Study animal science abroad

Studying a degree in animal science is the perfect choice for anyone who dreams of working with animals. It covers a range of scientific areas including animal biology, physiology, biochemistry, nutrition and genetics to help understand and improve things like farm management and animal health and welfare.

Animal science shares similarities with programs like zoology, but is mainly concerned with domestic animals, including livestock and pets, and also covers elements of agriculture. Many animal science degrees will see you working hands-on with animals during field trips or residencies at a farm.

Choosing to study animal science gives you a great opportunity to learn how a different country and culture approaches the subject. Domesticated and farm animals can be very different in different countries, so you’ll be able to learn about, and interact with, animals you might not see at home.

There are animal science programs available abroad at all levels of study, including bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate. At undergraduate level you can study a bachelor of science (BSc), which will take between three and four years depending on the country. Some programs include a year abroad and include trips to give you first-hand experience of working with animals.

Some universities, particularly in the UK, offer MSci degrees that are available at undergraduate level which are taught over four years and include an integrated master’s qualification.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can study a traditional master’s degree in animal science over one or two years, or you can also get a PhD or DPhil following at least three years of full-time research.

Most programs will include optional or elective modules you can choose, which means you can choose the direction of your degree. For example, you might be able to focus on ecology and conservation, livestock production or animal physiology.

The animal science program content and curriculum can be quite different depending on the country or university you’re attending, but here’s some of the topics can expect to cover:

• Animal biology
• Animal anatomy
• Animal physiology
• Animal nutrition
• Animal behavior
• Biochemistry
• Animal husbandry
• Reproduction and development
• Genetics and genomics
• Livestock production

A degree in animal science is an ideal qualification if you want a career working with animals, especially in farming. Popular roles for animal science graduates include:

• Farm/livestock manager
• Livestock nutritionist
• Environmental health officer
• Gamekeeper
• Sales representative
• Zookeeper
• Animal technician
• Veterinary nurse

As an animal science graduate you’ll also have a number of transferable skills that could lead to careers in research, consultancy or banking and finance.

If you know what career you want to pursue after graduation, make sure you check the program content matches your aspirations.