Cornell Animal Science MS/PhD - Dairy
Last reviewed: December 2025
Complete guide to Cornell's graduate programs in animal science with dairy focus. Learn about MS/PhD degrees, faculty research, and Ivy League dairy...
Cornell University's Department of Animal Science offers Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees for students pursuing research careers in dairy science. The department combines Ivy League academic rigor with practical application through PRO-DAIRY Extension.
Graduate students work directly with faculty mentors on original research. Research strengths include dairy cattle nutrition and metabolism, reproductive biology, genetics and genomics, and production management. The PRO-DAIRY program ensures research has practical industry application.
MS students typically complete degrees in 2 years with thesis requirement. PhD students require 4-5 years with original dissertation research. Coursework, seminars, and teaching experience complement research training.
Most students receive assistantships providing stipend and tuition. Research assistantships support faculty projects while teaching assistantships involve undergraduate instruction. Cornell's competitive packages attract students from across the U.S. and internationally.
The College of Veterinary Medicine provides additional research opportunities and faculty connections. Students interested in dairy cattle health can collaborate with veterinary faculty on clinical and research projects.
Key Features
- MS in Animal Science: 2-year thesis-based master's degree. Dairy research specialization. Industry or PhD preparation.
- PhD in Animal Science: 4-5 year doctoral degree. Original dissertation research. Faculty or senior research preparation.
- Research Assistantships: Competitive stipends plus tuition. Work on faculty research projects. Health benefits included.
- PRO-DAIRY Connection: Research connected to Extension outreach. Industry relevance. Applied research opportunities.
- Veterinary College Partnerships: Collaboration opportunities with veterinary faculty. Dairy cattle health research.
- International Recognition: Ivy League prestige. Global alumni network. International research collaborations.
Advanced Features
- Nutrition Research Program: Faculty expertise in precision nutrition, metabolic health, and feed efficiency. Industry-funded projects.
- Reproductive Biology: Fertility research, reproductive management, embryo biology. Basic and applied science.
- Genetics & Genomics: Dairy cattle genomics, selection strategies, data analytics.
- Teaching Opportunities: TA positions provide teaching experience. Graduate teaching certificate available.
- Seminar Series: Department seminars expose students to diverse research. External speaker program.
- Professional Development: Grant writing workshops, presentation skills, career preparation.
Ideal For
Farm Types: Research-focused professionals, Future faculty, Industry scientists
Competitive Advantages
What sets Cornell Animal Science MS/PhD - Dairy apart from alternatives:
- Ivy League research excellence
- PRO-DAIRY Extension connection for applied impact
- Veterinary college research partnerships
- Competitive assistantship funding
- Northeast dairy industry proximity
- International research collaborations
- Strong faculty mentorship
- Global alumni network
- Career placement in academia and industry
- Teaching experience opportunities
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for Cornell Animal Science MS/PhD - Dairy:
Most students receive assistantships covering tuition and providing stipend. Cornell's competitive packages include health benefits. Self-funded positions uncommon.
Pricing Model: Assistantship-funded education
Contact potential advisors about funding. Most admitted students receive full funding.
Pros & Considerations
- World-renowned dairy research
- Excellent faculty and facilities
- Strong industry connections
- Comprehensive graduate training
- Research opportunities
- Competitive admission
- Graduate school commitment
- Cost and time investment
- Academic focus vs practical
Implementation & Setup
How to implement Cornell Animal Science MS/PhD - Dairy on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: MS: 2 years. PhD: 4-5 years. Application deadline: December 15 for Fall admission.
Training & Support
Training and support options available for Cornell Animal Science MS/PhD - Dairy:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating Cornell Animal Science MS/PhD - Dairy:
- What dairy research area interests me most?
- Which Cornell faculty aligns with my interests?
- Do I want PRO-DAIRY Extension connection?
- Am I interested in veterinary college collaboration?
- Is Ivy League credential important for my career?