Gain the skills to secure a career in the fascinating and evolving animal sciences

The study of animals is a rapidly evolving area. With advances in technology and vast and sometimes devastating climate changes occurring in the global environment, professionals who can stay up-to-date with the latest research and embrace more collaborative working strategies will be highly sought-after.

UNE offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and specialisations in animals designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills about wildlife ecology, animal nutrition and animal production required to cement your position in this diverse field. Because UNE has a long history of helping adults prepare for changes in the workplace, our animal-related courses focus on developing practical lab and fieldwork, critical communication and problem-solving skills to ensure you are future-fit as an adaptable and innovative animal science professional.

Our students mostly prefer online learning, where they join a community of adults and combine their life and work experience to create practical networks for their future. On-campus learners can benefit from housing, sports facilities and support services. Whether online or on-campus, you can choose to study full-time or part-time over three trimesters per year.

With UNE, you’ll graduate prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead when working with animals, whether you choose to pursue a career in agriculture, wildlife, zoos or research institutions. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.

Explore the animal science courses and specialisations on offer at UNE.

Courses by study level

With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture, you will gain practical, production-oriented, specialist skills. You will have the paddock-ready skills and knowledge to solve problems and adapt to future challenges as a professional. Choose a major from one …

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business you will gain practical, production-oriented skills and knowledge in agriculture together with in-depth skills and knowledge in business, management and finance. You will learn to formulate …

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Anticipate and respond to the demands of agricultural industries and businesses in a changing global environment and gain a broad range of in-demand legal skills with the UNE Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws. In this double degree you will…

Duration
  • 5 years full-time
  • Up to 12 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

With UNE's Bachelor of Animal Science you will graduate with knowledge and skills in the science-based fundamentals that underpin the relationships with and management of animals, plus acquire the practical experience to be on track for a…

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Do you dream of a career where you’re helping to address the big issues facing humanity? Or perhaps you crave the excitement of being at the forefront of scientific discovery? Maybe you wish to instil your passion for the environment into future…

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The environmental problems that we face in a rapidly changing world require solutions developed by skilled scientists and innovators. UNE's Bachelor of Environmental Science gives you a broad foundation in the theories and practice that underpin …

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The world requires skilled scientists and innovators to develop the solutions to the complex environmental problems facing a rapidly changing planet. Combined with a contemporary understanding of the theory and practice of law, the UNE Bachelor of…

Duration
  • 5 years full-time
  • Up to 12 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

With UNE's Bachelor of Rural Science, you will graduate at the forefront of the agricultural industry ready to solve complex problems in agricultural systems across enterprises, landscapes and the globe. You will have the paddock-ready…

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Constant technological disruption and new discoveries in science influence every aspect of our lives, meaning that there has never been a better time than now to safeguard your future career with scientific knowledge and practical skills. With 20…

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Studying the Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws at UNE will equip you with an extensive portfolio of knowledge and skills to future proof your career. In this comprehensive program of study, you will develop contemporary skills in how to write…

Duration
  • 5 years full-time
  • Up to 12 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

In a rapidly changing world, there has never been a better time to expand your understanding of science and technology. UNE’s Bachelor of Scientific Studies is designed to provide you with broad scientific background to assist with future employment …

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Zoology examines how animals of all kinds — from microscopic parasites to blue whales, and from tiny finches to dinosaurs — live (or lived) in every type of habitat on our planet. Through hands-on laboratory and fieldwork focused on the study of…

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Enter the agricultural industry with a one-year academic qualification or refresh your knowledge with UNE’s Diploma in Agricultural Studies. By studying our course online or on campus, you will gain a formal tertiary-level qualification with a basic …

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Are you interested in studying science and want to explore the topics that interest you? UNE’s Diploma in Science is ideal if you are new to university study and want to get started in science, or if you wish to develop a foundation of skills and…

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The Undergraduate Certificate in Agricultural Studies is designed to help you gain foundational skills in this rapidly evolving field of study. Whether you want to experience a taste for university studies or you're currently working in the…

Duration
  • 1 year part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Gain foundational skills in animal studies – and knowledge in the science-based essentials that underpin the management of animals – with our Undergraduate Certificate in Animal Studies. This course is developed by passionate lecturers who are…

Duration
  • 1 year part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The study of Life and Earth Studies is diverse and multidisciplinary, involving science, geology, ecology, biology, chemistry, evolution and more. Students at UNE are part of a rich history of life and earth science education in Australia, and…

Duration
  • 1 year part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

The UNE Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Development is a program of study for people from a broad range of backgrounds who want to begin developing skills for future careers or further study. Designed in response to rapid workplace and…

Duration
  • 1 trimester full-time
  • 1 year part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online

Contribute to world class research by completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours at UNE. Position yourself with advanced scientific knowledge in an era of rapid change. Our honours course goes beyond the normal practical and field training and…

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • 2 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

With UNE's Graduate Certificate in Agriculture, you can expand your professional skills and gain a specialisation in a specific area of agriculture or develop your fundamental knowledge of agricultural science. UNE's Graduate Certificate in…

Duration
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new…

Duration
  • 0.5 years full-time
  • 2 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online

In the rapidly changing world of science and technology, it has never been more important to refine and expand your expertise. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Science, flexibly delivered online or on campus, gives you the opportunity to complete…

Duration
  • 0.5 years full-time
  • Up to 2 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work …

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online

Whether you want to upgrade your expertise or pivot to another scientific speciality, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science allows you to hone your skills and future fit your career. Flexibly delivered, and with a wide range of majors in diverse…

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Upgrade your skills and develop your expertise with science-based agricultural studies through UNE's Master of Science in Agriculture. Our flexible program of specialist coursework allows you to steer your studied towards your interests and…

Duration
  • 1 or 1.5 or 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

With a wide range of majors in both the pure and applied sciences, UNE's Master of Scientific Studies provides you with specialised training in your chosen scientific discipline. Do you want to be able to respond to constant technological…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.…

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • 8 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Upgrade your knowledge and skills or pivot your career by developing expertise in sustainable, science-based agricultural systems of production through UNE's Master of Rural Science. This postgraduate degree offers a supportive program of…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online
Master of Science

Understanding and discovery in science drives advancement, providing solutions to the world's health, environmental, agricultural and technological challenges. UNE's Master of Science allows you to study flexibly, to gain expertise and…

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of…

Duration
  • 1 trimester full-time
  • 1 trimester part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus
Non-Award

The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the…

Duration
  • 1 trimester full-time
  • 1 trimester part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2024
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2024
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2024
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus
  • Bespoke Graduate Certificate: design your own  4 unit postgraduate course and have your work experience recognised in the process.
  • ‘Fundamental’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four  fundamental units from a traditional degree. If you are planning a new direction, or adding a new set of skills to your portfolio, you may want to start with this option. These units provide a foundation, or a ‘base camp’, to return to if you want to later progress to a full degree.
  • ‘Advanced’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four  advanced units from a full degree. This is a great strategy for staying current in your field, or advancing your knowledge.
  • ‘Critical Content’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four units any of the available units in a degree to create a  Critical Content Bespoke Course. This option lets you get the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full degree.
  • ‘Mix and Match’ Bespoke Course: combine two, three or four units from different degrees and disciplines to design your  mix and match Bespoke Course. This option lets you diversify your knowledge.

What our students say

UNE PhD and Bachelor of Science (Hons) graduate Matthew Hilliar smiles in white lab coat

UNE is a world-leader in animal science, with some of the best facilities and academics on offer, making the decision to study there an easy one.

Dr Matthew Hilliar, Farming graduate, Turosi Food Solutions

Find the right major or specialisation for your studies in Animals

As advancements in technology and concerns around sustainability and the environment increase, you will need to be adaptable and innovative to stay ahead. Study one of our animal-related majors or specialisations and graduate with a winning combination of knowledge and practical experience.

Filter by:
Showing 110 of 25 results
Agricultural Sustainability
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course

UNE’s well-regarded agriculture academics will introduce you to recent and future tech advancements in science and farming for food production. Enhance your skills and prepare for sustainable success in the fast-changing world of agriculture.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Agriculture Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Rural Science Minor Undergraduate
Agricultural Technology
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Prepare for the future of agriculture by building a versatile skillset in data analysis and precision techniques. At UNE we’ll help you meet the demands of an increasingly complex industry so you are primed to safeguard your place as the technology…

Prepare for the future of agriculture by building a versatile skillset in data analysis and precision techniques. At UNE we’ll help you meet the demands of an increasingly complex industry so you are primed to safeguard your place as the technology unfolds and the agricultural industry advances.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Agriculture Minor Undergraduate
Animal Bioscience
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Learn about animal metabolism, genetics, physiology, nutrition, behaviour and health with UNE’s highly regarded bioscience experts. Secure your role in the rapidly changing field of animal science that is forecast to see changes to imaging, data…

Learn about animal metabolism, genetics, physiology, nutrition, behaviour and health with UNE’s highly regarded bioscience experts. Secure your role in the rapidly changing field of animal science that is forecast to see changes to imaging, data analysis and more as technology advances.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Animal Science Major Undergraduate
Animal Ecology
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Benefit from UNE's highly regarded zoology academics and develop the research and practical skills to prepare you for a career in the rapidly changing field of ecology. Learn about current and emerging tech advancements and changes in animal…

Benefit from UNE's highly regarded zoology academics and develop the research and practical skills to prepare you for a career in the rapidly changing field of ecology. Learn about current and emerging tech advancements and changes in animal conservation, biodiversity, and behaviour.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Zoology Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Zoology Major Undergraduate
Animal Production
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Benefit from UNE’s local and global experts in agricultural production and develop the practical farming and analytical management skills to protect your career. Learn to use the advancing technology and be prepared for the forecast changes to the…

Benefit from UNE’s local and global experts in agricultural production and develop the practical farming and analytical management skills to protect your career. Learn to use the advancing technology and be prepared for the forecast changes to the industry’s labour and business practices.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Agriculture Major Undergraduate
Animal Science
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Develop your knowledge of best practice animal health and welfare techniques with UNE’s animal science experts. Secure your place in the rapidly changing world of agricultural and domestic animal care that is forecast to see changes in data…

Develop your knowledge of best practice animal health and welfare techniques with UNE’s animal science experts. Secure your place in the rapidly changing world of agricultural and domestic animal care that is forecast to see changes in data analysis, imaging, genomics and reproductive technology.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Animal Science Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Major Bachelor Honours
Undergraduate Certificate in Animal Studies Specialist Course Undergraduate
Animal Science and Veterinary Studies
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
UNE's experts in animal and vet science will help you learn about agricultural and domestic animal behaviour, nutrition, breeding, genetics, production and biosecurity in our rural location. Gain experience in a field that is forecast to see…

UNE's experts in animal and vet science will help you learn about agricultural and domestic animal behaviour, nutrition, breeding, genetics, production and biosecurity in our rural location. Gain experience in a field that is forecast to see changes in technology and practice.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Applied Zoology
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Develop an understanding of animal behaviour and enhance your practical skills with UNE’s animal science experts. Protect your role in the rapidly changing world of agricultural and domestic animal care that is forecast to see changes in data…

Develop an understanding of animal behaviour and enhance your practical skills with UNE’s animal science experts. Protect your role in the rapidly changing world of agricultural and domestic animal care that is forecast to see changes in data analysis, imaging, genomics and reproductive technology.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Zoology Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Zoology Major Undergraduate
Conservation and Ecology
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
UNE's experienced environmental scientists will help you develop the scientific research and fieldwork skills to succeed in a career in conservation. Learn how to use up-to-date technology to analyse data and be future-fit for a changing world…

UNE's experienced environmental scientists will help you develop the scientific research and fieldwork skills to succeed in a career in conservation. Learn how to use up-to-date technology to analyse data and be future-fit for a changing world with new and ongoing environmental threats.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Environmental Science Major Undergraduate
General Agricultural Production
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
UNE's agriculture experts will help you develop the skills you need to succeed at farming and address the climate issues facing farmers in a rapidly changing global environment. Learn about advances in technology and protect your role as a…

UNE's agriculture experts will help you develop the skills you need to succeed at farming and address the climate issues facing farmers in a rapidly changing global environment. Learn about advances in technology and protect your role as a producer for Australia’s future.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws Minor Undergraduate

Why study with us?

5 stars
For Overall Experience and Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024
Australian Universities
No. 1
For Undergraduate Student Support
Good Universities Guide 2024
Public NSW Universities
No. 1
For Postgraduate Student Experience
QILT Student Experience Survey
NSW Universities

Careers in Animals

By studying animals with UNE, you will develop the future-proof skillset to secure positions in a wide range of animal-related careers. With job opportunities for educated professionals set to rise, those with skillsets in animal-related areas can find work in a variety of settings.

  • Animal scientist
    Conduct research on animal biology, genetics, nutrition and behaviour to improve animal health, welfare and production.
  • Zoologist
    Study animal behaviour, physiology and habitats, working in wildlife conservation, research or education.
  • Veterinarian
    Diagnose and treat illness and injuries to animals, from pets to livestock and wildlife.
  • Animal welfare officer
    Advocate for laws related to the humane treatment of animals in animal shelters, advocacy organisations, or government agencies.
  • Animal control officer
    Capture and care for stray or injured animals, enforce animal-related laws and promote responsible pet ownership.
  • Wildlife biologist
    Study wild animals and their habitats, behaviour, and ecology. Promote wildlife conservation and management.
  • Animal behaviourist
    Study the behaviour of animals and develop programs and resources to improve their welfare and reduce stress.
  • Animal nutritionist
    Develop dietary plans to optimise the health, growth and reproduction of animals. Work in agriculture, zoos or pet food industries.

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024

What happens next?

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1. Decide on your course

Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.

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2. Apply

2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!

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3. Receive an offer, enrol and start studying

Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.