Imagine a dynamic career where you work around animals.
In the animal science field, many careers involve this hands-on work.
Careers and Outcomes
What does an animal scientist do?
You’re trained in animal behavior, genetics, nutrition and physiology.
You explore the best ways to use animals for food, labor, products and companionship.
You can work alongside animals at places like farms/ranches, clinics, zoos, food processing plants and more.
Prefer a hands-off role? Pursue a related career in animal management, sales and production.
Why pursue a career in animal science?
Jobs are on the rise. You can find a career that fits your interests, lifestyle and financial goals.
Job growth
6%
Employment outlook for animal scientists through 2029.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Where can you work with a degree in animal science?
Your degree covers a lot of areas – agriculture, biology, science, math, business and more.
With a strong set of skills, you will be qualified to work in a wide range of areas.
Potential career fields and employers
Business and agribusiness
- Equipment companies
- Food distributors and manufacturers
- Livestock and feed companies
- Management, marketing and public relations
- Marketing and public relations
- Sales
Education and government
- Community and outreach programs
- Quality control (inspection services or agencies)
- Teaching (schools or extension services)
Farming and production
- Breeding and management
- Farm and ranch operations
- Livestock feed
- Meat and dairy processors
- Processing plants
Health and medicine
- Animal care (veterinary)
- Food safety
- Preventative medicine
- Public health
- Zoos and sanctuaries
Science and research
- Animal behavior and caretaking
- Breeding and genetics
- Nutrition, health and disease control
- Product and process development
- Zoos and sanctuaries
Advanced degrees in animal science
Want to stand out from the herd?
You’re also equipped to pursue graduate school and earn a master’s degree or eventual PhD.
At MSU, you can focus your master's degree in agriculture on animal science.
Explore a master's degree in agriculture
Becoming a veterinarian
If you’re an aspiring veterinarian, our pre-vet program prepares you for admission into veterinary school.
When you finish, you’ll have a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a path into veterinary school, where you can earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.