Animal Science [with Foundation Year]

Develop expertise in animal biology, health, nutrition, behaviour and welfare through hands-on practice and cutting-edge scientific learning.

Our BSc (Hons) Animal Science degree blends pure and applied science with hands-on animal management. You’ll explore animal biology, behaviour, health, genetics, nutrition and welfare while developing strong practical and communication skills. Through laboratory work, animal handling sessions, industry links and interactions with industry professionals, you’ll apply scientific principles to real-world contexts, preparing you for diverse animal-related careers or postgraduate study.

Why ARU?

• Gain a strong scientific foundation through a blend of pure and applied animal sciences

• Develop practical competence with a wide range of domesticated and captive species

• Learn from industry-recognised experts and guest speakers from leading animal organisations

• Benefit from hands-on animal handling sessions and dedicated laboratory facilities

• Apply your knowledge through field visits and real-world industry engagement

• Graduate equipped for careers in welfare, research, farming, veterinary support or progress onto further education

The course begins by covering the core principals of biology, ethics, behaviour, nutrition, genetics, health and essential practical and professional skills.

In your second and third year, you’ll deepen this knowledge and have the opportunity to specialise in areas that interest you, such as bioveterinary science or farm livestock. In your final year, you’ll complete a capstone project, conducting research a topic of your choice, applying your skills in data analysis, research and communication, while demonstrating your expertise across animal science and welfare.

Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.

Year 1:
Academic and Personal Management Skills (20 credits)
Biological Concepts (Introduction to Laboratory Skills) (20 credits)
Maths for IT and Science (15 credits)
Chemistry for Life Sciences (15 credits)
Applied Industry Techniques (30 credits)
Independent (Themed) Project (20 credits)

Year 2:
Biology (30 credits)
Ecology and Evolution (15 credits)
Industry Skills and Professional Wellbeing (30 credits)
Ethics of Animal Use (15 credits)
Human-Animal Interaction (15 credits)
Into ARU

Year 3:
Ruskin Module (15 credits)
Behaviour (15 credits)
Nutritional Biochemistry (15 credits)
Research Methods (15 credits)
Animal Breeding and Development (15 credits)
Animal Health Science (15 credits)
High Welfare Animal Production (15 credits) *
Livestock from Farm to Fork (15 credits) *
Veterinary Interventions and Diagnostics (30 credits) *

Year 4:
Major Project (30 credits)
Applied Behaviour and Animal Welfare (15 credits)
Advanced Animal Health Science (15 credits)
Applied Nutrition and Feeding (15 credits)
Genetics and Genomics (15 credits)
Livestock Technology (15 credits) *
Resilient Future Farming - Animal Production (15 credits) *
Developments in Veterinary Science (30 credits) *

We will assess your progress in a number of ways. This includes practical assessments with companion and zoo animals, farm livestock and horses, as well as examinations such as multiple-choice and essay questions. You’ll also complete presentations, both individually and in small groups, along with written work including essays, technical reports and your dissertation. Other forms of assessment include seminars, case studies, experimental work, laboratory reports, poster presentations and debates.