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Animal Science

College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

  • Bachelor of Science

The relationships among people and animals are an integral part of our society, economy and culture. Animals provide us with food, clothing, recreation and companionship. Explore the biology of animals to focus on modern, efficient and humane ways to care for and make the best use of the animals who share our lives. The animal science major offers hands-on experiential learning opportunities with many animals, including companion and captive, aquatic, livestock, dairy, and equine, to name but a few. Regardless of their career path, animal science majors will make a difference in the lives of animals.

Major Requirements

You will begin with courses designed to give you a broad foundation in biological and physiological sciences. In your more advanced courses, you will study animal behavior, biochemistry, genetics, nutrition, physiology and the integration of these sciences with animal health and productivity. You will choose a specialization in either a specific discipline (such as animal behavior or nutrition) or in the sciences as they relate to a specific class of animals (such as aquatic, companion or dairy animals).

Contact Information

Degree Outcomes

Careers

  • Animal Caretaker/Zookeeper
  • Animal Nutritionist
  • Aquaculturist
  • Farmer/Rancher
  • K-12 Teacher
  • Livestock Producer/Breeder
  • Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
  • Technical Service Representative
  • United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Inspector
  • Veterinarian

Graduate Study

  • Animal biology
  • Education
  • Veterinary medicine
  • Law
  • Animal welfare

Alumni Employers

  • Humane Society
  • California Department of Food and Agriculture
  • VDx Diagnostic Laboratory
  • United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
  • Jackson Laboratory
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Internship opportunities

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Your course roadmap

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The faculty you will work with

Our undergraduates work directly with our faculty through research projects and labs.

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Global learning programs

Expand your horizons by studying abroad or pursuing global learning on campus.

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Undergraduate research

Get hands on with your interests. Participate in one of our hundreds of research opportunities.

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What can I do with my animal science major?

Learn how to connect your animal science major to a career.

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