New York University

Overview

The Animal Studies BA/MA program at New York University offers an accelerated pathway for eligible undergraduate students to begin their graduate studies early. This unique program delves into the complex relationships between humans and nonhuman animals, drawing from disciplines such as the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. By pursuing this track, students can work towards earning a master’s degree while completing their undergraduate studies.

What you'll study

The BA/MA pathway is designed to integrate undergraduate and graduate-level coursework, allowing students to gain advanced knowledge at an earlier stage. The program structure includes:

• Undergraduate foundation: Introductory courses that establish a solid grounding in key themes of animal studies, including ethics, society, culture, and scientific perspectives.
• Interdisciplinary core: Courses that explore the connections between the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences in relation to animal-human interactions and animal life.
• Advanced graduate coursework: Graduate-level classes that can be taken during the undergraduate phase for eligible students, as well as during the master’s program.
• Electives: A variety of elective options that align with personal interests, such as animal ethics, ecological perspectives, policy and governance, or research methodologies.
• Capstone / culminating work: A required culminating academic project for the MA, which may take the form of a research project or thesis-equivalent, depending on the program’s current structure.

Tip: For the latest details on the curriculum, including module lists and prerequisites, consult the current NYU Animal Studies BA/MA curriculum plan.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the BA/MA program typically need to meet specific academic criteria, including a minimum GPA. Prospective students should refer to the program guidelines for detailed entry requirements and eligibility criteria.

Career prospects