Animal Science Major
Animal Science is the study of the biology and management of domesticated animals. It is a major within Agriculture & Environment.
Animal Science is the study of domesticated animals and how to raise, manage, and care for them effectively. Students in this major learn about the biology of livestock and other farmed animals—how their bodies work, how they grow, and how they reproduce. The field also covers practical management questions: how to feed animals properly, maintain their health, prevent disease, and improve breeding. Students explore nutrition, genetics, animal behavior, and production systems, gaining both scientific understanding and hands-on knowledge about what it takes to raise animals responsibly.
Students drawn to Animal Science typically have a genuine interest in working with animals and understanding agriculture at a scientific level. The major appeals to people who want to combine biological study with real-world application. Coursework usually begins with foundational sciences—biology, chemistry, and general animal biology—before moving into specialized areas like animal nutrition, genetics, and herd health management. As students progress, they often engage in lab work and field experience, applying classroom concepts to actual animal care and production environments.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Animal Science program commonly includes topics such as:
- Animal nutrition
- Animal genetics
- Reproduction
- Animal health
- Livestock production
- Anatomy and physiology
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Animal Science is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Animal Science background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Animal scientist
- Livestock manager
- Veterinary assistant
- Extension specialist
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Animal Science major?
Animal Science is the study of the biology and management of domesticated animals. It is part of agriculture & environment, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Animal Science majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as animal nutrition, animal genetics, reproduction, animal health, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Animal Science major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as animal scientist, livestock manager, veterinary assistant. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Animal Science offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.