Virginia Tech Dairy Science BS
By Virginia Tech
Last reviewed: December 2025
Complete guide to Virginia Tech's dedicated dairy science undergraduate program. Learn about curriculum, campus dairy, and Mid-Atlantic career connections.
Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, is one of the few universities nationally offering a Bachelor of Science specifically in Dairy Science. Unlike many programs where dairy is merely an emphasis within animal science, Virginia Tech's Department of Dairy Science provides focused, specialized education.
The four-year curriculum covers dairy cattle management, nutrition, reproduction, genetics, and dairy business. Required courses address both science fundamentals and practical application. Students gain broad preparation for diverse dairy industry careers or graduate school.
The Virginia Tech Dairy Center, housing 300+ Holstein cows in a modern free-stall facility, is central to the program. Students work alongside faculty and staff, learning milking operations, herd health, reproductive management, and daily dairy operations. Student employment provides paid experience.
Virginia Tech's dairy judging team competes nationally, developing cattle evaluation and oral communication skills valued by employers. Students also participate in Dairy Challenge and other competitions connecting them with industry professionals.
Career outcomes are strong: graduates find positions as herd managers, nutritionists, genetics representatives, dairy cooperative employees, and farm owners. The Mid-Atlantic dairy industry provides local employment, while national opportunities abound.
Key Features
- Dedicated BS in Dairy Science: Four-year degree in Dairy Science major—not just animal science emphasis. Focused curriculum and specialized faculty.
- Virginia Tech Dairy Center: 300+ cow Holstein herd in modern free-stall facility. Student employment opportunities. Hands-on learning throughout curriculum.
- Dairy Judging Team: Competitive team participates in regional and national contests. Cattle evaluation and oral reasons skills. Industry networking.
- Dairy Challenge Team: Farm evaluation competition with industry professionals. Consulting skill development. National exposure.
- Virginia Cooperative Extension: Dairy specialists throughout Virginia. Internship connections. Applied learning opportunities.
- Internship Requirements: Industry experience required for graduation. Placements with farms, cooperatives, and agribusinesses.
Advanced Features
- Pre-Veterinary Track: Dairy Science provides strong preparation for veterinary school applications. Pre-health advising available.
- Undergraduate Research: Opportunities with faculty research projects. Preparation for graduate school.
- Study Abroad Options: International agriculture programs available. Global dairy perspective.
- Dairy Foods Connections: Food Science courses available as electives. Career flexibility in processing sector.
- Student Organizations: Dairy Club provides professional development, tours, and networking. Block and Bridle membership.
- CALS Career Services: Dedicated career advising for agriculture students. Industry connections and job placement.
Ideal For
Farm Types: Future dairy producers, Dairy industry career seekers, Mid-Atlantic focus
Competitive Advantages
What sets Virginia Tech Dairy Science BS apart from alternatives:
- Dedicated Dairy Science degree (not just emphasis)
- 23+ graduates annually—among highest nationally
- 300+ cow Virginia Tech Dairy Center
- Moderate program size for individual attention
- Strong dairy judging tradition
- Virginia Cooperative Extension connections
- Affordable Virginia resident tuition
- Academic Common Market may help non-residents
- Mid-Atlantic dairy industry proximity
- Strong career placement rates
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for Virginia Tech Dairy Science BS:
Virginia residents receive in-state benefit. Non-residents may qualify for Academic Common Market rates. CALS scholarships available.
Pricing Model: University tuition by residency
FAFSA required for all financial aid. Work-study and employment opportunities available.
Pros & Considerations
- Quality dairy program
- Southeast location
- Research opportunities
- Industry connections
- Solid curriculum
- Four-year commitment
- Regional focus
- Academic requirements
- Campus-based
Implementation & Setup
How to implement Virginia Tech Dairy Science BS on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: 4 years (8 semesters). Priority deadline January 15. Rolling admission after.
Training & Support
Training and support options available for Virginia Tech Dairy Science BS:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating Virginia Tech Dairy Science BS:
- Do I want a dedicated Dairy Science major?
- Would hands-on learning at 300+ cow facility benefit me?
- Do I qualify for Virginia residency or Academic Common Market?
- Is the Mid-Atlantic dairy industry my target region?
- Am I interested in smaller program with individual attention?