Online Fundamentals of Animal Sciences
Online Fundamentals of Animal Sciences
Turn your passion for animals into an impactful career
Purdue University’s fully online animal sciences undergraduate courses are designed for driven pre-veterinary students and aspiring animal sciences professionals who want more than just theory or science fundamentals. Our courses will help you develop species-specific expertise in nutrition, physiology, production systems, ethics and food products. Plus, you’ll gain real-world knowledge that sets you apart in the animal sciences profession.
Whether you’re preparing a standout veterinary school application or ready to launch a new career, this is your chance to move forward with confidence. You won’t just learn about the industry; you’ll get to become part of it.
Plus, the credits you earn are eligible for transfer to other colleges and universities, giving you flexibility as you shape your academic path. (Final credit acceptance is determined by your home institution, so be sure to check with your admissions office or academic advisor.)
Introduction to Animal Agriculture
Ethics of Animal Use: Animals in Society
Principles of Animal Nutrition
Principles of Animal Production
Principles of Animal Products
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Introduction to Animal Agriculture
Introduction to Animal Agriculture (ANSC 10200) is a fully online, asynchronous course that explores the foundations of modern animal agriculture across major species, including poultry, dairy, beef, swine, small ruminants and horses. Students build a strong understanding of nutrition, genetics, physiology, behavior, management and industry systems. Learners also examine real-world challenges like sustainability, animal welfare and global production. This course connects scientific principles to practical applications, preparing students to think critically about the future of animal agriculture.
Ethics of Animal Use: Animals in Society
Ethics of Animal Use: Animals in Society (ANSC 12100) explores how humans interact with animals across modern society, blending science, ethics and cultural analysis. The course examines animals as food sources, companions, research subjects and elements of entertainment, while introducing legal frameworks and philosophical perspectives. Students develop critical thinking and evidence-based views on complex ethical issues. The course emphasizes real-world application, with assignments that connect classroom concepts to everyday experiences.
Principles of Animal Nutrition
Build a strong scientific foundation in how animals grow, perform and stay healthy with the online Principles of Animal Nutrition (ANSC 22100) course from Purdue University. This flexible, cohort-based course dives into the nutrients animals need, how they digest and use feed, and how to design balanced diets across species — from livestock to companion animals. You’ll learn real-world applications, including how to evaluate feedstuffs, interpret nutrition data and make informed feeding decisions. If you’re serious about advancing in animal sciences or preparing for veterinary school, this course delivers essential knowledge to help you move forward with confidence.
Principles of Animal Production
Get a clear, data-driven look at how modern animal agriculture works in Purdue’s online Principles of Animal Production (ANSC 24000). This 100% online course examines the full production cycle for major livestock species, blending science, systems thinking and real-world decision-making. You’ll explore how environment, resources and market forces shape production while building hands-on skills in data analysis and interpretation. Designed for flexibility and impact, this course equips you to better understand, evaluate and contribute to today’s evolving food and agriculture systems.
Principles of Animal Products
Explore how everyday foods make the journey from farm to table in Purdue University’s online Principles of Animal Products (ANSC 25500) course. This fast-paced, fully online course breaks down the science and systems behind meat, dairy, eggs and wool — covering everything from muscle-to-meat conversion and milk processing to food safety, quality and inspection. Through weekly modules, videos and hands-on assignments, you’ll build practical knowledge you can apply immediately. If you’re ready to understand the “why” behind what we eat, and position yourself for opportunities in agriculture, food systems or animal sciences, this course is your next step.
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