Animal and veterinary science | Science/pre-veterinary option
Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Sciences
Overview
Related Topics
Start your path to veterinary school
This program is designed to prepare you for a future in veterinary health and fulfills the undergraduate academic requirements for admission into a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) program.
As a pre-vet student, you will immerse yourself in the study of animal sciences, with courses in reproduction, nutrition, growth and health. With hands-on experience in the on-campus labs and animal centers, you will learn to identify illnesses in animals and understand courses of treatment.
In this program you will gain a thorough knowledge base of the physical and biological sciences, including physiology, genetics and applied biotechnology. You will work with various animals including beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep and horses from your first day on campus. Pre-veterinary students take a variety of science classes, including biology and chemistry, as well as specific animal science courses to gain animal experience.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy biology and other sciences
- Like to work with animals
- Are interested in medicine and the well-being of animals
- Are involved in FFA, 4-H or other agriculture-related activities
- Are a good problem solver
Foundations of veterinary science
Curriculum
The B.S.A.V.S. in animal and veterinary science, science/pre-veterinary 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
- Explain and apply fundamental concepts of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics and organic chemistry
- Demonstrate knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology and reproductive systems
- Learn to safely and humanely handle, approach and restrain multiple species of animals
- Identify common illnesses, observe animal behavior and understand foundational veterinary treatments
Hands-on learning
- Work directly with animals at the U of I Beef Center, Dairy Center and Sheep Center
- Gain technical skills in reproductive physiology and agriculture-biotech labs
- Complete an internship to gain further experience
- Study abroad to learn about global animal agriculture
Career outcomes
Current job openings
790 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Animal Scientists
$95,233 - Veterinarians
$135,802 - Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
$52,641 - Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
$54,397 - Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers
$43,196
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Clubs
- Pre-Vet Club
- Dairy Club
- Student Idaho Cattle Association
- Block and Bridle
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
Day in the life of a pre-vet student
Follow along for a typical day in the life of pre-vet student Claire Shelton
Build experience for a career in animal and veterinary science
As an animal and veterinary science student, you’ll gain hands-on experience with livestock, research and animal health while exploring opportunities in the U.S. and abroad. These experiences can help you prepare for veterinary school or build a career in animal agriculture.
- Explore veterinary research — See how Natalie Ellis gained hands-on research experience studying the effects of wildfire smoke on calves.
- Experience animal care abroad — Follow a pre-vet student to Italy, where hands-on animal care offered a new perspective on veterinary medicine.
- Prepare for veterinary school — See how Saige Grundman built veterinary experience through an international program in Costa Rica.
- Find your path in livestock production — Learn how hands-on calving experience helped a CALS graduate turn a passion for livestock into a career path.