Animal Science

Fundamental Requirements

The Animal Science Academy program provides comprehensive training in safe and ethical animal management practices. Students learn essential skills including proper animal handling, admission procedures, documentation protocols, and understanding the critical connection between responsible animal care and public health standards.

Learning Experience

Students gain valuable experience through both theoretical coursework and hands-on practical applications with live animals. Active participation in all aspects of the program is essential for developing the expertise needed in animal science careers.

Skills and Prerequisites for Success

Prospective students should be comfortable working both independently and as part of collaborative teams. The program requires individuals who are task-oriented, can follow detailed procedures, and possess strong critical thinking abilities to make sound decisions in various animal care situations.

Important Considerations

• Safety Focus: Students must demonstrate the ability to follow strict safety protocols protecting both themselves and the animals in their care
• Animal Welfare: Understanding how proper animal management prevents public health issues and ensures animal well-being
• Documentation Skills: Accurate record-keeping and animal admission procedures are fundamental to professional practice
• Active Engagement: Success requires full participation in both classroom learning and hands-on animal care activities
• Critical Thinking: Students must make informed decisions about animal welfare and safety in real-time situations
• Professional Responsibility: Understanding the ethical obligations of animal care professionals

This program is ideal for students who are passionate about animal welfare, interested in veterinary or agricultural careers, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of animal care and public safety.

 

9th Grade

Academy:  Evolutionary Biology & Taxonomy

In their first year of study, freshmen explore the basics of animal science. Emphasis is placed on phylogeny and evolutionary relationships among species. As students progress, they are able to investigate the correlation between natural history and physical adaptations of species through the study of homology and species comparison. By the end of the year, students learn about animal behavior and practice animal training techniques.

Core Courses:

• English 9
• Algebra I, Geometry or Algebra II
• Biology for Health Sciences
• Health and Physical Education 9
• World History
• World Language
• Financial/VPA Elective

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10th Grade

Academy: Animal Ethics and Animal Science Career Exploration

As sophomores, students begin to work effectively with the extensive live animal collection. To that end, they engage in discussions about the ethical treatment of animals as it applies to various careers they might ultimately choose to pursue. Second-year students learn about the industry organizations which promote animal welfare while striving to maintain a work environment that mirrors the many aspects of the industry in which an animal technician might practice.

Core Courses:

• English 10*
• Geometry*, Algebra II* or Pre-Calculus*
• Chemistry*
• Health and Physical Education 10
• US History I*
• World Language
• Financial/VPA Elective

*Honors courses available and determined by grades and teacher recommendation

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11th Grade

Academy: Animal Physiology & Pathology

Upperclassmen enrolled in the Academy for Veterinary Science are responsible for the maintenance and management of the animal collection. Students make daily careful observations regarding animal health, basing their reports on knowledge gained from their ongoing study of blood disorders, bone disorders, urinary disorders, and parasitology. 

Core Courses:

• English 11*
• Algebra II*, Pre-Calculus*, Calculus*
• Physics*
• Health and Physical Education 10
• US History II*
• World Language
• Elective

*Honors courses available and determined by grades and teacher recommendation

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12th Grade at MCST

Career and Technical Education (Academy):

• Career and Technical Education Elective (i.e. Virtual Enterprises International, Computer Science Principles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles)
• Independent Study
• OR CCM for Academy coursework

Structured Learning Experience (Graduation Requirement):

• All Seniors must complete 120 hours of an approved internship in their respective career fields.

Core Courses: 

• English 12* (required)
• Health and Physical Education 12 (required)
• Calculus*, Statistics, Foundations of College Math
• Environmental Science, Anatomy and Physiology I
• World Language*

*Honors courses available and determined by grades and teacher recommendation

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12th Grade at County College of Morris

Eligible Seniors may complete their Senior coursework in full or in part at County College of Morris. See School Counseling Department for more information.

Required Courses:

FALL

• English Composition I (ENG111)
• Lifetime Wellness (HED128) or PE (labeled HES)
• Academy Course (1)

BIO 121 General Biology I
BIO 127 Biology of Environmental Concerns
BIO 122 General Biology Lab
COM 104 Interpersonal Communications
COM 109 Speech Fundamentals
CMP126 Computer Applications (all but CIS students)
CMP128 Computer Science 1 (all but CIS students)
BUS 112 Introduction to Business (all but FIB students)
ACC 110 Elements of Accounting (all but FIB students)

SPRING

• English Composition II (ENG112)
• PE or Lifetime Wellness (whichever was not taken in the Fall)
• Academy Course (1) (see above list)

*See Guidance (School Counseling) Department for additional information on CCM courses

Structured Learning Experience

• All Seniors must complete 120 hours of an approved internship in their respective career field.