Program Overview

Applied Animal Biology

The Applied Animal Biology program at the University of British Columbia is designed for students who wish to study or work with animals in their career. This major provides a broad background in the fundamentals of animal behaviour, animal physiology, and related fields as they apply to farm, companion, and other animals.

Why Study Applied Animal Biology?

This program is flexible and practical, offering hands-on experiences that prepare students for a career after graduation. Instructors are passionate about their work and come from a variety of backgrounds, ensuring students learn from professionals who are outstanding in their fields.

Program Overview

The Applied Animal Biology program gives students a comprehensive understanding of animal behaviour, physiology, and the role of animals in human society. It examines the ethical, environmental, and other issues that arise from human connections with animals. The program offers training in research skills necessary for graduate work and can prepare students for admission to veterinary and human medicine with the appropriate selection of courses.

Throughout the degree, students have opportunities to gain practical experience on farms, in laboratories, animal shelters, and wildlife rehabilitation centres. This experiential learning provides transferable skills for the workforce or further studies at graduate school.

Courses

Applied Animal Biology students require a strong foundation in the sciences. Some of the courses available to students in the program include:

• APBI_V 314: Animals and Society
• APBI_V 315: Animal Welfare and Ethics of Animal Use
• APBI_V 410: Applied Animal Health and Physiology
• APBI_V 414: Animals and Global Issues

For the complete list of required courses, students should consult the UBC Academic Calendar. Current students can track their progress using their Academic Progress Report on Workday.

Admission and Application

Students interested in the Applied Animal Biology major can select their primary program of study (major) in Workday. This major is not competitive, and students only need to formally apply if they are interested in the Honours program, which is competitive. Prospective students should apply for the Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology.

Program Details

• The program is designed to provide a broad background in animal biology and related fields.
• It offers hands-on experiences and research skills training.
• Students can gain practical experience in various settings, including farms, laboratories, and animal shelters.
• The program prepares students for careers working with animals or for further graduate studies.