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Bachelor of Science

Animal Science: Pre-Vet/Graduate (B.S.)

Department of Agriculture & Food Science
The pre-vet/graduate emphasis in animal science is an introduction to veterinary medicine. The emphasis is built as a gateway into graduate school veterinary programs. This major combines all the pre-requisites and recommended courses for pre-vet students.
A BYU-Idaho professor and a pre-vet student give medicine to a lamb.
Learn More About the Pre-Vet/graduate Program
Request more information about the Pre-Vet/graduate program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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Pre-Vet/Graduate Introduction

If you want to be a veterinarian, animal science with an emphasis in pre-vet/graduate is the place to start. While similar to other animal science majors, the pre-vet/graduate emphasis takes more courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. These courses prepare you for veterinary school after graduation.

With a pre-vet/graduate emphasis, you’ll dive into:

  • Animal Nutrition 
  • Organic Chemistry 
  • Animal Anatomy 
  • Genetics 
  • Biochemistry 
  • Animal Physiology 

Highlighted Courses

If you are interested in Animal Science, start with one of the following major-specific courses:
General Chemistry I
November 07, 2025 10:05 AM
CHEM 105
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Introduction to Biology I
April 03, 2026 09:50 AM
BIO 180
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Introduction to Biology II
April 03, 2026 09:51 AM
BIO 181
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Animal Anatomy and Physiology
April 02, 2026 11:51 AM
AS 215
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Feeds and Nutrition
April 02, 2026 11:51 AM
AS 220
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Organic Chemistry I
April 03, 2026 09:52 AM
CHEM 351
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Genetics and Molecular Biology
April 03, 2026 09:52 AM
BIO 375
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Principles of Biochemistry
April 03, 2026 09:53 AM
BIO 385
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4-Year Plan
See Example Class Plan
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See all required courses

Salary Outlook for BYUI Graduates

Explore earnings data for BYU-Idaho students who graduated in animal science-related fields.

1 year

$32,157

Average Salary

5 years

$46,171

Average Salary

10 years

$68,249

Average Salary

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This data is based on outcomes for BYU-Idaho graduates with a degree in this major, using federal Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) data. It reflects actual earnings and employment over time, rather than job market estimates.

Career Possibilities for Animal Science

Graduates with a degree in Animal Science Pre-Vet 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.

Career Options

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Animal Science

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery
Get Connected - Sep 2021
Find the Right Fit
Animal Science vs Biology: Which Major Is Right for You?
May 26, 2026 01:38 PM
Animal Science and Biology both study life science, but which one you choose depends on the focus you want to have.
2 Min Read
Read More
Animal Food Science Lab - April 2025
Industry Insights
How a Pre-Vet Degree Will Prepare You to Be a Veterinarian
May 27, 2026 02:47 PM
If you’re dreaming of being a veterinarian, you’ve probably heard about getting a pre-vet degree first. You’ve also probably wondered what that even means, so this article is here to answer your many questions about the pre-vet degree. Read on to see how this degree can prepare you for veterinary school.
3 Min Read
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The Gardens - Sep 2025
Find the Right Fit
How Hard is a Pre-Vet Degree?
May 27, 2026 03:06 PM
Explore the science, study habits, and dedication involved in preparing for a career in veterinary medicine.
2 Min Read
Read More

AI in Academics

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

Learn more about AI in Academics
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.

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Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Learn How to Apply
Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
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Change Your Major
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.
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Learn More About the Pre-Vet/Graduate Program

Request more information about the Pre-Vet/Graduate program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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