Animal Science

Animal science is the applied biological study of domesticated animals, encompassing their genetics, nutrition, physiology, reproduction, health, and welfare. It is a discipline with direct relevance to food production, animal welfare, veterinary practice, equine industries, and the management of companion animals. Animal scientists contribute to the efficiency and sustainability of livestock production, the development of improved breeds, the monitoring and improvement of animal welfare standards, and the understanding of animal behaviour in managed environments.

The subject demands a rigorous grounding in biology alongside practical engagement with the animals themselves.

At Aberystwyth University, this three-year full-time programme draws on excellent facilities that make it particularly well placed for hands-on learning. The university's commercially run farms provide a working agricultural context for your studies, the equine teaching centre supports work with horses, and a range of teaching and research laboratories are available for scientific study. Aberystwyth is also home to the only Veterinary School in Wales, which means the animal science programme benefits from proximity to veterinary expertise and from an institutional commitment to animal health and production science.

You will study animal nutrition, genetics, physiology, reproduction, welfare, and management, developing both theoretical understanding and practical skills.

You will engage with the scientific literature, design and interpret experiments, and develop the analytical skills needed to evaluate evidence and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. The programme prepares you to think critically about the management of animals in both productive and welfare contexts.

Graduates from animal science programmes pursue careers in livestock farming and farm management, agricultural consultancy, feed and nutrition companies, veterinary pharmaceutical businesses, animal welfare organisations, equine industries, research institutions, and government agencies concerned with animal health and food safety. Postgraduate study in animal science, veterinary science, or a related discipline is a well-established route for those seeking specialist professional or research roles.