Dairy Production (B.S.)

Program Coordinator/Contact

Joseph Cassady, Interim Department Head
Department of Dairy and Food Science
Alfred Dairy Science Hall 136
605-688-4116

Program Information

Dairy Science is an application of the sciences, engineering and technology, and business toward the study of milk production and processing. The Dairy Production major focuses on the study of milk production, dairy farm operation management, nutrition and feeding, genetics and breeding, herd health and business management. The degree is designed to prepare students for a wide range of outstanding, challenging and rewarding career opportunities ranging from industry to private enterprise, government, research and higher education.  Students will develop a knowledge base related to the basic biological, physical, microbiological, and chemical sciences.  These sciences are utilized to study the animal health, genetics, physiology, and nutritional requirements of lactating animals. Students will also be exposed to business operations management as it relates specifically to a dairy farm operations. Graduates with a degree in Dairy Production are well prepared for professional positions within the dairy industry or for further graduate study in Dairy Science.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Dairy Production curriculum a graduate should be able to demonstrate the following:

• Understanding of the chemistry and physiology underlying the nutritional requirements of lactating animals, specifically dairy cattle.
• Functional and practical approach to maintaining herd health based on a thorough understanding of animal diseases and their causes.
• Functional and practical approach to breeding dairy cattle and confirming pregnancy to enable initiation of milk production.
• Applied genetics related to breeding and herd management.
• Microbial growth and survival as it impacts the safety and spoilage of milk.
• Development of the ruminal microbial environment and impacts on nutrient requirements, milk composition and milk quality.
• Understanding of cleaning and sanitation processes and protocols impacting milk quality.
• Understanding of dairy farm management and operations principles including finance, human resources, environmental controls, nutrient management, business costs and profitability.
• Ability to utilize verbal and written communication skills effectively in a group or individual environment.
• Ability to utilize critical thinking and reasoning skills while ethically applying scientific principles toward resolving issues associated with the growth, care and feeding, and harvesting of milk from lactating animals.

Course Delivery Format

The program offers in depth instruction and training through lectures, discussions, laboratory exercises and hands-on practical application and training.