Exam Overview
Animal Science encompasses the study of animal systems and livestock management, use and care of animal health-care instruments, animal grooming equipment, animal restraining equipment, and laboratory equipment.
Animal Science
SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION
By Industry… For Industry
Certifications were developed through comprehensive needs assessments and job analysis within the agriculture industry. AEST Certifications are meeting industry needs by identifying workers with specific, employer-demanded knowledge, skills and abilities to support hiring practices and fill the gap in employment needs.
“With such a broad set of knowledge needed, certification programs like these help potential employers know that the certificate holder has been prepared for many of the tasks that may be assigned to them.” – Dusty Holley, Florida Cattlemen’s Association
See what industry is saying about the Animal Science Specialist Certification
Industry Support Letters
Industry Readiness Indicators
Industry partners have identified the industry readiness indicators that are measured on the Animal Science certification exam. Based on the industry needs and assessment of each indicator, the number of exam items per area have been determined and are noted on the exam guide. Additionally, where applicable, the industry readiness indicators have been correlated with current educational frameworks.
Exam Specifics
Exams are delivered online and must be administered by an approved AEST proctor. Candidates have a two-hour window during a single session to complete the exam. Exams are 100 questions in length and include multiple choice options for all items. Candidates are required to achieve a passing score on the exam to earn certification. Reduced price retake exams are available to candidates who do not meet the minimum passing score on the initial attempt.
60
Minimum Passing Score
85
Initial Exam Fee
50
Retake Exam Fee
Exam Guide
The exam guide is designed to assist candidates to prepare to sit for the Animal Science certification exam. It includes information about the exam, exam objectives, recommended references and sample items – all with the intent of helping candidates achieve a passing score. AEST recommends a combination of classroom instruction and self-study to maximize a candidate’s chance of earning industry certification.
Knowledge Focus References
AEST provides Knowledge Focus References (KFR) documents that detail specific content on which to focus for questions that may be asked on the exam.
Primary Recommended Resources
- Modern Livestock & Poultry Production, 9th Edition
Authors: Frank B. Flanders & James R. Gillespie ISBN-13: 9781133283508 - Additional optional Secondary Resources are designed to be optional tools for reenforcing industry readiness concepts measured on this exam.
- Content alignment with current national and state educational frameworks are provided. Please contact AESTleader@ffbf.org if your state is not listed.