Thompson School of Applied Science

The Thompson School of Applied Science (TSAS), established in 1895, is an academic unit of the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture (COLSA) offering the associate in applied science degree in three program areas. Curricula comprise a balance of professional, science-related, and general education courses that prepare students to meet the specific demands of a technical or applied profession, continuing education, and the general demands of life.

The Thompson School of Applied Science offers dedicated professional faculty who deliver a career-relevant education for students who want an associate degree; students who value a college education combining hands-on experiences and academic knowledge in a small learning environment within the campus of the University of New Hampshire.

Thompson School faculty and staff are committed to educate, train, and retain students to be entrepreneurs, to be solid in their knowledge, to be competent in acquired skills and to be aware of the communities they impact. This is accomplished through the development of mentorships with faculty and advisors, business and industry partnerships, unique programs of study with relevant facilities, and excellent job placement.

Thompson School of Applied Science Overview

Faculty members at the Thompson School have significant work experience in industry and business; extensive and up-to-date knowledge of their specialties; ongoing contacts with practicing professionals; dedication to students and to excellence in teaching; and a commitment to practical, science-based education. They work closely with students, providing academic advising, career counseling, and special assistance, even outside the classroom, when needed.

Detailed information on our various program areas and concentrations follow.

• Applied Animal Science students pursuing this associate's degree prepare for a successful career in animal production and management, whether working on a farm or in a related business. Students handle farm animals starting week one, and develop a strong foundation in the science and business of animal agriculture, including breeding, feeding, health care, law and regulations, housing, and marketing. On-campus facilities include the Thomas P. Fairchild Dairy Teaching and Research Center and UNH's Organic Dairy Research Farm.
• Forest Technology students integrate all aspects of forest management as they complete projects on more than 3,000 acres of University land. Using the school's sawmill and harvesting equipment, they contribute to the sustainable management of UNH lands. In the classroom and the forest, they develop skills and techniques critical to the future ecological and economic health and management of the natural resources of the state and region. Students are expected to enhance class work with an extensive work experience requirement. The educational program in Forest Technology leading to the Associate in Applied Science degree is accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF).  The Thompson School's Forest Technology program was the first two-year program in the U.S. to complete the accreditation process.
• Veterinary Technology students have the unique opportunity to work with both small and large animals at UNH and have access to professional facilities both on and off campus. On-campus facilities include the Thompson School PAWS Veterinary Clinic, Thomas P. Fairchild Dairy Teaching and Research Center, UNH's Organic Dairy Research Farm, and UNH's equine facilities.  The program also partners with the New Hampshire SPCA (Stratham, N.H.), Cocheco Valley Humane Society (Dover, N.H.), and Pope Memorial SPCA (Concord, NH). The program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Students who graduate from an accredited program are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) to become a credentialed veterinary technician.

Transfer Opportunities

Students completing an associate degree program often apply for transfer into a baccalaureate program. Two plus two articulations are in place for the associate degree programs offered.  Forest Technology articulates with the Forestry B.S., and Applied Animal Science and Veterinary Technology articulate with the B.S. in Animal Science.  Thompson School students can also transfer into many other baccalaureate majors. A final cumulative grade-point average of at least 2.5 is required for transfer to most programs; some UNH baccalaureate programs require a higher cumulative grade-point average. Other colleges and universities, especially those within the University System of New Hampshire, also welcome graduates from the Thompson School.