Animals have many important roles in human societies including the provision of food and fiber, draft power, recreational and athletic activities, and companionship. In addition, animals and their interactions with humans have environmental consequences. Processing, preservation, and quality of animal-derived foods significantly affect human health and economics. Animal Sciences involves studying and applying the basic principles of nutrition, reproduction, and genetics to the production and management of animals including horses, dairy and beef cattle, sheep, swine, poultry, and other domesticated species. Additional course work provides information on production and handling of animal-derived foods.
No one program fits all Animal Sciences students. Students come from varied backgrounds and their interests range from livestock and poultry production and management to marketing and public relations; from public education and extension to graduate training in research and teaching and veterinary medicine. No matter what species you have an interest in, the Animal Sciences major will allow you to combine your interest with your desire for an exciting and rewarding career.
As an Animal Sciences major, students have the opportunity to pursue specific interests by selecting one of two study options: Pre-Professional or Animal Enterprises and Production. The Pre-Professional option is a rigorous study program for students with interests in veterinary sciences, human medicine, and graduate research. Students must consult the pre-professional advisor or graduate school advisor of the university to which they intend on applying for additional or specific requirements. The Animal Enterprises and Production option is for students interested in focusing on animal care and management as well as allied areas such as agronomy, agricultural economics, and business. Within the Animal Enterprises and Production, students may choose a) no specialization b) equine specialization or c) food animal specialization.
Career Opportunities
To keep pace with the food, fiber, and recreation requirements of a growing world population, Animal Sciences graduates are needed in the livestock industry and closely related fields. The Animal Sciences major offers considerable flexibility in fulfilling specific career objectives, whether you are interested in working directly with livestock or indirectly in closely related areas such as agribusiness, research, government, or education.
Graduation Requirements
To earn the Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences, the student must have a minimum of 120 credit hours with at least a 2.0 grade-point standing. A minimum of 45 credit hours must be from upper division courses (300 and above). Remedial courses may not be counted toward the total hours required for the degree. In addition to UK Core requirements, students must complete college, departmental and specialty support requirements.
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