University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The Animal Sciences degree provides a foundation in animal biology, physiology, nutrition and genetics while emphasising practical skills in animal management and welfare. The curriculum blends classroom lectures, laboratory work and on-farm experiences through the University of Tennessee's land‑grant resources.

• Core subjects: introductory animal science, animal anatomy and physiology, animal nutrition, genetics and breeding, reproduction and endocrinology.
• Production and management: beef, dairy, equine and poultry production systems, herd health and biosecurity, pasture and forage management.
• Applied skills and industry topics: meat science and carcass evaluation, animal behaviour and welfare, applied farm management, business and economics of animal enterprises.
• Research and methods: animal research methods, statistics for life sciences, laboratory techniques and a capstone or senior research project.
• Experiential learning: supervised practicum, work placements, internships and extension‑based field experiences facilitated by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and campus farms.
• Electives and concentrations: options may include companion animal studies, livestock breeding, nutrition specialisations, animal welfare, or industry‑focused courses to tailor study to career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school certificate with a strong academic record. Typical preparation includes courses in biology, chemistry and mathematics. Admissions consider overall academic performance, coursework relevant to science, and any practical experience with animals.

• High school coursework recommended: biology, chemistry, algebra or precalculus, and English.
• Standardised tests: the University of Tennessee may operate test‑optional or consider SAT/ACT results according to current admissions policy; check the university admissions pages for details.
• Transfer applicants: college transcripts, completion of foundational science and general education requirements, and evidence of academic readiness for upper‑level work.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualification, proof of English language proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL) where required, and submission of credential evaluations when applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across animal‑focused industries and further study. The degree provides both technical and managerial skills sought by employers.

• Livestock production manager, herd or flock supervisor
• Nutritionist or feed formulation specialist
• Meat science technician, quality assurance or processing roles
• Research technician or laboratory assistant in animal biology and agro‑science
• Extension agent, farm advisor or outreach specialist through public and cooperative extension services
• Sales or technical representative for animal health, feed or biotechnology companies
• Pathway to professional programmes: veterinary school, animal science graduate degrees, or allied health and research careers
• Animal welfare officer, shelter management or companion animal industry positions

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee is a land‑grant university with a long tradition of applied agricultural and animal science research. Students benefit from access to campus farms, dedicated teaching herds, modern laboratories and the university's extension network which supports real‑world learning and industry contacts.

• Strong emphasis on experiential learning through practicum, internships and extension projects.
• Faculty engaged in applied and fundamental research across nutrition, genetics, reproduction and meat science, offering research and mentoring opportunities.
• Connections to regional agricultural industries, processing facilities and veterinary clinics that support work placements and career networking.
• Resources from the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture that enhance student training in production, business and policy aspects of animal agriculture.