The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences (ADS) at the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences has received approval to launch new master’s and PhD graduate programs. These programs merge the previously separate animal sciences and dairy science programs, providing a more comprehensive education for students. The first class of students will start in fall 2025.
This change follows the 2020 merger of the Department of Animal Sciences and the Department of Dairy Science into ADS. These programs will simplify the application process, offer more flexibility, and enhance job opportunities for graduates.
“The new programs will not only help students find careers after graduation, but they will also allow more connections to be made across the department,” said Hasan Khatib, professor and interim chair of ADS. “By combining these programs, we can better support students and their varied interests.”
The livestock industry continues to evolve, with larger farms, advanced technology, and specialized production methods. This creates a growing demand for professionals with advanced degrees in comprehensive and multi-disciplinary studies, such as those offered by these programs.
These graduate programs will focus on five key areas: land and water stewardship, precision livestock farming, food safety, biomedical advancements, and animal health and welfare. Department faculty, known for their leadership in these fields, will provide cutting-edge research opportunities for students.
