Animal scientists study animals, focusing on husbandry, physiology, and nutrition. They may specialize in areas such as genetics, reproduction, and animal products. A degree in animal science is helpful, and specialized areas may require a graduate degree. Veterinary medicine requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Additional postgraduate education is necessary for any specialization within the field.
An animal scientist generally deals with the study of animals with a focus on husbandry, physiology and nutrition. An animal scientist’s job can fall under a number of job titles, which may include items such as nutritionist, researcher, zoologist, or veterinarian. The animal science curriculum includes many facets of study in the subjects of biology, science, and mathematics. People interested in this field must also demonstrate a passion for animals. Depending on the specialization, the requirements to become an animal scientist can vary.
An animal scientist requires advanced research skills and extensive knowledge in topics such as genetics, nutrition, reproduction and development of animals – cows, poultry, horses, sheep, etc. The work of an animal scientist also involves research and knowledge about animal products such as meat, eggs, dairy and wool. Additional studies may include research on improving the health and well-being of these animals. Much of this general knowledge can be gained through a degree in agricultural science.
Also, to become an animal scientist, it often helps to get a degree in animal science. Many people who enter this field, however, choose to specialize in a specific area, taking their education one step further. Further studies are needed in areas such as immunology, meat and dairy sciences, genetics, crop science, agricultural economics, horticultural science and biochemistry. Other specialized areas of study include disease control, feeding techniques, environmental science and muscle biology.
Specialized courses of study to become an animal scientist almost always require a graduate degree, such as a master’s or doctoral degree. These higher level degrees allow for more flexibility and diversity in career fields. For example, an animal scientist specializing in animal physiology might deal with the reproduction, growth, and development of domesticated, aquatic, or wild animals. Alternatively, he or she may choose to limit the research focus strictly to raising these animals.
Another option might include the zoologist or veterinarian. A veterinary or zoology student may also limit their area of specialization to focus on animal nutrition, a specific species, or a wide variety of specialties. To become an animal scientist in the field of veterinary medicine, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) is required. This degree requires an additional four years of study beyond the bachelor’s degree.
Those considering entering the field of animal science have many options to choose from. However, any specialization within a specific field of study will require an additional four to eight years of postgraduate education to become an animal scientist.
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