
Animal and veterinary biosciences is the health of animals
Studying the biology of domesticated animals helps us better understand their health and provides insight into their interactions with people.
As an Animal and Veterinary Biosciences major you will:
- Learn about cattle, swine, sheep, horses, poultry, and goats, as well as companion animals such as cats and dogs
- Engage in hands-on courses studying animal breeding, veterinary genetics, animal health and welfare, physiology, and animal nutrition
- Explore important issues related to biomedical advancements, food safety, precision livestock farming, animal health and welfare, and land and water stewardship
Career Paths
Animal and veterinary biosciences graduates are prepared for careers in veterinary medicine, research, agriculture, healthcare, nutrition, food, and business.
Here are just a few examples of what our animal and veterinary biosciences graduates are doing with their careers:
What CALS alumni do:
Veterinarian
Animal Nutritionist
Veterinary Technician
Animal Nutrition Scientist
Account Manager
Where CALS alumni work:
UW–Madison Vet School
Vita Plus
Purina
Zoetis
Idexx
Labcorp
What CALS alumni do:
Microbiologist
Embryologist
Research Assistant
Where CALS alumni work:
TransOva Genetics
Exact Sciences
Labcorp
URUS
Select Sires
What CALS alumni do:
Embryologist
Clinical Trial Manager
Research Assistant
Lab Study Technician
Animal Research Technician
Where CALS alumni work:
Covance/Labcorp
TransOva Genetics
Exact Sciences
URUS
Select Sires
What CALS alumni do:
Meat and Poultry Inspector
Herdsperson
Animal Research Technician
Farm Operational Manager
Where CALS alumni work:
Covance
Egenesis, Inc.
Cargill
Johnsonville
ABS Global
UW–Madison Agricultural Research Stations
What can CALS offer you?
CALS students are curious to discover how our living world works and are passionate about using science to improve it.
Our programs span five areas of study and encourage students to pursue their passions in the classroom and beyond. Learn more about how our students are set up for success:
- Scholarships
- Career Services
- Study Abroad
- Honors Program
- QuickStart – online, summer program for first-year students
Want to learn more about animal and veterinary biosciences?
Explore admission requirements, course offerings, 4-year plans, and more on UW–Madison’s undergraduate Guide.
Your CALS Experience
63%
Students who complete independent study projects
12+
Hands-on lab course options
$262,000
Department scholarships offered yearly
Advisor & Contact Information
Advisors can answer your questions, help you create a degree plan that meets your personal and professional goals, and connect you to resources across the UW–Madison campus.
Incoming students should reach out to CALS Academic Affairs Team to direct your questions. Current UW–Madison students should schedule with their assigned advisor using Starfish.
CALS Academic Affairs
116 Agricultural Hall
1450 Linden Dr., Madison, WI 53706
academicaffairs@cals.wisc.edu
(608) 262-3003
Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences
260 Animal Sciences Building
1675 Observatory Dr., Madison, WI 53706
(608) 263-3308

Want to learn more about animal and veterinary biosciences?