A Bachelor of Animal Science is a three-year undergraduate degree that provides students with a comprehensive, science-based education in the biology, management, health, nutrition, reproduction, genetics, and welfare of animals across a broad range of species — including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, horses, and laboratory animals. The degree blends foundational sciences such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology with applied agricultural and veterinary sciences, giving graduates both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to work confidently across Australia's diverse animal industries. Students typically choose specialisations such as livestock production science, animal bioscience, animal behaviour, or wildlife management, allowing them to tailor their studies to their career interests.

The course is designed for students who are passionate about working with animals and want a science-grounded career that spans agriculture, conservation, public health, research, and animal welfare. It suits those interested not just in hands-on animal work, but in understanding the complex biological systems and industry frameworks that underpin responsible and productive animal management. Core topics typically include animal physiology, nutrition, genetics and breeding, reproduction, animal behaviour, disease prevention, biosecurity, and sustainable production systems, all examined across multiple species and production contexts.

Key employers of Animal Science graduates in Australia include federal and state government agencies (such as the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and state Departments of Primary Industries), Meat & Livestock Australia, CSIRO, zoological parks, wildlife conservation organisations, animal health and pharmaceutical companies, livestock consultancies, agribusiness firms, rural financial institutions, feedlots, research institutes, and universities. The livestock export industry alone contributes over $1.6 billion to the Australian economy, underpinning strong, sustained demand for well-qualified animal science professionals nationwide.

Domestic applicants to a Bachelor of Animal Science in Australia are typically required to have completed Year 12 (or an equivalent qualification) and meet a minimum ATAR threshold, which varies by institution and course. Most providers list Biology as a prerequisite or strongly recommended subject, with Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics commonly listed as prerequisite or assumed knowledge subjects. Some institutions require completion of at least two units of a science subject such as Chemistry or Physics alongside Mathematics at the Standard or Advanced level. Students who do not meet academic entry requirements may be eligible through alternative pathways, including TAFE/VET qualifications, foundation studies programs, mature-age entry, and recognition of prior learning. Many universities also accept applications based on recent work experience in animal-related fields.

For international students, English language proficiency must be demonstrated through recognised tests such as IELTS (typically with an overall band of 6.0 to 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic. Students who do not meet the English language entry requirements may be able to complete an approved English language course prior to enrolment. Some universities offer direct entry pathways for international students through affiliated foundation or diploma programs, enabling students to progress into the degree without sitting a separate language test.

An important and distinctive requirement for many Animal Science programs is the completion of mandatory professional work experience. Students are typically required to accumulate between 120 and 200 hours of approved work placement at industry sites such as farms, animal production facilities, zoological parks, wildlife organisations, veterinary practices, research facilities, or nutrition companies. Some programs also require students to receive vaccinations (such as Q fever vaccination) before participating in certain placements. This work experience component must be completed by a specified point in the degree, and students must meet all associated assessment items to satisfy the course requirements.