Animal Sciences investigate the structure, development, way of life, and interactions of domesticated animals with their environment. The goal of the discipline of animal sciences is to provide information on domestic animal breeding, development, improvement, and exploitation.

Animal sciences investigate ways to improve cattle breeding, nutrition, conservation, and preservation. It involves the study of how animals function biologically, and how we as human beings depend on these animals for food and leisure. It also seeks to understand animal behaviour and welfare. 

The field of Animal Sciences incorporates ideas and theories from veterinary medicine, agriculture, biology, chemistry, and other fields. Domestic animal biology, animal genetics, immunology in animal health and disease, animals in biomedical research, and other subjects are covered in the courses.

Animal Sciences analyses principles from economics, management, and marketing with knowledge from biochemistry, anatomy, and genetics. Additionally, a degree in Animal Sciences will help students develop skills on how to plan, organise, manage and produce all types of domestic animals. Additionally, students will develop computer skills which is a must for animal scientists since they must evaluate data and apply statistical methods.

Study levels:

Courses in Animal Science are offered at the undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral levels by different colleges and universities around the world, via degrees, diplomas and certificates. These include:

• Bachelor of Science in Animal Biology
• Bachelor in Animal Welfare and Protection
• Bachelor of Science in Equine Science
• Bachelor of Animals, Society, and Business
• Bachelor in Animal Behaviour and Welfare
• Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Science
• Master of Science in Animal Welfare and Conservation
• Master of Science in Veterinary Physiotherapy
• Master’s Degree in Animal Science
• Master of Science in Laboratory Animal Science
• Master of Arts in Human-Animal Interaction
• Master of Science in Human-Animal Interaction
• Master’s Degree in Ethology
• Doctorate of Philosophy in Animal Sciences

Specialisations:

Animal Science is a vital scientific field that offers students a wide range of topics and students interested in developing a specialisation with a disciplinary focus choose a series of courses that are centred around the following:

• Genetics and Biodiversity
• Nutrition and Metabolism
• Global and Sustainable Production
• Adaptation, Health and Behaviour
• Molecule, Cell and Organ Functioning
• Animal Ecology
• Animal Anatomy
• Animal Biology
• Animal Physiology
• Livestock Management

Employability:

A degree in Animal Science offers multiple career options across industries and specializations and graduates in the field may find employment prospects in a variety of industries, such as biotechnology, food and fibre production, animal breeding, and the care and welfare of animals, pharmaceutical companies, food processing plants, research and development facilities, colleges and universities, government regulatory agencies and many more.

In addition, while a bachelor's degree in animal science is often a sufficient qualification for many jobs in this field, students who continue their studies to get a master's degree or Ph.D., can apply for a scientist, professor or researchers’ position.

Popular job titles include:

• Animal care specialist
• Veterinary technician
• Kennel worker
• Animal trainer
• Laboratory assistant
• Meat inspector
• Farm manager
• Marine Biologist
• Livestock buyer
• Animal biotechnologist
• Production supervisor
• Laboratory technician
• Animal caretaker
• Feedlot operation manager
• Livestock territory manager
• Wildlife biologist
• Sales representative
• Professor
• Agricultural and food scientist
• Veterinarian