Curriculum and Admission

Dairy Science is an application of the sciences, engineering and technology, and business for the study of milk production and processing. Dairy Science students may choose a major in Dairy Production, Dairy Manufacturing or both. Dairy Production is the study of production of milk, management of the farm, feeding, breeding and herd health and Dairy Manufacturing is the study of processing and merchandising of milk and milk products. In addition, specialization in Science, and Business is available with both majors. A Microbiology Specialization is available for Manufacturing majors. This Specialization is designed to prepare students with a strong interest in pursuing Microbiology related careers within the dairy industry.

The Dairy Research and Training Facility (DRTF) of the Dairy Science department houses 300 Holstein and Brown Swiss cattle and is a research center in feeding, breeding, and managing a dairy herd. Equally important, it is the site for basic student training in dairy cattle evaluation and other aspects of dairy farming. Milk produced at the DRTF is delivered to the well-equipped dairy plant where it is processed into fluid milk, ice cream, butter or cheese. These products are sold through the Dairy Sales Bar and used in campus dining facilities. Most students work part-time at the processing plant and/or at the DRTF. Both are opportunities for students to work part-time and gain practical experience while earning money. Students are encouraged to supplement their classinstruction with summer internships and extracurricular activities. Leadership opportunities are available through participation in the Dairy Science Club, Dairy Cattle Judging, and Dairy Products Evaluation Teams. The department has strong research programs in both areas, in part through the Midwest Dairy Foods Research Center and research opportunities for undergraduate students are also available.

Dairy Science degrees are designed to prepare students for a wide range of outstanding, challenging and rewarding career opportunities in both majors ranging from industry to private enterprise, government, research and others.

Dairy Science Undergraduate Programs of Study: Dairy Production and Dairy Manufacturing

Dairy Science Course Description

Courses and Schedule of Classes

Food Safety Minor

Check out admissions, fees and financial aid information, cost of attendance as well as the entire 2008-2009 SDSU Undergraduate Bulletin.

South Dakota State University / Dairy Science Department
Dairy Microbiology Rm 109 / Phone: 605-688-4116
College of Agricultural and Biological Sciences