Bachelor of Science - Bioveterinary Sciences with Foundation (D303)

The BSc Bioveterinary Sciences with Foundation degree at the University of Reading is a four-year programme designed to prepare students for success in animal-related careers. The course begins with a foundation year that supports the transition to university-level study and leads directly into the three-year BSc Bioveterinary Sciences programme.

During the foundation year, students develop essential academic skills in areas such as study techniques, writing, mathematics, and research. In addition, they are introduced to subject-specific topics including biology, ecology, and sustainability, laying a strong groundwork for further study.

Bioveterinary scientists play a key role in addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges. Their work contributes to sustainability and food security by promoting the health, welfare, and effective management of farmed animals. They also apply scientific knowledge to the health, welfare, and behaviour of domestic and captive animals, and conduct research at the intersection of animal biology, veterinary science, and animal management.

At the University of Reading, students gain specialist scientific knowledge, research experience, and practical laboratory skills necessary to tackle global challenges in the animal and veterinary fields. According to the National Student Survey 2024, 92% of students agreed that teaching staff were effective at explaining concepts, 100% said the course challenged them to achieve their best, and 100% felt it developed the knowledge and skills they would need in their future careers. The Department of Animal Sciences had a 71% response rate among final-year students.

Reading is ranked 7th in the UK for Animal Science and Agriculture (Guardian University Guide 2026), further reflecting the high quality of its teaching and academic environment.

Students on the course build a strong foundation in biosciences and gain a thorough understanding of animal function from the molecular to the whole-animal level. Core areas of study include cell biology, biochemistry, physiology, animal health and welfare, behavioural sciences, and nutrition. This scientific knowledge is applied in a range of practical contexts, including farm, zoo, and domestic settings.

In addition to subject expertise, students develop a range of transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, data handling, and statistical analysis—competencies that are highly valued by employers across the animal, veterinary, and biosciences sectors.