Animal and Dairy Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Animal and Dairy Sciences

Concentrations Offered

Business and Industry, Food Science, Pre-Veterinary Medicine Technology, Pre-Veterinary Science, Production Management

Top 5 Reasons to Study

01

Prepare for careers in veterinary medicine, research, nutrition, biotechnology, and agribusiness.

02

Gain practical skills through hands-on learning and real-world experiences.

03

Contribute to global food security, animal care, and agriculture.

04

Build a strong foundation in nutrition, genetics, physiology, and welfare—preparing you for advanced studies or diverse careers.

05

Build strong connections and join a supportive community that fosters personal and professional growth.

Core
Skills

  • Apply foundational knowledge of animal biology and science within modern animal and livestock industries.
  • Manage domestic livestock effectively using hands-on skills grounded in animal care, health, and production practices.
  • Use scientific equipment and tools confidently to collect information and support animal-related research and operations.
  • Think critically and solve problems by analyzing situations, evaluating options, and making informed decisions.
  • Work collaboratively in team-based settings to support animal management, research, and industry goals.

Sample
Jobs

  • Veterinarian
  • Veterinary Technician / Technologist
  • Food Technologist
  • Laboratory Research Associate / Animal Science Technician
  • Pharmaceutical Sales

Successful Career Outcomes

Strong Job Placement Our animal and dairy sciences graduates have a 94% job placement.
Jobs Opportunities Overall employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034.

Top
Employment
Industries

  • Animal Health
  • Veterinary School
  • Agriculture and Livestock Production
  • Government and Regulatory Agencies
  • Meat Production Industry

Brag
Points

  • Our students receive hands-on training with livestock on our working farms, preparing them for veterinary school and production careers.
  • Our facilities include the 1,100-acre MAFES H. H. Leveck Animal Research Center, dedicated to livestock and forage production.
  • Our MSU Equestrian Team competes through the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association in both English and Western riding.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

As an animal and dairy sciences major at Mississippi State University, you’ll learn by doing as you combine science with hands-on experience in animal agriculture. Through labs, farms, and applied coursework, you’ll study animal biology, care, and sustainable production while building practical skills in breeding, reproduction, and herd management. Whether you’re preparing for veterinary school or pursuing careers in nutrition, food production, or research, you’ll gain a strong, experience-based foundation in animal care. Experiential learning opportunities ensure you graduate ready to support animal health, food safety, and sustainable agriculture. You’ll gain real-world experience through internships aligned with your career goals and can expand your learning through study abroad programs, student organizations, major-related jobs, undergraduate research, and community service projects—building the skills and confidence needed for a successful career.

Spotlight

Further your education through the Thrive in Five accelerated M.S. degree program, where students complete undergraduate and master’s coursework concurrently to graduate with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees within five years.

Animal and Dairy Sciences

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Bachelor of Science in Animal and Dairy Sciences

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Alumni
Success

Coming from a background with limited livestock exposure, the Animal and Dairy Sciences major provided me with opportunities to step outside of my comfort zone and further establish my passion to be in the animal field. 

Ziember Powell, alumna

Student
Testimonial

I chose Animal and Dairy Sciences for my undergraduate program because I wanted a hands-on, experiential learning experience in addition to a robust scientific education to equip me for veterinary school. The applicable, dynamic curriculum has prepared me well.

Alex Speak, student