nimal Science: Animal Care and Welfare Concentration

Prepare for a Career in Animal Care, Welfare, and Behavior

The Animal Science B.S. with a concentration in Animal Care and Welfare equips students with the scientific, behavioral, and management skills needed to improve animal well-being in companion, livestock, wildlife, and emergency settings. At SHSU, students learn in hands-on environments, including the Gibbs Ranch Agricultural Center, our state-of-the-art Animal Science labs, and active equine, livestock, and wildlife facilities, providing practical experience that employers expect.

Students gain advanced training in animal behavior, biosecurity, emergency and disaster response, welfare assessment, animal law, and public health. They work directly with animals across species, develop safe handling and management techniques, and study the human–animal bond through both scientific and ethical lenses.

SHSU’s program stands out through its combination of immersive labs, faculty with industry and research expertise, strong ties to veterinary and agricultural partners, and access to student organizations that build leadership and professional experience. As graduates, you are prepared for careers in animal care, welfare, inspection, public health, production, training, and emergency response, or to continue into veterinary or graduate programs.

Is This the Right Concentration for You?

This concentration is ideal for students who:

• Want to work directly with animals in hands-on, applied roles
• Are interested in behavior, welfare assessment, and safe handling
• Care about animal ethics, public health, and emergency preparedness
• Prefer learning through real-world experience rather than only theory
• Are you considering careers in animal care, veterinary practice, behavior training, or welfare advocacy

This track is tailored for students who want to focus on animal well-being, behavior, and care, rather than on production or industry-focused animal science roles.