Animal Science

The Bachelor of Animal Science at Massey University offers students a comprehensive education in the science and management of animals, focusing on livestock production, animal health, welfare, nutrition, and sustainable farming practices. This program is designed to equip graduates with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to contribute effectively to the agribusiness sector, specializing in areas such as dairy, beef, sheep, and other livestock industries. Throughout the course, students will explore subjects like animal physiology, genetics, reproductive technologies, and environmental impact assessment, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of contemporary animal production systems. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through on-campus facilities, farms, and industry placements, providing students with real-world experience and fostering strong links with the agricultural sector. Students also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing them for diverse roles including research, consultancy, farm management, and policy development in the animal industries. Massey University's commitment to sustainability and ethical farming practices is integrated into the curriculum, encouraging students to innovate and lead in advancing humane and environmentally responsible animal production methods. Graduates from the Bachelor of Animal Science are well-prepared to pursue further postgraduate study or enter the workforce with confidence, making meaningful contributions to New Zealand’s vibrant agricultural economy and beyond. The program benefits from Massey University's strong industry connections, research capabilities, and dedicated faculty, ensuring students receive a high-quality education aligned with current industry needs and future trends in animal science.

Options

Master of Science 240 credit

Master of Science 180 credit

These options are for students who want to pursue postgraduate study and research in a specific field. The 240 credit option may allow for a more extensive research project than the 180 credit master programme. For a Master of Science 180 or 240 credits you will follow a parts-based course of study, which shall consist of courses totalling at least 180 or 240 credits, comprising Part One and Part Two as defined by the Courses Schedule.

Master of Science 120 credit

For a Master of Science 120 credits you will normally complete 120 credits of research (thesis only) (Part Two), unless specified in the regulations for the endorsement as defined by the Courses Schedule.

At Massey you will not just be studying animal science, you will be part of this world-leading animal and agricultural science hub. Massey’s Manawatu campus is surrounded by working farms and state-of-the-art animal science research facilities.. You are able to access our extensive research and working facilities as part of your study. These include:

• Two dairy farms
• Sheep and beef blocks, in the Manawatu and Wairarapa
• Dedicated feline and canine units
• Intensive livestock facilities
• A deer farm
• New Zealand’s only veterinary science teaching facilities including
  • 24-hour pet hospital
  • Wildbase hospital which treats native New Zealand animals
  • Equine hospital

Master of Science 180 or 240 credits

Admission to the Master of Science (180 or 240 credits) requires you to have

• a Bachelor of Science degree, or close equivalent, with a major in the intended postgraduate subject, with a minimum B average in the majoring 300 level courses;
• a bachelor degree followed by a Graduate Diploma of Science or close equivalent, in the intended postgraduate subject, with a minimum B average in the majoring 300 level courses.

Master of Science 120 credits (thesis only)

Admission to the 120 credit Master of Science requires you to have a minimum B average for either of the following:

• A Bachelor of Science (Honours) with an endorsement in the same subject as that in which the thesis will be done;
• A Postgraduate Diploma in Science with an endorsement in the same subject as that in which the thesis will be done

Massey University Masterate Scholarship

Masterate Scholarships are offered for the purpose of encouraging postgraduate research at Massey University. Applicants must be enrolled or eligible to enrol full-time in a 120 credit research programme towards a Masters degree at Massey University.

Massey University Masterate Scholarship for Māori Students

Masterate Scholarships for Māori students are offered for the purpose of encouraging postgraduate research at Massey University. Applicants must be enrolled or eligible to enrol full-time in a 120 credit research programme towards a Masters degree.

The Bachelor of Animal Science at Massey University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the biological, economic, and social aspects of animal production and management. This programme prepares graduates for careers in the animal industries, including dairy, beef, sheep, deer, and other livestock sectors, as well as roles in research, consultancy, and education. The curriculum combines foundational sciences such as biology, genetics, nutrition, and physiology with practical training in animal husbandry and welfare. Students have opportunities for hands-on learning through farm-based projects, internships, and laboratory work.

The programme emphasizes sustainable and ethical practices in animal management, aligning with contemporary industry standards and environmental considerations. Students can choose electives to specialize in areas such as dairy science, sheep and wool science, or wildlife management, allowing for tailored career pathways. Massey University’s strong links with industry organizations and farm enterprises enable students to gain real-world experience and professional networks during their studies. The Bachelor of Animal Science can be undertaken as a full-time undergraduate degree, with options for full or part-time study, depending on student needs.

Graduates of this program are equipped with skills in animal health, breeding, nutrition, welfare, and productivity, making them highly employable within New Zealand’s and international animal industries. The university’s research facilities, national research centers, and expert faculty ensure that students receive current and high-quality education. Moreover, the program encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for advancing sustainable practices in animal production. Alumni often pursue careers in farm management, veterinary fields, animal biotechnology, policy-making, and academia. Overall, the Bachelor of Animal Science at Massey University offers a well-rounded, industry-aligned education for students passionate about animals and their management in a changing global landscape.