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Welcome to the School of Animal Sciences

Guided by Virginia Tech’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), the School of Animal Sciences integrates teaching, research, Extension, and experiential learning to prepare future leaders and advance knowledge across animal systems. Together, our community is committed to developing solutions that strengthen agriculture and improve lives.

Design your experience

Learn how we can help you create the path for a successful academic journey based on your interests and goals.

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

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.

Upcoming

17th Annual Virginia Livestock Hall of Fame 

Friday, October 30 at the Alphin-Stuart Livestock Teaching Arena
500 Plantation Road, Blacksburg, VA
RSVP below

2026 Inductees: 

  • Gene Copenhaver '83 of Meadowview, VA - Beef
  • Carroll Wayne Dudley '73 of Powhatan, VA - Dairy
  • Ronald L. Fessler, DVM* of Forest, VA - Horse
  • William "Billy" Flowers '82 of Apex, NC - Pork

    *denotes a posthumous recognition

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    Virginia Livestock Hall of Fame to honor four industry leaders , redirect

    A fifth-generation cattle producer and national industry leader, a longtime dairy cooperative executive, an equine veterinarian who practiced for more than 50 years, and a pioneer in swine reproductive physiology make up the 2026 class of the Virginia Livestock Hall of Fame.

    Date: Sep 22, 2026 -

Seminars & Guest Speakers

  • Article Item
    A tractor crosses a sunlit field
    Building toward a zero-waste campus , article

    With support from a $3.5 million state award, Virginia Tech is planning a large-scale composting facility that could process up to 2,700 tons of food and agricultural waste each year while supporting research and student learning.

  • Article Item
    Two white chickens standing in green grass, with other chickens blurred in the background.
    Two new faculty expand poultry science at Virginia Tech , article

    Sara Cloft and Evelyn Weaver are expanding Virginia Tech's work in poultry science through teaching and research. They want students to experience poultry science firsthand and see the possibilities within the field.

  • Video Item
    Dressage team rides to victory
    Dressage team rides to victory , video

    Virginia Tech Dressage achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the 2026 National Championship. In this video, coaches and student-athletes reflect on the emotion, determination, and teamwork that led to the program's national title. From years of dedication behind the scenes to the excitement of championship day, they share what the victory means to the team and everyone who helped make it possible. Beyond the competition arena, the Virginia Tech Equestrian program emphasizes leadership, horsemanship, and academic excellence. Learn how support from the Virginia Tech Sports Club program and the School of Animal Science helps student-athletes develop both as riders and as future professionals, creating a foundation for success that extends far beyond nationals.

  • Article Item
    A split image of researcher Johan Osorio on the left and cattle in Virginia Tech's dairy facility on the right.
    Feeding dairy cows to be more resilient to infection , article

    New research focuses on strengthening cows’ immune systems through nutrition to address rising disease rates and industry challenges.

  • Video Item
    Staying ahead of the herd
    Staying ahead of the herd , video

    Virginia Beef Cattle University is an event held at Virginia Tech which brings together beef producers, industry leaders, agricultural professionals, and students to exchange knowledge, explore emerging trends, and build meaningful connections within the cattle industry. The event creates opportunities for participants to learn from one another's experiences, discuss common challenges and successes, and gain fresh perspectives that can help strengthen their operations and businesses. Through hands-on workshops, educational sessions, and engagement with organizations such as the USDA, attendees receive practical information and resources tailored to real-world farm needs. The program also highlights Virginia Tech's commitment to agricultural education and outreach, showcasing the value of experiential learning while welcoming both current students and returning Hokie alumni to collaborate, learn, and support the future of the beef industry.

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    Rear view of several Holstein dairy cows standing side-by-side in a barn, with their udders visible as people walk in the background.
    Work from the Biosensor Engineering Lab featured on Advanced Science News , redirect

    Subclinical mastitis is a costly disease that often goes undetected because infected cows show no obvious symptoms. SAS researchers in the Biosensor Engineering Lab, led by Dr. Azahar Ali, are developing earlier detection methods to help dairy producers reduce losses, improve milk quality, and protect animal heath. Read the ASN article. →

At a Glance

733 Undergraduate Students - decorative block
66 Graduate Students
6500+ Alumni
47 Faculty Members - Decorative Block
40 Staff Members - Decorative Block

The Virginia Tech School of Animal Sciences is the largest animal program east of the Mississippi, offers accelerated options, and provides transformational, hands-on animal experience.