Animal Science, BSc (Hons), Newcastle University

About Animal Science, BSc (Hons) - at Newcastle University

Course Overview

This degree provides an in-depth study of how animals behave and function, and could lead to a vocational career in the animal sector.

At a Glance

UCAS Code
C305

UCAS Institution Name and Code
NEWC, N21

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Degree Awarded
BSc Honours

Course Duration
3 Years

Entry Requirements Icon

Entry Requirements
A Level: ABB-BBB
IB:32-35 points

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Opportunities
Work placement

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You'll study subjects that reflect the whole life of an animal, such as:

• microbiology and biochemistry
• animal health and behaviour
• animal reproduction and nutrition

We bring your learning to life through extensive interaction with animals throughout your degree. You'll gain practical experience through regular visits to local animal centres and the University's two farms.

Your third year group project to organise a conference on animal science equips you with marketable skills such as project management, organisation and teamworking.

You can boost your employability and professional skills with an optional placement year in industry, or a summer internship in the commercial sector. 

An exciting part of your degree is your research project, where you undertake a piece of original research on a subject of your choice. This may be carried out in the lab, in the field or even overseas.

You also have the chance to study and learn alongside staff in the Animal Science research group, who are internationally recognised for their research.

Highlights of this degree

Study at the cutting edge

Study at the cutting edge

Our curriculum is shaped by the discoveries of the University's specialist Animal Science research group, who have particular expertise in the assessment of animal welfare.

You will study modules designed around the latest research discoveries of our staff, meaning you will be learning at the cutting-edge of the discipline.

You'll also have the chance to conduct research of your own by undertaking an optional research project in Stage 3.

As the degree progresses, you can tailor it to your own animal interests, specialising in either companion animals (including cats, dogs, horses and other less common pet species) or farm animals (including cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry). However, you will also maintain some study of the other animal grouping.

Boost your employability with a work placement

Boost your employability with a work placement

Apply to spend a year on an optional work placement between Stages 2 and 3. 

The School will give you support to apply for a suitable placement, including help to write your CV to send out to our wide range of industry contacts.

You'll gain first-hand experience of working in the sector, putting your learning into practice and developing your professional expertise.

If you impress your host company, it could even result in a job offer on graduation.

Work related skills

Work related skills

The development of transferable skills is a priority throughout the course. Opportunities to develop these skills include work placements, the final year conference and our Career Development module. 

Work placements

There are placement opportunities with our partner animal centres or through our contacts in animal charities and industry. This provides valuable work experience, the chance to develop your practical animal experience, and the opportunity to make industry contacts.

Final-year conference

You'll have the opportunity to work as a team to plan and host a conference on animal health. This will help you to develop and demonstrate transferable skills such as project management, organisation and communication.

Career Development Module

The Career Service's Careers Modules enables you to choosing modules in business, marketing or a modern language, enhancing your career options on graduation.

Study visits

Study visits

Our strong links with local animal centres means that you take part in regular study visits and develop hands-on practical skills.

We place strong emphasis on developing skills such as behaviour observation and animal welfare assessment techniques.

You'll also have opportunities to visit the University's two commercial farms and local:

• stables and riding schools
• kennels
• animal rescue centres
• livery yards
• zoological gardens

Facilities and support

This degree is run by the School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, located at the heart of campus in the Agriculture Building.

Facilities

Facilities include well-equipped modern laboratories and two University farms, Cockle Park and Nafferton, which are used for research, teaching and demonstrations.

Support

You'll be supported throughout your degree by a personal tutor

Entry requirements

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