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Associate of Science

Animal Science (A.S.)

Animal science is the study of how animals live, grow, and contribute to society—from livestock that sustain our food systems to companion animals that enrich our lives. This field combines biology, chemistry, and agricultural science to ensure the health

Animal Science Introduction

Request more information about the Animal Science program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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The associate degree in animal science at BYU-Idaho is designed to give students a solid foundation in animal science. From working in the lab to learning in the classroom, you’ll learn how to succeed in the field of animal science. From animal handling and anatomy to general chemistry and math, this associate degree offers you an extensive introduction into the field of animal science.

While this is only a two-year program, you’ll take classes in:

  • Beef Production (AS360): Learn how to ethically produce beef for the market and learn tools and trends in the beef industry. 

Highlighted Courses

If you are interested in Animal Science, start with one of the following courses:
April 02, 2026 11:50 AM
AS 135
April 02, 2026 11:48 AM
AS 150
April 02, 2026 11:51 AM
AS 215
April 02, 2026 11:51 AM
AS 220
November 03, 2025 11:37 AM
AS 247
November 03, 2025 11:40 AM
AS 336
April 02, 2026 11:52 AM
AS 340
April 02, 2026 11:53 AM
AS 380
See Example Class Plan

Graduate Career-Ready

Graduates with an associates degree in Animal Science have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

BYU-Idaho Graduate Salaries

Graduates from this program typically begin rewarding careers in animal health, nutrition, and livestock operations with starting salaries ranging from $48,000 to $62,000. Your earning potential increases as you advance into specialized roles such as a research scientist or livestock manager within national agricultural and veterinary health companies.

Common Career Paths

You will be prepared for impactful roles in animal production, research assistance, and technical support across the global agricultural industry. This major provides the hands on experience and scientific training necessary to lead in diverse settings from veterinary clinics to large scale ranching operations.

Preparation for Grad School

This degree provides a rigorous academic foundation for students pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or advanced research based master’s and doctoral programs. You will graduate with the specialized knowledge in genetics, physiology, and nutrition required to excel in the nation's most competitive agricultural and animal biology graduate schools.

AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

AI in Animal Science
You will learn to leverage AI supported tools to analyze animal performance data and health outcomes while maintaining sound scientific and ethical judgment. Our curriculum prepares you to integrate emerging technologies into agricultural systems to improve efficiency and animal welfare while upholding gospel centered principles and respect for all life.
Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness
AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.

Related Majors

Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.

Learn More About the Animal Science Program

Request more information about the Animal Science program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

Request More Information