Newcastle University

Animal Science BSc Honours
UCAS Code: C305 (3 Years)

• Course Overview
• Modules
• Entry Requirements
• Careers
• Finance

Animal Science at Newcastle explores all aspects of the biology of animals, and how they behave and function.  

We focus on the underlying scientific principles through topics such as genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, immunology, and the physiology of domestic animals.

We also introduce you to applied topics relating to animal health such as animal husbandry, animal breeding, parasitology, animal behaviour, and animal feed science.

As the course progresses, you have the chance to specialise in either companion animals (including cats, dogs, horses and other less common pet species) or farm animals (including cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry), whilst also maintaining some study of the other animal grouping.

Teaching and assessment

You will be taught by experts from the University’s specialist Animal Science group responsible for research in different aspects of farm and companion animal science. You will also have chance to make a direct contribution to research in this area by undertaking an optional research project in Stage 3.

On average you will have around 25 contact hours a week through a combination of lectures, seminars, and small group tutorials. Planned farm visits to the University farms and other local farming businesses are used to reinforce the theoretical teaching. Throughout the course, you carry out project work and submit reports, both as individuals and in groups. Further information can be found on our undergraduate web pages about the approach to teaching and learning at Newcastle University.

Assessment is primarily by unseen, written examinations supported by a variety of different forms of course work that includes essays, projects, case studies and other exercises. Seminar, tutorial and poster presentation exercises also give you a chance to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding verbally. Teaching and assessment methods may vary from module to module, more information can be found in our individual module listings.

Work-related skills

The development of transferable skills is a priority throughout the course:

• work in teams to plan and host a conference on animal health, promoting the development of skills such as organisation and communication; you will also make a number of presentations yourself
• undertake an optional three-month work placement in Stage 3 as an integrated part of the course
• take part in the Career Service's Career Development Module
• choose modules in business, marketing or a modern language, increasing your career options on graduation

Study abroad

UK and EU students have the opportunity to broaden their academic experience by taking part in a study abroad exchange.

School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development

As an animal science student at Newcastle you will be part of the School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development. The School's main teaching and laboratory facilities are located on campus in the Agriculture Building. The University also owns two off-campus farms - Cockle Park and Nafferton - which are used for research, teaching and demonstration purposes. You also have the chance to join the student-led Agric society, which is responsible for fostering a close community spirit within the School.