Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University A land-grant institution
Dairy Science
The mission of the Dairy Science Department is to educate students, create and disseminate knowledge, and develop applications of technology through study of dairy and related biological systems.
Majoring in Dairy Science
Two curriculum options are available to dairy science majors. Students may also complete minors or dual majors with other departments such as agricultural and applied economics, animal and poultry sciences, biology and agricultural education.
Dairy Enterprise Management - Gain knowledge and training in dairy farm business management to optimize dairy cattle performance and well being, utilize electronic data, manage farm finances and land resources, and implement environmental planning.
Animal Biotechnology and Pre-Vet Studies - Prepare for advanced training for careers in animal research or veterinary medicine to improve animal and human nutrition, genetics, and biosecurity.
Dual Majors - Combine your interest in dairy science with another companion major that allows you to diversity and gain additional knowledge in such areas as agribusiness, agricultural education, communications, and livestock management.
Graduate Program
Students interested in pursuing graduate studies in Dairy Science or in the Interdepartmental Genetics Ph.D. program (statistical and molecular genetics) are encouraged to communicate directly with the faculty member of interest concerning a potential program of study, application for admission, and/or financial support.
Research
Applied research efforts focus on bovine performance and dairy business management, integrating physiology, genetics, nutrition, and the environment. More basic studies utilize molecular, cellular, and biotechnology approaches to understand biological mechanisms which regulation mammary development and function, nutrient utilization, and reproductive efficiency.
We envision an innovative research program supported by a broad funding base which and emphasizing interdisciplinary graduate programs and partnering with other College and university departments to solve health, nutritional, and agricultural problems.
Extension
The Department of Dairy Science offers several extension programs including Nutrition and Forage Quality, Milk Quality and Mastitis, Genetics and Animal Food Safety.
Contact Information:
Mike Akers, Department Head
2470 Litton Reaves Hall
Blacksburg, Virginia 24061
(540) 231-6331
Fax: (540) 231-5014
dascinfo@vt.edu