Animal Science BSc (Hons)
Overview
This course Animal Science BSc (Hons) provides a comprehensive understanding of animal biology, production, health, and welfare. This course teaches you about animal science and how to use this knowledge to care for animals.
You'll learn both theory and practical skills through lectures and lab work. Topics for this course include animal body functions, diet, genetics, animal behaviour, well-being of animals, and animal husbandry and management.
This course will also teach you about how people interact with animals around the world and how to manage businesses related to animals. As an Animal Science student, you'll work with different animals, both farm animals and those kept in zoos. Also, you can enhance your employability.
Objectives
- Develop a foundation in principles.
- Gain practical skills in animal husbandry, management, and research.
- Address challenges in animal production and welfare.
- Prepare for various animal industry sectors.
Prerequisites
- Strong academic background in biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
- Good observation skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- A keen interest in animal behaviour and natural sciences.
- Willingness to participate in fieldwork and laboratory work.
Curriculum Outline
- Animal Physiology and Anatomy
- Animal Biology
- Sustainable agriculture, food and nutrition
- An Introduction to Genetics and Biochemistry
- Essential Study Skills
- Research skills for animal scientists
- Insect Biology
- Nutritional Regulation, Physiology and Endocrinology
- Epigenetics and Developmental Biotechnology
- Physiology of Electrically Excitable Tissues
- Nutrition and Physiology Interaction
- Animal Science Research Project
- Systems Neurophysiology
- Principles of Animal Health and Disease 2
- Livestock Production Science
- Animal Nutrition
- Musculoskeletal Physiology
Teaching Method
- Lab sessions
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
- Computer labs
- Practical classes
Modules
- Agri-Food Supply Chains
- Animal Health
- Introduction to Animal Physiology
- Sustainability in Practice
- Academic and Professional Skills
- Introduction to Sustainability
- Cells and Biomolecules
- Introduction to Business Management
- Natural Science Research Impact
- Animal Feed Science and Technology
- Domestic Animal Reproduction and Genetic Improvement
- Sustainable animal production systems
- Dissertation and Research Preparation
- Sustainable Solutions
- Macro- and Micronutrients
- Human Resource Management
- Career Development for second year students
- Current Trends in Agricultural Market
- Farm Business Management
- Animal Parasitology
- Marketing Strategy
- Animal Behaviour
- Animal Function (Physiology and Development)
- Vertebrate Biology
- Animal Science Conference - Current Issues and Debates
- Reproduction in Farm and Companion Animals
- Applied Animal Nutrition
- Animal Welfare and Behaviour
- Dissertation
- Career Development for final year students
- Forage Utilisation
- Your Future - occupational awareness
- Insight, Innovate, Impact
- Physiological Zoology
Assessment Methods
- Coursework
- Group project
- Lab reports
- Poster presentation
- Research project
- Written exam
Course Duration
This programme may vary depending on the institutions and countries, but the general standard options in the UK are:
- 03 years (Full-time).
Facilities
- Animal houses
- Veterinary clinics
- Laboratories
- Field stations
- Dairy farms
- Meat science laboratories
- Nutrition laboratories
- Biotechnology laboratories
- Equine centres
- Greenhouses
- Computer labs
- Library
- Workshops
- Seminaries and conferences
- Career services
- Farm machinery sheds
- Environmental science laboratories
- Bioinformatics laboratories
- Electron microscopy facilities
- Aquaculture facilities
- Animal welfare laboratories
Career Pathways
- Veterinarian
- Livestock Manager
- Animal Nutritionist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Animal Behaviorist
- Agricultural Consultant
- Research Scientist
- Laboratory Technician
- Food Scientist
- Farm Manager
- Veterinary Nurse
- Zookeeper
- Conservation Officer
- Animal Welfare Officer
- Sales Representative
- Animal Breeder
- Equine Specialist
- Poultry Specialist
- Aquaculture Specialist
- Animal Health Inspector
Fees and Fundings
- Tuition fees are £9,250 - £30,600 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
- Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
- Government loan aid is available.
Entry Requirements
- Biology, Chemistry and Physics A Levels (Recommended)
- GCSE Mathematics grade B/5 (Required)
- GCSEs at grade C, or grade 4, or above, including English, Maths and Science
- IELTS Overall - 6.0 , Minimum - 5.5 in all skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- A strong academic record
Field Work and Internships
- Participate in field trips to farms, ranches, zoos, and wildlife sanctuaries to observe animal behaviour and management practices.
- Gain practical experience in various settings, including veterinary clinics, research laboratories, food processing plants, and agricultural organisations.
- Conduct independent or group research projects on topics such as animal nutrition, genetics, reproduction, or behaviour.
- Contribute to animal welfare organisations, wildlife conservation efforts, or community outreach programmes.
Certifications
- Certified Animal Welfare Specialist (CAWS)
- Certified Humane Animal Handler (CHAH)
- Veterinary Technician (VT)
- Veterinary Assistant (VA)
- Certified Crop Advisor (CCA)
- Certified Professional Agronomist (CPA)
- Certified Range Conservationist (CRC)
- Certified Professional Animal Trainer (CPAT)
- Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
- Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC)
- Certified Equine Behavior Consultant (CEBC)
- Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
- Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA)
- Certified Wildlife Technician (CWT)
- Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR)
- Certified Wildlife Manager (CWM)
- Certified Wildlife Educator (CWE)
- Certified Humane Educator (CHE)
- Certified Pet Loss Professional (CPLL)
- Certified Crop Advisor (CCA)
- Certified Professional Agronomist (CPA)
- Certified Range Conservationist (CRC)
- Certified Organic Crop Consultant (COCC)
- Certified Range Management Consultant (CRMC)
Intakes
Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:
- Fall (September/October)
- Spring (January/February)
- Summer (May/June)
Student Testimony
"Great mixture of peaceful and exciting student life. There is a lot of support for students and the staff is very helpful and friendly." Says - "Irene, Animal Science BSc (Hons)."
Frequently asked questions
Animal Science is a broad field that encompasses the study of domestic animals, including their biology, nutrition, health, reproduction, genetics, and behaviour.