The Animal Sciences at The Ohio State University is a Bachelor program designed for students who want to build the knowledge and skills required for careers in this field. Delivered on campus at the Columbus campus in United States of America, the program is taught in English and takes 4 years to complete. Students study in a Full Time environment while preparing for future professional opportunities. The next intake starts on August 24, 2027.

About Bachelor of Animal Sciences

Study the basic principles of science and their application to the biological, economic and environmental aspects of livestock and poultry production, companion and recreational animals, and the processing of animal products.

Animal Sciences

Degree: BS

Campus: Columbus

College: Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

Animal science is the study of the basic principles of science and their application to the biological, economic and environmental aspects of livestock and poultry production, companion and recreational animals, and the processing of animal products. Students will receive a firm foundation in the basic science disciplines, which include population and molecular genetics, nutrition, physiology (lactational, reproductive and growth), biotechnology, behavior, management, and welfare.

Get started

Admitted students who indicate animal sciences as a major on their applications are directly enrolled into the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

Curriculum

Students in the animal sciences major must complete FAES 1100, 39 to 40 credit hours in the major, 12 to 15 credit hours in a minor (selected at the end of the sophomore year), two credits (200 hours) of internship experience and sufficient electives to make a total of 121 hours of credit for graduation.

Students in the major take core courses that include Animal Handling, Introduction to Animal Sciences (with subsequent laboratory), Reproductive Physiology, Animal Health, Applied Animal Bioscience Laboratory, nutrition, genetics, a production and management course, a second production course that could include study abroad and/or industry experience, and an internship. Beyond these required courses, students work with their advisors to select a series of elective courses (10 to 11 credits) that will best prepare them for their career goals.

Within the major, students have the opportunity to specialize in the following areas: animal biosciences (a pre-vet track), animal industries, veterinary technology and nutrition.

Nutrition Option

Students majoring in animal sciences who are interested in the absorption, metabolism and functions of nutrients may elect to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, an interdisciplinary program involving the departments of animal sciences and human nutrition. This degree includes all courses required for students interested in applying to veterinary, medical, pharmacy, dental and optometry schools. Students will select from core courses including nutrition, Principles of Animal Systems Physiology, Applied Animal Research Methods Laboratory, Ruminant Nutrition, Nonruminant Nutrition, Nutritional Immunology, Comparative Nutrient Metabolism, and nine elective hours within advanced nutrition and metabolism between animal sciences and human nutrition.

Veterinary Technology Option

This option allows students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from The Ohio State University and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Veterinary Technology from Columbus State Community College (CSCC) in a four-year period of time.

Students can obtain the certification or licensure by the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners as a veterinary technician. In addition to the typical careers available to animal sciences majors, students may also pursue careers in the field of veterinary medicine such as veterinary technician, animal behavior counselor, biomedical research technologist, laboratory animal manager, veterinary instructor, health technologist, specialty practice technician, and clinic or hospital team leaders and/or staff supervisors.

Students will complete their first year at Ohio State, and the second, third and fourth years are split between Ohio State and CSCC. Summer course work is required during the second year of the program. Students will complete four clinical experiences at private clinical practices, research centers, emergency/specialty hospitals, diagnostic laboratories or zoos. Interested students must attend a mandatory information session at Ohio State in October of their freshman year to be considered for the program.

Study abroad

More than 70 percent of students enrolled in the program participate in the departmental study abroad experiences to Ireland, New Zealand, Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy and South Africa. Each trip is faculty-led with opportunities to receive academic credit. Students may also choose to participate in research internships with opportunities to present their research both locally and nationally.

Internship

The Department of Animal Sciences provides many opportunities for students to participate in hands-on learning through the use of our animals, field trips, laboratory and field research, and internships.

Research

Animal science majors are encouraged to participate in research. Subject areas include advanced bioenergy and biobased products; environmental quality and sustainability; food security, protection and human health; and faculty animal concentration areas. More information can be found on our website.

Student organizations

Students can gain valuable critical thinking and communication skills through the Dairy Cattle, Equine, Livestock, Meat and/or Poultry Selection and Evaluation Teams, as well as the Animal Science Academic Quadrathlon.

Animal sciences students can also join Animal Welfare and Behavior Club, Buckeye Dairy Science Club, Horsemen's Association, Human and Animal Interactions Club, Meat Science Club, the Pre-Veterinary Medical Association, Poultry Science Club, Saddle and Sirloin, Shades of Animal Sciences, and the department's student leadership team.

Possible careers

Students may prepare themselves for a variety of careers in science, business, or even communications and education. Graduates find employment in research laboratories, biotechnical industries, chemical/pharmaceutical companies, genetics and nutrition companies, allied industry associations, government agencies, and in meat science/food processing organizations.

Many students continue their education for a professional or graduate degree. Veterinary medicine and graduate studies in the animal sciences are the two most common pursuits for further education, but students can continue their study in law, human medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, nursing and optometry.

Salary estimates

Beginning annual salaries for recent graduates average $38,000 annually. However, most graduates will have the potential to earn $60,000 within five years of experience.

Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Animal Sciences at The Ohio State University

Entry Requirements

Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.

Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State

Enrollment in your intended major

Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about

English Requirements

IELTSMin 6.5
TOEFLMin 79

English Program Requirements

we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.

Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Animal Sciences at The Ohio State University

How to Apply for Bachelor of Animal Sciences at The Ohio State University

How do I submit scores?

Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.

Tips for sending scores to Ohio State

Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.

Is the essay required?

The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.

Should I take a standardized test more than once?

Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.

How does Ohio State look at scores?

When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.

These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.

Official transcripts

High school transcripts

Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.

How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:

Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.

Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.

Official ACT or SAT scores

Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.

How do I submit my scores?

We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.

Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor

While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.

If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to [email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.

Official proof of English language skills

You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:

TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher

You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.

Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.

*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.