The present invention is directed to the generation and use of recombinant rotavirus fusion proteins as immunogens to produce a protective immune response from immunized individuals. In one embodiment, the present invention contemplates a recombinant rotavirus fusion protein vaccine composition comprising a rotavirus subunit protein or immunogenic fragment thereof, and an adjuvant in combination with the recombinant rotavirus subunit fusion protein. In one aspect of this embodiment, the recombinant rotavirus fusion protein comprises a rotavirus subunit protein and a fusion partner protein in genetic association with the rotavirus subunit protein, wherein the fusion partner protein does not interfere with expression and immunogenicity of the rotavirus subunit protein, the fusion partner protein prevents complex formation by the rotavirus subunit protein, and the fusion partner protein facilitates purification of the recombinant rotavirus fusion protein. In another aspect of this embodiment, the rotavirus subunit protein is selected from the group consisting of VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP6, VP7, NSP1, NSP2, NSP3, NSP4 or NSP5. In yet another aspect of this embodiment, the rotavirus subunit protein is VP6.