UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN–MADISON · UNITED STATES
Dairy Science, MS
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Two pathways: research-focused or coursework-onlyDegree Options
- 30 credits minimum requiredProgram Length
- 3.00 GPA required for graduationMinimum GPA
- Focus on practical issues in animal agricultureProgram Focus
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary studyCollaborations
The University of Wisconsin–Madison's Animal and Dairy Sciences Department offers a Master of Science in Dairy Science. This program is designed to provide comprehensive graduate-level training in dairy science, with a strong emphasis on research and practical application in animal agriculture. Students can choose from various research focus areas, including nutrition, genetics, reproductive physiology, and precision agriculture, often collaborating with other science departments. The program offers flexibility to tailor a course of study to individual student needs and career aspirations, whether pursuing further doctoral studies or entering research-oriented professions. Note: Admissions to the Dairy Science MS are suspended starting Fall 2026 and the program will be discontinued by Fall 2029. Prospective students are encouraged to consider the new Animal and Dairy Sciences MS program starting Fall 2025.
Careers
Graduates of the Dairy Science MS program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in academic, industrial, and governmental sectors. The comprehensive training equips them with advanced scientific knowledge and research skills.
- Academic teaching and research
- Professional veterinary or medical programs
- Industrial research (food and feed industries)
- Laboratory research (governmental and international agencies, private corporations)
- Management positions requiring scientific training
Frequently asked questions
- What is the new program replacing the Dairy Science MS?
- The Dairy Science MS program is suspended starting Fall 2026 and will be discontinued by Fall 2029. A new Animal and Dairy Sciences MS program will begin in Fall 2025.
- What are the admission deadlines for the Dairy Science MS program?
- The international application deadline for Fall intake is May 1, for Spring intake is October 1, and for Summer intake is March 1.
- What are the typical career paths for graduates of this program?
- Graduates can pursue careers in academic teaching and research, industrial research in food and feed industries, laboratory research with governmental or private agencies, or management positions requiring scientific training.
- What are the degree options within the Dairy Science MS program?
- Students can choose between a research pathway, which includes MS research and a final defense, or a coursework-only pathway that culminates in a literature review.
- How do I apply to the Dairy Science MS program?
- You should identify and contact potential faculty advisors whose research aligns with your interests, prepare application materials like transcripts and letters of recommendation, and submit an online application through the Graduate School.
- What are the tuition and fee details for international students?
- Tuition and fee information is not available on the program page and should be referred to the Bursar's Office. Financial assistance may be available through assistantships, fellowships, and traineeships.
Entry requirements
Previous DegreeSatisfactory undergraduate or graduate training in any biological science with an emphasis on basic science courses. Typically, students admitted have a GPA of 3.2 or higher, though lower GPAs may be considered under special circumstances.
English Proficiency TestRefer to Graduate School minimum requirements (UW-1241)
Applicants must meet both the minimum requirements of the Graduate School and the specific program requirements. It is recommended that applicants contact departmental faculty directly to discuss research interests and potential lab openings before applying. Admission is contingent upon a faculty member agreeing to accept the candidate into their research group and approval by the Graduate School.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not available on program page. Refer to Bursar's Office for general tuition and fees.
Tuition (home)Information not available on program page. Refer to Bursar's Office for general tuition and fees.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified on the program page. Please consult the university's financial aid resources for general cost of attendance estimates.
Tuition and fee information can be found via the Bursar's Office. Financial assistance may be available through assistantships, fellowships, and traineeships, often funded by the faculty advisor.
How to apply
1. Research FacultyIdentify faculty members whose research aligns with your interests and contact them directly to inquire about openings and potential supervision.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather required documents including transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the Graduate School's online application form and upload all required documents. Ensure you meet the minimum requirements of both the Graduate School and the Dairy Science program.
4. Await Faculty and Graduate School ReviewCompleted applications are reviewed by faculty members. If a faculty member is interested, they will contact you and recommend you to the Graduate School. The Graduate School makes the final admission decision.
Frequently asked questions
What is the new program replacing the Dairy Science MS?
+
The Dairy Science MS program is suspended starting Fall 2026 and will be discontinued by Fall 2029. A new Animal and Dairy Sciences MS program will begin in Fall 2025.
What are the admission deadlines for the Dairy Science MS program?
+
The international application deadline for Fall intake is May 1, for Spring intake is October 1, and for Summer intake is March 1.
What are the typical career paths for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates can pursue careers in academic teaching and research, industrial research in food and feed industries, laboratory research with governmental or private agencies, or management positions requiring scientific training.
What are the degree options within the Dairy Science MS program?
+
Students can choose between a research pathway, which includes MS research and a final defense, or a coursework-only pathway that culminates in a literature review.
How do I apply to the Dairy Science MS program?
+
You should identify and contact potential faculty advisors whose research aligns with your interests, prepare application materials like transcripts and letters of recommendation, and submit an online application through the Graduate School.
What are the tuition and fee details for international students?
+
Tuition and fee information is not available on the program page and should be referred to the Bursar's Office. Financial assistance may be available through assistantships, fellowships, and traineeships.