Cornell Animal Science - Dairy BS
Last reviewed: December 2025
Complete guide to Cornell's Ivy League animal science program with dairy emphasis. Learn about Teaching Dairy Barn, Dairy Challenge team, and career outcomes.
Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, offers a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with dairy management concentration through the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS). This Ivy League education combines rigorous academics with practical dairy experience.
The curriculum covers animal biology, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, and management. Students in the dairy management concentration take specialized courses in dairy production, herd management, and dairy business. The animal science foundation provides flexibility for various career paths including veterinary school.
The Teaching Dairy Barn is central to the Cornell dairy experience. This working facility houses a dairy herd that students help manage, learning milking, feeding, breeding, and health management firsthand. Student employment at the barn provides paid work experience.
The Cornell Dairy Challenge team competes regionally and nationally, evaluating real dairy operations and presenting recommendations to industry professionals. This experiential learning develops consulting and communication skills valued by employers.
Cornell's location in New York's dairy heartland provides industry connections through PRO-DAIRY Extension, dairy processors, and cooperatives. Many students complete internships with Northeast dairy operations, preparing for careers in production, consulting, or veterinary medicine.
Key Features
- BS in Animal Science - Dairy: Four-year Ivy League degree with dairy management concentration. Rigorous science foundation. Pre-professional preparation.
- Teaching Dairy Barn: Working dairy facility on campus. Student management opportunities. Hands-on learning throughout curriculum.
- Pre-Veterinary Preparation: Animal Science excellent preparation for DVM applications. Cornell Veterinary College connections.
- Dairy Challenge Team: Competitive team evaluates real dairies. Industry judge feedback. Regional and national competitions.
- PRO-DAIRY Connections: Links to Cornell's nationally recognized dairy Extension program. Industry networking and learning opportunities.
- Internship Network: Placements with Northeast dairy farms, cooperatives, and agribusinesses. Career preparation.
Advanced Features
- Undergraduate Research: Opportunities to work with faculty on dairy-related research. Preparation for graduate school or R&D careers.
- International Agriculture Programs: Study abroad options in dairy-intensive countries. Global perspective development.
- Food Science Minor: Complement dairy production with dairy foods science. Career flexibility.
- Dairy Judging Team: Traditional cattle evaluation competition. Industry networking and skill development.
- Cornell Dairy Bar Experience: Famous ice cream operation provides dairy foods exposure. Campus tradition.
- Leadership Development: CALS leadership programs. Student organization opportunities. Professional development.
Ideal For
Farm Types: Future dairy producers, Pre-veterinary students, Dairy consulting aspirants
Competitive Advantages
What sets Cornell Animal Science - Dairy BS apart from alternatives:
- Ivy League academics and reputation
- Teaching Dairy Barn hands-on experience
- Strong pre-veterinary preparation
- Cornell Veterinary College connections
- PRO-DAIRY Extension network access
- Northeast dairy industry proximity
- Dairy Challenge team excellence
- Research opportunities with renowned faculty
- International program options
- Strong career placement rates
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for Cornell Animal Science - Dairy BS:
Cornell meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. No loans in financial aid packages for most families. CALS has some merit scholarships. Higher sticker price but strong aid.
Pricing Model: Ivy League tuition with need-based aid
Net Price Calculator at cornell.edu provides estimate. Don't let sticker price deter application—aid is generous.
Pros & Considerations
- Cornell dairy excellence
- World-class faculty
- Strong industry connections
- Research opportunities
- Northeast dairy focus
- Four-year commitment
- Cornell admission standards
- Cost considerations
- Academic orientation
Implementation & Setup
How to implement Cornell Animal Science - Dairy BS on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: 4 years (8 semesters). Regular Decision deadline January 2. Early Decision available November 1.
Training & Support
Training and support options available for Cornell Animal Science - Dairy BS:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating Cornell Animal Science - Dairy BS:
- Am I seeking Ivy League academics with dairy focus?
- Is veterinary school a potential career path?
- Would hands-on Teaching Dairy Barn experience benefit me?
- Can I be competitive for Cornell admission?
- Is the Northeast dairy industry my target region?