BA/BS in Animal Sciences

The BS in Animal Science at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is a learn-by-doing degree centered on working with livestock. Students receive academic credit for looking after cattle, hogs and horses on a regular schedule, and they may join continuing research projects on nutrition, feed use, reproduction, probiotics and genetic health. Experiences such as Pig Watch, Foal Watch and the Bull Test Center let learners practice animal handling and management in person. The curriculum balances traditional barn work with modern, technology-driven production methods used across the industry. Many students choose the major as preparation for veterinary school, and the program reports that its students have been admitted to veterinary programs at a strong rate. Coursework from the Companion Animal Certificate can be added to the degree for extra preparation.