Texas Tech University

Master of Science in
Ranch Management

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Where Managing Natural Resources Meets the Future of Ranching

As national and global populations continue to grow, the coupling of livestock production with wildlife management in holistic ranch management approaches has become paramount. Therefore, the next generation of ranch managers must be well trained in the best practices and application of appropriate skills to ensure the tradition and relevance of ranching in the western U.S.

Our goal is to build a relevant, stakeholder-driven graduate ranch management program that emphasizes experiential, hands-on learning.

This program is specifically designed to include formal classes in:

  • Wildlife
  • Range and ranch management
  • Animal science
  • Ag business
  • Leadership
  • Presentations from industry-leading guest speakers
  • Hands-on experience through capstone internships with partner ranches across the Western United States.
This graduate degree combines natural resources management, economics and animal science into one comprehensive program. Students will join a two-year program in which they will earn a masters degree through classroom training and boots-on-the-ground experience with real working ranches.

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Required Internship

Upon finishing the academic coursework, the second year will be dedicated to gaining hands-on experience by working at two distinct ranches as a trainee in ranch management.

Students are required to commit to at least six months of work on each ranch. Compensation consists of a monthly payment of $1000, housing, and worker's compensation insurance provided by the ranch.

Students will interact regularly with the ranch owner/manager to discuss ranch decisions and provide input. At each ranch, students are required to formulate a comprehensive ranch management strategy aimed at enhancing the overall profitability of the ranch. Dr. Rusk will be available for consultations regarding your proposals and to provide guidance. The completed ranch management plan will then be presented to the ranch owner/manager.

Scholarship

Every M.S. student in Ranch Management will receive scholarships to cover tuition and offset fees and living expenses.

Ready to take the next step?

To learn more about this program, contact Dr. Clint Rusk.

Clint Rusk, Ph.D.
Executive Director of Ranch Management Program
clrusk@ttu.edu 
(806) 834-7619
Goddard, Room 204

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