Animal Science

Animal and Veterinary Science is the area of biology that deals with dairy, equine, zoos, exotics and companion animals.

What is outstanding about Animal and Veterinary Science at UVM?

When studying this discipline at UVM, students, with assistance from faculty advisors, develop individualized programs in one of four focus areas that each lead to a B.S. degree. These programs apply to farms, laboratories, zoos, and companion animals; their interaction with human society; and the contribution of animal products, such as milk and meat, to the world food supply.

UVM Animal and Veterinary Science majors receive a hands-on experience that shapes them to be job-ready at graduation.

All focus areas concentrate on:

• Science-based curriculum: Program of study includes animal biology, nutrition, genetics, animal health, biology, chemistry, and math, coupled with a liberal education.
• Undergraduate research and internships: Research opportunities are abundant and students can pursue or develop internships related to animal and veterinary sciences.
• Hands-on experience: UVM facilities are poised to provide a combination of classroom, barn, and laboratory time.
• Positive and friendly environment: Students are nurtured to maximize achievements and place themselves in a favorable position for subsequent career development.

Focus Areas

Pre-Veterinary/Pre-Professional
Students with this focus area will concentrate on courses relating to the feeding, breeding, health and management of dairy cattle, and also financial and small business management.

Zoos, Exotics, and Companion Animals
This focus area is designed for students who are primarily interested in zoo, exotic, and companion animals and are interested in transitioning to jobs in these industries after graduation. Learn about studying zoo, exotic and companion animals.

Equine Science
This focus offers specialized courses on the care, management, breeding, and health of horses.  Our goal is to provide students with the mix of science, business and personal skills to succeed with careers in the equine industry. Learn about studying equine science.

Dairy Science
Students selecting this focus area will concentrate on courses relating to the feeding, breeding, health and management of dairy cattle, and also financial and small business management.

Detailed Focus Area Information 

High school/Secondary school Information

We will need the following documents from your school:

• Official secondary school transcript sent by your school (official English translation required)
• If available, first quarter grades or mid-year grades

• Animal nutritionist
• Barn Manager
• Veterinarian
• Researchers, lab technicians
• Educators
• Gamekeepers
• Animal trainers
• Embryologist
• Geneticist
• Meat scientist
• Lawyer
• Molecular biologist
• Marine biologist
• Regulatory affairs specialist
• Science/technical writer

You may choose between the following applications: the COALITION APP or the COMMON APP

There is no advantage/disadvantage to using either application format.