PROGRAM DEFINITION
The FTCA program at NEBRASKA is the first in the nation to focus on the science of the foods we feed our furry, feathery and scaly members of the family … pets. Companion animal foods differ from those for people and other animals with many diverse options from which to choose. FTCA majors can plan to play a role in new product development, process operations, quality assurance or product safety in producing the foods and treats all pets love.

NEBRASKA POINTS OF DISTINCTION

• The first academic program focused specifically on food technology for companion animals.
• Affiliated with two top departments …. Food Science and Technology and Animal Science
• Both have excellent scholarship support, world-renowned faculty and award-winning advisors housed in modern facilities.
• Industry support is strong with shadowing, mentoring, scholarship, intern and career opportunities plentiful locally and nationally. Outstanding salaries are the norm with starting salaries averaging over $45,000.
• Many students take advantage of on-campus work experiences in research laboratories and pilot plants.
• The student professional organizations Food Science Club and Block and Bridle have been recognized on-campus and nationally.

FACILITIES

The Food Technology for Companion Animals Program is co-housed in Filley Hall, the Food Industry Complex and the Animal Science Complex on East Campus. Some unique facility features include:

• Processing Pilot plants
• Sensory Laboratories
• Analytical Testing Laboratory?
• State-of-the-art Bioinformatics Laboratory
• Animal birthing facilities
• Classrooms equipped to hold animals and people
• Computer labs and spacious commons areas are located within each building

FACULTY

The Department of Food Science and Technology houses nineteen faculty members with diverse backgrounds and expertise including chemists, engineers, microbiologists and more. Many have been recognized as leaders in their discipline nationally and internationally. All faculty work directly with undergraduate students and support efforts in and outside the classroom. Find more info on: http://foodsci.unl.edu/Faculty/faculty.shtml

The Department of Animal Science faculty are among the antion's leading professionals in teaching, research, and extension. With 38 faculty members, the department has one of the lowest student-to-teacher ratios in the region. Faculty serve as student advisors and who meet regularly with students outside the classroom. http://animalscience.unl.edu/faculty.cgi?who=faculty

SCHOLARSHIPS

Through a generous relationship with Nestle Purina Petcare, Inc., ten scholarships valuing $2,500 each are awarded to FTCA students each year. An application is available on the program's web site. Eligibility requirements:

• Must be admitted to or enrolled in the NEBRASKA Food Technology for Companion Animals program of study in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
• Must hold a GPA of 3.0 or above
• Must be a United States citizen or permanent resident
• Students may apply for and receive the scholarship more than one year

PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS
What’s expected of you as an undergraduate student?

• Maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to remain in good academic standing within the College
• Participate in a professional student organization
• Gain internship experience
• Meet with your academic advisor every semester