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Dairy Production (B.S.)

  • Location IconBrookings Main Campus

Produce milk to feed the world.

Dairy products are vital components of nutritious diets around the world. This major focuses on the production of high quality milk, with an emphasis on lactation, nutrition, breeding and farm management, leading to numerous exciting and diverse job opportunities all around the country.

Current starting salaries range in the region of $45,000 to $60,000 per year. The Dairy Research and Training Facility, with 130 milking cows and nearly 300 animals in total, provides opportunities for hands-on experience through laboratory exercises and optional employment. A commercial internship experience is also required. Graduates will become leaders in milk production and allied industries.

Job Placement Rate

100%

Scholarships Awarded Annually

$153K

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Hands on learning opportunities

The SDSU Dairy Research and Training Facility (Dairy Farm) is located 1.5 miles from campus and acts as a teaching lab for students. At the Dairy Farm, approximately 130 Holstein and Brown Swiss dairy cows are milked daily.

Is it for you?

This program will be a good fit if you:

  • Are interested in dairy cattle
  • Have an interest in the dairy industry
  • Have leadership capabilities
  • Are interested in opportunities for personal growth
  • Are passionate about food production

Career Opportunities

  • Herd manager
  • Dairy equipment specialist
  • Dairy field specialist
  • Nutrition consultant
  • Breeding and genetics specialist

Recent Employers

  • Family farm
  • Alltech
  • Trans Ova
  • DHIA
  • Accelerated Genetics

Internship Opportunities

  • Zoetis
  • Land O' Lakes
  • Cargill
  • Extension
  • Dairy Farm operations

Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?

If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The Exploratory Studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the Exploratory Studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices. 

In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits, and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a Career Coach in the Office of Career Development.