Major in Animal Science
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
What is a Major in Animal Science?
This program examines the scientific aspects of animals and livestock, including physiology, genetics, biochemistry, nutrition and behaviour. You’ll gain knowledge and practical skills in animal production systems including dairy, swine, beef, poultry and diversified livestock in the context of agricultural systems. Graduates receive the research skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a range of livestock and agriculture fields with first-hand experience in the faculty's animal research facilities.
This program leads to a number of other opportunities:
- Complete your Pre-Vet Concentration in this major, including your pre-veterinary medicine requirements for University of Calgary Veterinary Medicine and other veterinary programs.
- After three years of study at the University of Alberta, you may be eligible to complete both your BSc and BVM&S at the University of Edinburgh.
You’ll also be able to pursue accreditation as a professional agrologist (P.Ag) following this degree.
Get to know Animal Science
Experience active research and operations at the U of A, such as at the Dairy Research & Training Centre at South Campus. You can even volunteer with Hands on a Holstein to apply what you learn in the classroom in a practical environment and observe complex issues facing the future of agriculture in real time. This technical experience can heighten portfolios when applying to veterinary schools.
Featured Courses
The physiological basis of reproduction, fertility and embryonic development in domestic animals in relation to animal productivity. The study of the physiological mechanisms regulating gonadal function, fertilization, implantation, pregnancy and parturition as well as the physiological basis for sound reproductive management.
Principles of maintaining healthy animals, and an examination of current issues related to animal health and disease. Infectious and non-infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health and may impact international trade and export. Principles and mechanisms of immunity, disease surveillance, pathophysiology, treatment, prevention, management and economic impact of specific diseases and risks of bioterrorism.
The conversion of muscle to meat in livestock and poultry: definitions and measurement of carcass and meat quality; influences of pre- and post-slaughter factors on carcass and meat quality. The lab will consist of a two day field trip during Reading Week.
Application of genetic/genomic principles and methods to the improvement of livestock and poultry.
Feature Careers
Livestock and poultry producers own, manage, and direct farm operations. They raise cattle, swine, sheep, poultry, and alternative livestock. Average salary: $73,729
Agrologists offer advice and services related to agricultural and environmental science and technology. They apply scientific principles to the cultivation, production, use and improvement of plants and animals, and to the management of associated resources. Agrology is a regulated profession in Alberta. Graduates from the BSc in Agriculture are eligible to become a Professional Agrologist (P.Ag). Average Salary: $82,405
Source: Government of Alberta, Occupations in Alberta
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