Overview

The Dairy Production bachelor degree at South Dakota State University provides students with the technical expertise required to produce high-quality milk to help feed a growing global population. This academic programme emphasises the scientific and practical aspects of lactation, nutrition, breeding, and modern farm management. By combining rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on learning, the university prepares graduates for leadership roles within the dairy and allied agricultural industries.

Students enrolled in this programme explore the complex relationship between bovine nutrition and genetics to optimise milk production for future generations. The curriculum is designed for those passionate about the health and well-being of dairy cattle and the broader food industry.

Why Dairy Production at South Dakota State University?

South Dakota State University offers a distinctive learning environment that bridges the gap between the farm and the table. The programme is recognised for its strong agricultural science foundation and its commitment to professional growth in herd management. Students benefit from a mandatory commercial internship, providing real-world exposure to industry best practices and networking opportunities with leading agricultural organisations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 387 per credit
National fee: USD 387 per credit
Local fee: USD 267 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Dairy Production
Lactation
Nutrition
Breeding
Farm Management
Livestock and Animal Products Evaluation
Agricultural Science

Careers with Dairy Production

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles across the dairy and pharmaceutical sectors. Many find success in technical sales, business development, or as herd managers and supervisors. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue careers as breeding and genetics specialists, nutrition consultants, or dairy field support specialists. Some graduates choose to work as state or federal inspectors, auditors, or marketing and communications specialists within the agricultural industry.

Recent alumni have secured positions with prominent organisations and family-owned enterprises. Employment destinations include well-known industry names such as Alltech, Trans Ova, Zoetis, Land O' Lakes, and Cargill. Additionally, the degree serves as a pathway for those interested in veterinary medicine or equipment manufacturing and specialised technical support for dairy operations.

Programme Structure

Courses Include:

Farm and Ranch Management
Livestock Feeds and Feeding and Lab
Crop Production and Lab
Principles of Animal Nutrition
Livestock Reproduction and Lab

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

More details

National: SDSU accepts applications on a rolling admissions timeline.

Language

English

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Brookings, United States

Disciplines

Food Science Animal Science View 305 other Bachelors in Food Science in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

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IELTS

5.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

For admission to SDSU, we look for one of the following academic achievements:

An ACT composite score or ACT superscore of 18 or SAT Math and Reading/Writing subscore total of 970 or
Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter Balance Assessment or
A high school cumulative GPA of 2.6 or higher or
A ranking in the top 60 percent of graduating class.

Students should also complete the following core courses with a “C” average or above:

4 years of English (or ACT English subscore of 18 or above).
3 years of advanced math—Algebra I and higher (or ACT math subscore of 20).
3 years of laboratory science (or ACT science reasoning subscore of 17).
3 years of social science (or ACT reading subscore of 17).
1 year of fine arts (or AP Fine Arts score of 3 or above) Includes vocal, instrumental and studio arts.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Out-of-State

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8010 USD / year

≈ 8010 USD / year

Additional Details

Minnesota Resident: $312.25 per credit.

Living costs

Brookings

United States

1085 - 1888 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Dairy Production.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Brookings

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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