Animal and veterinary science | Dairy science option
Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Sciences
Overview
Related Topics
Managing the milk
Dairy products — such as milk, butter and cheese — are an important part of the American diet and they play a critical role in the global agriculture economy.
This program focuses on the efficient running of high-quality dairy operations. You will learn all aspects of milk production, from the physiology of lactation to the management of a modern dairy. Explore animal nutrition and reproduction, dairy production and manufacturing, farm management and other topics.
Much of your education will take place in the on-campus labs and animal centers, where you will explore pregnancy rates and grazing management systems. You’ll also help care for more than 100 milking cows at the university’s dairy research and teaching center. Learn about genetics, breeding, nutrition, reproduction, and health of dairy cattle at all stages of production.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in the dairy industry
- Enjoy working with livestock
- Have strong leadership and communication skills
- Are involved in FFA, 4-H or other agriculture-related activities
Churn out dairy expertise
Curriculum
The B.S.A.V.S. in animal and veterinary science, dairy science option is a 120-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
Explore program courses in the University Catalog
Learning outcomes
- Understand cattle genetics, breeding, production and lactation physiology
- Formulate feed rations, evaluate nutrient testing and design preventative health plans
- Apply chemistry and microbiology principles to dairy processing
- Evaluate management practices
Hands-on learning
- Work directly with cattle at the on-campus Dairy Center
- Explore further with dairy farm and milk processor internships
- Experience working at the U of I Beef Center with purebred cows
- Gain technical skills in reproductive physiology and agriculture-biotech labs
- Study abroad to learn about global agriculture
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,924 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
$52,641 - Agricultural Managers
$36,690 - Farm, Ranch, and Aquaculture Animal Farmworkers
$34,352 - Sales Managers
$154,526
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Clubs
- Dairy Club
- Pre-Vet Club
- Agricultural Risk Management Club
- Livestock and Dairy Judging Teams
Financial aid and scholarships
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September, and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty
Wildfire smoke impact on dairy cows
U of I is working to determine how wildfire smoke impacts overall health and milk production in dairy cows