Basic science and applied science instruction: are they compatible?

Basic science and applied science instruction are compatible and essential for animal science professionals to succeed in their chosen career. Application of science is a continuum. Although production methods are constantly evolving, the science on which changes are made is fixed and fundamental. Only our understanding changes. We are educating students in preparation for a life-long learning process. Viability of animal science departments depends on attracting and challenging students with curricula that are demanding, create curiosity, and prepare students to understand the "whys and hows" of the phenomena of animal biology.