Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Sciences

The Department of Animal Science and the Department of Veterinary Sciences have combined their efforts to offer several degree options leading to the bachelor of science degree in animal and veterinary sciences. Courses in animal science, food science, and pathobiology are the core offerings in the various options. Agriculture, in its broadest definition, is the nation's largest industry. Livestock production is Wyoming's largest agricultural enterprise. Animal agriculture and its associated industries offer many opportunities for the interested student. Whether a student is interested in production livestock, allied fields such as meat science, business or animal health, or wants to apply to a college of veterinary medicine, the degree tracks offered will form the basis for a challenging career in animal agriculture/biology. The various options provide maximum flexibility to meet the changing needs of students and their employers. For students interested in pursuing advanced research, M.S. and Ph.D. degrees are offered (see the UW Graduate Bulletin for details). Several degree options allow for specialization and graduate or professional school preparation. A brief description of each option and the educational opportunities they provide is given with the course requirements. Production Option: This option provides a strong background in livestock production and management. Students interested in livestock production should enroll in this option. Range Livestock Option: This option emphasizes range livestock management. Students interested in the management of livestock and range resources should enroll in this option. Business Option: Students desiring a strong background in business in addition to the basic courses in animal and veterinary science should enroll in this option. Graduates will be qualified for careers in the livestock agribusiness industry. Communication Option: Students in this option obtain a basic education in animal and veterinary science and also acquire in-depth communication skills. Students interested in careers in agriculture communications with emphasis on the livestock industry should enroll in this option. Animal Biology Option: This option requires more complete and stringent basic sciences. Students may complete pre-medical requirements or other pre-professional allied health requirements while completing a B.S. degree that prepares them for alternate career choices. Selected courses provide opportunity for more complete exposure in both biological sciences and pathobiology. Possible alternatives to professional schools include graduate school admission or employment by government or industry in research, promotion or sales. Because of the variation in pre-professional requirements for different professional programs, students are encouraged to determine the specific requirements of the programs in which they are interested. Meat Science and Food Technology Option Students taking this option will have an excellent background for entering the meat industry. The food industry is the largest employer in this country and offers a wide variety of career opportunities. Pre-Veterinary Medicine Option This option is especially designed to prepare students for application to colleges of veterinary medicine. There is a strong emphasis on the LIFEogical, biomedical and physical sciences. This curriculum is also appropriate for students wishing to pursue graduate school opportunities, other professional school applications, or careers in many areas of agribusiness. Equine Science Option: This option provides a strong background in equine production and management. Students interested in equine should enroll in this option.