Program Overview

If you would like a future working with animals, our BSc Animal Science degrees can offer an excellent route into a wide range of careers.
Animal science encompasses the scientific disciplines underpinning the management of farm, companion and captive animals, including; physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, growth, lactation, reproduction, health, behaviour and welfare.

Our flexible degrees ensure you have a sound grounding in the biosciences, including cell biology, biochemistry, physiology and the nutritional sciences, while enabling you to apply this knowledge to areas of interest, such as: livestock production, canine, feline and equine science, small animal management, zoo animal management and conservation.

Through a variety of teaching methods, you will not only acquire specialist knowledge and key laboratory skills, but also skills in team working, problem-solving, numeracy, data handling and statistical analysis, all of which are skills that are highly regarded by employers.

University-owned farms, including the renowned Centre for Dairy Research (CEDAR) with its dairy herd of 550 cows and other species, provide excellent facilities for practical research projects. Connections with zoos, equine centres, vet clinics and small animal facilities locally provide further opportunities for field visits and practical work.

You will also be encouraged to consider a study abroad experience as part of your degree programme. The University has a wide range of exchange partners in Europe and across the world in Australia, Canada and the USA (subject to availability).

In the final year, you will complete an individual research project under expert supervision, providing you with a unique opportunity to explore an area of animal science in more depth through laboratory or field-based studies.

If you haven't studied the required subjects, you can opt for our four-year BSc Animal Science with Foundation degree which includes a year of foundational study.
If you would like to make a difference to the health and well-being of both animals and humans in an ever-changing world, then Animal Science at the University of Reading is the degree for you.

Placement
You will complete an 80-hour mini work-placement as part of your degree and, in addition, have the option of taking a year-long work placement which provides a key opportunity to gain an in-depth insight into an animal industry career.

You will benefit from our links with the animal science community, including leading organisations and companies, and we have a dedicated member of staff providing support and advice on suitable placements. In the past, students have undertaken placements at Danisco Animal Nutrition (DuPont), Paignton and Chester Zoos, and the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation