Experiential Learning
At UConn, learning goes far beyond the classroom. Through hands-on research, internships, community-engaged projects, abroad experiences, and capstone work, students in Animal Science gain real-world skills, make professional connections, and deepen their understanding of environmental challenges related to human, animal, and environmental health — while doing meaningful work that advances their fields.
Research Opportunities
You’ll have access to diverse departmental and cross-college research projects in areas such as animal genetics/genomics, animal nutrition, breeding, biotechnology (genetic engineering and stem cells, animal reproduction, embryology, growth biology and endocrinology, food microbiology and safety, dairy technology and safety, equine science, dairy production and management, meat chemistry, laboratory animal science as well as diversified livestock. Work side by side with faculty mentors, publish findings, and present at regional and national conferences. These experiences bolster your resume and prepare you for graduate study, industry leadership, or roles in government.
Internships
Our ANSC students participate in internships across sectors around the world. These experiences allow you to apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts. Many students convert internships into full-time job offers or build long-term professional networks.
Study Abroad and International Field Experiences
Explore a variety of courses that can count towards your major as related courses and electives through semester programs or short-term field courses abroad.
How Experiential Learning Powers Your Career
- Employers value graduates who already “know how to do the work”— these experiences give you that edge.
- You’ll graduate not just with knowledge, but with a professional network, a portfolio of real projects, and confidence to lead in your field.
- Many students land their first job through relationships built during internships, research, or community projects.
Community-Engaged Learning
Through Extension programs, outreach partnerships, and service-learning, you’ll apply your knowledge to support communities across Connecticut. Whether you’re educating youth, assisting with animal care and management programs, supporting livestock producers, or promoting animal and agricultural literacy, these experiences strengthen your leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
Hands-On Learning
Throughout their time at UConn, Animal Science and Equine Science and Management students gain hands-on experience in classrooms, laboratories, and teaching and research animal units. Explore our Student Gallery to see how these experiences prepare students for careers in science, agriculture, veterinary medicine, and beyond.