Course at a glance
| Degree awarded | B.Agric / B.Sc |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 years (4 at some universities), then NYSC |
| Faculty / college | Faculty of Agriculture |
| Career field / body | Livestock industry and research; Nigerian Society for Animal Production |
| UTME subjects | Use of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics |
| Competitiveness | Moderately competitive |
On this page
- What Animal Science is about
- A brief history of the discipline
- What you will study
- Why study Animal Science & who it suits
- Careers & where graduates work
- Licensing, professional bodies & further study
- How to get in (UTME requirements)
- Practise the UTME subjects free
- Related & alternative courses
- Frequently asked questions
What Animal Science is about
Animal Science is the study of the production, management and improvement of livestock — cattle, poultry, sheep, goats, pigs and more — for meat, milk, eggs and other products.
A brief history of the discipline
As demand for animal protein grew, animal science developed to make livestock production efficient, healthy and profitable. It is central to Nigeria’s livestock and poultry industries.
What you will study
You study animal nutrition, breeding and genetics, animal physiology, husbandry and management, animal health, and animal products, with farm practicals — and a project.
Why study Animal Science & who it suits
This course suits students interested in food, farming, science and the environment, who enjoy both fieldwork and applied science. An interest in livestock and animal production is ideal.
Careers & where graduates work
Graduates work in livestock and poultry production, the animal-feed industry, agribusiness, research and extension, and government agencies, and in related roles in the food and agro-allied sector.
Licensing, professional bodies & further study
B.Agric / B.Sc Animal Science (about 5 years) → NYSC → roles in livestock production, feed industry, agribusiness and research.
How to get in: Animal Science UTME requirements
The JAMB UTME combination for Animal Science is Use of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics. You also need five relevant O’Level credits including English Language and Mathematics. Confirm the exact requirement for your chosen university.
Practise the UTME subjects free
Prepare with free official-syllabus notes and timed CBT practice for your UTME subjects:
- Use of English — practise CBT
- Chemistry — practise CBT
- Biology — practise CBT
- Agricultural Science — practise CBT
Related guides
- How to choose the right course for JAMB
- Good courses you can study with a low JAMB score
- Understanding the JAMB brochure & subject combinations
- How to use the JAMB eligibility checker
- How to change your course or institution on JAMB
Related & alternative courses
If you like Animal Science, you may also want to explore these related courses:
Frequently asked questions
How long is Animal Science in Nigeria?
It typically takes 5 years (4 at some universities), followed by the one-year NYSC.
What are the JAMB subjects for Animal Science?
Use of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics
What can I do with an Animal Science degree?
Work in livestock and poultry production, the feed industry, agribusiness, research and extension, and the food and agro-allied sector.
Is Animal Science the same as Veterinary Medicine?
No — Animal Science focuses on producing and managing livestock, while Veterinary Medicine is a separate clinical profession treating animal diseases.
Sources: Course content and career pathways summarised from Nigerian faculties and the relevant professional/registration bodies; admission requirements from the official JAMB UTME brochure. Last checked: 22 Sept 2026. Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with JAMB, the NUC or any professional body. Programme structure, duration and requirements vary by university — always confirm details with your chosen institution and the official JAMB brochure.