Animal and veterinary science | Production option
Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Sciences
Overview
Related Topics
Livestock for food and consumer products
Raising and managing animals for meat, milk and other products requires specialized livestock knowledge and business savvy.
In this program, you will explore how to breed and care for livestock through the study of animal science topics like reproduction, nutrition, growth and health. You will gain practical business skills for the day-to-day management of livestock operations at a dairy, feedlot or ranch.
Much of your education will take place in the new Meat Science and Innovation Center Honoring Ron Richard and at the beef, sheep and dairy centers, all located on campus. At these facilities, you will learn how to maximize the value of retail cuts and gain hands-on experience with purebred beef cattle, breeding ewes and milking cows. Students in this program can also gain hands-on experience in customer service through the student-run Vandal Brand Meats retail shop.
There is a high demand for graduates in the meat science industry. Alumni of this program enjoy a 100% job placement rate upon graduation.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy learning about animal biology
- Are interested in the livestock industry
- Want to gain business skills
- Are involved in FFA, 4-H or other animal agriculture-related activities
Science, strategy and stockmanship
Curriculum
The B.S.A.V.S. in animal and veterinary science, production option is a 120-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
Explore program courses in the University Catalog
Learning outcomes
- Evaluate and implement sustainable herd-management practices
- Formulate scientifically balanced diets to support optimal growth, development and finishing
- Apply principles of reproduction and genetic physiology
- Demonstrate proficiency in carcass evaluation and retail cutting of livestock
- Evaluate carcass composition to maximize product value
Hands-on learning
- Work directly with animals at the U of I Beef Center, Dairy Center and Sheep Center
- Learn technical skills in reproduction physiology labs
- Study abroad to learn about global agriculture
- Gain experience processing animals at the Meat Science and Innovation Center
- Develop new products and sell them through Vandal Brand Meats
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,896 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Animal Breeders
$45,283 - Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
$52,641 - Agricultural Managers
$36,690 - Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
$54,397 - Sales Managers
$154,526
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Clubs
- Agricultural Risk Management Club
- Student Idaho Cattle Association
- Block and Bridle
- Livestock and Meats Judging Teams
- Collegiate Young Farmers and Ranchers
Financial aid and scholarships
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September, and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty
Finding a career path
Taylor Dixon excels in the feedlot industry