The College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences is deeply rooted in Clemson University’s heritage as a land-grant institution. World-class education, research and outreach combine for scientific discoveries of global significance, while partnerships with industry and state and federal agencies foster innovation and provide unique opportunities for faculty and students. Rigorous classroom and experiential learning opportunities are the hallmarks of the CAFLS student experience.
The college offers twelve undergraduate programs that include numerous concentrations and emphasis areas as well as a variety of minors. This diversity allows students to select the curricula that meets their interests in confronting the grand challenges of global food supply and safety, human and animal nutrition, agricultural systems efficiency, environmental conservation, sustainable packaging and renewable resources.
Additional information on the College and its programs is available at www.clemson.edu/cafls.
Modern Language Requirement
A number of Clemson University degree programs require the completion of a modern language through a specific course level. Modern languages taught at Clemson University or accepted for transfer credit include American Sign Language, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. While many degree programs accept any of these modern languages for the requirement, certain programs may have specific modern language requirements. Students should consult their program’s curriculum map for details.
SC REACH ACT (SC. 38 as amended) Graduation Requirement
To comply with the South Carolina REACH ACT, all undergraduate students who enter the university during summer 2021 or afterward must pass one of the following courses. This course may count as a requirement in any part of the program of study including the major, minor, general education or as a free elective.
Students with AP, IB, or dual enrollment credit for these courses do not need to repeat them. Additional courses may be approved which can satisfy this requirement. Successful completion of coursework in compliance with the REACH ACT is required for graduation.
Preprofessional Health Sciences - Veterinary Medicine
Under a regional plan, the South Carolina Preveterinary Advisory Committee coordinates a program for South Carolina residents who are interested in pursuing careers in veterinary medicine. South Carolina residents attending any college or university may apply through the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) to the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Currently the University of Georgia admits up to 17 students each year through arrangements with the Southern Regional Education Board. The State of South Carolina has a contract with Mississippi State University to admit up to five South Carolina residents. The State of South Carolina also has a contract with Tuskegee University to admit up to four South Carolina residents.
Minimum requirements for admission to a college of veterinary medicine generally include the satisfactory completion of prescribed courses in a well-rounded undergraduate degree program. To be in the best competitive position, applicants should complete courses in animal agriculture, genetics, nutrition, biochemistry, and advanced biology. In addition to coursework and scholastic achievement, character, personality, experience with large and small animals, general knowledge, and motivation are considered during the selection process. In the past, competition has been keen, and only those applicants who have shown exceptional ability have been admitted.
Veterinary schools accept students with a broad range of academic backgrounds; therefore, it is recommended that the beginning university student select an undergraduate major and simultaneously complete the courses required for veterinary school entrance and those required for completion of a bachelor’s degree. For students selecting Animal and Veterinary Sciences at Clemson University, the Preveterinary and Science Concentration of the department’s bachelor’s degree is tailored to meet the requirements of the South Carolina contract veterinary schools and to provide the student a competitive edge during the selection process. Further information is available from the Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences at 864-656-3427.
