Iowa State Animal Science - Dairy BS
By Iowa State University
Last reviewed: December 2025
Complete guide to Iowa State's animal science program with dairy emphasis. Learn about the Dairy Teaching Farm, Midwest career connections, and affordable...
Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, offers a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with dairy emphasis. As a premier land-grant institution, Iowa State combines academic excellence with practical application and Extension outreach.
The curriculum covers animal biology, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, and management with specialized dairy courses. Students can emphasize production, pre-veterinary preparation, or agribusiness depending on career interests. The broad animal science foundation provides flexibility for various career paths.
The Dairy Teaching Farm, housing approximately 400 cattle, is central to the dairy experience. Students work with modern dairy equipment, learn management practices, and can serve as student employees. The farm operates as a commercial dairy while supporting teaching and research.
Iowa State's dairy judging team competes at major contests nationally. The Dairy Challenge team evaluates real dairy operations, developing consulting skills. Student organizations including Dairy Science Club provide professional development and networking.
Career outcomes include positions as herd managers, nutritionists, genetics representatives, cooperative employees, and farm operators. Iowa's dairy industry and broader Midwest region provide employment, while national opportunities abound for Iowa State graduates.
Key Features
- BS in Animal Science - Dairy: Four-year degree with dairy emphasis option. Broad animal science foundation. Multiple career pathway preparation.
- Dairy Teaching Farm: 400-head commercial dairy operation. Student employment opportunities. Modern facilities and equipment.
- Pre-Veterinary Track: Animal Science provides excellent veterinary school preparation. Pre-health advising. Strong DVM acceptance rates.
- Dairy Judging Team: Competitive cattle evaluation team. National contest participation. Industry networking.
- Dairy Challenge Participation: Farm evaluation competition with industry professionals. Consulting skills development.
- Extension Dairy Connections: Iowa State Extension dairy specialists. Applied learning and internship opportunities.
Advanced Features
- Undergraduate Research: Faculty research opportunities in nutrition, genetics, and reproduction. Graduate school preparation.
- Study Abroad Programs: International agriculture experiences available. Global dairy perspective.
- Food Science Connections: Dairy foods courses available. Career flexibility in processing sector.
- Leadership Development: CALS leadership programs. Student organization leadership. Professional skill building.
- Internship Program: Extensive placement network. Dairy farms, genetics, cooperatives, and agribusiness. Required for graduation.
- Student Organizations: Dairy Science Club, Block and Bridle, Alpha Zeta. Professional development and networking.
Ideal For
Farm Types: Future dairy producers, Midwest dairy career seekers, Pre-veterinary students
Competitive Advantages
What sets Iowa State Animal Science - Dairy BS apart from alternatives:
- $5,675 earnings advantage for ISU animal science grads
- 400-head Dairy Teaching Farm
- Premier land-grant institution
- Affordable Iowa resident tuition
- Midwest Student Exchange reduces non-resident costs
- Strong Extension connections
- Active dairy judging program
- Pre-veterinary excellence
- Research opportunities with faculty
- Strong career placement
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for Iowa State Animal Science - Dairy BS:
Iowa residents receive affordable in-state rate. Midwest Student Exchange may reduce non-resident costs. CALS scholarships available.
Pricing Model: Land-grant tuition by residency
FAFSA required for all financial aid. Work-study and employment opportunities available.
Pros & Considerations
- Premier Midwest program
- Strong dairy curriculum
- Industry partnerships
- Research opportunities
- Career preparation
- Four-year commitment
- Campus-based
- Academic requirements
- Regional location
Implementation & Setup
How to implement Iowa State Animal Science - Dairy BS on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: 4 years (8 semesters). Priority deadline December 1 for scholarships. Rolling admission after.
Training & Support
Training and support options available for Iowa State Animal Science - Dairy BS:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating Iowa State Animal Science - Dairy BS:
- Do I want broad animal science with dairy emphasis?
- Would 400-head Dairy Teaching Farm experience benefit me?
- Do I qualify for Iowa residency or Midwest Exchange?
- Is the Midwest dairy industry my target region?
- Am I interested in pre-veterinary preparation?