Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University A land-grant institution
Animal and Poultry Sciences
The Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences provides comprehensive teaching, research, and Extension programs to serve its students and seven major livestock and poultry industries; beef cattle, broilers, eggs, horses, swine, sheep, and turkeys. The department strives to increase the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of animal food and fiber production, while at the same time, enhancing animal well-being, food safety, and environmental quality.
Undergraduate Program – Bachelor’s degree
Students majoring in Animal and Poultry Science may choose from one of three degree options: Science, Pre-Vet, or Production-Business and can select from one of three emphasis areas: Livestock, Poultry, or Equine.
Science or Pre-Vet Option - Both options prepare students for post-graduate education in the fields of nutrition, physiology, genetics, behavior, biotechnology, or veterinary or human medicine. Students receive state-of-the-art training in these areas and they develop knowledge in the areas of food safety and environmental stewardship to meet tomorrow’s challenges, in Virginia, and around the globe.
Production-Business Option - Students gain knowledge to own and manage livestock, equine, or poultry enterprises; work in the sales and marketing of animals or associated products such as feed and pharmaceuticals; pursue a career in public relations, or commodity groups; and assist and teach others through rewarding, people-oriented careers in agri-science or government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Graduate Program
The Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences offers graduate studies leading to the M.S. and the Ph.D. in Animal and Poultry Sciences. Students may specialize in the areas of genetics, genomics, immunology, management, molecular biology, muscle biology, nutrition, physiology, and product quality assurance. M.S. students may also specialize in the area of livestock or poultry management.
Research
The goal of research conducted within the Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences is to optimize production and performance of equine, livestock, and poultry. Interdisciplinary and cooperative research integrates molecular, cellular and tissue level, and whole animal approaches to maintain animal health, maximize nutrient utilization, support animal welfare, and enhance physiological processes. Research spans the realm from on farm animal agriculture to biomedical relevance.
Extension
The Extension program focuses on beef cattle, poultry, sheep, swine, horses, and Virginia 4-H youth.
Contact Information:
David Gerrard, Department Head
3480 Litton-Reaves Hall (0306)
Blacksburg, Virginia 24061
(540) 231-9157
Fax: (540) 231-3010
dgerrard@vt.edu