Undergraduate Program in Animal & Food Sciences
What is Animal and Food Sciences?
Animals have many important roles in human societies including the provision of food and fiber, draft power, recreational and athletic activities, and companionship. Their interactions with humans have environmental consequences with local, regional, and global impacts. In addition, the processing, preservation, and quality of animal-derived foods are of significant economic and safety importance. Animal sciences involves studying and applying the basic principles of nutrition, reproduction, and genetics to the production and management of domesticated animals. A particular strength of the Department is the integration of the production and handling of animal-derived foods.
Why Major in Animal and Food Sciences?
The major might be appropriate if you are interested in:
- preparing for graduate or veterinary school.
- managing a farm or business related to animal agriculture.
- a career in technical sales or service; cooperative extension; or government as it relates to animal agriculture.
- a career in food manufacturing, processing, or research.
Students interested in Animal and Food Sciences come from varied backgrounds and their interests range from animal production and management to marketing and public relations; from public education and extension to graduate training in research, teaching and veterinary medicine. The major will allow you to combine your interests with the desire for an exciting and rewarding career. Students get hands-on experience with the department's herds and flocks in addition to the meats and research laboratories. Internships, externships, and summer employment offer opportunities to obtain a variety of work experiences.
Students majoring in Food Science should visit the Food Science Undergraduate Program site for specific information.
Students majoring in Animal Sciences follow a curriculum that emphasizes scientific disciplines and applied animal production.
As an Animal Sciences major, students can pursue specific interests by one of the following Options:
The pre-professional option prepares students for applying to professional schools (such as Veterinary, Medical, Dental, or Pharmacy), pursuing advanced graduate degrees in animal science related disciplines, and seeking careers in research or technical services related to animal production.
Animal Enterprises and Production Option
The animal enterprises and production option allows students to focus their studies on animal care and management and allied areas such as agronomy, accounting, agricultural economics, and business. This option prepares students to go directly into careers within the animal agriculture industries. Students can choose to specialize in food animal or equine.
What can I do with an Animal Sciences Degree?
There are over 500 different job classifications for animal science graduates
What if I am transferring from BCTC?
If you are an Animal Science transfer student from BCTC please consult the BCTC-UK Pathway to Transfer Guide. BCTC students planning on transferring to the University of Kentucky should work closely with the UK Transfer Advisor to ensure they are addressing both BCTC and UK requirements.
If you are planning on transferring from another junior college or community college please consult the Transfer Evaluation System to determine how classes articulate to the University of Kentucky.
What scholarships are available through the University and College?
University of Kentucky scholarship information
College of Agriculture, Food and Environment scholarship information
