Animal Science BSc

Course overview

Animals have co-existed with humans for millennia. Scientific study of basic animal physiology and biochemistry, together with how these two areas impact on productivity, is becoming increasingly important. This requires well-trained and adaptable scientists who understand fundamental and basic animal biology but who can apply their knowledge and understanding.

Year one 

During semester one, you will follow a broad base of modules in the biological sciences. Modules covered include Cell Biology, Genetics, Whole Organism Biology and Biochemistry. Semester two incorporates more specialised modules including Genetics, Physiology, Endocrinology, Biochemistry and Nutrition.

Year two

Our very flexible degree programme means that you can choose from a wide variety of modules (based within Biosciences and at University Park Campus) to suit your interests and future career options. Decisions on which modules to follow are taken in consultation with staff who are able to provide guidance and advice. You will plan your final-year research project.

Year three

The honours research project is a major strength of our degree, contributing a third of your final year mark. In a supervised environment, you will work in close collaboration with animals and/or laboratory procedures to study animal physiology or biochemistry at a molecular/tissue/organ level. This involves study of the whole animal, including nutrient responses and animal behaviour.

More information about this course - please view our School pages

Entry requirements

A levels: ABB-BBB, including at least two science subjects at A level, preferably biology and chemistry (can include maths and geography),  which must be grade B minimum, and an additional A level or equivalent.

English language requirements 

IELTS 6.0 (no less than 5.5 in any element)

TOEFL iBT 87 (no less than 21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking)

Alternative qualifications 

For details please see alternative qualifications page

Foundation year - a foundation year is available for this course

Modules

The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.

Typical year-one modules 

• Foundation Science
• Genetics and Cell Biology
• Whole Organism Biology
• Biochemistry 

Typical year-two modules

• Practical Animal Physiology
• Reproductive Physiology
• Endocrinology and Metabolism
• Applied Animal Science

Typical year-three modules

• Applied Bioethics 1: Animals, Biotechnology and Society
• Research Project in Animal Science 2

Typical optional modules 

• Animal Behaviour
• Principles of Animal Nutrition
• Communicating Biosciences
• Rural Business Management
• Animal Nutrition
• Livestock Production Science
• Epigenetics and Development
• Reproduction and Fertility
• Systems Neurophysiology
• Mammalian Biochemistry–Techniques and Functional Regulation

Skills and careers

On completion of this modular and very flexible course that has plenty of choice, you will have a broad knowledge of the molecular, biochemical and physiological aspects to whole animal responses, drawing on examples from livestock animals, companion animals and humans. Through a major research project you will have worked in close collaboration with animals and/or undertaken laboratory procedures to study, for example, animal physiology, molecular biology or biochemistry at a molecular, tissue and organ level.

Professional Recognition

When combined with course modules specialising in animal nutrition, this course is accredited by The Association for Nutrition. After graduation you will be eligible to join their register of nutritionists. 

Average starting salary 

The average starting salary for 2009/10 full-time graduates of the School of Biosciences was £19,256.09.*

*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2009/10.