University of Arizona

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in biological sciences and applies those principles specifically to animals and their management. Early years emphasise core natural science and quantitative skills—cell and molecular biology, general chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and statistics—before progressing to animal-focused subjects.

• Core animal science modules: animal physiology, animal nutrition, animal breeding and genetics, reproductive physiology, and animal growth and development.
• Health and welfare: animal disease and pathology, humane handling and welfare assessment, and principles of disease prevention and biosecurity.
• Management and production: livestock production systems, herd/flock management, farm business and sustainability, and animal product processing basics.
• Laboratory and practical work: laboratory techniques, diagnostic sampling, feed formulation labs, and hands-on husbandry skills delivered in on-campus labs and through field placements.
• Research and capstone: options for undergraduate research, an experimental design and data analysis module, and a senior project or practicum that integrates academic learning with applied experience.

Students may select electives or specialisations that support career goals—examples include companion-animal management, animal behaviour, wildlife and conservation, or pre-veterinary preparation. Placements, internships and cooperative extension opportunities in agricultural research and industry are integrated into the programme to develop professional skills.

Entry requirements

Admission requires a completed secondary education credential equivalent to a US high school diploma. Applicants should have a strong background in science and mathematics; typical preparation includes biology plus chemistry and mathematics courses. Successful applicants normally present competitive academic performance across these subjects.

For international and UK applicants, acceptable qualifications include A-levels, IB or other recognised secondary credentials with science content. Evidence of English language proficiency is required if the applicant’s prior education was not delivered in English.

Because the programme includes laboratory and field components, the school recommends or requires immunisations and health documentation for participation in certain courses and placements. Some pathways, such as pre-veterinary tracks, may have additional recommended coursework or extracurricular experience with animal care.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers across agriculture, research, conservation and animal-related services. Typical roles include:

• Animal scientist or research technician in livestock, nutrition or genetics research
• Livestock or herd manager and production specialist
• Animal nutritionist or feed specialist
• Laboratory animal technician or biomedical research assistant
• Wildlife technician, conservation field biologist or zoo/wildlife care specialist
• Pre-veterinary students progressing to veterinary school or roles in animal health industries
• Extension or outreach specialist, sales and technical roles with animal health and feed companies, and regulatory or inspection positions

The programme’s practical training, internship links and research opportunities support transition to graduate study, professional certification, or direct entry into the workforce.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers this degree within its College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, providing access to faculty working in animal biology, nutrition and applied agricultural research. Students benefit from a mix of on-campus laboratory instruction and partnerships with statewide extension programmes and research facilities that expose them to the diversity of systems in the Southwest.

Tucson’s desert environment and regional agriculture create opportunities to study production and management under arid conditions, while interdisciplinary links across biology, ecology and sustainable agriculture support broader career options. The university also provides pre-professional advising for students aiming for veterinary or graduate training, and active career services to facilitate internships and employer connections in the animal and agricultural sectors.