MSc by Research Animal Science

Enhance your understanding of safe and sustainable livestock production while building your confidence as an independent researcher with our MSc by Research in Animal Science master’s degree.

This flexible online programme will develop your ability to secure safe and sustainable livestock production systems that respect and enhance the welfare of livestock.

We encourage a new and innovative understanding of the challenges and opportunities that face the global livestock industry. Whether you’re working directly in the sector, in related supply industries – such as feed and pharmaceuticals, advisory or extension services – or in a research institution, this programme will offer you a new perspective.

Choose MSc by Research in Animal Science at the University of Reading

You will:

• join the highest-ranking UK university for Agriculture and Forestry (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2020 – Agriculture & Forestry). We’re ranked 12th in the world, and are the only UK university in the top 50.
• acquire the skills, knowledge and understanding of key topics associated with animal nutrition, health, behaviour and sustainable livestock production as you plan, manage and conduct an extended independent research project.
• critically analyse of the challenges and opportunities facing livestock production, and receive rigorous training in research methods and statistical analyses commonly used in animal science. You’ll also gain critical appraisal skills to evaluate research at the interface between animal, microbial and food science.

Joining this programme means you’ll also be joining our School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, where we are committed to empowering change through our teaching and research. Our academics tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues across their respective fields of expertise, and our mission is to make a difference in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. 

Your learning environment

Taught elements of your degree are delivered online, enabling you to remain at your workplace during your studies.

The research element of your degree can be conducted either at your workplace or at Reading. You can choose to complete the course in 18 months, or take up to 63 months, depending on your work demands.

You will also have opportunities for research, networking, and personal development, as well as access to modern study resources and employability support. We also offer study skills support that’s tailored to our School’s master’s students.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics

As an MSc by Research in Animal Science student, you’ll be a member of the School’s Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE).

GIIDAE attracts a diverse community of master’s students from more than 40 countries, and holds diversity, equality and high-quality teaching and learning as core values in its approach to education.

• GIIDAE has an active scholarship programme. Visit our dedicated scholarships webpage for more information about scholarships, bursaries, and other sources of funding.
• Visit the GIIDAE website for more information about the modules you can take during your degree.
• Download a copy of the GIIDAE brochure, which tells you more about postgraduate study in our School.

The first part of the programme (delivered with online support) covers topics including:

• Livestock Nutrition and Feeding
• Contemporary Issues in Animal Science
• Sustainable Livestock Production Systems 
• Animal Science Research Project Plan
• Animal Science Research Project
• Research Methods and Project Management

The second part of the programme is the research project. As an MSc by Research, this element is much bigger in scope that the research projects of traditional MSc programmes. This gives you the opportunity to take your research to a much deeper level. Join one of the ongoing studies at Reading and work at our world-class facilities, or undertake research at your place of work to address an issue that is of critical importance to your business.

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent)

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have a good undergraduate honours degree, ideally with upper second-class or above (or equivalent from an internationally recognised university outside the UK). Applicants who have relevant career experience are also welcome to apply.

Students may join immediately after their undergraduate degree, or after some years of employment to enhance career prospects by acquiring further skills.

For a list of requirements by country, please visit our Country-Specific Information page.

Your personal statement

Your personal statement needs to demonstrate that you understand what the course is about, your motivation for studying, and what you would like to get out of your studies. You may reflect on paid or unpaid experience in the field to help support your personal statement.

Please tell us about your interest in animal science, and what kind of career you are interested in pursuing after your studies.

Pre-sessional English language programme

If you need to improve your English language score, you can take a pre-sessional English course prior to entry onto your degree.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what’s available.

Your MSc by Research in Animal Science degree will prepare you for doctoral studies in animal science or for a research career in related industries.

Potential career paths include:

• feed company nutritionist
• research and development manager
• regulatory manager
• technical services manager developing products for the livestock supply chain
• technical sales in feed, pharmaceutical or breeding companies
• independent and animal nutritional consultancy.

 

deadlines

We process applications all year round but recommend applying as early as possible to ensure you can have a place in your chosen degree. Please be aware that to ensure there is enough time to complete all administrative procedures, and VISA requirements, applications may need to be submitted no later than a month (or longer) before the start of the courses.