student's program of study must be approved by the student's academic advisor for the specialization.  The student must meet the requirements specified below:

1.	Have a grade–point average of at least 3.00 in the courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the specialization.
2.	Complete the following course (3 credits):
	RD	836	Legal Aspects of Environmental Regulation				3
3.	Complete one of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
	ANS	827	Integrated Risk Assessment of Environmental Hazards				3
	ZOL	814	Environmental Chemodynamics				4
4.	Complete one of the following courses (3 credits):
	PHM	450	Introduction to Chemical Toxicology				3
	PHM	814	Advanced Principles of Toxicology				3
5.	Complete one course from any of the five categories listed below (1 to 4 credits):
	Environmental Dynamics
	CE	481	Environmental Engineering Chemistry				3
	CE	821	Groundwater Hydraulics				3
	CSS	455	Pollutants in the Soil Environment				3
	CSS	855	Interfacial Environmental Chemistry				4
	ENE	801	Dynamics of Environmental Systems				3
	GLG	421	Environmental Geochemistry				4
	GLG	821	Aqueous Geochemistry				3
	MMG	425	Microbial Ecology				3
	MMG	841	Soil Microbiology				3
	ZOL	878	Dynamics of Trace Contaminants in Aquatic Systems				3
	ZOL	897	Ecosystem Ecology				4
	Economics, Policy, and Law
	AEC	810	Institutional and Behavioral Economics				3
	AEC	829	The Economics of Environmental Resources				3
	RD	415	Environmental Impact Assessment				4
	RD	828	Attitudes, Behavior and Environmental Sustainability				3
	Waste Management
	CE	483	Water and Wastewater Treatment				3
	CE	485	Solid and Hazardous Waste Management				3
	CE	487	Microbiology for Environmental Health Engineering				3
	ENE	804	Biological Processes in Environmental Engineering				3
	ENE	807	Environmental Analytical Chemistry				3
	ENE	808	Environmental Analytical Chemistry Laboratory				1
	Analytical Chemistry
	CEM	835	Spectrochemical Methods of Analysis				3
	CEM	836	Separation Science				3
	CEM	845	Structure and Spectroscopy of Organic Compounds				3
	ENT	940	Analytical Techniques for Bioactive Compounds:  Separation				4
	ENT	941	Analytical Techniques for Bioactive Compounds:  Confirmation				4
	Mechanisms of Toxicity
	ANS	407	Food and Animal Toxicology				3
	BMB	960	Selected Topics in Biochemistry I				1 to 7
	FSC	807	Advanced Food Toxicology				3
	FSC	840	Advanced Food Microbiology				3
	OSS	512	Biostatistics and Epidemiology				2
	PHM	815	Concepts in Tumorigenesis				2
	PTH	856	Concepts in Toxicologic Pathology				2
	ZOL	868	Aquatic Toxicology				4
	Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 960 may be counted toward the requirements for the specialization only when the topic deals with environmental toxicology.
6.	Attend a minimum of six seminars in environmental toxicology.

Upon completion of the requirements for the master's degree and the requirements for the Specialization in Environmental Toxicology, the student should contact the chairperson of the department that administers the student's degree program and request certification for the completion of the specialization.  After the certification is approved by the chairperson of the department and the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Office of the Registrar will enter on the student's academic record the name of the specialization and the date that it was completed.  This certification will appear on the student's transcript.

The Specialization in Fish and Wildlife Disease Ecology and Conservation Medicine is designed to provide students with improved understanding of the likely consequences of increased contact between fish and wildlife, domestic animals and human populations for emergence and spread of infectious diseases. Students will gain a sound understanding of the basis of fish and wildlife disease, and an appreciation of the diagnostic and surveillance tools needed to move toward effective disease control among wild populations and ecosystems. Students will also obtain the skills that will enable them to work effectively within interdisciplinary and interagency teams to develop disease surveillance, control, and prevention plans.

The specialization which is administered by the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, is available as an elective to master’s and doctoral students in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Natural Science, and the College of Veterinary Medicine. Students enrolled in Plan A (thesis) master’s programs are encouraged to develop thesis topics which integrate their chosen discipline with the interdisciplinary focus integral to this specialization. It is designed for students who are interested in combining study in their disciplines with the study of fish and wildlife disease ecology and in applying their knowledge to the management of emerging and recurring disease in fish and wildlife populations and in ecosystems.

With the approval of the department or school and college that administers the student’s degree program, courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the specialization may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the graduate degree program. The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor for the specialization.

Requirements for the Specialization in Fish and Wildlife Disease Ecology and Conservation Medicine

The student must:
1.	Complete two 1-credit enrollments in the following course:
	FW	893	Seminar in Fisheries and Wildlife				2
2.	Complete the following capstone course:
	FW	823	Wildlife Disease Ecology and Management				3
3.	Complete one course from each of the following topic areas (9 to 11 credits):
	Pathology and Disease
	FW	423	Principles of Fish and Wildlife Disease				3
	FW	423L	Principles of Fish and Wildlife Disease Laboratory				1
	FW	822	Aquatic Animal Medicine				3
	MMG	567	Veterinary Microbiology and Infectious Disease I				5
	MMG	569	Veterinary Microbiology and Infectious Disease II				5
	PTH	551	General Pathology				3
	Students who select Fisheries and Wildlife 423 must also enroll in Fisheries and Wildlife 423L concurrently.
	Epidemiology and Quantitative Methods
	EPI	810	Introduction to Descriptive and Analytical Epidemiology				3
	FW	824	Analysis of Wildlife Populations				3
	VM	533	Veterinary Epidemiology				3
	Policy and Management
	FW	434	Human Dimensions of Fisheries and Wildlife Management				3
	FW	811	Fisheries and Wildlife Laws and Regulations				3
	FW	884	Outreach in Fisheries, Wildlife and Natural Resource Management				3
4.	Master’s students will complete a thesis reflecting the integration of the student’s discipline.

Upon completion of the requirements for the degree and the requirements for the Graduate Specialization in Fish and Wildlife Disease Ecology and Conservation Medicine, the student shall contact the Chairperson of the department that administers the student’s degree program and request certification for the completion of the specialization. After the certification is approved by the Chairperson of the Department and the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Office of the Registrar will enter on the student’s academic record the name of the specialization and the date that it was completed. This certification will appear on the student’s transcript.

 

The Graduate Specialization in Gender, Justice, and Environmental Change is administered by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Social Science. The primary administrative unit for this specialization is the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

The Graduate Specialization in Gender, Justice, and Environmental Change is available as an elective for students who are enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs at Michigan State University. The goal of this program is to provide graduate students from different academic backgrounds with analytical and methodological tools to address environmental issues from the perspectives of gender relations and social justice. Students will be encouraged to develop an understanding of global perspectives on environmental issues in view of local-global linkages. The program will prepare students to foster the growth of research, service, and interdisciplinary collaboration in the fields of gender and environmental studies and to increase knowledge of the relationships between gender and domestic and international environmental issues.

Persons who are interested in the specialization must contact the advisor for the Graduate Specialization in Gender, Justice, and Environmental Change in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. To be admitted to the specialization, a student must have been admitted to a graduate program at Michigan State University.

With the approval of the department and college that administer the student’s degree program, courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the specialization may also be used to satisfy the requirements for a master’s or doctoral degree.

Requirements for the Specialization in Gender, Justice, and Environmental Change

The student must complete a total of 12 credits:

1.	Both of the following courses:
	ANP	859	Gender, Justice, and Environmental Change: Methods and Application				3
	FW	858	Gender, Justice, and Environmental Change: Issues and Concepts				3
2.	Two courses relevant to gender, justice and environmental change. These courses will be selected, with advisor approval, after consideration of a recommended list of courses, furnished by the advisor, from such fields as agricultural economics, anthropology, forestry, fisheries and wildlife, political science, resource development, sociology, social work, and women’s studies.
	a.	Policy course					3
	b.	Elective course					3

Upon completion of the requirements for the Graduate Specialization in Gender, Justice, and Environmental Change, the student should contact the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and request certification for the completion of the specialization. After the certification is approved by the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Office of the Registrar will enter on the student’s academic record the name of the specialization and the date it was completed. This certification will appear on the student’s transcript.

 

The interdepartmental graduate specialization in environmental and resource economics is an elective for students in all graduate majors. The specialization is designed to:

1. provide an opportunity for graduate students to obtain advanced training in the field of environmental and natural resource economics.
2. develop an intellectual environment, which will foster the growth of research and public service in the area of environmental and natural resource economics.
3. foster an understanding among graduate students of the career opportunities and professional responsibilities in the fields of environmental and natural resource economics.
4. increase public awareness of environmental and natural resource problems and alternative solutions.

Students who elect this graduate specialization seek a high degree of proficiency in the economic analysis of environmental and natural resource problems. The specialization is suitable for graduate students who intend to specialize in this area of economic analysis, as well as for those who may have a departmental major in a non-economic aspect of the environment and natural resources, but who want to deepen their understanding of how economics influences their major area of study.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Social Science jointly administer the specialization. The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is the primary administrative unit. The faculty who participate in this specialization are drawn from the departments of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics; Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies, Economics; Fisheries and Wildlife; and Forestry.

Core faculty are selected by the chairpersons of the six participating departments. Each department designates one core faculty member to serve on a Coordinating Committee for the Specialization in Environmental and Resource Economics. The Coordinating Committee oversees the policies and program requirements adopted by the core faculty. Faculty members who comprise the core faculty may change with the mutual consent of the chairpersons of the departments, upon recommendation of the Coordinating Committee.

Requirements for the Specializations in Environmental and Resource Economics

Master's Students: The specialization consists of the completion of approximately 18 credits of resource economics and methods courses specified by the coordinating committee and approved by the core faculty. Credits in courses taken for the specialization may be counted toward the requirements for the student’s major at the discretion of the major department. At least one core faculty member serves on the student’s guidance committee.

Doctoral Students: The specialization consists of the completion of  approximately 24 credits of resource economics and methods courses, and passing a written examination. Course work is specified by the coordinating committee and approved by the core faculty. The examination committee consists of three core faculty members selected by the Coordinating Committee. Credits in courses taken to meet the requirements of the specialization may be used for a student’s major at the discretion of the student’s major department. At least one core faculty member serves on the student’s guidance committee.

Upon completion of the requirements for the degree program and the Interdepartmental Graduate Specialization in Environmental and Resource Economics, the student should contact the chairperson of the student’s major department and request certification for the completion of the specialization. After the certification is approved by the chairperson of the department and the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Office of the Registrar will enter on the student’s academic record the name of the specialization and the date that it was completed. This certification will appear on the student’s transcript.

 

An Agriculture and Natural Resources no–preference program is offered for students selecting the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources but desiring to delay their choice of a specific field until a later date. The program is basic to all majors offered by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and permits the student flexibility with respect to major choice. Students may remain in this no–preference program until they attain junior standing, or they may select major preferences at any time prior to becoming juniors.

 

Steven D. Hanson, Chairperson

 

The Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs in agricultural, food and resource economics.

 

Graduate programs in agricultural, food and resource economics provide for coordinated study in several areas. The courses and programs are designed to help students become thoroughly grounded in the concepts and tools of economics and related fields and to enable them to solve practical problems. The department offers the following five fields of study: agribusiness strategy and management, agricultural markets and price analysis, environmental and resource economics, finance and production economics, and international agricultural development.

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science degree programs in the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics may elect a Specialization in Food Safety. For additional information, refer to the statement on the specialization in the College of Veterinary Medicine section of this catalog.

Graduate students who are enrolled in the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics may also elect specializations in resource economics (M.S. and Ph.D.) and agribusiness (M.S.). For additional information, refer to the statement on Interdepartmental Graduate Specializations in Resource Economics, and on the Master’s Specialization in Agribusiness.

Courses in agricultural, food and resource economics, mathematics, statistics, and related areas are available for those students who wish to begin or continue their graduate work during the summer months.

Admission

Many undergraduate programs provide background for graduate study in agricultural, food and resource economics. However, a student with inadequate background in areas deemed important to the program of study may be required to complete collateral courses in addition to the minimum credit requirements for the degree and may be admitted on a provisional status until some deficiencies are remedied. All applicants for admission to graduate degree programs in agricultural, food and resource economics are required to submit scores for the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination.

Master of Science

The master's programs in agricultural, food and resource economics may be designed to serve either as final preparation for professional employment or as the foundation for a doctoral program.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics

The student may elect either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (non-thesis research paper).  The student's plan of study should be approved by the department prior to the beginning of the second semester of enrollment in the program.

A total of 30 credits is required for the degree under Plan A, and a total of 33 credits is required for the degree under Plan B.

Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B:

1. A grade-point average of at least 3.00 for all courses counting toward the master's degree , and in each course used to satisfy the mathematics, statistics, and quantitative methods requirements.
2. A minimum of 12 credits in courses in agricultural, food and resource economics, with at least 9 credits at the 800-900 level.
3. A minimum of 3 credits in courses that the department has identified as containing primarily economic theory.
4. A minimum of 9 credits in courses in quantitative analysis, including 3 credits of mathematics for economists (equivalent to AEC 801) and one elective 3 credit quantitative methods course. Alternatively, students may replace AEC 801 by 1 credit of mathematics for economists (equivalent to AEC 800A) and a second 3 credit elective quantitative methods course for a total of 10 credits in quantitative analysis.

Additional Requirements for Plan A:

1. Six credits of master's thesis research.

Additional Requirements for Plan B:

1. A research paper or papers representing not fewer than 3 nor more than 4 credits.
2. Six credits in courses in a minor field, either within or outside the department.

 

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics

The student must:

1. Acquire (a) competence in economics by completing 9 credits of Ph.D. level courses in economic theory and (b) 9 credits in a major field in one of the five fields within agricultural, food and resource economics referenced above.
2. Pass written comprehensive examinations in economics no later than the end of the second academic year and in the student’s chosen major field by the end of the third academic year.
3. Complete (a) 6 credits in a minor field in agricultural, food and resource economics outside the major field, and (b) 6 credits in a second minor field that may be outside the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics.
4. Acquire competence in quantitative methods by taking specified courses in mathematics for economists (3 credits), probability and statistics (3 credits), econometrics (3 credits) and one other quantitative methods course (3 credits). A grade of 3.0 must be achieved in each course.
5. Complete one graduate course (3 credits) in research methodology.
6. Complete 24 credits of dissertation research, present and obtain formal approval for the proposed dissertation research, present the results of the research at the outset of the final oral examination, and prepare a research paper suitable for submission to a professional journal.

 The student’s dissertation research forms a part of the department’s research program and contributes to it. Dissertation research may be conducted overseas in conjunction with university projects or with the support of other research grants. A detailed description of master’s and doctoral program requirements and a timetable for completing them are included in the Graduate Education Policies document of the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics.

The Master’s specialization in Agribusiness is designed to serve students who are interested in careers in agribusiness.  The specialization is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in master’s degree programs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, The Eli Broad Graduate School of Management, and the College of Veterinary Medicine.  The specialization is administered by the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics.

The student’s program of study for the specialization must be approved by the academic advisor for agribusiness.  Through the selection of courses, the specialization complements the student’s master’s degree program.  Students in agriculturally related disciplines complete courses in business management, marketing, finance, and human resource management as applied to agribusiness firms.  Students in business management fields complete courses in agribusiness.

With the approval of the department and college that administer the student’s degree program, the courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the specialization may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the master’s degree.

Requirements for the Master’s Specialization in Agribusiness

The student must complete:

1.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
	AEC	800	Foundations of Agricultural Economics				3
	EC	805	Microeconomic Analysis				3
	Requirement 1. will be waived for students who have completed an intermediate-level course in microeconomics.
2.	Two of the following courses (6 credits):
	AEC	851	Agricultural Firm Management				3
	AEC	853	Financial Management in Agriculture				3
	AEC	857	Strategic Management in Agribusiness				3
	Agricultural Economics 851 or 853 or 857 may be used to satisfy either requirement 2. or requirement 3., but not both of those requirements.
3.	Two of the following courses (6 credits):
	ACC	800	Financial Accounting Concepts				3
	ACC	840	Managerial Accounting				3
	AEC	817	Political Economy of Agricultural and Trade Policy				3
	AEC	831	Food Marketing Management				3
	AEC	839	Applied Operations Research				3
	AEC	841	Analysis of Food System Organization and Performance				3
	AEC	845	Commodity Market Analysis				3
	AEC	851	Agricultural Firm Management				3
	AEC	853	Financial Management in Agriculture				3
	AEC	855	Agricultural Production Economics				3
	AEC	857	Strategic Management in Agribusiness				3
	GBL	848	Legal Environment of Business				3
	LIR	823	Organizational Behavior in Labor and Industrial Relations				3
	LIR	824	Human Resource Strategies and Decisions				3
	LIR	825	Compensation and Benefit Systems				3
	LIR	858	Collective Bargaining				3
	MGT	806	Management and Organizational Behavior				3
	MGT	810	Human Resource Management				3
	MSC	800	Materials and Logistics Management				3
	MSC	805	Marketing Management				3
	MSC	806	Marketing Analysis				3
	MSC	808	Entrepreneurial Marketing				3
	MSC	813	Marketing Research Methods				3
	VM	541	Veterinary Perspectives III				2
	Either Labor and Industrial Relations 823 or Management 806, but not both of those courses, may be used to satisfy requirement 3.
		Either Labor and Industrial Relations 824 or Management 810, but not both of those courses, may be used to satisfy requirement 3.
			Veterinary Medicine 541 may be used to satisfy requirement 3. only if the student also completes 1 additional credit in an approved Veterinary Medicine course.

Upon completion of the requirements for the master’s degree in one of the colleges specified above and the requirements for the Master’s Specialization in Agribusiness, the student should contact the chairperson of the department that administers the student’s degree program and request certification for the completion of the specialization.  After the certification is approved by the chairperson of the department and the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Office of the Registrar will enter on the student’s academic record the name of the specialization and the date that it was completed.  This certification will appear on the student’s transcript.

 

Karen I. Plaut, Chairperson

 

The undergraduate program in animal science, which leads to the Bachelor of Science degree, is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers by establishing a strong basic science foundation combined with practical experience with agricultural animals at the multiple farm facilities located near campus. Graduates may be employed in farm ownership, management, marketing, agribusiness, finance, manufacturing, public relations, extension, or consulting. Graduates often attend veterinary or graduate school.

Scientific principles of biology and animal science are important components of the program and are combined with opportunities to apply fundamental principles learned in class to farm management.  The animal science major also provides students with flexibility. Academic advisors guide students in the development of a planned program of study that is consistent with their interests and goals. 

All students in animal science must complete a set of required core courses including breeding and genetics, nutrition, physiology, and management.  These principles are taught using horses, dairy cattle, beef cattle, swine, poultry, sheep and companion animals.

Students must choose from one of the following concentrations: animal industry, companion and exotic animal biology, animal biology/preveterinary, or production animal scholars.

The animal industry concentration is designed to prepare students for careers in managing animal operations. Marketing, sales, and production of animals and animal products offer numerous employment opportunities.

The companion and exotic animal biology concentration prepares students for careers in the areas of small animal nutrition, pet food sales, and captive and small animal management. Students may also use their elective credits to complete the preveterinary requirements and apply to the College of Veterinary Medicine.

The animal biology/preveterinary concentration is designed for students who are interested in an advanced degree in animal science or a career in veterinary medicine. The requirements for admission to the College of Veterinary Medicine are included in the requirements for this concentration.

The production animal scholars concentration is a cooperative effort between the Department of Animal Science and the College of Veterinary Medicine. The concentration is for students committed to a career in food animal management and medicine and provides an admissions pathway to Production Medicine Scholars in the College of Veterinary Medicine. Students must (1) declare the concentration when they reach junior standing; (2) submit a formal application for the production animal scholars concentration; (3) demonstrate a commitment to livestock agriculture, excluding horses, through youth activities, family experiences, employment, internships, extracurricular activities, and other participation in the livestock industry.

After completion of the production animal scholars concentration, students will earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science.  Students may then enter veterinary college or pursue a career in farm-based, agricultural veterinary practice. Students completing this concentration must complete the Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science prior to matriculation into the College of Veterinary Medicine. Students interested in pursuing the admissions pathway to Production Medicine Scholars in the College of Veterinary Medicine should see the College of Veterinary Medicine section of this catalog for further information.

Students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in animal science may elect a Specialization in Agricultural and Natural Resources Biotechnology.  For additional information, refer to the Specialization in Agricultural and Natural Resources Biotechnology statement.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal Science

1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science.
   
   The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Animal Science major is met by completing all of the following courses:  Animal Science 313, 314, 315. Those courses are referenced in item 3. a. below.
   
   Students who are enrolled in the Animal Science major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in the Department of Animal Science may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of the following courses:  Biological Science 111 and 111L, Chemistry 141, and Chemistry 143 or 251. The completion of Biological Science 111L satisfies the laboratory requirement. Biological Science 111 and 111L, Chemistry 141, and Chemistry 143 or 251 may be counted toward both the alternative track and the requirements for the major referenced in item 3. below.
   
   The completion of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources mathematics requirement may also satisfy the University mathematics requirement.
2. The requirements of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for the Bachelor of Science degree.
   
   Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate.
3. The following requirements for the major:
   

   a.	All of the following courses (29 credits):
   	ANS	101	Professional Development in Animal Science I				1
   	ANS	110	Introductory Animal Agriculture				4
   	ANS	301	Professional Development in Animal Science II				2
   	ANS	313	Principles of Animal Feeding and Nutrition				4
   	ANS	314	Genetic Improvement of Domestic Animals				4
   	ANS	315	Anatomy and Physiology of Farm Animals				4
   	ANS	401	Issues in Animal Agriculture				1
   	BS	111	Cells and Molecules				3
   	BS	111L	Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory				2
   	CEM	141	General Chemistry				4
   b.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	STT	200	Statistical Methods				3
   	STT	201	Statistical Methods				4
   	STT	421	Statistics I				3
   	STT	464	Statistics for Biologists				3
   c.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	CEM	143	Survey of Organic Chemistry				4
   	CEM	251	Organic Chemistry I				3
   d.	One of the following species management courses (3 credits):
   	ANS	222	Introductory Beef Cattle Management				3
   	ANS	232	Introductory Dairy Cattle Management				3
   	ANS	242	Introductory Horse Management				3
   	ANS	252	Introduction to Management of Avian Species				3
   	ANS	262	Introductory Sheep Management				3
   	ANS	272	Introductory Swine Management				3
   	ANS	282	Introductory Companion Animal Management				3
   e.	One of the following concentrations (23 to 55 credits):
   	Animal Industry (23 to 34 credits):
   	1.	The following course (4 credits):
   		ANS	210	Animal Products			4
   	2.	One of the following courses (2 or 3 credits):
   		CSE	101	Computing Concepts and Competencies			3
   		CSS	110	Computer Applications in Agronomy			2
   	3.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ABM	100	Decision-making in the Agri-Food System			3
   		ABM	130	Farm Management I			3
   	4.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ANS	222	Introductory Beef Cattle Management			3
   		ANS	232	Introductory Dairy Cattle Management			3
   		ANS	242	Introductory Horse Management			3
   		ANS	252	Introduction to Management of Avian Species			3
   		ANS	262	Introductory Sheep Management			3
   		ANS	272	Introductory Swine Management			3
   		ANS	282	Companion Animal Biology and Management			3
   		The course used to fulfill this requirement may not be used to fulfill requirement 3. d. above.
   	5.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ANS	422	Advanced Beef Cattle Management			3
   		ANS	432	Advanced Dairy Cattle Management			3
   		ANS	442	Advanced Horse Management			3
   		ANS	472	Advanced Swine Management			3
   		ANS	482	Advanced Companion Animal Management			3
   	6.	Three of the following courses (6 to 12 credits):
   		ANS	305	Applied Animal Behavior			3
   		ANS	309	Health and Hygiene of Livestock			3
   		ANS	404	Advanced Animal Genetics			2
   		ANS	405	Endocrinology of Reproduction			4
   		ANS	407	Food and Animal Toxicology			3
   		ANS	413	Monogastric Animal Nutrition			3
   		ANS	414	Advanced Animal Breeding			2
   		ANS	415	Growth and Musculoskeletal Biology			3
   		ANS	416	Meat Science and Muscle Biology			2
   		ANS	418	Comprehensive Nutrient Management Planning			3
   		ANS	435	Mammary Physiology			4
   		ANS	445	Equine Exercise Physiology			4
   		ANS	455	Avian Physiology			4
   		ANS	483	Ruminant Nutrition			3
   	7.	One of the following courses (2 to 6 credits):
   		ANS	493	Professional Internship in Animal Science			3
   		ANS	300A	Advanced Livestock Judging			2
   		ANS	300C	Advanced Dairy Cattle Judging			2
   		ANS	300D	Advanced Horse Judging			2
   		Six credits in an approved Study Abroad program can be used to fulfill this requirement.
   	Animal Biology and Preveterinary (39 to 50 credits):
   	1.	All of the following courses (22 credits):
   		ANS	210	Animal Products			4
   		ANS	425	Principles of Animal Biotechnology			3
   		BMB	401	Basic Biochemistry			4
   		BS	110	Organisms and Populations			4
   		CEM	161	Chemistry Laboratory I			1
   		CEM	252	Organic Chemistry II			3
   		CEM	255	Organic Chemistry Laboratory			2
   	2.	Three of the following courses (7 to 11 credits):
   		ANS	404	Advanced Animal Genetics			2
   		ANS	405	Endocrinology of Reproduction			4
   		ANS	413	Monogastric Animal Nutrition			3
   		ANS	415	Growth and Musculoskeletal Biology			3
   		ANS	416	Meat Science and Muscle Biology			2
   		ANS	435	Mammary Physiology			4
   		ANS	483	Ruminant Nutrition			3
   	3.	A minimum of 8 credits from the following courses (8 to 12 credits):
   		ANS	305	Applied Animal Behavior			3
   		ANS	309	Health and Hygiene of Livestock			3
   		ANS	407	Food and Animal Toxicology			3
   		ANS	414	Advanced Animal Breeding			2
   		ANS	418	Comprehensive Nutrient Management Planning			3
   		ANS	445	Equine Exercise Physiology			4
   		ANS	455	Avian Physiology			4
   		MMG	301	Introductory Microbiology			3
   		MMG	302	Introductory Laboratory for General and Allied Health Microbiology			1
   		MMG	409	Eucaryotic Cell Biology			3
   		PHM	450	Introduction to Chemical Toxicity			3
   		PHY	231	Introductory Physics I			3
   		PHY	232	Introductory Physics II			3
   		PHY	251	Introductory Physics Laboratory I			1
   		PHY	252	Introductory Physics Laboratory II			1
   		ZOL	313	Animal Behavior			3
   		ZOL	341	Fundamental Genetics			4
   	4.	One of the following courses (3 to 6 credits):
   		ANS	492	Undergraduate Research in Animal Science			3
   		ANS	493	Professional Internship in Animal Science			3
   		Six credits in an approved Study Abroad program can be used to fulfill this requirement.
   	Companion and Exotic Animal Biology (43 to 52 credits)
   	1.	All of the following courses (19 credits):
   		ANS	282	Companion Animal Biology and Management			3
   		ANS	482	Advanced Companion Animal Management			3
   		BS	110	Organisms and Populations			4
   		CEM	252	Organic Chemistry II			3
   		CEM	255	Organic Chemistry Laboratory			2
   		ZOL	328	Comparative Anatomy and Biology of Vertebrates (W)			4
   	2.	One of the following courses (4 credits):
   		BMB	200	Introduction to Biochemistry			4
   		BMB	401	Basic Biochemistry			4
   	3.	Two of the following courses (6 to 8 credits):
   		ANS	305	Applied Animal Behavior			3
   		ANS	405	Endocrinology of Reproduction			4
   		ANS	413	Monogastric Animal Nutrition			3
   		ANS	435	Mammary Physiology			4
   		ANS	483	Ruminant Nutrition			3
   	4.	Four of the following courses (11 to 15 credits):
   		ANS	404	Advanced Genetics			2
   		ANS	407	Food and Animal Toxicology			3
   		ANS	415	Growth and Musculoskeletal Biology			3
   		ANS	418	Comprehensive Nutrient Management Planning			3
   		ANS	425	Principles of Animal Biotechnology			3
   		ANS	445	Equine Exercise Physiology			4
   		ANS	455	Avian Physiology			4
   		ZOL	313	Animal Behavior			3
   		ZOL	341	Fundamental Genetics			4
   		ZOL	355	Ecology			3
   		ZOL	369	Introduction to Zoo and Aquarium Science			3
   	5.	One of the following courses (3 to 6 credits):
   		ANS	492	Undergraduate Research in Animal Science			3
   		ANS	493	Professional Internship in Animal Science			3
   		Six credits in an approved Study Abroad program can be used to fulfill this requirement.
   	Production Animal Scholars (52 to 55 credits):
   	1.	All of the following courses (33 credits):
   		ANS	210	Animal Products			4
   		BMB	401	Basic Biochemistry			4
   		BS	110	Organisms and Populations			4
   		CEM	161	Chemistry Laboratory I			1
   		CEM	252	Organic Chemistry II			3
   		CEM	255	Organic Chemistry Laboratory			2
   		MMG	301	Introductory Microbiology			3
   		MMG	302	Introductory Laboratory for General and Allied Health Microbiology			1
   		MMG	409	Eucaryotic Cell Biology			3
   		PHY	231	Introductory Physics I			3
   		PHY	232	Introductory Physics II			3
   		PHY	251	Introductory Physics Laboratory I			1
   		PHY	252	Introductory Physics Laboratory II			1
   	2.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ANS	222	Introductory Beef Cattle Management			3
   		ANS	232	Introductory Dairy Cattle Management			3
   		ANS	252	Introduction to Management of Avian Species			3
   		ANS	262	Introductory Sheep Management			3
   		ANS	272	Introductory Swine Management			3
   		The course used to fulfill this requirement may not be used to fulfill requirement 3. d. above.
   	3.	Two of the following courses (6 credits):
   		ABM	435	Financial Management in the Agri-Food System			3
   		ABM	437	Agribusiness Strategic Management (W)			3
   		ANS	413	Monogastric Animal Nutrition			3
   		ANS	483	Ruminant Nutrition			3
   	4.	One of the following courses (3 to 4 credits):
   		ANS	305	Applied Animal Behavior			3
   		ANS	405	Endocrinology of Reproduction			4
   		ANS	415	Growth and Musculoskeletal Biology			3
   		ANS	425	Principles of Animal Biotechnology			3
   		ANS	435	Mammary Physiology			4
   	5.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ANS	422	Advanced Beef Cattle Management			3
   		ANS	432	Advanced Dairy Cattle Management			3
   		ANS	472	Advanced Swine Management			3
   	6.	One of the following courses (2 to 4 credits):
   		ANS	404	Advanced Animal Genetics			2
   		ANS	407	Food and Animal Toxicology			3
   		ANS	414	Advanced Animal Breeding			2
   		ANS	416	Meat Science and Muscle Biology			2
   		ANS	418	Comprehensive Nutrient Management  Planning			3
   		ANS	455	Avian Physiology			4
   		ZOL	313	Animal Behavior			3
   		ZOL	341	Fundamental Genetics			4
   	7.	The following course (2 credits):
   		ANS	390	Animal Science Practicum			2

The graduate program in animal science is designed to provide students with opportunities to pursue a program that focuses on the basic biomedical and agricultural sciences or on applied management aspects of animal science.

The Department of Animal Science offers Master of Science and Doctoral of Philosophy degree programs in animal science and a Doctor of Philosophy degree program in animal science- environmental toxicology.

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science degree programs in the Department of Animal Science may elect a Specialization in Environmental Toxicology.  For additional information, refer to the statement on the specialization in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources section of this catalog. 

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science degree programs in the Department of Animal Science may elect a Specialization in Food Safety.  For additional information, refer to the statement on the specialization in the College of Veterinary Medicine section of this catalog. 

Programs of study are based on the strengths of the department and the goals of individual students. Although individual students' programs vary, all graduate programs in animal science are designed to:

1. Provide a strong foundation in biological science and an in–depth knowledge of a specific biological discipline of importance to animal agriculture.
2. Develop creative potential and foster independent thought.
3. Improve technical skills.
4. Provide the foundation for effective, independent careers in extension, research, teaching, or agribusiness.

The department offers the following areas of specialization within the field of animal science: quantitative genetics, systems science, nutrition, physiology of growth, lactation and reproduction, microbiology, molecular biology, toxicology, and livestock and farm management.  Research for theses or dissertations may focus on beef or dairy cattle, sheep, swine, horses, poultry, or fur–bearing and laboratory species.  Modern animal, computer, and library facilities support research.

Students who are enrolled in the Master of Science degree program in the Department of Animal Science may elect a Specialization in Environmental Toxicology.  For additional information, refer to the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology statement.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the student must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be admitted to the master's or doctoral degree program in animal science, students must have a bachelor's degree in animal science or in a related biological science.  To enroll in advanced courses in animal science and supporting sciences, students should have completed courses that establish principles in animal science and in basic physical and biological sciences pertinent to the area of specialization within the field of animal science that the student chooses.  In some cases, students may need to complete collateral courses in addition to the courses that are required for the graduate degree.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Animal Science

The student may elect either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis).  A total of 30 credits is required for the degree under either Plan A or Plan B.  In cooperation with the student's major professor, the student plans a program of study that includes courses related to one of the areas of specialization within the field of animal science referenced above, seminars, and teaching experience.  The student's major professor and guidance committee must approve the student's program of study, including thesis research for students under Plan A.

 

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Animal Science

In cooperation with the student's major professor, the student plans a program of study that includes courses related to one of the areas of specialization within the field of animal science referenced above, seminars, and teaching experience.  The student's major professor and guidance committee must approve the student's program of study, including dissertation research.

 

Doctor of Philosophy

For information about the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in animal science—environmental toxicology, refer to the statement on Doctoral Program in Environmental and Integrative Toxicological Sciences in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.

 

Ajit Srivastava, Chairperson

The Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering is administered jointly by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Engineering.

The department offers a Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in technology systems management through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.  That program is described below.

The department also offers a Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in biosystems engineering through the College of Engineering. 

For information about that program, refer to the statement on the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering in the College of Engineering section of this catalog.

 

Bachelor of Science

The Technology Systems Management program is designed to meet the needs of students who aspire to apply new technology to solve problems in food, agricultural and biological systems. Prospective students should have an affinity for physical systems, computers, and technology, and they should be practical problem-solvers.

Students in the program acquire a strong technical background tempered by an overview of business and economics. They possess highly portable skills in technology transfer and technical problem-solving which are applicable to many related career paths.

Graduates find employment as agricultural and environmental research technicians, managers of processing and production facilities, technical sales representatives, and service and marketing managers for equipment manufacturers.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Technology Systems Management

1. The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Technology Systems Management.
   
   The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Technology Systems Management major is met by completing Technology Systems Management 481. That course is referenced in item 3. a. below.
   
   Students who are enrolled in the Technology Systems Management major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of Chemistry 161, Physics 231 and 251, and one of the following courses: Biological Science 110 or 111; Entomology 205; Microbiology and Molecular Genetics 205; Physiology 250; or Plant Biology 105. The completion of Physics 251 or Biological Science 110 satisfies the laboratory requirement.
   
   The completion of Mathematics 124 satisfies both the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources mathematics requirement and the University mathematics requirement.
2. The requirements of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for the Bachelor of Science degree. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate.
3. The following requirements for the major:

   a.	All of the following courses (56 credits):
   	ABM	100	Decision-making in the Agri-Food System				3
   	ABM	332	Agribusiness Operations Management				3
   	CEM	141	General Chemistry				4
   	CEM	161	Chemistry Laboratory I				1
   	CSE	101	Computing Concepts and Competencies				3
   	GEO	221	Introduction to Geographic Information				3
   	MTH	124	Survey of Calculus I				3
   	PHY	231	Introductory Physics I				3
   	PHY	251	Introductory Physics Laboratory I				1
   	TSM	121	Fundamentals of Electricity				4
   	TSM	122	Alternating and Direct Current Machines				3
   	TSM	223	Fundamentals of Automation and Controls				4
   	TSM	224	Digital Systems, Sensors and Measurement				3
   	TSM	341	Power and Machinery Systems				3
   	TSM	342	Power and Control Hydraulics				3
   	TSM	343	Implementation of Precision Agriculture				3
   	TSM	351	Information Technology in Agricultural Systems				3
   	TSM	481	Technology Systems Management –  Capstone I (W)				3
   	TSM	482	Technology Systems Management –  Capstone II				3
   	Students who pass a waiver examination will not be required to complete Computer Science and Engineering 101.
   b.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	BS	110	Organisms and Populations				4
   	BS	111	Cells and Molecules				3
   	ENT	205	Pests, Society and Environment				3
   	MMG	205	Allied Health Microbiology				3
   	PLB	105	Plant Biology				3
   	PSL	250	Introductory Physiology				4
   c.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   	COM	100	Human Communication				3
   	COM	225	An Introduction to Interpersonal Communication				3
   d.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	STT	200	Statistical Methods				3
   	STT	201	Statistical Methods				4
   e.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   	EC	201	Introduction to Microeconomics				3
   	EC	202	Introduction to Macroeconomics				3
   f.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   	FI	320	Introduction to Finance				3
   	GBL	323	Introduction to Business Law				3
   	MGT	325	Management Skills and Processes				3
   	MSC	327	Introduction to Marketing				3
   g.	Cognate. The student must complete a minimum of 15 credits in an approved group of courses that includes courses in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. These courses must be chosen to form a career objective and be pre-approved by the student’s academic advisor (15 credits).

 

Bachelor of Science Degree in Biosystems Engineering
Master of Science Degree in Biosystems Engineering

The department welcomes applications from  Michigan State University Biosystems Engineering undergraduate students in their junior and senior year.  Admission applications must be made during the prior spring semester for an anticipated Spring graduation or the prior fall semester for an anticipated fall graduation to allow admission before the final semester as a Biosystems Engineering undergraduate.  Admission to the program requires a minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.50 and an approved program of study for the Master of Science degree in Biosystems Engineering at the time of admission. Admission to the Linked Bachelor’s-Master’s program allows the application of up to 9 credits toward the master’s program for qualifying 400-level and above course work taken at the undergraduate level at Michigan State University or an external accredited institution. The number of approved credits, not to exceed 9, are applied toward the credit requirement of the master’s degree. Credits applied to the Linked Bachelor’s-Master’s program are not eligible to be applied to any other graduate degree program.

 

The Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering offers the programs listed below:

Master of Science
    biosystems engineering
Doctor of Philosophy
    biosystems engineering

Study for the department's master's and doctoral degree programs is administered by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Students who are enrolled in Master of Science degree programs in the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering may elect a Specialization in Food Safety.  For additional information, refer to the statement on the specialization in the College of Veterinary Medicine section of this catalog.

Biosystems engineers apply the basic sciences, mathematics, engineering sciences, and technology to design sustainable solutions to problems with a critical biological component. Biosystems engineers work to ensure an adequate and safe food supply while efficiently utilizing natural resources and protecting the environment. Specific application areas include food and biomass production systems, food processing systems, processing systems for utilization and conversion of biological products, water and waste management systems, natural resource and environmental protection, and a range of other biological challenges that require engineering expertise.

The department offers both Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs with majors in biosystems engineering.

Master of Science

The Master of Science degree program in biosystems engineering is designed to prepare graduates for advanced career opportunities that require disciplinary expertise beyond that available in the Bachelor of Science degree. The program is available under Plan A (thesis) and Plan B (without thesis). Plan A introduces the student to research methods, and the student is expected to execute, analyze, and publish an original research project under the guidance of an advisor. Plan B is suited for those who do not plan a research-related career, but desire additional skills and knowledge obtained through advanced course work.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Master of Science degree program in biosystems engineering, an applicant must take the Graduate Record Examination General Test and have the scores sent to the department.

Regular Status.  Admission to the master's degree program in biosystems engineering with regular status may be granted by the department, subject to the availability of resources and to the approval of the dean, upon consideration of the likelihood that the applicant will be able to complete a master's degree program successfully. To be admitted to the master's program in biosystems engineering, an applicant must have:

1. A grade–point average not lower than 3.00 for the final two years of the undergraduate program, or standing in the upper quarter of the graduating class in the student's major.
2. A bachelor’s degree, either:
   a.    from an accredited program in engineering, or
   b.    from a related science-oriented program in which the applicant has shown very high academic  achievement, as certified by the 
          department.

An applicant without an engineering degree must demonstrate the abilities and experience necessary to succeed in the core courses, Biosystems Engineering 815, 825, and 835. The student must complete, previously, or within the master’s program, a significant engineering design experience.

Provisional Status.  Admission to the master's degree program in biosystems engineering with provisional status may be granted by the department, subject to the approval of the dean:

1. To an applicant qualified for regular admission except that collateral courses are deemed necessary, or
2. To an applicant whose record is incomplete.

If collateral courses are required, the minimum acceptable grades and the semesters by which those courses must be completed will be specified on the admission form.  Biosystems Engineering 490 and 890 may not be used to satisfy collateral course requirements. 

The provisional status will be changed to regular status when the conditions specified on the admission form have been met, as certified by the department and approved by the dean.

Registration as a Professional Engineer

Students who wish to satisfy the requirements of the State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers should consult with the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering.

Program Filing

The student's program of study must be approved before the student completes 6 credits of graduate work in order for the student to continue to enroll in the master's degree program.

The subject matter and instructor must be specified for every independent study, special problems, or selected topics course that is included in the student's approved program of study.

Modification of Program

After the Plan A or Plan B option has been selected by the student and approved, the student may not pursue the other option without approval of the department.

The following changes are not permitted in a student's approved program of study:

1. Adding or deleting a course for which a grade has already been assigned under any of the three grading systems (numerical, Pass–No Grade, or Credit–No Credit).
2. Adding or deleting a course for which grading was postponed by the use of the DF–Deferred marker.
3. Adding or deleting a course which the student dropped after the middle of the semester and for which “W” or “N” or “0.0" was designated.
4. Adding or deleting a course during the final semester of enrollment in the master's degree program.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biosystems Engineering

The program is available under both Plan A (with thesis) and Plan B (without thesis). The student's program of study must be developed in consultation with the major professor, must be approved by the department, and must meet the requirements specified below:

Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B:
The student must complete:
1.	A total of 30 credits in 400–, 800–, and 900–level courses.  At least 20 of the 30 credits must be in 800–900 level courses. Not more than 4 credits of Biosystems Engineering 890 may be counted toward the requirements for the degree under Plan A. Not more than 6 credits of Biosystems Engineering 890 may be counted toward the requirements for the degree under Plan B.
2.	All of the following courses:
	BE	815	Instrumentation for Biosystems Engineering				3
	BE	820	Research Methods in Biosystems Engineering				1
	BE	825	Properties and Characteristics of Biological Materials				3
	BE	835	Engineering Analysis and Optimization of Biological Systems				3
	BE	892	Biosystems Engineering Seminar				1
Additional Requirements for Plan A:
The student must:
1.	Complete the following course:
	BE	899	Master's Thesis Research				6
	Not more than 8 credits of Biosystems Engineering 899 may be counted toward the requirements for the degree under Plan A.
2.	Pass a final oral examination over the written thesis administered by the department and conducted by three regular university faculty members, at least two of which must be Biosystems Engineering faculty.
3.	Provide to the major professor and to the department a hard–bound copy of the thesis made from the original unbound manuscript submitted to the Office of The Graduate School.  Arrangement for delivery of the copies shall be made when the original manuscript is submitted to the Office of The Graduate School.
Additional Requirements for Plan B:
The student must:
Pass the final examination administered by the department over the course work in the student's approved program of study.  The examination may include both a written and an oral component.  It is the student's responsibility to obtain detailed information about this examination from the department.

Academic Standards

1. Grades.  The student must earn a grade of 2.0 or higher in each course in the approved program of study.  The student must repeat any course in the approved program for which the grade earned was below 2.0.
2. Cumulative Grade–Point Average.  The student must maintain a cumulative grade–point average of at least 3.00 in the courses in the approved program of study.
3. Probational Status.  A student is placed on probational status if the student's cumulative grade–point average for the courses in the approved program of study is below 3.00.  A student in probational status is not allowed to carry more than 7 credits per semester or to enroll in any course the primary focus of which is independent study.
4. Retention In and Dismissal From the Program.
   a.    Cumulative Grade–Point Average.  Should a student's cumulative grade–point average fall below 3.00 after having completed 16 
           or more credits in courses in the approved program of study, the student may be enrolled in probational status in the master's 
           degree program for one additional semester.  If at the end of the additional semester the student's cumulative grade–point 
           average is 3.00 or higher, the student may continue to enroll in the master's degree program.  If at the end of the additional 
           semester the student's cumulative grade–point average is still below 3.00, the student will be dismissed from the program.
   b.    Academic Progress and Professional Potential.  Each student's academic progress and professional potential are evaluated by 
           March 15 of each year.  A student who in the judgment of the faculty is making satisfactory academic progress and has 
           professional potential may continue to enroll in the master's degree program. A student who in the judgment of the faculty is not 
           making satisfactory academic progress or lacks professional potential will be dismissed from the program.

Transfer Credits

As a member of the Michigan Coalition for Engineering Education (MCEE), Michigan State University will accept up to one less than half of the course credits required for the Master of Science degree program in Biosystems Engineering in transfer from other MCEE member institutions provided that (1) the student earned a grade of at least 3.0, or the equivalent, in the related courses; (2) the credits were not earned in research or thesis courses; and (3) the related courses are acceptable to the department.

For information about transfer credits from institutions that are not members of the MCEE, refer to the statement on MASTER'S PROGRAMS, Transfer Credits, in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biosystems Engineering is designed to prepare graduates for advanced careers that require demonstrated research skills and comprehensive knowledge of the discipline. The program is suitable only for those students who have shown outstanding ability and potential in the field, either by high quality work in a Master of Science degree or by exceptional achievement in a Bachelor of Science degree and additional technical and professional accomplishments. During teaching and training experiences, the student is expected to demonstrate in-depth and comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and skills essential to the dissemination of that knowledge. Additionally, the student must be able to plan, conduct, manage, and publish independent, original research via the dissertation and peer-reviewed manuscripts.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in biosystems engineering, an applicant must take the Graduate Record Examination General Test and have the scores sent to the department.

Regular Status.  Admission to the doctoral degree program in biosystems engineering with regular status may be granted by the department, subject to the availability of resources and to the approval of the dean.

To be admitted to the doctoral program in biosystems engineering, an applicant should have a master's degree and must:

1. Have either a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or a master's degree in engineering.
2. Demonstrate evidence of ability and resolution to complete a doctoral program, as attested by the department upon review of the applicant's academic record, test scores, experience, reference statements, professional qualifications, proposed studies, and other relevant information.

Admission to the doctoral program without a master's degree, or the equivalent thereof, requires special approval by the department and the dean.

Provisional Status.  Admission to the doctoral degree program in biosystems engineering with provisional status may be granted by the department, subject to the approval of the dean:

1. To an applicant qualified for regular admission except that collateral courses are deemed necessary, or
2. To an applicant whose record is incomplete.

A student who is admitted to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program without a Master of Science degree in engineering may be required to complete collateral courses, in addition to the courses that are required for the doctoral degree. If collateral courses are required, they will be specified on the admission form.   Biosystems Engineering 490 and 890 may not be used to satisfy collateral course requirements.

The provisional status will be changed to regular status when the conditions specified on the admission form have been met, as determined by the department and approved by the dean.

Guidance Committee

The student's guidance committee consists of at least four regular faculty members and is appointed by the department chairperson in consultation with the student and the appropriate faculty members, and with the approval of the dean.  At least two members of the guidance committee shall be from the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering and at least one member shall be from a different department preferably in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources or the College of Engineering.  The chairperson of the guidance committee will be appointed by the department chairperson after consultation with the student and the person recommended to chair the committee.

Guidance Committee Report

The student's program of study shall be submitted for approval to the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering and to the dean by no later than the end of the student's second semester of enrollment in the doctoral program. The subject matter and instructor must be specified for every independent study, special problems, or selected topics course that is included in the student's approved program of study.

The student's program of study must be approved in order for the student to continue to enroll in the doctoral degree program beyond the second semester.

Modification of Program

The following changes are not permitted in a student's approved program of study:

1. Adding or deleting a course for which a grade has already been assigned under any of the three grading systems (numerical, Pass–No Grade, or Credit–No Credit).
2. Adding or deleting a course for which grading was postponed by the use of the DF–Deferred marker.
3. Adding or deleting a course which the student dropped after the middle of the semester and for which “W” or “N” or “0.0" was designated.
4. Adding or deleting a course during the final semester of enrollment in the doctoral degree program.

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Biosystems Engineering

The student must:

1.	Complete a minimum of 24 credits in Biosystems Engineering 999.
2.	Complete a minimum of 38 additional credits (excluding Biosystems Engineering 899) beyond the bachelor's degree, in courses at the 400–, 800–, and 900–level including:
	a.	All of the following courses:
		BE	815	Instrumentation for Biosystems Engineering			3
		BE	820	Research Methods in Biosystems Engineering			1
		BE	825	Properties and Characteristics of Biological Materials			3
		BE	835	Engineering Analysis and Optimization of Biological Systems			3
		BE	892	Biosystems Engineering Seminar			1
	b.	Additional course work approved by the student's guidance committee, based on the student's prior academic background in relation to the selected area of study and research.
3.	Pass the doctoral comprehensive examination within five years of the date of first enrollment and at least six months prior to the final oral examination in defense of the dissertation. The examination may be retaken once. It is the student's responsibility to obtain detailed information about this examination from the department.
4.	Pass the examination in defense of the dissertation. The examination may be retaken once.
5.	Provide to the major professor and to the department a hard–bound copy of the dissertation made from the original unbound manuscript submitted to the Office of The Graduate School. Arrangements for delivery of the copies shall be made when the original manuscript is submitted to the Office of The Graduate School.

Academic Standards

1. Grades.  The student must earn a grade of 2.0 or higher in each course in the approved guidance committee report, including collateral courses and courses accepted in transfer.  The student must repeat any course on the approved program for which the grade earned was below 2.0.
2. Cumulative Grade–Point Average. The student must maintain a cumulative grade–point average of at least 3.00 in courses in the approved guidance committee report, with the exception of collateral courses and courses accepted in transfer.
3. Deferred Grades. A student may accumulate no more than three deferred grades (identified by the DF–Deferred marker) in courses other than independent study.
4. Probational Status.  A student is placed on probational status if either or both of the following conditions apply:
   a.    The student's cumulative grade–point average for the courses in the approved guidance committee report is below 3.00.
   b.    The student has accumulated more than three deferred grades (identified by the DF–Deferred marker) in courses other than 
           those courses the primary focus of which is independent study.
   A student in probational status is not allowed to carry more than 7 credits per semester or to enroll in any course the primary focus of which is independent study.
5. Retention In and Dismissal From the Program.
   a.    Cumulative Grade–point Average.  Should a student's cumulative grade–point average fall below 3.00 after having completed 
           half of the courses in the approved guidance committee report, the student may be enrolled in probational status in the doctoral 
           degree program for one additional semester.  If at the end of the additional semester the student's cumulative grade–point 
           average is 3.00 or higher, the student may continue to enroll in the doctoral degree program.  If at the end of the additional 
           semester the student's cumulative grade–point average is still below 3.00, the student will be dismissed from the program.
   b.    Deferred Grades.  Should a student accumulate more than three deferred grades (identified by the DF–Deferred marker) in 
          courses other than independent study, the student may be enrolled on probational status in the doctoral degree program for one 
          additional semester.  If at the end of the additional semester the student has no more than three deferred grades, the student 
          may continue to enroll in the doctoral degree program.  If at the end of the additional semester the student still has more than 
          three deferred grades, the student will be dismissed from the program.
   c.    Academic Progress and Professional Potential.  Each student's academic progress and professional potential are evaluated 
          spring semester of each year.  A student who in the judgment of the faculty is making satisfactory academic progress and has 
          professional potential may continue to enroll in the doctoral degree program. A student who in the judgment of the faculty is not 
          making satisfactory academic progress or lacks professional potential will be dismissed from the program.

David E. Wright, Acting Chairperson

The Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies is an interdisciplinary department that offers programs leading to the Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The department’s purpose is to educate scholars and practitioners who are trained to address current and future challenges across inter-related issues in natural resources, recreation, agriculture and communities.

The department has a multidisciplinary faculty committed to scholarly programs in four cross-cutting areas that assist the development of sustainable communities: natural resources and the environment; education, communication and leadership; community, food and agriculture; and recreation and tourism. The department’s programs provide opportunities for students to obtain a broad, interdisciplinary education, apply theory in practice, and emphasize one or more interdisciplinary professional areas.

The department offers credit and non-credit courses, both on and off campus, for a variety of professionals. Workshops, virtual courses, study abroad programs, and seminars also are conducted to provide professional development opportunities.

The Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies offers a Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in Environmental Studies and Agriscience. This program of study is concerned with who uses resources, how they use them, and how positive outcomes of use can be enhanced and negative impacts can be mitigated. The program is designed to educate a diverse assembly of professionals who will work across disciplines and at many levels to provide expertise and leadership in agricultural, environmental and natural resource professions. Students benefit from a broad range of interdisciplinary courses, as well as disciplinary courses carefully selected to enhance students’ technical knowledge. Professional internships and study abroad experiences are encouraged to provide students with experiences beyond the classroom and the campus. Graduates of this program will be prepared to enter professions in environmental, natural resource and agricultural fields through careers in education, government, private industry, non-profit organizations, and public relations and communications or enter a professional or graduate school program upon completion of the bachelor’s degree.

Students focus their studies by completing one of the interdisciplinary professional concentrations within the major designed to provide additional breadth and depth.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Studies and Agriscience

1. The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog: 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies and Agriscience.
   
   The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Environmental Studies and Agriscience major is met by completing Environmental Studies and Agriscience 401, 413 or 420. Those courses are referenced in item 3. b. below.
   Students who are enrolled in the Environmental Studies and Agriscience major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in the Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of the following courses: Biological Science 110, Chemistry 141 and Zoology 355 and 355L. The completion of Biological Science 110 and Zoology 355L satisfies the laboratory requirement. Biological Science 110, Chemistry 141 and Zoology 355 and 355L may be counted toward both the alternative track and the requirements for the major referenced in item 3. below.
   
   The completion of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources mathematics requirement may also satisfy the University mathematics requirement.
2. The requirements for the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for the Bachelor of Science degree.
   
   Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate.
3. The following requirements for the major:

   a.	All of the following courses (16 credits):
   	ACR	202	Problem Solving in Community, Agriculture, and Environmental Systems				3
   	ACR	205	Agriculture and Natural Resources Communication Theory and Practice				3
   	ACR	492	Senior Seminar				1
   	ESA	200	Introduction to Environmental Studies and Agriscience
   	ESA	312	Principles of Leadership for Environmental and Agriscience Professionals				3
   	ZOL	355	Ecology				3
   b.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   	ESA	401	Communications Campaigns for Agricultural and				3
   				Environmental Issues (W)
   	ESA	413	Grantwriting and Fund Development (W)				3
   	ESA	420	Risk and Decision Science for Environmental				3
   				and Natural Resources Management (W)
   c.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	COM	200	Methods of Communication Inquiry				4
   	PSY	295	Data Analysis in Psychological Research				3
   	STT	200	Statistical Methods				3
   	STT	201	Statistical Methods				4
   	STT	224	Introduction to Probability and Statistics for Ecologists				3
   d.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	CSS	210	Fundamentals of Soil Science				3
   	GLG	201	The Dynamic Earth				4
   	Students selecting the Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources concentration must complete Crop and Soil Science 210.
   e.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   	ABM	100	Decision-making in the Agri-Food System				3
   	ABM	130	Farm Management I				3
   	EEP	255	Ecological Economics				3
   	Students selecting the Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources concentration must complete Agribusiness Management 130.
   f.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	ANS	110	Introductory Animal Agriculture				4
   	FW	101	Fundamentals of Fisheries and Wildlife Ecology and Management				3
   	ZOL	313	Animal Behavior				3
   	Students selecting the Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources concentration must complete Animal Science 110.
   g.	One of the following courses (2 to 4 credits):
   	CSS	101	Introduction to Crop Science				3
   	FOR	202	Introduction to Forestry				3
   	FOR	204	Forest Vegetation				4
   	HRT	203	Principles of Horticulture				2
   	PLB	105	Plant Biology				3
   	Students selecting the Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources concentration must complete both Crop and Soil Science 101 and Horticulture 203.
   h.	One of the following courses or fulfillment of an experiential education experience (3 to 6 credits):
   	ESA	475	Agriscience and Natural Resources Studies Abroad				3
   	ESA	480	Environmental Studies Abroad				3
   	ESA	493	Professional Internship in Environmental Studies and Agriscience				3 to 6
   	Completion of an experiential education course approved by the department.
   	Up to 1,000 hours of the 4,000 required hours of relevant work experience for the vocational education endorsement may be competed through a planned program of directed and supervised work experience through Michigan State University. Students selecting the Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources concentration who apply 3 credits of Environmental Studies and Agriscience 493 to complete the experiential education requirement in item 3.h. above may not apply those hours to fulfill the vocational endorsement requirement.
   i.	An additional 6 credits at the 300-level or above						6
   	Students may select courses from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Natural Science, the College of Social Science, or others as approved by the student’s advisor. The courses used to satisfy requirements in items 3. c. through 3. i. may not be used to satisfy any other requirement for the major.
   j.	Concentration (19 to 24 credits):
   	Students must select one of the following concentrations:
   	Communication; Community Engagement and Education; Science and Policy, or Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources.
   	Communication
   	Students who select the Communication concentration will be prepared for careers in agricultural, natural resource, and environmental journalism, public relations, advertising, or marketing communications. Professionals combine agriculture, natural resource and environmental subject-matter knowledge with skills in writing, speaking, layout and design, and information management. Colleges, advertising and public relations agencies, trade associations, government agencies, extension services, and corporations need professionals who can work in this field. Success in these organizations may lead to positions as editors, advertising account supervisors, public relations directors, and marketing communications managers.
   	1.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   		JRN	200	News Writing and Reporting I			4
   		JRN	205	Writing for Media			3
   	2.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		WRA	320	Technical Writing			3
   		WRA	341	Writing Nature and the Nature of Writing			3
   	3.	Four of the following courses (12 to 13 credits):
   		COM	240	Introduction to Organizational Communication			4
   		COM	275	Effects of Mass Communication			3
   		COM	325	Interpersonal Influence and Conflict			3
   		ESA	412	Special Topics in Leadership and Education			3
   		ESA	420	Risk and Decision Science for Environmental
   				and Natural Resource Management (W)			3
   		FIM	224	Information and Market Intelligence in the
   					Agri-Food Industry		3
   		PRR	451	Interpretation and Visitor Information Systems			3
   		TSM	251	Information Technology in Agricultural Systems			3
   		WRA	210	Introduction to Web Authoring			3
   	Community Engagement and Education
   	Students who select the Community Engagement and Education concentration will develop and conduct educational programs in non-formal settings, assist with formal, school-based educational programs, organize workshops and seminars, develop leadership programs for agribusiness, government agencies, recreation organizations and non-profits, and design environment, natural resource, agriculture, and recreation education and outreach programs for adults and youth in a variety of settings. There are many professional opportunities in non-profit organizations, trade associations, and federal, state and local government agencies, as well as volunteerism.
   	1.	All of the following courses (13 credits):
   		ACR	415	Program Planning and Evaluation			3
   		ESA	335	Engaged Learning and Teaching			3
   		ESA	434	Professional Skills for Nonformal Educators			3
   		ESA	435	Conservation Education			3
   		ESA	436	Conservation Education Practice			1
   	2.	Two of the following courses (6 credits):
   		ESA	412	Special Topics in Leadership and Education			3
   		ESA	413	Grantwriting and Fund Development (W)			3
   		PRR	451	Interpretation and Visitor Information Systems			3
   		TSM	251	Information Technology in Agricultural Systems			3
   	Science and Policy
   	Students who select the Science and Policy concentration will build a strong, interdisciplinary foundation in science and policy related to the environment, natural resources and agriculture. Students may focus on agriscience and policy, or they may choose to focus on environmental science and policy. Creatively combining course work in environmental science and agriscience will also prepare students for leadership roles in an increasingly complex field. Students who select this concentration will find careers in federal, state and local government, nonprofit organizations and trade associations, and private industry and consulting.
   	1.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   		CSS	210	Fundamentals of Soil Science			3
   		GLG	201	The Dynamic Earth			4
   		The course used to satisfy the major requirements may not be used to satisfy this requirement.
   	2.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ABM	400	Public Policy Issues in the Agri-Food System			3
   		ESA	440	Environmental and Natural Resource
   					Policy in Michigan		3
   		ESA	444	Pesticides, People and Politics			3
   		FOR	466	Natural Resource Policy			3
   	3.	Two of the following courses (6 credits):
   		ABM	430	Farm Management II			3
   		ESA	430	Environmental and Natural Resource Law			3
   		ESA	460	Natural Resource Economics			3
   		PRR	302	Environmental Attitudes and Concepts			3
   	4.	Two of the following courses (6 to 8 credits):
   		ACR	415	Program Planning and Evaluation			3
   		ANS	418	Comprehensive Nutrient Management Planning			3
   		ESA	324	Water Resource Management			3
   		ESA	415	Environmental Impact Assessment			4
   		ESA	450	Smart Growth and Strategic Land Use  Decision Making			3
   		ESA	452	Watershed Concepts			3
   		FW	419	Applications of Geographic Information Systems			4
   		GEO	221	Introduction to Geographic Information			3
   		GEO	325	Geographic Information Systems			3
   		UP	353	Land Use Planning			4
   		UP	400	Special Topics in Urban Planning			3
   		Students may not use both Environmental Studies and Agriscience 324 and 452 to fulfill this requirement.
   			Students may not use both Fisheries and Wildlife 419 and Geography 221 to fulfill this requirement.
   	5.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ESA	343	Community Food and Agricultural Systems			3
   		ESA	470	Theory and Practice in Community and
   					Economic Development		3
   		HRT	486	Biotechnology in Agriculture: Applications
   					and Ethical Issues		3

   	Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources
   	The Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources concentration combines with the Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies and Agriscience to prepare students for teacher certification. Students who complete the requirements for the Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources concentration, the requirements for teacher certification, and a minimum of 4000 hours of recent and relevant work experience are recommended for career and technical endorsement in agricultural education.
   	1.	All of the following courses (21 credits):
   		TE	150	Reflections on Learning				3
   		TE	250	Human Diversity, Power, and Opportunity in Social Institutions				3
   		TE	302	Learners and Learning in Context - Secondary (W)				4
   		TE	407	Teaching Subject Matter to Diverse Learners - Secondary (W)				5
   		TE	408	Crafting Teaching Practices - Secondary (W)				6

The Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Recreation and Tourism. By combining a body of specialized professional knowledge with the study of natural, social, management and behavioral sciences, the program provides an opportunity for students to obtain a broad, interdisciplinary education which  emphasizes a professional area of knowledge. The Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism major is designed to prepare students for professional positions  related to the enjoyment of the outdoors. Such positions include management of public parks, forests and protected areas, non-profit lands and other natural resources,  and commercial enterprises that provide goods and services to outdoor enthusiasts. Meeting people’s outdoor leisure needs, enhancing the quality of life, and providing sustainable economic and social development are hallmarks of the Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism major.

Students in the Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism major will acquire an understanding of natural resource recreation and tourism that integrates theory with practice. This includes the concepts of leisure, tourism, recreation and sustainability, as well as operation of delivery systems, policy, administration, management, planning and evaluation.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism

1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism.
   
   The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism major is met by completing Park, Recreation and Tourism Resources 370. That course is referenced in item 3. a. below.
   
   The completion of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources mathematics requirement may also satisfy the University mathematics requirement.
2. The requirements of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for the Bachelor of Science degree.
   
   Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. 
3. The following requirements for the major:
   

   a.	All of the following courses (28 to 31):
   	ACR	202	Problem Solving in Community, Agriculture and				3
   				Environmental Systems
   	ACR	205	Agriculture and Natural Resources Communication				3
   				Theory and Practice
   	ACR	415	Program Planning and Evaluation				3
   	ACR	492	Senior Seminar				1
   	GEO	221	Introduction to Geographic Information				3
   	PRR	211	Introduction to Natural Resource Recreation				3
   	PRR	214	Introduction to Travel and Tourism				3
   	PRR	370	Administration and Operation of Park and Recreation Systems (W)				3
   	PRR	493	Professional Internship in Natural Resource				3 to 6
   				Recreation and Tourism
   	PRR	495	Comprehensive Planning and Strategy				3
   				Development in Natural Resource
   				Recreation and Tourism
   	Students must maintain a minimum 2.00 grade-point average in all ACR and PRR courses referenced in item 3. a.
   b.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	FW	419	Applications of Geographic Information Systems				4
   				to Natural Resources Management
   	GEO	325	Geographic Information Systems				3
   c.	One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
   	PSY	295	Data Analysis in Psychological Research				3
   	STT	200	Statistical Methods				3
   	STT	201	Statistical Methods				4
   	STT	224	Introduction to Probability and Statistics for Ecologists				3
   d.	One of the following concentrations (30 or 35 credits):
   	Natural Resource Recreation Management (30 credits)
   	Federal, state and local governments and non-profit and for-profit entities offer a variety of career opportunities in natural resource recreation management. These opportunities include careers in park and land management, recreation and conservation law enforcement, and nature and cultural interpretation. They involve management of resources including facilities such as campgrounds, trails and water resources for people who enjoy the outdoors. Natural resource recreation professionals often work in teams with wildlife biologists, foresters, landscape architects, archaeologists, and historians in resource planning, facility development, and visitor management. A key characteristic of their efforts is to optimize recreational experiences while providing sustainable opportunities.
   	(1)	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ESA	200	Introduction to Environmental Studies and Agriscience			3
   		FOR	202	Introduction to Forestry			3
   		FW	101	Fundamentals of Fisheries and Wildlife			3
   					Ecology  and Management
   	(2)	All of the following courses (21 credits):
   		BS	110	Organisms and Population			4
   		CSS	210	Fundamentals of Soil Science			3
   		ESA	324	Water Resource Management			3
   		FOR	412	Wildland Fire			2
   		PRR	448	Foundations of Natural Resource Based			3
   					Recreation Management
   		PRR	449	Natural Resource Based Recreation Management Applications			3
   		ZOL	355	Ecology			3
   	(3)	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ESA	440	Environmental and Natural Resource Policy in Michigan			3
   		FOR	466	Natural Resource Policy			3
   	(4)	One of the following courses (3 credits):
   		ESA	401	Communication Campaigns for Agricultural			3
   					and Environmental Issues
   		PRR	410	International Studies in Tourism, Parks and Recreation			3
   		PRR	451	Interpretation and Visitor Information Systems			3
   	Commercial Recreation and Tourism (35 credits):
   	Commercial recreation enterprises and the entire tourism system are increasingly important aspects of our state, regional, national and world economies. Sustainability in this growing economic sector is a crucial factor as the industry seeks graduates who provide short-term and long-term perspectives on efficient, responsible use of resources that are the foundation of a customer’s willingness to pay for outdoor recreation experiences. Marinas, ski resorts, commercial campgrounds, charter boats, canoe or kayak liveries, and other direct providers as well as  support businesses such as motels, recreation equipment retailers and manufacturers and travel service providers, depend on a healthy, productive natural-resource base to attract and retain customers. Government entities such as visitor and convention bureaus, state travel bureaus and private sector tourism associations are increasingly active in marketing natural resource recreation and tourism opportunities to sustain and diversify local economies. Careers include marketing, enterprise development and management, guiding and outfitting, and association management, which provides a bridge between public and private sectors such as concessionaires providing commercial recreation services on public lands.
   	(1)	One of the following courses (6 credits):
   		GEO	259	Geography of Recreation and Tourism			3
   		GEO	459	Tourism in Regional Development			3
   		PRR	272	Recreational Boating Systems and the Boating Industry			3
   		PRR	410	International Studies in Tourism, Parks and Recreation			3
   	(2)	All of the following courses (32 credits):
   		ACC	230	Survey of Accounting Concepts			3
   		FI	320	Introduction to Finance			3
   		GBL	323	Introduction to Business Law			3
   		HB	100	Introduction to Hospitality Business			2
   		HB	237	Management of Lodging Systems			3
   		HB	267	Management of Food and Beverage Systems			3
   		MGT	325	Management Skill and Process			3
   		MKT	327	Introduction to Marketing			3
   		PRR	360	Marketing Communications in Recreation and Tourism			3
   		PRR	473	Commercial Recreation and Tourism			3
   					Businesses and Organizations
   		PRR	474	The Tourism System			3

 

The Specialization in Natural Resource Recreation is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs at Michigan State University. It includes the management of land, water, forests, fisheries and wildlife and agriculture and is targeted toward students considering careers in public parks and recreation, commercial recreation enterprise management, forestry, fisheries, wildlife, criminal justice (conservation or recreation law enforcement), environmental policy, environmental management, landscape architecture, and agriculture. This specialization offers an opportunity for students to integrate study of social, biological and physical sciences, natural resources and ecosystems for the management of outdoor recreation.

Requirements for the Specialization in Natural Resource Recreation

With the approval of the department that administers the student’s degree program, courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the specialization may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the bachelor’s degree. The student must meet the requirements specified below:

1.	One of the following courses (3 credits):
	PRR	210	Our National Parks and Recreation Lands				3
	PRR	302	Environmental Attitudes and Concepts				3
2.	One of the following courses outside the student’s course requirements for the major (3 or 4 credits):
	ANS	110	Introductory Animal Agriculture				4
	CSS	101	Introduction to Crop Science				3
	ESA	200	Introduction to Environmental Studies and Agriscience				3
	FOR	202	Introduction to Forestry				3
	FW	205	Principles of Fisheries and Wildlife Management				3
	PRR	213	Introduction to Parks, Recreation and Leisure				3
3.	Two of the following courses, one of which is outside the student’s course requirements for the major (5 to 7 credits):
	CSS	210	Fundamentals of Soil Science				3
	ESA	324	Water Resource Management				3
	ESA	430	Environmental and Natural Resource Law				3
	FOR	404	Forest and Agricultural Ecology				3
	FOR	412	Wildland Fire				2
	FOR	466	Natural Resource Policy				3
	FW	419	Applications of Geographic Information Systems to
				Natural Resources Management			4
	FW	443	Restoration Ecology				3
	GEO	221	Introduction to Geographic Information				3
	PRR	388	Physical Resource Management in Parks,
				Recreation and Tourism			3
	PRR	451	Park Interpretive Services and Visitor Information Systems				3
	PRR	474	The Tourism System				3
	ZOL	355	Ecology				3
4.	Both of the following courses (6 credits):
	PRR	448	Foundations of Natural Resource Based Recreation Management				3
	PRR	449	Natural Resource Based Recreation Management Applications				3

Upon completion of the requirements for the Specialization in Natural Resource Recreation, the student should contact the Chairperson of the Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies and request certification for the completion of the specialization. After the certification is approved by the Chairperson of the Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies and the Director of Academic Affairs of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Office of the Registrar will enter on the student’s academic record the name of the specialization and the date that it was completed. This certification will appear on the student’s transcript.

 

The environmental studies and agriscience disciplinary major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree is available for teacher certification. Students who complete the requirements for the environmental studies and agriscience disciplinary major with a concentration in Teacher Education in Agriscience and Natural Resources, the requirements for teacher certification, and a minimum of 4000 hours of recent and relevant work experience are recommended for a career and technical endorsement in agricultural education.

An agriscience disciplinary minor is available for teacher certification.

Students who elect the environmental studies and agriscience disciplinary major or the Agriscience disciplinary minor, must contact the Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies.

For additional information, refer to the statement on TEACHER CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.

The Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies.

Graduate programs in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies provide students the opportunity to create individualized programs that draw from several complementary areas of scholarship. These areas include: community, food and agriculture; natural resources and the environment; recreation and tourism; and, communication and leadership. Today’s communities face complex problems due to ongoing changes to our environmental, social and agricultural/food systems. To aid in meeting these challenges, students’ programs are designed to provide a thorough grounding in integrative, applied research based on multiple paradigms, disciplines and methods.

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs in the Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies may elect specializations in resource economics. For additional information, refer to the statement on Interdepartmental Graduate Specializations in Resource Economics.

Students who are enrolled in Master of Science degree programs in the Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies may elect a Specialization in Environmental Toxicology. For additional information, refer to the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology statement.

 

The Master of Science in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies provides students with opportunities to engage in integrated and applied research and acquire professional skills.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree or comparable degree requirements from an educational institution. Relevant experience and strong academic backgrounds in the natural, physical, or social sciences are encouraged for applicants to the Master of Science in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies. All applicants for admission are required to submit scores from the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination. Collateral courses may be required to overcome deficiencies in addition to the requirements for the master’s degree. Collateral course work will not count towards the master’s degree.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies

The student may elect either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). Plan A emphasizes integrated and applied research and is designed as the foundation for doctoral study. Plan B focuses on the acquisition of well-defined professional skills, appropriate for a terminal degree and for professional employment.

A minimum of 30 credits is required for the degree under Plan A and Plan B. The student’s program of study must be developed in cooperation with and approved by the student’s guidance committee and must include the requirements specified below.

Requirements for Plan A and Plan B
1.	Both of the following courses (6 credits):
	ACR	800	Foundations of Community, Agriculture, Recreation
				and Resource Studies			3
	ACR	802	Survey of Research Methods				3
2.	A minimum of 15 credits in course work in a focus area selected in consultation with the student’s guidance committee. At least 6 credits of this focus area must be in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies courses.
Additional Requirements for Plan A
1.	A minimum of 3 credits of quantitative or qualitative methods to be selected in consultation with the student’s guidance committee.
2.	A minimum of 6 credits of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies 899.
3.	Completion and defense of the master’s thesis.
Additional Requirements for Plan B
1.	A minimum of 3 credits of a techniques or skill-building course relevant to the student’s academic and career goals, to be selected in consultation with the student’s guidance committee.
2.	Both of the following courses:
	ACR	895	Case Studies in Community, Agriculture, Recreation
				and Resource Studies			3
	ACR	898	Master’s Professional Project				3
3.	Completion and defense of a paper based on the master's professional project.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies is designed to enable students to generate new knowledge in complementary fields responsive to rapidly changing conditions in our natural environment and agricultural systems.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be admitted to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies, a student must have completed a master’s degree. Relevant experience and strong academic backgrounds in the natural, physical, or social sciences, including independent research experience, are strongly encouraged. All applicants are required to submit scores from the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination.

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies

The student’s program of study must be developed in cooperation with and approved by the student’s guidance committee and must include the requirements specified below.

1. Complete Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies 800.
2. Complete 9 credits of course work in advanced research methods, to be selected in    consultation with the student’s guidance committee, including at least 3 credits  respectively in quantitative and qualitative methods.
3. Complete a minimum of 24 credits of course work in two focus areas. At least  9 credits and at least one course in each focus area must be selected from Community,   Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies courses.
4. Prepare a comprehensive examination program statement that presents the  student’s learning and professional background and goals, and provides a rationale for the  student’s declared focus areas. This statement is prepared in consultation with the    student’s guidance committee and is presented to the full faculty for review.
5. Pass a comprehensive examination based on the student’s comprehensive examination  program statement.
6. Complete 24 credits of dissertation research and successfully defend the dissertation. Present the results of the research in a  public seminar  during the final oral examination.

All students are encouraged to prepare at least one paper from the dissertation research suitable for submission to a professional and/or refereed academic journal.

James J. Kells, Chairperson

 

The department offers two undergraduate majors, Crop and Soil Sciences and Environmental Soil Science.  The Crop and Soil Sciences major includes three concentrations: agronomic sciences, turfgrass management, and advanced studies.  Each program is built on a broad educational base with a core of professional courses and sufficient electives to allow students and advisors to tailor individualized programs.

The department also offers undergraduate specializations in agronomy and international agriculture.

The Crop and Soil Sciences major is based upon the continuously expanding knowledge base of the biological and physical sciences and the utilization of those sciences to produce food and fiber of high quality on a competitive basis to promote sustainability, and to obtain increased nutrient–use efficiency, proper land use, increased plant adaptation to environmental and other stresses, decreased soil erosion, and decreased environmental pollution. Crop and soil scientists utilize the principles of genetics, plant breeding, crop physiology, weed science, turfgrass science, soil physics, soil fertility, soil genesis and classification, and soil chemistry.

Majors complete a common core of courses and one concentration: Agronomic Sciences, Turfgrass Management or Advanced Study. Students enrolled in this degree program, based on the agreement of cooperation between Michigan State University and Beijing Forestry University, Northeast Agricultural University, Sichuan Agricultural University, and Suzhou Polytechnic Institute of Agriculture in China must complete the concentration in Turfgrass Management.

1. Agronomic Sciences is designed to prepare students to work as agronomists. These scientists have career opportunities in agricultural business and in government agencies such as departments of agriculture and/or natural resources, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Extension Service. They also work and consult pest management specialists and managers of grower organizations and with land appraisal firms, agencies involved with environmental issues, and in international agriculture.
2. Turfgrass Management is designed to prepare students for the rapidly expanding area of urban agriculture. Graduates have career opportunities in the industries involved with management of golf courses, athletic fields, lawns and park and grounds management.
3. Advanced Study is specifically designed for those students who plan to pursue graduate studies. Although students who complete the other concentrations may pursue graduate study, this concentration requires the completion of advanced levels of mathematics and advanced courses in the basic science.

Students may also complete a specialization in international agriculture, agribusiness management, agriculture and natural resources biotechnology, connecting learning, environmental economics, food industry management, or environmental studies. Students may qualify to teach agriscience in high school under a plan of study cooperatively developed by the student’s faculty advisor and the Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies. For additional information on any of the specializations, refer to the General Index section in this publication or visit http://www.reg.msu.edu/UCC/specializations.asp.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Crop and Soil Sciences

1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Crop and Soil Sciences.
   
   The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Crop and Soil Sciences major is met by completing two courses as specified below:
   Agronomic Sciences:  Both of the following courses:  Crop and Soil Sciences 488 and 492.  Those courses are referenced in items 3. a., and 3. b. below.
   
   Turfgrass Management:  Both of the following courses:  Crop and Soil Sciences 382 and 492.  Those courses are referenced in items 3. a., and 3. b. below.
   
   Advanced Study:  Both of the following courses:  Crop and Soil Sciences 488 and 492.  Those courses are referenced in items 3. a., and 3. b. below.
   
   Students who are enrolled in the Agronomic Sciences or Turfgrass Management concentrations of the Crop and Soil Sciences major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of the following courses:  Plant Biology 105 and 106 and Chemistry 141, 143, and 161.  The completion of Plant Biology 106 and Chemistry 161 satisfies the laboratory requirement.  Plant Biology 105 and 106 and Chemistry 141, 143, and 161 may be counted toward both the alternative track and the requirements for the major referenced in item 3. below.
   
   Students who are enrolled in the Advanced Study concentration of the Crop and Soil Sciences major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of the following courses: Plant Biology 105 and Chemistry 151, 152, and 161. The completion of Chemistry 161 satisfies the laboratory requirement. Plant Biology 105  and Chemistry 151, 152, and 161 may be counted toward both the alternative track and the requirements for the major referenced in item 3. below.
   
   The completion of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources mathematics requirement may also satisfy the University mathematics requirement.
2. The requirements of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for the Bachelor of Science degree.
   Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate.  For students who select the Advanced Study Option, the completion of Mathematics 124 and 126 satisfies the College's mathematics requirement.
3. The following requirements for the major:
   

   a.	All of the following courses (7 credits):
   	CEM	161	Chemistry Laboratory I				1
   	CSS	110	Computer Applications in Agronomy				2
   	CSS	210	Fundamentals of Soil Science				3
   	CSS	492	Professional Development Seminar II				1
   b.	One of the following three concentrations (57 to 67 credits):
   	Agronomic Sciences (57 or 58 credits):
   	(1)	All of the following courses (52 credits):
   		CEM	141	General Chemistry			4
   		CEM	143	Survey of Organic Chemistry			4
   		CSS	101	Introduction to Crop Science			3
   		CSS	192	Professional Development Seminar I			1
   		CSS	302	Principles of Weed Management			3
   		CSS	330	Soil Chemistry			2
   		CSS	340	Applied Soil Physics			2
   		CSS	350	Introduction to Plant Genetics			3