ANS_BS - Animal Sciences

About this Program

• College: Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Degree: Bachelor of Science
• Specializations: Animal Biology | Equine | Food Animal | Integrative Animal Sciences
• Credits for Degree: 120

To graduate with this major, students must complete all university, college, and major requirements.

The Animal Sciences major develops fundamental knowledge of livestock animals. Students in the major choose one of the four specializations based on their career goals. The specializations are tailored to meet the needs of preprofessional students, students preparing for graduate school, and students preparing to enter careers in the agricultural industry.

Specializations

Animal Biology

The animal biology specialization prepares students for professional and graduate programs, including veterinary school. Through lectures and hands-on labs, students learn about the biological and physiological sciences of livestock species. Students get a strong foundation in nutrition, reproduction, growth, genetics, and more.

Equine

The equine specialization offers students a comprehensive education in the management, care, and biological and physiological science of horses. Through lectures and hands-on labs in the department’s teaching and research facilities, students study equine nutrition, reproduction, genetics and more. This track prepares graduates for successful careers in the equine industry and graduate programs.

Food Animal

The food animal specialization is for students who wish to focus on livestock production and management and processing of animal-sourced foods. Students may choose from coursework relative to beef cattle, dairy cattle, small ruminants, swine, poultry, and/or meat and food safety. Through lectures and hands-on labs in the department’s teaching and research facilities, students study nutrition, reproduction, genetics and more. This track prepares graduates for successful careers in the livestock industry and graduate programs.

Integrative Animal Sciences

The integrative specialization is designed for students who wish to obtain a customized degree in animal sciences with a focus on a discipline or intersection between disciplines. Students work with an advisor to create a plan that is tailored to their career interests and goals. In addition to core animal sciences subjects, students choose a concentration to expand on, including nutrition, reproduction, animal behavior, environmental science, Artificial Intelligence, or One Health. This track is not intended for students planning on applying to professional programs, such as veterinary school.

Relevant Minors and/or Certificates

Career preparation can be strengthened through minors and certificates offered by UF. The Animal Sciences department offers an Animal Genetics Certificate, which provides students a background in Mendelian, population and quantitative genetic inheritance, in-dept knowledge of genetic improvement and management programs, and the application of genetic principles towards the improvement of the health and production of livestock and domestic animals.
More Info

The Animal Sciences department does not offer any minors at this time.

Research

Animal Sciences students are encouraged to participate in research. Undergraduate research provides students with valuable hands-on experiences and important connections with faculty and researchers that can translate into opportunities post-graduation. Students are encouraged to explore what interests them most and what might be beneficial for their academic and career goals. They then should connect with faculty members about opportunities that might be available. Students may speak with an academic advisor about qualifying for academic credit.