WHAT is the Animal Science program?

The Animal Science program prepares students for career success, college studies, and industry credentials in areas related to animal science.  Students will study small and large animal anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and care and management.  Students will earn Career Safety certification and Artificial Insemination certification. 

WHY should I take Animal Science?

Classes at the Saginaw Career Complex are different than those offered at your home high school. You learn by doing—not just reading, listening, and memorizing. And you learn out in the real world, on-the-job, with real people.

You will also earn a competency certificate in Animal Science from the Saginaw Career Complex, which says you've learned actual job skills at high standards set by business and industry. Your parents will love it, so will colleges and employers.

Also, students will become members of the FFA, a national student organization that provides opportunities to develop premier leadership, personal growth and career success through various FFA activities.

WHAT will I learn in Animal Science?

You will learn:

• Principles of animal science
• Animal anatomy, phisology and nutrition
• Animal health and diseases
• Genetics, breeding and reproduction
• Small animal care and management
• Food animal technology

• Dairy and lifestock management

• Horse management / equine science

• Service, laboratory and exotic animals

• Veterinary technology

• Training and farm management

• Careers and the animal industry

• Personal management and employability skills

• Communication skills

• Technical skills

• Leadership and teamwork

• Ethics and responsibility

• Safety training

• Career research

• Academic foundations

• Problem solving and critical thinking

For more specific areas of study click here to see more about the curriculum.

WHAT are my job prospects?

Job prospects that could result from studies in the area of animal science are many and varied.  However, opportunities for employment in these areas are expected to increase at an average or above average rate for the next few years.

WHERE can I go after completing the program?

Your training in the Animal Science program gives you several exciting options:

• Entry-level employment -Students might start their careers in areas related to animal caretaker, pet shop associate, livestock production, dairy farming, poultry production, and much more.
• Continued Education - The Animal Science program provides a stepping stone to advanced training in the field of animal science.

WHO is the teacher?

Nadene Blakeley recently joined the staff at the Saginaw Career Complex and has brought a great wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the Animal Science program.  Prior to joining the staff at the Complex, Nadene spent some time teaching in the AgriScience/Environmental Technology program at the Lapeer County Vocational Technology Center. 

As a graduate of Michigan State University, Nadene Blakeley thinks she has a definite advantage in the field of Animal Science.  According to Nadene, "the agriscience programs at MSU prepare teachers better than most other universities."

As a self proclaimed "outdoors person," Ms. Blakeley is excited about the focus of the Animal Science program--large and small animal anatomy, physiology, nutrition, care and management.  "I like what we do here, and I like the campus setting at the Complex," says Nadene.  Working with and communicating with students comes easily to Nadene and brings her great pleasure.

In her spare time, Nadene likes to play softball and train her five horses for barrel racing.  Currently, she has one horse that competes, and has placed 6th in her racing division.

WHAT are the admission requirements?

Students admitted to the Animal Science program at the Saginaw Career Complex must:

• Have an interest in a career in the field of animal science.
• Be a high school junior or senior.
• Be on track for high school graduation
• Have good attendance habits.
• Be willing to attend the Saginaw Career Complex for half of the school day and participate in work-based learning experiences.

WHAT does it cost?

Nothing! Eligible high school students may attend free of charge.

HOW do I enroll?

You can enroll by completing just a few easy steps. Click here to get started:

ENROLL NOW