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Bachelor of Science

Animal Science: Animal Science (B.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, welfare, and productivity of animals, as well as the quality and safety of animal products.

Animal Science Introduction

A BYU-Idaho student inspects a sheep's health with a monitoring machine.

The Bachelor of Science in Animal Science at BYU–Idaho opens the door to exciting careers and graduate opportunities in animal health, production, and research! Whether you dream of becoming a veterinarian, managing a ranch, or improving animal nutrition, this program gives you the knowledge, confidence, and real-world skills to make it happen. You’ll dive into hands-on learning built around the seven pillars of animal science:

  • Genetics: Discover what makes every animal unique! 
  • Reproduction: Explore how life begins and thrives. 
  • Nutrition: Learn to fuel animal health from the inside out. 
  • Production: Understand how to raise and manage animals sustainably. 
  • Behavior, Handling, and Welfare: Build trust and care for animals with compassion. 
  • Health and Disease: Keep animals healthy and strong through science-based care. 
  • Benefits and Use: See how animals contribute to agriculture and communities worldwide. 

Highlighted Courses

Build foundational knowledge in animal biology, nutrition, and physiology while developing practical skills through hands-on labs and internships. Prepare for diverse careers in animal care, agriculture, and related industries with expertise in economics and scientific principles.
November 03, 2025 11:43 AM
AS 239
November 03, 2025 11:37 AM
AS 247
November 03, 2025 11:38 AM
AS 315
November 03, 2025 11:39 AM
AS 333
November 03, 2025 11:40 AM
AS 336
November 03, 2025 11:42 AM
AS 355
November 03, 2025 11:41 AM
AS 365
October 31, 2025 11:29 AM
BIO 375
See Example Class Plan

Graduate Career-Ready

Graduates with a 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

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