Study programme - BSc Animal Sciences
When you study BSc Animal Sciences, you study this for three years, full-time. In your first year, you’ll build a solid background in animal biology. In the second year, you’ll dive deeper into your specialisation. By the third year, you can go on an exchange abroad or write your thesis about the animal you’re most passionate about. Take a look at the courses below—do you see yourself studying them?
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
For one part, the third year consists of the remaining specialisation courses and by writing a BSc thesis. However, for the most part, you decide what you will study!
Free choice
You have the freedom to choose courses that fit your goals—whether that’s diving deeper into Animal Sciences or exploring other areas like communication, economics, education, or plant sciences. Taking courses outside your field is even encouraged to broaden your perspective. You can study at Wageningen University, another university in the Netherlands, or even abroad.
Minor
You could also choose a BSc minor—a set of courses (24 credits) focused on a theme, like marine biology, infectious diseases, climate change, food safety, or economics. With around 50 minors to choose from, it’s a great way to specialize or explore new topics, even at another university or internationally.
BSc thesis
In your third year, you’ll complete your degree with a BSc thesis, based on your own small research project on a topic of your own liking. Whether you help with experiments, analyze data, or write a literature review, you’ll gain key skills like scientific writing, interpreting research, and presenting results.
Take your studies global!
In your third year, you can choose to study elective courses at a university outside the Netherlands. We work with partner universities worldwide, offering courses related to Animal Sciences that complement your programme.
An exchange is a great way to broaden your perspective, learn about global challenges in animal sciences, and experience a new culture. It’s also the perfect opportunity to develop an international mindset and approach for your future career.
Study Load and the Academic Year
The BSc Animal Sciences programme is a three-year full-time bachelor’s degree, with 60 credits (ECTS) earned each year, totaling 180 ECTS. Each ECTS represents 28 study hours, and with 40 teaching weeks per year, students are expected to spend around 42 hours per week on their studies.
The academic year is split into six teaching periods. Periods 1, 2, 5, and 6 last 8 weeks and are worth 12 ECTS, usually with two courses. Periods 3 and 4 are 4 weeks long, worth 6 ECTS, and typically include one course.
Teaching methods
Teaching is organised in various ways:
- Lectures: A teacher explains the lesson material to the class.
- Seminars and group work: You work on assignments with a project group, sometimes with a teacher’s guidance.
- Practicals: You carry out experiments in the lab or use models, simulations, and computer analysis.
- Excursions: You apply theory in real-world settings through field research or excursions.
- Self-study: Time for independent study is built into your schedule, but you can also choose to study outside class hours.
Student Counselling
The Animal Sciences programme offers strong personal guidance throughout your studies. Our education team includes a programme director, three bachelor study advisers (one for international students), two master study advisers, and a study recruiter, all ready to support you.
If you need advice on planning your studies, choosing specializations, or dealing with study or personal issues, our study advisers are always available to help. At WUR, we prioritize personal contact, which is why we have more support staff than most universities in the Netherlands. This close support helps reduce dropout rates and makes your university experience more enjoyable. We're committed to your success every step of the way.