BSc Hons Animal Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Animal Science at the University of Nottingham is perfect for students who are passionate about animal biology, health, and welfare, and who want to explore how science can improve the lives of animals and the sustainability of production systems. This program blends biological sciences with practical experience, preparing students for careers that make a real impact in animal management, research, and welfare.

Curriculum Structure:
In the first year, students build a strong scientific foundation through modules such as Animal Biology, Principles of Animal Nutrition, and Introduction to Animal Physiology. This stage focuses on understanding how animals function, how their bodies work, and how they interact with their environments, while also developing key laboratory and research skills.

The second year deepens understanding of applied animal science, with modules like Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Animal Health and Disease, and Applied Animal Nutrition. Students explore the relationship between animal physiology and management, learning how to assess welfare, control disease, and enhance productivity in sustainable ways.

In the final year, students refine their expertise through advanced study and independent research. Modules such as Livestock Production Systems, Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare, and an Independent Research Project allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges, developing the analytical and problem-solving skills needed for professional success.

Focus Areas: Animal physiology, nutrition, behaviour, genetics, health, welfare, and sustainable production systems.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be equipped to analyze and solve complex issues in animal health and welfare, conduct scientific research, and apply biological principles to improve animal management and sustainability.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, reflecting its high scientific and professional standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Nottingham is ranked among the UK’s top institutions for agriculture and animal science, with its biosciences graduates consistently achieving strong employment outcomes worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BSc (Hons) Animal Science at the University of Nottingham is designed to give students hands-on experience from the very start, helping them apply scientific knowledge to real-life animal management and research. Practical learning is at the heart of this degree — students work directly with animals, conduct experiments in modern laboratories, and use the university’s commercial farms and research facilities to explore the science behind animal health, nutrition, and welfare. This balance of theory and application ensures graduates develop the confidence and technical skills needed for professional success.

Students have access to an outstanding range of learning environments and specialist facilities that bring animal science to life:

Sutton Bonington Campus: A dedicated biosciences campus featuring extensive farmland, teaching laboratories, and animal units for both livestock and companion animals.
Centre for Dairy Science Innovation: A leading research facility where students can observe sustainable livestock production systems and animal welfare practices in action.
University Farm and Dairy Unit: A fully operational commercial farm that supports teaching and research, allowing students to gain practical experience in managing animal nutrition, breeding, and welfare.
Research and Teaching Laboratories: Equipped with the latest technology for studies in physiology, microbiology, genetics, and nutrition, giving students real scientific and analytical experience.
Field Trips and Industry Visits: Opportunities to visit farms, research centers, and animal welfare organizations to understand how science is applied across different animal sectors.
Group Research Projects: Collaborative assignments and experiments that help students build teamwork, communication, and research skills.
Specialist Libraries and Digital Tools: Access to the Sutton Bonington library and digital resources that support coursework, lab analysis, and independent research.

Through this immersive learning environment, students graduate not only with deep scientific knowledge but also with the hands-on expertise and problem-solving mindset that employers in animal science and related industries value most.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Animal Science at the University of Nottingham leave with the scientific expertise, analytical skills, and real-world experience that make them highly employable in a wide range of animal-related industries. This degree opens doors to careers focused on animal welfare, research, and sustainable production systems. Typical career roles include: Animal Nutritionist, Welfare Officer, Livestock Production Manager, and Animal Research Scientist.

The University of Nottingham provides strong support to help students succeed in their professional journey and stand out to employers:

Careers and Employability Service: Offers personalised guidance, employer networking events, and workshops that help students identify career goals, prepare strong applications, and connect with industry professionals.
Strong Industry Partnerships: The School of Biosciences collaborates with organizations such as the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), British Society of Animal Science, and global agrifood companies, ensuring students gain exposure to current industry practices and opportunities.
Graduate Success: Over 90% of biosciences graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of completing their degree, reflecting the university’s strong reputation for employability.
Professional Recognition: Accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology enhances the long-term value of the degree, giving graduates professional credibility and a pathway toward chartered status.
Career Diversity: Many graduates also find roles in animal welfare organizations, research institutes, veterinary support, and government agencies involved in food and environmental policy.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this program, students can progress to advanced study, such as a master’s degree or PhD in Animal Science, Veterinary Biosciences, or related life science fields. Graduates with a strong research interest may also continue their academic journey within the university’s own world-class research centres, contributing to innovations in animal health, genetics, and sustainable production.