This subject is not only fascinating to study, it is also vital for improving the standards of animal welfare, protecting livestock from disease epidemics and safeguarding public health from animal borne diseases. It seeks to provide a stimulating and challenging experience for students and is intended for those aspiring to work in animal care, welfare or animal based industry, from zoos and wildlife parks, to pet shops, veterinary situations, farms and wildlife conservation.
The degree is a unique blend of fundamental science, practical application and insights into social perspectives. Programmes have been designed to meet subject standards, student interests and the needs of the employer. The knowledge and skills you learn on it will help you to evaluate and apply the theories and concepts that underpin the study of animal behaviour.
It comprises compulsory and optional modules, all related to the latest developments in the field of animal science. The course will enable graduates to follow careers in a wide range of sectors, such as; wildlife management, scientific research within private and public organisations, veterinary training, advisory and consultancy services, pharmaceutical and animal feed industries and education.
This degree will help to develop your intellectual, personal and technical skills which in turn will help to boost your CV, and meet the needs of what employers look for in graduates. Remember that organisations are always on the lookout for well-trained graduates, who have work experience and who are able to relate scientific theory to practical situations. The transferable skills developed by this degree course are also highly valued in other non-scientific areas of employment. Competencies like time management, statistical and planning skills, communication and presentation skills developed, coupled to an ability to think critically and analyse complex data sets, all make graduates highly employable.
Animal science degree course overview
It is a practical course that includes a lot of fieldwork which will allow you to get hands on experience in the area of work you’re studying towards. Courses are supported by facilities such as animal units, science laboratories and industrial placements which can include hands-on experience at local farms or animal shelters etc.
The course is taught using a combination of lectures, laboratory practical’s and field trips. In addition to this there is also a variety of student centred activities, such as laboratory practical’s and demonstrations, projects and assignments, and visits to research centres.
You’ll be able to tailor this course to your own interests by choosing from a wide variety of modules covering a diverse range of topics. Towards the latter part of the course, students have a choice of specialist modules which allow them to concentrate their knowledge in line with a specific group of animal species.
Typical course modules and areas of study on a Animal Science Degree
- Nutritional Sciences
- Animal Physiology
- Animal Production
- Animal Biology
- Animal Care
- Animal Management Systems
- Animal Welfare
- Genetics
- Ecology and Biodiversity
- Evolution, Genetics and Domestication
- Cell Biology and Immunology
- Animal Behaviour and Ethology
- Animal Learning and Training
- Metabolism
- Nutritional Science
- Wildlife Conservation
- Ecosystems
- Microbiology and Cell Culture
- Pests, Parasites and Pathogens
Students will learn about
- The growing global demand for meat, milk and eggs.
- How climate change will affect the spread of animal diseases.
- The sciences that underpin nutrition and management.
- How animals behave and function.
- Fertility
- Nutrition
- Reproduction interactions
- Product quality
- Nutrient metabolism
- Molecular biology
- Breeding
- Feed technology
- Disease control and diagnostics
Students will learn how to
- Improve the sustainability of livestock production systems.
- Work as part of a team.
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