Animal Science

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Animal Science program at Iowa Valley?

The program takes two years (four terms) and leads to an Agriculture (Animal Science Track) Associate of Applied Science degree. It requires 66 credit hours and is offered in person at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls.

What will I study in Animal Science?

Core courses include Working with Animals, Survey of the Animal Industry, Animal Health, Animal Nutrition, Animal Reproduction, General Biology, and Farm Business Management. You also choose 13 elective credits in areas such as beef cattle science, swine science, livestock evaluation, horse management, genetics, and agricultural marketing.

Will I get hands-on experience with livestock?

Yes. Coursework includes visits to area livestock operations through partnerships with producers, and the plan of study includes a co-op field experience where you work with an employer in the industry and earn college credit.

What jobs can I get with an Animal Science degree?

Graduates work in livestock production and herd management, feed and animal health sales, livestock marketing, agricultural lending and agribusiness, and as agricultural technicians. In Iowa, agricultural technicians earn an average of $59,621 a year and first-line supervisors of farming workers earn an average of $53,391, according to the job outlook data on this page. Pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

How much does the Animal Science program cost, and is it Last-Dollar Scholarship eligible?

For 2026-2027, tuition and fees are $243 per credit hour for Iowa residents, or about $16,000 for the full 66-credit degree before financial aid. Animal Science is on Iowa Valley’s list of Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship programs for 2026-2027, which can cover remaining tuition for eligible Iowa students after other grants are applied. Start by completing the FAFSA.

What is the difference between Animal Science and Pre-Veterinary?

Animal Science is a career degree built to take you straight into jobs in the livestock industry. Pre-Veterinary is an Associate of Professional Studies degree designed to prepare you to apply to veterinary school or transfer to a four-year program. If your goal is to become a veterinarian, start with Pre-Veterinary.

Do I need to grow up on a farm to study Animal Science?

No. Your first term starts with Working with Animals and Survey of the Animal Industry, which cover handling, care, and how the livestock industry works. Students with and without farm backgrounds enroll.
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