Animal Science
Statewide Program of Study
The Animal Science program of study focuses on occupational and educational opportunities associated with the science, research, and business of animals and other living organisms. This program of study includes applying biology and life science to real-world life processes of animals and wildlife, either in laboratories or in the field, which could include a veterinary office, a farm or ranch, or any outdoor area harboring animal life. Students will research and analyze the growth and destruction of species and research or diagnose diseases and injuries of animals.
This Program of Study is in our
Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Career Cluster
This cluster focuses on the essential elements of life food, water, land, and air.
Pathway Courses
Below are the classes that are taken in this pathway.
Having an asterisk * by the course name represents it being an advanced course.
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4
Expanded Learning Opportunities
Learning beyond the walls of the classroom is extremely important to making sure you are college and career ready. See what we offer for this pathway.
Exploration Activities
Participate in an FFA career, leadership, and speaking contest like an agriscience fair
Attend an agricultural industry seminar
Work-Based Learning Activities
Shadow an animal scientist in a biology lab to learn about applying science to understand animals and wildlife
Intern in a veterinary clinic, caring for animals and wildlife being treated in the clinic
Industry-Based Certifications
Elanco Fundamentals of Animal Science
Certification Level 3
Elanco Veterinary Medicine Applications Certification Level 4
Postsecondary Opportunities
Explore what degrees that will continue your learning past high school.
Aligned Occupations
Below are potential careers that are aligned with this pathway. Review their salaries and job trends.
Animal Breeders
$39,139
Median Wage
28
Annual Openings
9%
Growth
Animal Scientists
$57,533
Median Wage
22
Annual Openings
12%
Growth
Medical Scientists
$63,898
Median Wage
435
Annual Openings
27%
Growth
Veterinarians
$93,496
Median Wage
294
Annual Openings
24%
Growth
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
$67,309
Median Wage
45
Annual Openings
32%
Growth