WELCOME TO ANIMAL AND FOOD SCIENCES

Our programs cover a wide range of scientific disciplines that support the safe and economical production of domestic livestock animals and quality foods, as well as the care, health, and use of companion animals. In the field of animal science, disciplines include virology, physiology, nutrition, microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, engineering, biochemistry, genomics and animal management. In food science, we cover the disciplines of food safety (microbiology), chemistry and engineering, as well as the culinary aspects of food.

Our research addresses contemporary and future scientific challenges using cutting-edge technologies. Our goal is to assist and support stakeholders in the poultry, livestock and food industries.

Where high quality programs intersect with a dynamic living/learning laboratory — a 350-acre working farm!

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Our undergraduate programs

Our graduate programs

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The animal and food sciences department is proud to highlight it's six graduate program tracks. Our graduates are successfully prepared for professional schools (e.g., veterinary and medical), or to further their education through advanced degrees (Ph.D. programs and post-doctoral positions).

Many of our alumni are employed in the fields of biotechnology, food product development and safety, pharmaceutical research, vaccine development and testing, agricultural feed and nutrition industries, as well as government administration and policy.

Featured video

 

University of Delaware students show off the versatile Anatomy and Physiology Instructional Lab: youtube.com/watch?v=PI2gfF1WlYc

Faculty Spotlight

Tara Gaab
Assistant Professor of Animal Science
 

Prof. Gaab's interests include preventative care and husbandry practices of dairy and beef cattle, small ruminants, equids, camelids, and swine as well as animal welfare and compliance of university and commercial standards in dairy and beef cattle, small ruminants, equids, camelids, and swine.

Latest news

  • A composite image of service dogs and students with a blue background around the pictures.

    Raising canine assistants

    September 26, 2025 | Written by Nya Wynn | Photos courtesy of Madelin Bareh, Marleigh Ballard and Megha Talanayar
    Several student organizations at the University of Delaware are dedicated to training service dogs, offering a unique experience for students interested in animal care and veterinary science. Puppies raised through these programs are exposed to the university environment, preparing them for real-world situations they may encounter once they begin formally working as service animals. Many CANR students in these organizations say they gain time management skills and responsibility, in addition to veterinary-related experience.
  • Snack attack coming? Meet your next crunch

    September 16, 2025 | Written by Tracey Bryant | Photos by Kathy F. Atkinson | Video by Jeffrey C. Chase
    Brandon Tang, a UD junior majoring in mechanical engineering, worked over the summer to optimize the process that transforms lima beans into savory puffed snacks. Tang worked with his adviser, Dr. Hui Ru Tan, a postdoctoral researcher in UD’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Lima beans are an important crop for Delaware. The research could lead to more economic gains for farmers.
  • From Blue Hens to Marching Ravens

    September 11, 2025 | Written by Molly Schafer | Photos courtesy Baltimore Ravens, Matthew Bonett and Peter Mann
    As Baltimore Ravens fans gear up for the first home game of the 2025 season, two musical alumni from the University of Delaware College of Agriculture and Natural Resources prepare for the Ravens' pregame show. Matthew Bonett and Peter Mann play alto saxophone for the Marching Ravens, one of only two marching bands in the NFL. The two friends describe performing for fans during the Ravens games as an unforgettable, energizing experience.

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS

Upcoming events