Animal Science Co-op Student Information
About The Program
The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture – Animal Science (ANSC) major is designed to provide a broad opportunity to study animal physiology, nutrition, genetics, behaviour and welfare across a range of large and small domestic animal species. The program is designed around an option to follow a Production and Management focus or a Research focus in semesters 5-8. With a broad scope of career options, ANSC co-op students will build transferrable skills during co-op work terms contributing to their work readiness and career prospects upon graduation.
Why Co-op?
As a co-op student, you will gain relevant work experience, build professional networks, and develop essential interpersonal skills needed to succeed in the workplace, all while getting paid and earning your university degree. Guelph’s co-op program is unique due to the exceptional level of support provided throughout the co-op experience. Students will complete a comprehensive course preparing them for the co-op employment process, and will receive guidance from a knowledgeable team of staff dedicated to their development and success.
Course Sequencing
| YEAR | FALL | WINTER | SUMMER |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONE | Academic | Academic | Off |
| TWO | Academic | Academic | Work |
| THREE | Academic | Academic | Work |
| FOUR | Work | Work | Off |
| FIVE | Academic | Academic |
Acquired Knowledge & Skills
Knowledge
Strong knowledge of various areas of animal science including animal physiology, nutrition, genetics, behaviour, and welfare.
Communication
Well-developed written and verbal communication, and interpersonal competencies.
Application
Hands-on experience working with a range of large and small domestic animal species. Advanced skills in presentation delivery.
Sample Jobs
Research Lab Assistant
The student will work in a laboratory isolating and characterizing bacteriophages from a variety of environmental samples. They will also be involved in multidisciplinary research teams to support the analysis, development, adoption, and assessment of environmentally sustainable production practices in food and agriculture.
Farming Operations Intern
The Intern will provide excellent customer service by assisting farmers to continually meet best management practices in farming operations, ensuring continued confidence in the safety and quality of our products and achieving sustainable excellence by minimizing our environmental footprint.
QC Chemist
The student will be responsible for the chemical, physical, spectroscopic and chromatographic examination of raw materials and finished product. They will prepare test solutions, reagents, standards and other common laboratory solutions as well as maintain accurate record keeping to cGMP standards. Additionally, they will be responsible for the maintenance of laboratory equipment and the lab environment.
Sample Employers*
- Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
- Chicken Farmers of Ontario
- Environment & Climate Change Canada
- Gay Lea Foods
- Maple Leaf Foods
*This shows a sample of recent co-op employers and will vary depending on employer recruitment needs. During a job search, students are encouraged to be actively engaged and are supported in establishing and maintaining their own personal contacts.
Salary Information
Students receive compensation from their employer for co-op work terms. The rate of pay will vary depending on a number of factors including the industry, the student’s program of study, and work term level. For your reference, a Co-operative Education Salary Guide is available on our website, which provides hourly rates (averages and ranges) for each degree program.
