Turn Your Passion for Animals Into a Career
Explore animal science, veterinary medicine and agricultural careers through hands-on learning and scientific discovery at SC State.
South Carolina State University's Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Sciences prepares students for careers in animal health, livestock management, agricultural biotechnology, animal production and related life sciences. The program also provides a strong academic foundation for students planning to attend veterinary school or pursue advanced degrees in animal science and related fields.
Combining classroom instruction, laboratory experiences and hands-on learning, the program emphasizes animal biology, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, health and sustainable agricultural practices.
Offered through SC State's College of Agriculture, Family and Consumer Sciences, the 120-credit-hour degree program builds on the university's historic 1890 land-grant mission of advancing agricultural education, research and workforce development.
Choose your concentration
Students can select from two concentrations based on their academic interests and career goals.
Science/Pre-Veterinary Medicine
The Science/Pre-Vet concentration provides a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, animal physiology, genetics and other sciences essential for students interested in veterinary medicine, animal health research and graduate or professional education.
This concentration is designed for students considering veterinary school, medical school or advanced studies in animal and life sciences.
Animal and Veterinary Sciences Industry
The Industry concentration prepares students for careers in animal agriculture, livestock production, agribusiness and related industries.
Students combine animal science coursework with business, economics and agricultural management to develop skills applicable to animal production, agricultural operations and the broader animal industry.
What you'll study
The Animal and Veterinary Sciences curriculum combines scientific knowledge with practical applications in animal care and agricultural production.
Key areas of study include:
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Animal biology and physiology: Animal anatomy, biological systems, physiology and behavior.
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Animal nutrition: Nutritional requirements, feed evaluation and diet formulation for livestock and poultry.
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Genetics and reproduction: Animal breeding, reproductive physiology and genetic principles.
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Animal health and veterinary sciences: Disease prevention, animal health management and introductory veterinary practices.
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Livestock and poultry production: Management of cattle, sheep, goats, swine and poultry.
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Animal welfare and ethics: Responsible animal care and ethical livestock management.
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Sustainable agriculture: Environmentally responsible production practices and emerging agricultural technologies.
Hands-on learning and research
At SC State, students will have opportunities to apply classroom knowledge through laboratory instruction, field experiences and agricultural research.
Learning resources identified for the program include teaching laboratories in Nance Hall, research and Extension laboratories, the university's 200-acre research and demonstration farm, and partnerships with agricultural organizations.
These experiences are designed to strengthen students' practical skills in animal care, production, nutrition, management and scientific problem-solving.
Career opportunities
A degree in Animal and Veterinary Sciences can open doors to careers across agriculture, animal health, research and related industries.
Potential career pathways include:
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Animal science and agricultural research
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Livestock and poultry production management
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Animal nutrition and feed industries
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Animal health and biotechnology companies
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Agricultural sales and agribusiness
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Cooperative Extension and agricultural education
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Animal breeding and production systems
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Government and agricultural agencies
Graduates also may pursue advanced education in veterinary medicine, animal sciences, public health and related fields.
Admission to veterinary school or other professional programs requires meeting the requirements of the receiving institution. This bachelor's degree does not itself qualify graduates to practice veterinary medicine.
Why study Animal and Veterinary Sciences at SC State?
As South Carolina's only public historically Black land-grant university, SC State has a longstanding commitment to agricultural education, scientific research and service to communities throughout the state.
The Animal and Veterinary Sciences program expands opportunities for students interested in animal health, veterinary careers and the agricultural industries that support South Carolina's economy.
Through a combination of scientific instruction, practical learning and exposure to agricultural research and Extension activities, students can prepare to contribute to animal health, food security and sustainable agricultural production.
Admission and degree requirements
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Sciences
Concentrations: Science/Pre-Vet and Industry
Credit hours: 120
Delivery: In person
Anticipated launch: Fall 2027
Academic college: College of Agriculture, Family and Consumer Sciences
Students must meet SC State's general undergraduate admission requirements. No additional program-specific admission requirements are identified.
Begin your journey at SC State
Interested in working with animals, pursuing veterinary medicine or building a career in agriculture?
Explore the Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Sciences at South Carolina State University and prepare for opportunities in animal health, science and industry.