Overview

Animal Science

If you’re an animal lover, you may find your niche in an Animal Science career. Some who choose this career pathway work directly with animals. They train, feed, water, exercise, bathe and groom their furry friends, as well as maintain and clean their cages.

Professionals in this field may inspect and grade livestock food products, purchase livestock, or work in technical sales and marketing.

Some people in the animal science career path work to develop better, more efficient ways of producing and processing meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products. Others advise agriculture producers on how to upgrade animal housing facilities properly, lower mortality rates, handle waste matter or increase production of animal products, such as milk or eggs.

In addition, careers for hunters and trappers are available, which involve setting bait and traps, tracking animals and obtaining them through various methods.

Industry Outlook

Employment opportunities in Animal Science careers are increasing. Demand for food and fiber will continue to increase because of the growth in world population and demand for U.S. agricultural exports.

Employment of agricultural managers, farm workers, and graders and sorters is projected to rise, and in response to an increase in the demand for fish, there has been a steady growth in the field of aquaculture over the past 10 years. The opportunities for veterinarians and veterinary technicians are expected to continue to increase in the coming years, which make it a valuable career choice.

Career Opportunities
• Livestock producer
• Poultry farm manager
• Livestock inspector
• Veterinarian or veterinary technician
• Zoo animal specialist
• Equine rehabilitator
• Aquaculturalist