The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is one of the world's leading institutions of agriculture. Building on 150 years of excellence the college provides leadership in science, education and research, areas vital to the future of Iowa, the nation and the world.

History
The roots of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences go back to 1858 when Iowa established the State Agricultural College and Model Farm. It officially opened in 1869 as the first coed land-grant in the nation. That was among many college “firsts,” including the first courses in forestry, dairying and bacteriology in the nation. (Learn More)

Dates of Existence
1858–present

Historical Names

• Department of Agriculture (1858–1959)
• College of Agriculture (1959–2007)

Since 1905, the Department of Agricultural Engineering, now the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE), has been a leader in providing engineering solutions to agricultural problems in the United States and the world. The department’s original mission was to mechanize agriculture. That mission has evolved to encompass a global view of the entire food production system–the wise management of natural resources in the production, processing, storage, handling, and use of food fiber and other biological products.

History
In 1905 Agricultural Engineering was recognized as a subdivision of the Department of Agronomy, and in 1907 it was recognized as a unique department. It was renamed the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering in 1990. The department merged with the Department of Industrial Education and Technology in 2004.

Dates of Existence
1905–present

Historical Names

• Department of Agricultural Engineering (1907–1990)

Related Units

• College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (parent college)
• College of Engineering (parent college)
• Department of Industrial Education and Technology, (merged, 2004)

The Department of Animal Science originally concerned itself with teaching the selection, breeding, feeding and care of livestock. Today it continues this study of the symbiotic relationship between animals and humans, with practical focuses on agribusiness, science, and animal management.

History
The Department of Animal Husbandry was established in 1898. The name of the department was changed to the Department of Animal Science in 1962. The Department of Poultry Science was merged into the department in 1971.

Historical Names

• Department of Animal Husbandry (1898–1962)

Related Units


• College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (parent college)
• Department of Poultry Science (merged with, 1971)