The Course

The temperate climate of the UK is ideally suited to pastoral farming and animal production is essential to the rural economy, with around 60 per cent of UK agricultural output derived from the livestock sector.

In addition to the science and technology associated with modern animal production, livestock specialists understand the animal welfare, food quality and environmental issues facing the industry. We must be able to evaluate and apply advances in biotechnology to ensure a sustainable future for livestock farmers and a competitive market for animal products.

Harper Adams has a long history in applied livestock research, close links with industry, and highly qualified and experienced staff. After a general first year you will specialise in animal science and study modules such as Farm Animal Nutrition, Farm Animal Health, Animal Improvement and Bioethics and Farm Animal Behaviour and Welfare. You may also choose from optional modules that include Molecular Biology and Equine Science.

Students interested in this course are also advised to consider the courses in Animal Health and Welfare.

The Placement

The year-long placement period may be undertaken on either a progressive livestock farm in the UK or abroad or within the animal health, breeding or feed industries in the UK.

This period will enable you to put your earlier studies into practice and develop links within the industry. The skills gained will be integrated and applied later in the course and are highly valued by future employers.

The Future

The applied nature of this course helps you to develop skills that are in demand within the livestock sector of the agricultural and ancillary industries. Career opportunities are excellent, with students finding employment both on home farms and as enterprise and farm managers. Commercial and technical opportunities are also available, or you could choose to extend your studies at postgraduate level.