Virginia's Animal Systems pathway develops expertise across diverse animal production systems, from beef and dairy cattle in the Piedmont to equine operations in rural counties and specialty livestock enterprises. This pathway integrates animal science, production management, and business principles applicable to modern agricultural operations.
Students study animal nutrition, health management, genetics, breeding programs, and modern production systems. They gain hands-on experience at school farms, partnering livestock operations, and veterinary facilities, learning both traditional animal husbandry and contemporary industrial practices.
Graduates work as livestock technicians, herd managers, feed specialists, veterinary assistants, or animal health professionals. Virginia's equine industry and growing cattle production create diverse employment opportunities. Advanced students transition to Virginia Tech and Virginia State's animal science programs.
Animal Systems at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Virginia's animal systems standards align with Virginia Tech's animal science research and emphasize both traditional and modern production practices. Standards integrate animal welfare considerations, genetic improvement, and sustainable production methods.
Students demonstrate competency through practical skill assessments, written exams covering animal biology and health, and completion of industry certifications in animal handling and health management.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Introduction to Animal Science |
| Animal Health and Management |
| Animal Nutrition and Production |
| Advanced Animal Science |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓ServSafe Manager
- ✓Certified Veterinary Assistant
- ✓Certified Horticulture Professional
- ✓Certified Landscape Technician
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓NOCTI Agriculture Mechanics
- ✓NOCTI Agricultural Production
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Livestock Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $31,300 - $48,530
Herd Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $77,790 - $174,120
Veterinary Assistant
Entry LevelSalary range: $33,660 - $42,560
Feed Production Specialist
ExperiencedSalary range: $55,960 - $89,430
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students work at university research farms, commercial livestock operations, horse facilities, and veterinary clinics throughout Virginia.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in National FFA Organization, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Virginia CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Virginia Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Virginia's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Virginia standards and industry needs evolve
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