Major overview
Study animal science at Australia’s only city-based university with an on-campus farm
3 reasons to study animal science at Murdoch University
- Study alongside livestock in real production settings at Australia’s only metropolitan university with a campus-based farm.
- Learn from animal industry professionals, veterinarians and leading researchers, completing units from our internationally accredited veterinary program.
- Learn at the WA university rated five stars and ranked #1 for student support and learning resources for Agriculture and Environmental Studies (Good Universities Guide 2026).
What you’ll learn
- Study livestock science and genetics across major animal production industries.
- Apply principles of veterinary nutrition and animal toxicology to support health and performance.
- Understand comparative mammalian biochemistry, structure and function.
- Evaluate the animal production systems used in beef, dairy, sheep, pig and poultry enterprises.
- Analyse how welfare, productivity and sustainability are balanced in commercial livestock systems.
Studying both Crop and Pasture and Animal Science gave me the opportunity to learn about all sectors of the industry. In my first year, I went on field trips, handled animals and spoke to people directly involved in agriculture.
Brittany, Agricultural Science
Your future career in animal science
- Farm business manager
- Agribusiness consultant
- Livestock consultant or extension officer
- Animal nutritionist
- Biosecurity officer
- Animal breeding services specialist
- Research scientist
Start dates
| Starting period | Location | Face to Face | Online | Mixed mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.
Major Structure
Visit the Course Handbook - Get detailed information on units, prerequisites, and pathways.
To help plan the structure of your course, search for our suggested course plans.
| Unit code | Unit name | Credit points |
|---|
How to Apply
Majors are part of a degree and can't be applied on their own. Apply for a related degree first, then choose your major once enrolled.
Bachelor of Agricultural Science
Study a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Murdoch University for a career in agriculture, animal health or agribusiness. Apply today.
Bachelor of Agricultural Science
Study a Bachelor of Agricultural Science/Bachelor of Business at Murdoch University. Gain hands-on farm experience for a career in agribusiness. Apply now.