What it is
Animal science studies the biology, care, nutrition, breeding, and management of animals — especially livestock (cattle, poultry, swine) but also companion and other animals. It combines biology and agriculture, and is a leading pre-veterinary major.
What you'll study
Coursework blends animal biology with production:
- Science baseBiology, chemistry, and anatomy/physiology
- Animal coreAnimal nutrition, genetics/breeding, reproduction, and health
- AppliedLivestock production, management, and (for pre-vet) prerequisites
Concentrations & focus areas
- Pre-VeterinaryToward vet school
- Animal NutritionFeed & health
- Genetics / BreedingImproving animals
- Livestock ProductionFarm management
- Companion AnimalPets & equine
- Animal Health / IndustryProducts & care
Skills you'll build
- Animal biology knowledgePhysiology & nutrition
- Handling & careWorking with animals
- Applied scienceResearch & production
- ManagementLivestock operations
- Problem-solvingHealth & productivity
Careers & job titles
- VeterinarianVia vet school (DVM)
- Animal scientistResearch & industry (~$69,390)
- Livestock / production managerFarms & ranches
- Animal nutrition / feed rolesIndustry
- Extension / governmentAgricultural services
- Animal-health industryPharma & products
Job outlook & demand
The BLS projects agricultural and food scientists (including animal scientists) to grow about 6%. Animal science is also a major pipeline to veterinary school (see Veterinary Medicine) and to the animal-health and agribusiness industries.
Pay: median, range & trajectory
Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, animal scientists had a median around $69,390. Graduates who become veterinarians earn substantially more; industry and management roles vary.
Degree levels it's offered at
Offered across these levels — click a level to learn about it:
A bachelor's supports industry and management roles and pre-vet preparation; a master's or PhD leads research; veterinary school (DVM) is a common next step.
Is it right for you?
You might thrive here if you love animals and biology, are interested in livestock or veterinary careers, and enjoy applied science.
Two main paths: veterinary school (plan the prerequisites early) or the animal-health/agribusiness industry. Adding business or data skills helps for industry roles.
Explore further
Keep exploring:
Key facts
- FocusBiology, care, nutrition & management of animals
- Popular forPre-veterinary preparation
- CareersVeterinarian (via DVM), animal scientist, livestock manager
- Outlook~6% growth (faster, BLS)
- Pay~$69,390 (animal scientists, BLS)
Where to learn more
Authoritative sources for careers and pay: