SCIENCE-BASED SKILLS FOR REAL-WORLD IMPACT

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Animal and Food Sciences (AFS) degree prepares students to innovate at the intersection of agriculture, animal production, and food science, driving solutions that shape sustainable food systems and improve lives.

Dr. Youling Xiong conducts a paper review with students at a table

In the PhD program, you’ll build the expertise to elevate your career in animal agriculture, food production, or related industries through advanced coursework, hands-on research, and real-world problem solving. By integrating sustainable production principles with either animal sciences or food systems, you’ll develop solutions that improve livestock production, enhance food quality, and support global food security. 

This research-intensive program is tailored to each student’s interests and career goals and is developed in consultation with a faculty advisory committee. Students must demonstrate deep expertise in their field through the successful completion of advanced coursework and comprehensive exams, as well as the presentation of original research in a scholarly dissertation. 

As a PhD student, you’ll collaborate across disciplines, collaborate with industry partners, and contribute to innovations in food and animal systems, preparing you to lead in a wide range of agricultural, food industry, and research careers.

Careers

The Doctor of Philosophy in Animal and Food Sciences degree will prepare you for dynamic careers in a wide range of professions.

  • Agricultural sales manager
  • Agricultural technical service provider
  • Animal health inspector
  • Animal nutritionist
  • Extension specialist
  • Food safety auditor
  • Livestock production manager
  • Professor
  • Regulatory affairs specialist
  • Research scientist

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ready to apply? Start by contacting the Director of Graduate Studies for the program of interest to learn about specific requirements. To be eligible, you must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a fully accredited U.S. institution or recognized foreign institution, have a bachelor’s GPA of at least 3.0 on 4.0 scale, a 3.0 on all graduate work, and proof of English language proficiency. A MS degree in a relevant discipline is required as is one semester of calculus or physics, three semesters of biology/physiology, and three semesters of chemistry including one semester of organic chemistry or biochemistry. You are required to provide your GRE scores for admission.

THE AFS COMMUNITY

Graduate students in the PhD program are part of a dynamic and innovative community where curiosity and impact go hand in hand. Within a department known for its welcoming culture and interdisciplinary mindset, students work closely with faculty, staff, and peers who are committed to advancing animal and food sciences. Whether researching livestock nutrition, improving food safety, or optimizing reproductive physiology, students are empowered to turn their ideas into action and their passions into purpose.

Students look at the cages in the poultry unit
Sheep and lambs in the Sheep Unit at the C. Oran Little Research Farm

RESEARCH FACILITIES

As a PhD student, you’ll have access to state-of-the art research facilities with specialized laboratories for studying animal nutrition and physiology, food microbiology and chemistry, and molecular and cellular processes. You’ll also have access to the C. Oran Little Research Center., a 1,500-acre farm with beef cattle, swine, sheep, poultry, and equine facilities.

GRADUATE SUPPORT AND OPPORTUNITIES

Graduate students benefit from a vibrant academic environment designed to support their success and fuel their ambitions. Our program provides students with the resources and encouragement to pursue bold ideas, shape their futures, and make a meaningful impact.

Funding Options

Explore opportunities to fund your graduate education through assistantships (research, teaching, or graduate) and fellowships.

Graduate Certificates

Discover a great way to enhance your graduate degree program by adding specialized, career-focused expertise.

Student Organizations

Enrich your graduate experience both academically and socially by joining one of the university’s many graduate student organizations.

Professional Enhancement

Foster your personal and professional growth in career preparedness, research, teaching, and wellness through supportive and collaborative programming and networking.

Ready to turn your passion into a career?

Explore endless opportunities at the University of Kentucky and take the first step toward your future.

Director of Graduate Studies
David I. Harmon, PhD