Bachelor of Science majoring in Animal Behaviour

At the University of Adelaide, the Bachelor of Science majoring in Animal Behaviour offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on learning experiences that are essential for understanding animal behavior in real-world contexts. The program is designed to equip you with practical skills through a variety of engaging activities, including field trips, laboratory work, and collaborative projects. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance your learning and research capabilities.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Field Trips: Engage in fieldwork that allows you to observe animals in their natural habitats, providing invaluable insights into their behavior and ecology.
- Laboratory Facilities: Utilize specialized laboratories equipped for behavioral research, where you can conduct experiments and analyze data on animal behavior.
- Research Institutes: Collaborate with renowned research institutes, such as the Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health, which focuses on animal behavior and welfare.
- Internships: Gain practical experience through internships with wildlife organizations, zoos, and conservation programs, allowing you to apply your knowledge in professional settings.
- Group Projects: Work alongside your peers on collaborative projects that foster teamwork and enhance your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios.
- Digital Tools: Access advanced software and digital tools for data analysis and behavioral observation, preparing you for modern research methodologies.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to scientific journals and databases that support your studies and research.

Embarking on this journey will not only deepen your understanding of animal behavior but also empower you with the skills and experiences needed to make a meaningful impact in the field.

Graduating from the Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour) at the University of Adelaide prepares you for a career focused on understanding, managing, and improving animal welfare across a wide range of industries. You’ll build strong scientific, behavioural, and practical skills through real-world placements and research—making you ready for both hands-on roles and further study.

Typical career pathways include:

• Animal behaviourist or animal trainer
• Animal welfare or shelter officer
• Wildlife or conservation officer
• Research assistant in animal science or behaviour

From here, your future develops with clear direction and flexibility:

• Strong employability support:
  • Complete 120 hours of professional placement in settings like shelters, training facilities, farms, or zoological parks
  • Gain experience through fieldwork, study tours, and research projects, building real-world skills and confidence
  • Develop core employability skills such as animal handling, research analysis, communication, and problem-solving
• Employment outcomes & industry demand:
  • Graduates are prepared for careers across animal welfare, conservation, training, and research sectors
  • Opportunities exist in zoos, wildlife parks, farms, research facilities, and government organisations through industry-aligned training
  • Growing global focus on animal welfare and behaviour science increases long-term demand for skilled professionals
• University–industry partnerships:
  • Placements available across animal shelters, wildlife conservation organisations, farms, research facilities, and training organisations
  • Study at the Roseworthy campus, a specialist hub with strong links to animal and veterinary industries
  • Learn from leading researchers in animal behaviour, ensuring your knowledge is current and industry-relevant
• Long-term value of the degree:
  • Builds expertise in animal behaviour, welfare, ethics, and management, key areas in modern animal-related industries
  • Develops strong scientific thinking, research, and analytical skills that are transferable across multiple science careers
• Graduation outcomes:
  • Graduate as a skilled animal behaviour science professional with hands-on experience
  • Ready to work across animal care, conservation, research, and welfare sectors
  • Well-prepared for advanced study or specialised career pathways in animal science

Further Academic Progression:

This degree is designed to keep your options open and growing:

• Progress into an Honours year in Animal Behaviour or Animal Science to specialise and strengthen research skills
• Pursue a Master’s or PhD in areas like behavioural ecology, zoology, conservation biology, or animal welfare science
• Use this degree as a pathway into veterinary science (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) or related professional programs
• Move into research or academia, contributing to animal welfare, conservation, and behavioural science innovation

In simple terms, this program gives you both practical career readiness and strong academic progression—whether you want to start working with animals immediately or continue toward becoming a specialist or veterinarian.