Animal Science

Animal science is the academic study of domestic and commercially important animal species, examining their physiology, nutrition, genetics, behaviour, health and welfare. It is a discipline with direct applications in agriculture, veterinary support, food production, conservation and the development of more sustainable and humane ways of managing animals in human care. At Anglia Ruskin University, this three-year full-time degree provides a grounding in the biological sciences underlying animal management, with particular attention to the livestock, companion animal and wildlife species most relevant to professional practice in the UK and internationally.

You will study animal anatomy and physiology, nutrition and feeding systems, genetics and breeding, animal behaviour, health and disease, and the welfare assessment frameworks that are increasingly central to professional animal management. The programme develops practical skills alongside theoretical understanding, and there are opportunities to engage with animals in real management contexts throughout your studies. Anglia Ruskin's East of England location gives access to a range of agricultural and animal care facilities.

The programme is accessible, with a typical entry tariff of around 120 points, and there are flexible entry and exit routes including Certificate of Higher Education after year one, making it possible to step into or out of the programme at different points.

Graduates from animal science degrees pursue careers in agricultural management, veterinary nursing support roles, livestock production, food industry quality assurance, conservation management, research and animal welfare organisations. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in animal science, veterinary science, wildlife conservation or food science, and for further professional qualifications in animal health and welfare. The growing emphasis on sustainable and welfare-conscious food production means that well-trained animal scientists are in sustained demand across the food and agriculture sectors.