New animal enterprise and innovation degree to prepare students for industry
AMES, Iowa (June 8, 2026) - The Department of Animal Science will offer a new bachelor’s degree in animal enterprise and innovation beginning in August 2026. This one-of-a-kind program will combine training in the core animal science curriculum with business acumen through classes in economics, data management, entrepreneurship and technology systems to meet the needs of an expanding industry.
The major was created following a survey of employers that identified a growing need for animal science professionals with experience in systems management and data science. It is designed to create experts in growing areas across food agriculture, renewable resources and environmental fields that are expected to face persistent employee shortages in the future.
Students enrolled in the new major may select one of three focus areas:
- management in food animal agriculture
- entrepreneurship in animal industries
- data and technology in animal industries
Each track pulls courses from relevant disciplines across colleges and a uniquely developed capstone course. Students can also develop their own track, selecting courses across all three focus areas. This major will develop graduates who are well-suited to start their own business or serve in roles such as product managers, data analysts, technical sales professionals, industry leaders and more.
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Originally published by Iowa State University in June 2026