266 Animal Sciences Building, 1675 Observatory Drive, Madison, WI 53706; 608-263-3308; www.wisc.edu/dysci/index.htm
Professors Grummer (chair), Armentano, Broderick, Combs, Fricke, Gianola, Kirkpatrick, Reed, Reinemann, Shaver, Sheffield, Weigel, Wiltbank; Associate Professors Oetzel, Ruegg, Wattiaux; Assistant Professors Khatib, Rosa, Cabrera
Undergraduates in dairy science prepare for a variety of career opportunities that require a strong background in applied animal biology. Careers include: agribusiness, dairy farm management, technical service and consulting, research, and teaching. Students also enroll in the department to prepare for veterinary school, medical school, or graduate school. Course work in the major includes animal genetics, lactation, reproduction, nutrition and management. The department may be consulted for additional details and for specific career information.
The dairy science major can be earned under the degree programs Natural Sciences, Agricultural Sciences (with concentrations in business or production systems), or International Agriculture and Natural Resources. The dairy science major may be combined with other majors such as agricultural and applied economics, biological systems engineering, genetics, life sciences communications, and agronomy. Multiple out-of-classroom learning opportunities are included in the curriculum and internships on a farm or with agribusiness are required to provide the practical training needed for success in any 21st-century careers. Many students gain valuable experience through part-time employment in research labs or in the student-operated dairy cattle instruction and research center.
Students interested in veterinary school, graduate school or research should choose the Natural Sciences degree program. The dairy enterprise management specialization prepares graduates for careers in agribusiness and dairy farm management. The International Agriculture and Natural Resources degree program provides an edge for those interested in international dairy development or marketing.
Students benefit from integration of the instructional and research programs of the department. Discoveries from the research laboratories reach the classroom long before they appear in textbooks. The co-curricular Badger Dairy Club involves students in dairy industry events that provide leadership and networking opportunities in a vibrant industry.