Massey University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in core biological sciences and applies them to animals and production systems. Early study typically covers animal biology, anatomy and physiology, cell biology, chemistry and introductory statistics. As you progress you'll study specialist topics such as animal nutrition, genetics and breeding, reproduction, health and disease, animal behaviour and welfare, and production systems for dairy, meat and wool. Practical learning is a strong feature — expect laboratory classes, animal handling and measurements, on-farm and pasture-based practicals, and project work.

Typical modules and subjects include:

• Foundations of Animal Biology – cell and tissue structure, organ systems and physiology.
• Animal Nutrition – feed composition, digestion, diet formulation and feed evaluation.
• Genetics and Breeding – Mendelian and quantitative genetics, selection, and breeding programmes.
• Reproduction and Development – reproductive physiology, assisted reproductive technologies and neonatal management.
• Animal Health and Welfare – disease recognition, biosecurity, welfare assessment and humane husbandry.
• Production Systems – management of pastoral, dairy, beef, sheep and alternative systems, including pasture management and environmental impacts.
• Research Methods and Data Analysis – experimental design, statistical analysis and scientific communication; capstone or research project in final year.

Entry requirements

Entry to the Bachelor of Animal Science normally requires secondary school university entrance or recognised equivalent. Applicants are expected to have strong achievement in science subjects — typically biology and/or chemistry — and literacy in English. Mathematics or statistics at senior secondary level is recommended because of the quantitative elements of the degree. International qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate or recognised overseas secondary school credentials are accepted; mature applicants with relevant work or life experience may also be considered. Specific entry requirements and any prerequisites should be checked on Massey University's official admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across agriculture, research and animal-based industries. Typical career paths include farm or herd management, stock or production advisor, animal nutritionist or feed technician, breeding and genetics technician, animal health and welfare officer, biosecurity and quarantine roles, livestock extension and industry consultancy, meat processing and quality assurance, and research assistant positions. The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study (for example in animal science, veterinary science or agricultural research) and to roles in policy, environmental management and agribusiness.

Why study at Massey University

Massey has a long-established reputation in agricultural and animal sciences and offers practical, industry-oriented teaching supported by research expertise. Students benefit from purpose-built teaching facilities, access to on-campus farms and animal units, and close links with industry partners across New Zealand. The university provides a mix of hands-on practical training and research-led learning, plus options for distance study for some papers, making the programme accessible to students from a variety of backgrounds. Strong industry connections and stakeholder engagement help with work-integrated learning and graduate employment opportunities.