Animal & Veterinary Science Degrees

College is a big investment, but a University of Arizona education may be more affordable than you think. No matter your background or family’s financial situation, you have options to make it manageable.

At Arizona, 9 out of 10 students receive financial aid. That means most students pay less than the estimates shown here. By maximizing your financial aid – scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study – you can lower your costs while earning a degree that will pay you back for a lifetime.

Estimated cost of tuition for first-year and transfer students:

• Arizona residents: $13,900/yr
• Non-Arizona residents: $42,300/yr

Get our guide to learn how students like you are funding their futures.

Application requirements vary based on your status as a first-time, transfer, international, online or returning student.

• Students who haven't completed 12+ transferable post-high school college credits are considered a first-time college student, and must meet Arizona's core competency requirements to be eligible to apply.
• You are considered a transfer student if you have completed 12+ transferable post-high school college credits.
  • If you are under the age of 22 at the start of your desired term, you will need to meet the core competency requirements and have a minimum 2.0 cumulative college/university GPA.
  • If you are 22 or older at the start of your desired term, you will need a minimum 2.0 cumulative college/university GPA.
• SAT/ACT scores are not required for general admission.
• You have the option to submit a resume and 500-word personal statement during your application.

Get the guide to find out more details about the application process and deadlines.

A degree in animal or veterinary science prepares you for careers and graduate programs in animal healthcare, behavior, production and entertainment. With these degree programs, you have the flexibility to go into a range expertise areas from business management to scientific research.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics¹, 2023 median pay for animal science related careers in the agriculture and resource industry was $76,400 per year for roles like:

• Research technician: Support advancements in genetics, nutrition, reproduction, growth and development on behalf of food production companies, farms, processing plants, or the government; or conduct research into emerging diseases, environmental health, food safety, population health, and bioterrorism.
• Veterinary technologist or technician: Conduct clinical work under the supervision of a veterinarian in a private practice. You'll perform medical tests and diagnose and treat medical conditions in animals. Note, becoming a vet tech may require additional certification.
• Dairy unit manager: Provide oversight of herd management, including data entry and animal care. Manage milking operations and oversee day-to-day animal health needs and related operations and records.
• Breeding of race horses: Focus your understanding of genetics and conformation to select breeding stock that will product superior offspring. Assist with the care, record-keeping, and training of animals. Facilitate the marketing and promotion of stock.
• Animal caretaker and trainer: Maintain animal cages, habitats, gear, and overall care at private and public facilities, including kennels, stables, and zoos. Trainers often gain additional certifications or on-the-job training to work with specific breeds.

_{¹U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024a, April 17). Agricultural and Food Scientists. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/agricultural-a…}