Home | School of Animal Sciences

Dedicated to the Virginia Tech motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), the School of Animal Sciences pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. We invite you to bring your interest in animals and let us prepare you for your future. Where can the School of Animal Sciences take you? The choices are unlimited!

Academics

Design your experience

Learn how the School of Animal Sciences can help you create the path for your successful academic journey.

Graduate in cap and tassel blowing glitter from her hands. — Learn how the School of Animal Sciences can help you create the path for a successful academic journey based on your interests.

Discovery awaits

Researchers in the lab with test tubes, beakers and equipment. — Work with world-class researchers to identify solutions to the pressing issues of today—and help created a better tomorrow.

Core Areas

Breeding, Genomics, Modeling, and Data

Growth and Development

Immunology and Health
Neurophysiology and Behavior
Nutritional Biochemistry/Metabolism

Reproductive Physiology

Research Facilities
Recent Publications

Our Graduate Studies Program
Graduate Student Directory

Extension

Community Outreach

Students with laptops and large digital display board working on data analysis problems. — Bringing timely, useful, and applicable information to the state—and world-at-large—based on the latest research.

Beef
Companion Animals
Dairy
Equine
Poultry
Sheep
Swine

4-H Horse Program
Virginia 4-H Dairy Youth Program
Youth Livestock Program

Sales

Campus Facilities

AREC Units
Virginia Cooperative Extension

The Latest

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Study highlights how frustration can lead to failure for search and rescue dogs , article
New research shows that when these dogs experience frustration — such as blocked access to a reward or an unfulfilled expectation — they are slower to complete their searches and more prone to errors.
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Virginia Tech study finds unique brain changes linked to witnessing trauma , article
Researchers discovered distinct molecular differences in how the brain processes directly experienced versus witnessed trauma — a finding that could lead to more targeted treatments for PTSD.
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American university students visit island to learn about Guernsey cow , redirect
This week the Dairy Club at Virginia Tech is traveling to Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland for their Spring Break International Trip. Part of the group traveled last week to the Channel Islands to visit Guernsey and Jersey where they were able to learn more about the management and genetics of dairy herds on each island. What a special experience to see where the breeds originated! Thank you to the Guernsey Press for the story highlighting their visit!
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Aspiring double Hokie embarks on a unique veterinary career with the U.S. Army , article
Zach Kirkpatrick will receive training after getting his DVM degree to become a commissioned officer in the Army Veterinary Corps.
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Caring for Virginia Tech's beef cattle , video
The Beef Cattle Center serves as a teaching, research, and outreach hub for School of Animal Sciences and Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine classes. Chad Joines '93 manages the Beef Cattle Center along with hired staff and students, who care for the cattle 365 days a year—rain or shine, to provide valuable experiential learning and research to help the beef cattle industry.
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Early mornings at Virginia Tech's Equitation Barn , video
The morning routine at Virginia Tech's Equitation Barn involves students from all majors, staff, and volunteers who feed horses and clean stalls 365 days of the year. Students gain experience in breeding and foaling, ground work training, marketing, nutrition, exercise physiology, as well as stable management fundamentals.

More News...

Class of 2025 - Student Spotlights

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Abby Greenwood , article
As a participant in the Dairy Science 3+1 program, Abby Greenwood is excited to attend the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine next semester. She has been an active member of the Dairy Club and will fondly remember her time at Virginia Tech and the friends she has made here.
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Cassie Borino , article
Cassie Borino has long dreamed of going to vet school and she believes her time at Virginia Tech has prepared her well. With research opportunities, studying abroad, and friends that can last a lifetime, Cassie has had four great years at Virginia Tech and is now looking forward to another four at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine!
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Sophia Cheng , article
With a minor in Biodiversity Conservation, Sophia Cheng has big hopes to combine her knowledge about wildlife and companion animals in the future to help many animals. Sophia plans to attend veterinary school to refine that knowledge before going into veterinary pathology or internal medicine.
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Daniela Garcia Llanos , article
Between volunteering at the Virginia Tech horse barns and a trip to Germany to learn more about the European horse industry, Daniela Garcia Llanos has realized her love of all things equine! Daniela is thrilled to pursue a career working with thoroughbred horses, and with a double concentration, her passion for animals extends to many species.
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Tyler Wood , article
Majoring in Animal and Poultry Sciences, this senior is reaching for the sky! Meet Tyler Wood, a VT Corps of Cadets member who plans to attend the U.S. Army Flight School. Tyler enjoys spending his free time fly fishing, camping, and hiking at various national parks.
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Makaia Haight , article
A double major in Animal and Poultry Sciences and Dairy Science, Makaia Haight is making the most of her time at Virginia Tech. Whether you see her at a women’s basketball game or reaching out to new students as an ambassador, Makaia is always moving!