Pre-Veterinary Studies

Veterinary studies focus on the health of animals. The archetypal career is working with household pets, such as cats and dogs, but veterinary studies are applicable in a variety of industries, including for livestock, zoo animals, and racetracks. It can also lead to research surrounding conditions and diseases that plague animals in a laboratory setting. While students often say they’re “pre-vet” majors, pre-veterinary is not a major in the traditional sense. The degree at the end of a 4-year baccalaureate won’t say “Pre-Veterinary.” Much like with the moniker “pre-med,” “pre-vet” is a statement of intentions. It helps advisors and professors know that the ultimate intention is to apply to veterinary school, so the pre-vet designation helps to create the undergraduate “track,” as it’s sometimes referred to.

Pre-vet students need to careful construct their schedule to make sure they meet all of the requirements for acceptance into veterinary school, though, which include:

  • One year of general biology or zoology with labs

  • One year of organic chemistry with labs

  • One year of general physics with labs

  • One year of English

  • One quarter of statistics

  • One quarter of college algebra or pre-calculus

  • One quarter of genetics

Each college has its own requirements, so be sure to check with each institution for their individual needs.

Majors that are beneficial in a pre-vet track include: Biology (the most popular), Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Zoology.

Doctorate

To become a veterinarian, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and licensure is required. At this level of education, the curriculum will include coursework on animal nutrition, toxicology, clinical and communication skills, radiology, pharmacology, and small and large animal surgery. There are a limited number of accredited schools that can confer DVM degrees, making admission very competitive.

The standard career path after earning a DVM is veterinarian, but there are several different types of veterinarian, including equine, food animal, food safety and inspection, and research.The average salary for a veterinarian is $88,490.

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Colleges

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Pennsylvania State University, Penn State, is a land-, sea-, and space-grant university with a main campus in University Park. This public research institution was founded in 1855 and is one of the largest universities in the US by student body. Its...

“…

i couldn't be more content with my choice of university for undergraduate education. penn state has so much to offer for students like me who don't put a limit to their dreams: highly-ranked academics, endless extra-curricular activities, greek life...

” – Alexandra from Sewell, NJ
University of Arizona

Founded in 1885, Arizona is the state's flagship 4-year public institution. The University of Arizona features 20 colleges, more than 300 undergraduate degrees, and top-ranked online programs. Committed to innovation and impact, the university's...

“…

Not all of the learning you do is academic. Much of my first year was personal growth learning. Just be expected for both.

” – Alexis from Phoenix, AZ
Michigan State University

Founded in 1855, Michigan State University is a large public research institution in East Lansing, Michigan, with a multicultural student population representing more than 140 countries. MSU offers more than 200 areas of study through 17 degree...

“…

As one of the eleven Big Ten schools, Michigan State's prestige includes it's wonderful learning opportunities. We have amazing professors that push academic limits beyond the class room. Although Michigan State is one of the largest universities...

” – Paulina from zeeland, MI
University of Maryland-College Park

Founded in 1856, the University of Maryland-College Park is a 4-year public research university in Maryland’s Capital Region and the flagship campus of the UMD system. UMD hosts 12 colleges and schools granting undergraduate degrees in 92 academic...

“…

I recently completed my first year at Maryland this past Spring and after looking back on my learning experiences at the university, I can definitely say that I have learned and will continue to learn a lot while attending this school. Not only will...

” – Stephanie from Frederick, MD
Clemson University

Clemson University is America’s second-largest university by student population and South Carolina’s land- and sea-grant institution. Clemson is home to seven colleges and schools offering bachelor’s degrees in more than 80 academic majors. For...

“…

Adjusting from the high school atmosphere to the college life atmosphere was not easy but can be made successful. In high school things often seem to come to you easy and you barely have to study, you enjoy and spend a lot of time with your friends...

” – Sejal from Orangeburg, SC
University of Delaware

The University of Delaware is a 4-year public university in northern Delaware and one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country—noting signers of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution in its first graduating...

“…

The teachers here really care about their students. A lot of the introductory classes are packed in terms of subject matter and students, so your best help comes from visiting during office hours. Every class I've taken has taught me a great amount...

” – Diana
Ball State University

Originally founded as a teacher’s college, Ball State University is a public institution in eastern Indiana. Ball State is home to seven colleges conferring undergraduate degrees in more than 120 academic majors. Throughout the year, Ball State...

“…

i'm not afraid to ask questions here. i thought that going into college i'd feel too intimidated by my professors and refuse to talk to them. however, after my first chemistry class i had an actual conversation with my chemistry teacher and he was...

” – Halie from Avon, IN
University of Massachusetts-Amherst

The largest public university in New England, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is the original campus in the UM System. UMass is a land-grant university with the “Highest Research Activity" and the U.S. News & World Report ranks the UMass...

“…

For a great undergraduate education you don't need to spend tons of money, especially if you are planing to continue you education after undergrad. UMass Amherst has understanding professors, knowledgeable teaching assistants, award winning dining...

” – Naja from Millville, MA
Kansas State University

Founded in 1858 as Bluemont Central College, Kansas State University is a 4-year public institution in northeast Kansas. K-State hosts 11 colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in over 250 academic majors. In addition, the Kansas State...

“…

There are large lectures and small group classes so everyone can learn in an environment right for them. The professors are smart and well educated. Lots of them take them time, if you come see them, to personally help you when you need it.

” – Victoria from Topeka, KS
Florida Southern College

With campus along the shore of Lake Hollingsworth, Florida Southern College is a 4-year private institution in Lakeland, Florida. Florida Southern confers bachelor’s degrees in over 70 academic programs. For students interested in history and...

“…

Florida Southern is a hub of energy on a beautiful campus; it may be expensive but you definitely get your money's worth. The professors are some of the most kind and caring individuals and so are most of the students in the student body. I had high...

” – Cori from Mulberry, FL
University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Founded in 1869, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is the oldest university in the state and flagship of the NU system. Nebraska is home to nine colleges conferring undergraduate degrees. In addition to classroom facilities, the NU campus hosts The...

“…

The absolute only reason why I only put 4 stars is because as being a freshman I had to complete some general study classes that I felt was impractical for my major and felt I didn't benefit from. The classes designed for my major I would without a...

” – Alisha from Jackson , MO
Boise State University

Boise State is a Carnegie doctoral research university that is home to more than 26,000 students from every state and more than 60 foreign countries. Our metropolitan campus runs along the banks of the Boise River, just a quick walk from the heart of...

“…

After attending Boise State University for one year, i feel fully prepared for whats next in life. The school truly cares for you, and your goals. School spirit is out of this world leaving your college experience unforgettable!

” – Breanne from Stockton, CA
University of Nevada-Reno

Founded in 1874, the University of Nevada, Reno is a 4-year public institution and the first university founded in the state. UNR encompasses 11 colleges offering bachelor’s and graduate degrees in more than 460 fields of study. Additionally, the...

“…

My college experience thus far has taught me to work hard, how to prioritize my time better, and how to enjoy a full college experience. Classes here are lots of work, in order to succeed I had to learn great study habits, become friends with my...

” – Jessica from Reno, NV
Delaware State University

Founded in 1891, Delaware State University is a public Historically Black College and University in the state capital of Dover. Delaware State is home to colleges of Humanities, Agriculture, Business, and Health Sciences conferring undergrad degrees...

“…

Learning is a fundamental thing at this school. Don't take your education for granted becuase the classroom size is small enough for you to ask as many questions when there is something not understood.

” – Karis from Suitland, MD
The University of Findlay

Founded in 1882, the University of Findlay is a private institution based in Findlay, OH. UF is affiliated with the Churches of God General Conference and is rated as having “more selective” admissions. The school offers liberal arts-based degree...

“…

The classes are really small for the most part. I am a Pre-vet student, it's a popular major here so the classes get filled up quickly and are really full. They almost always open up another class to choose. The professors care about the students and...

” – Jessica from Wauseon, OH
Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University is a state-funded institution based in the rural town of Maryville, Missouri. The tree-filled campus is designated as the official Missouri State Arboretum. Business, elementary education, and communications are...

“…

Northwest has a lot of different offices around campus that can help you if you are struggling with any class you are in. There is no reason that you shouldn't be able to succeed here!

” – Alisha from Blue Springs, MO
Otterbein University

Otterbein University is a 4-year, liberal arts institution located in Westerville, OH, minutes from the 14th largest city in the US, Columbus. Founded in 1847, Otterbein has been co-educational from the beginning and takes pride in its diversity and...

“…

Otterbein is one of the most beautiful campuses that I have ever been on. The staff is incredibly hospitable, and your opinion really does matter, if you express it. There are plenty of resources for help in any subject that you are in, if you need...

” – Hope from West Lafayette, OH
Newberry College

Founded in 1856, Newberry College is a 4-year liberal arts college in South Carolina affiliated with the Lutheran Church. Newberry offers undergraduate degrees in over 30 academic majors. For musically inclined students, Newberry is home to nine...

“…

Newberry College is a wonderful undergraduate institution that prides itself on its personalized learning experiences. The professors are actively engaged with the students and work to not only teach but to instill a love of learning inside each...

” – Kay
Becker College

Formed by the union of two Massachusetts educational institutions, Becker College is a 4-year college in central Massachusetts and one of the 25 oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States. Becker is home to five schools across two...

“…

The ideal learning environment for young scholars. A great place to network with other people. A place overflowing with opportunity.

” – Reshad from Miami, FL
Madonna University

Madonna University, located in Livonia, Michigan, is one of the nation’s largest Franciscan Catholic universities. The Detroit-area campus provides: career preparation, service learning, more than 100 rigorous and relevant majors in a student...

“…

Wow, a lot can be said about the learning that goes on at Madonna. The classes, for the most part, are small and you really can get that one-on-one attention with the professor in the middle of class. The only exception to that rule would probably be...

” – Alejandra from Lincoln Park, MI
College of Southern Nevada

The College of Southern Nevada is a 2-year institution that was founded in 1971. CSN has three main campuses, in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Henderson, making it the state’s largest higher education institution. As a community college, CSN...

“…

The College of Southern Nevada is a place for honest students who want to succeed. The teaching staff, along with the office staff, are there to assist you in any way needed. It has been a pleasant time attending this college and I would rate it a...

” – Cynthia from Las Vegas, NV
Snow College

Snow College is a public institution located in rural Ephraim, Utah. Snow is a community college that offers a variety of associate degrees and professional certifications as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Commercial Music and a Bachelor of...

“…

Snow College is a great quality school! If you're looking for a small, intimate school that still gives you a highly academic classroom setting, then Snow is definitely the place for you. The teachers can get to know you as a person, the...

” – Natalie from Ephraim, UT
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Limestone College is an independent liberal arts school located in Gaffney, South Carolina. The school has “selective” admissions and provides a curriculum based on Christian values and ethics. Traditional students attend the “Day” program, while...

“…

The professors here are great. They know what they are talking about in lecture, and they offer plenty of flexible office hours when you don't understand something. Some professors even stay on campus late in the evening to offer office hours. The...

” – Brittany from Gaffney, SC
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South Plains College is a 2-year community college based in Levelland, Texas with satellite branches in Plainview and Lubbock. SPC awards professional and technical certifications as well as associate degrees. Popular fields of study include welding...

“…

SPC is a great school and everyone there is extremely nice and helpful. I had never attended college before SPC and knew very little about the process but the folks at SPC made it so simple to apply and get in. I'd recommend SPC to anyone.

” – College Bound1
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Butler Community College is a public, 2-year institution established in El Dorado, Kentucky, with satellite campuses in Rose Hill, Andover, Wichita, Marion, and Council Grove. Butler offers Meta Majors as one of their many pathway options, which are...

“…

Yes! I am learning a ton. Especially with the Computer classes and the General Eds

” – Ethan from Bel Aire, KS
Lubbock Christian University

Lubbock Christian University is a private institution closely affiliated with the Churches of Christ. It is based in Lubbock, Texas, and offers a Christ-centered professional curriculum. Popular majors include nursing, business, and design and visual...

“…

All of my professors are very knowledgeable and they want to share that with all of us. It is not just about the money to them. They sincerely care about our education.

” – Kaylen from Roanoke, TX
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East Mississippi Community College is a 2-year degree program and public institution based in rural Scooba, MS. The college offers associate degree programs and 1-2 year technical certification programs. Admissions are open and nontraditional...

“…

This is an excellent school to attend. Teacher's really care and try hard to help students. Its a peaceful environment to be apart of and the sports teams are great.

” – Brea from Hattiesburg, MS
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Palo Alto College is a public institution located in San Antonio, Texas, and is one of five community colleges serving the Greater San Antonio area. PAC offers a number of uncommon programs alongside its more traditional options, allowing its...

“…

This collge has high quality education at a very reasonable amount.
This college is welcoming and the staff will help if the students ask questions.
This college has great transfer programs and a variety of classes that will be needed for any...

” – Sandra from San Antonio TX
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Mt Hood Community College is a public, 2-year institution located primarily in Gresham, Oregon, with a satellite location in Portland. The campus features a wide variety of facilities for students to visit, such as the Visual Arts Center Gallery, the...

“…

Some classes have challenged me, but in many others, I have to challenge myself to grow. In some of the introductory courses, it would not take much effort to receive an A in the class. Doing the minimum will hurt you in the long run though.

” – Bryan from Gresham, OR
Lees-McRae College

Lees-McRae College is a 4-year institution in Banner Elk, North Carolina. Lees-McRae offers 20 majors and 20 minors on its campus, which sits at an elevation of 4,000 ft., making it the highest elevated campus in the eastern US. Providing 11...

“…

I Learned a lot in and out of the classroom while attending LMC. LMC gives you a lot of different option because it is a small school. While attending LMC i got to put on a local 5k running race, win a national title as a team, and also have a...

” – Jordan from Fries, VA
MCPHS University

Founded in 1823 as the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, MCPHS University is a private school of healthcare programs in Boston and the second-oldest college of pharmacy in the nation. MCPHS is home to 12 schools of healthcare hosting over 100...

“…

If you are a person dedicated to learning and are willing to put in that extra mile to apply yourself in your studies, then this is the college for you. At this college you will be engrossed in a number of subjects that professors enjoy teaching...

” – Jahral from East Boston, MA
Northwest Vista College

Northwest Vista College is a 2-year community college that confers associate degrees and technical certifications. The school is part of the Alamo Colleges District and offers several Academic Workforce Programs through the Healthy & Biosciences...

“…

Northwest Vista College staff have definitely been a great help as far as degree planning and customer service. The campus itself is beautiful for a community college setting. The overall diversity of ethnicities and comfortable feel of the college...

” – Crystal from Natalia, TX
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North Idaho College is a two-year community college based in Coeur d’Alene, ID. NIC offers transfer degrees, professional and technical certifications, and associate degrees. Many students choose to study communications, computer programming, or...

“…

I learned a lot already as a dual enrolled student and now as a full time current student. So many degrees to choose from and many choices for electives. The teachers here are amazing and most are willing to work with you one on one or help set up...

” – Savannah from Post Falls, ID
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Itawamba Community College is a public, 2-year institution established in the state of Mississippi, with three campuses in Fulton, Belden, and Tupelo. Classes at ICC are provided during daytime, evening, and on the weekends in order to suit any...

Asbury University

Founded in 1890, Asbury University is a multi-denominational Christian liberal arts college in central Kentucky. Asbury is home to 15 academic departments conferring undergrad degrees in over 150 fields of study, including the only Equine Studies...

“…

From what I have seen on campus and in the classroom and what I have heard from current and graduated students this is a place to learn a lot! You not only learn about the academics but you learn how your faith works together with the subjects you...

” – Jennifer from Savannah, GA
Casper College

Casper College is a public, 2-year institution established in the state of Wyoming. The college offers associate degrees and certificates across all subjects, as well as programs in continuing education, workforce training, and adult education...

“…

Casper College has provided me with the opportunity to further my education, develop my social skills, and become an overall well rounded student. The faculty that has assisted me in my endeavors has been more helpful than I ever could have imagined...

” – Katherine from Casper, WY
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is a 2-year institution with an open admissions policy. The main campus located in Perkinston, MS, while several satellite campuses and academic centers operate throughout the state. Mississippi Gulf Coast...

“…

attending mississippi gulf coast community college is definitely something you should consider! it is a wonderful learning environment. there is always something to do on campus!

” – Haley
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Northeast Mississippi Community College is a public, 2-year institution established in Booneville, with satellite facilities located in New Albany and Corinth. NEMCC offers over 70 associate’s degree and certificate programs, with courses formats...

“…

College life is definitely an experience for a fresh out of high school student. It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and constant flow of activities. As long as you know how to balance your college experience with your more important school...

” – Micaela from Corinth, MS
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Barton Community College is a public, 2-year institution established in Great Bend, Kansas, with satellite campuses in Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and Grandview Plaza.  Barton offers over 70 academic and career programs, nearly half of which are...

“…

The teachers have a lot of information and are willing to help you succeed.

” – Janae from Great Bend, KS
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Western Wyoming Community College is a 2-year community college located near the southwest corner of The Equality State. All of the buildings at WWCC’s campus are connected via indoor glass hallways, offering views of the school’s reproductions of...

“…

There is such a broad range of topics to study here. You will never be bored with your class selections

” – Michelle from Three Forks, MT
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Copiah-Lincoln Community College is a public, 2-year institution primarily located in Wesson, Mississippi. The college hosts satellite locations in seven other counties within the state as well. Students enrolled at Co-Lin can take advantage of a...

“…

I am planning on learning a lot in my course or study at Copiah Lincoln Community College.

” – LaTasha Hooker
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Dodge City Community College is a public, 2-year institution established on a 145-acre, suburban campus in Kansas. The college offers over 30 academic and vocational degree programs in a variety of fields, including Dietetics, Music, Agribusiness...

“…

Well your in Kansa for crying out lound!!!
If you in joy rodeo this is the school for you.
Basketball, Track & field and football these sports are good here too!!

” – Candace from Lauderhill, FL
Treasure Valley Community College

Treasure Valley Community College is a 2-year institution in with four eastern Oregon campuses as well as a facility in western Idaho. TVCC confers degrees and certificates in more than 80 subjects including programs in Helicopter and Fixed-Wing...

“…

Treasure Valley Community College is a great school. They have small classrooms, dedicated teachers and staff that genuinely care about their students. This college helped me to find a goal and pursue it.

” – Andrea from Caldwell, ID
SUNY College of Technology at Canton

SUNY College of Technology at Canton is located in northern New York State and part of the State University of New York System. Originally founded as the first 2-year college in New York, SUNY Canton now confers bachelor’s degrees in 29 career...

“…

I learn so much from the teachers! They are also very friendly!

” – Rose from Nicholville, NY
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Alpena Community College is a public, 2-year institution established on a rural, 700-acre campus in northern Michigan. ACC offers over 75 academic programs, awarding certificates, AA degrees, AAS degrees, and AS degrees, along with one BS degree...

“…

Teachers are there for us. If you have a question, you talk to them,not their teacher aids.

” – Lacey from Posen, MI
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Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College is a public, 2-year institution established in Miami, Oklahoma. NEO offers a variety of degree and certificate options, with emphasis given to their Agriculture programs. Residential students at the college live in...

“…

Considering that this was a junior college, i wasn't particularly expecting to learn as much as i did. The teachers are great, i learned alot and graduated with my Associates degree.

” – Graduated Norseman
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Eastern Wyoming College is a 2-year community college with two campuses covering a six county area. EWC is home to seven academic departments as well as the only programs in Veterinary Technology and Cosmetology in Wyoming. EWC also features a...

“…

I have just graduated from Eastern Wyoming College this past May. I graduated with my Associates of Science in Accounting. I attended school out of state and it was a neat experience.

” – Brittani from Mesa, AZ
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The University of Holy Cross is a private, Christ-centered institution established in New Orleans,  Louisiana, alongside the Mississippi River. UOHC’s catalog of over 60 academic programs primarily feature health-related fields of study, such as...

“…

Holy Cross is an A school because it's small and private.All staff is willing to help the students anywaypossible.At Holy Cross you become family.

” – Alia from New Orleans, LA
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Montcalm Community College is a 2-year college with four locations in central Michigan. MCC confers degrees and certificates in 54 academic programs. For students who wish to enter the farming industry, MCC partners with the Michigan State University...

“…

College is so far helpful and informitive. I have attended orientation and the teachers were nice and helpful. I can't wait to get started!

” – Amy from Belding, MI
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Western Nebraska Community College is a 2-year institution with three campuses in the Nebraska panhandle. WNCC offers degrees and certificates in over 50 fields of study and its Agriculture Science and Applied Agriculture Technologies programs...

“…

There is easy accessibility to technology and professors. You will learn plenty; the best thing is whenever you don't understand something there will be someone available.

” – Edgar from Yuma, CO
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As the largest post-secondary school in the state of Nebraska, Metropolitan Community College is a 2-year community college serving Omaha and its surrounding counties. For students looking to transfer to a 4-year institution, MCC has reached...

“…

Metropolitan Community College is great for students starting out in college. The campus is very welcoming and it is very easy to make new friends. My experience so far at Metro has been so much fun that I wish I could extend my time as a student...

” – Aubrie from Omaha, NE
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Located just outside of Allentown, Penn State Lehigh Valley is the oldest commonwealth campus in the Pennsylvania State University system. Penn State Lehigh Valley offers nine bachelor’s degree programs and an honors program as well as the option to...

University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool is an institution located in the city of the same name. Founded in 1881, the redbrick university is proud of their founding mission, ‘for the advancement of learning and enoblement of life,’ which they still maintain today...

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