Animal Science BS

Pre-Veterinary

Area of Interest

Overview

The UConn Department of Animal Science offers a comprehensive curriculum and experiences to prepare our undergraduate students to apply to veterinary school. The Animal Science program focuses on the study of domestic livestock, companion animals and animal products. While pursuing a BS degree, our Animal Science students learn how animals function through the study of genetics, physiology, anatomy, nutrition and behavior. In addition to Animal Science requirements, students interested in a career in veterinary medicine must complete courses in biochemistry, microbiology and physics, depending on the requirements for specific veterinary schools the student intends to apply to.

Our department boasts modern teaching facilities and barns with all of the farm species (dairy and beef cattle, horses, sheep, swine and poultry) located within walking distance right on campus. The program provides many opportunities in the classroom, research laboratories, jobs in animal care, independent study and internships to "learn by doing" with hands-on experiences at the core of our curriculum. Hands-on experience working with animals increases the potential of acceptance into veterinary school. We have a solid record of success with our undergraduate students gaining admission into veterinary schools across the globe.

Students interested in applying to veterinary school must ensure they meet the entrance requirements for a specific veterinary school. Specific admission requirements vary slightly among veterinary colleges, but all emphasize a strong science background.  Veterinary medicine programs are four years in length and admission is competitive. Successful applicants must maintain a high grade point average in their undergraduate career. Our faculty advisors guide students through their undergraduate career and the veterinary school application process. Our students typically apply to veterinary college in September of their senior year of their BS program.

Requirements

Animal Science majors must pass all courses from Group A, at least one course from Group B, at least one course from Group C, and one additional course from either Group B or C. No single class can satisfy more than one requirement.

Every undergraduate student in a baccalaureate degree program in the University, on all campuses, must complete the Common Curriculum. The Common Curriculum requires students to complete six Topics of Inquiry and three Competencies. All students must complete a minimum of 40 credits of coursework approved for the Common Curriculum.

Students must meet a set of requirements established by the college in addition to the University's Common Curriculum requirements. For more information, see the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources section of the Undergraduate Student Catalog.

Sample Four-Year Plan

This is an example schedule for planning purposes only and is meant to be a guide for students and advisors. 120 credits total needed to complete degree. For official degree information, please contact the Degree Audit section of the Office of the Registrar and speak with your advisor.