Program Overview

Animal Science (BSc Agr) Program

The Animal Science program at Dalhousie University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of animal biology and welfare, preparing them for careers in veterinary sciences, research, and animal husbandry.

Program Type and Faculty

The program is a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, offered by the Faculty of Agriculture.

Location and Program Start

The program is located in Truro and Bible Hill, with start dates in September and January.

Program Options

The Animal Science program offers the following options:

• Major
• Minor in Animal Agriculture
• Honours option with a greater research focus
• Other minors, including Equine Science and Aquaculture
• Certificates, including Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare

Why Choose This Program

The program allows students to work with live animals in a fully-equipped farm environment, preparing them for careers that apply their knowledge of animal biology. After completing two years of the program, students qualify to apply to veterinary college. Graduates are eligible for membership in Agrologists in Canada.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission, students must meet the minimum academic criteria:

1. Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
2. Achievement of the minimum average for the program of choice
3. Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course) The program has competitive admission, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

Program-Specific Admission Requirements

• Minimum overall average: 75%
• Academic English 12
• Pre-calculus Math 12 (or equivalent)
• Three additional academic subjects Students without the appropriate pre-calculus math class may be admitted on the condition that they complete a Grade 12 pre-calculus equivalent upgrading course before arriving at Dalhousie.

Financial Information

The university offers competitive tuition, a robust scholarship and bursary program, and resources to help students explore financial options and develop a plan.

What You Will Learn

The program prepares students for a wide range of careers, with courses in:

• General university science (biology, chemistry, statistics)
• Humanities and social science electives
• Animal science, including topics such as animal agriculture, mammalian physiology, and genetics In the third or fourth year, Animal Science majors can select and conduct their own research project through an honours stream.

Sample Courses

The program includes the following sample courses:

Year 1

• Agricultural ecosystems
• Biology
• Chemistry

Year 2

• Animal Agriculture
• Mammalian Physiology
• Biochemistry

Year 3

• Growth, Reproduction and Lactation
• Animal Nutrition
• Animal Breeding

Year 4

• Research Methods in Agriculture
• Electives

Careers

The Animal Science program prepares students for rewarding careers related to animal welfare, including:

• Animal welfare evaluator
• Animal nutrition specialist
• Livestock specialist
• Farm manager Graduates are well-positioned to pursue further study opportunities in areas such as veterinary medicine, food product development, and education.