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...

“…

Penn State is a first class University. Professors are both well informed and intriguing. Even the biggest lecture classes can seem like an engaging one on one meeting. The class listings also are very various and allow for much customization in...

” – Eric from Winburne, PA
University of Arizona

Founded in 1885, Arizona is the state's flagship 4-year public institution. The University of Arizona features 20 colleges, hundreds of degree options, and top-ranked online programs. Committed to innovation and impact, the university's research and...

“…

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...

“…

At the University of Maryland, you learn so much more than just facts and truths from textbooks and lectures. While the classes are extremely informational, and the professors and T.A.s are all very knowledgeable on their subjects, the real learning...

” – Anonymous from PA
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...

“…

Not only do I learn a lot of material from the textbooks and outstanding professors, but Clemson teaches you how to manage your new independent life. It also reaffirms your basic fundamentals in school and out side of the classroom. You will be book...

” – Lenise from Decatur, GA
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...

“…

Pulling an all nighter never seemed so exciting before. One computer science class, and I felt like I could tackle and computer programming question out there. Most classes are similar in the amount of learning that goes on. Everywhere you turn...

” – David from Fairfield, CT
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...

“…

The staff and employees of the campus are both kind and knowledgeable of their areas. The presentations I have seen from professors during orientation demonstrates how varied they are and creative in their ways of instruction.

” – Jared from Muncie, 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...

“…

The staff of Florida Southern are so helpful and passionate about the students' endeavors, it's a breath of fresh air. Not only would you learn in the classroom, but there are so many other opportunities for students to grow and become active members...

” – Jasmine from Lakeland, 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...

“…

The classes are here are great. The professor's are very friendly and love to help there students. Plus, you live in the City of Trees, Boise is a great little college town, especially during the football season.

” – Joshua from Caldwell, ID
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...

“…

The small class sizes and individual attention from one's professor (as opposed to a graduate assistant as is the case at most large schools) sets students up for success. It's impossible to just blend in during a class.

” – Tara from Columbus, 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's learning experience is very unique. The small class sizes make it easy to have a one on one relationship with your professor. The instructors are always more than willing to spend the extra time and energy to make sure that the...

” – Kali from Florence, SC
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...

“…

I have met so many different people from many different cultures. Because of its' low cost for basic courses, many people from other countries come here! It is so cool!

” – Anayanci from North Las Vegas, NV
Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University is a large, public institution located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau. The school operates three regional campuses around the state in Sikeston, Malden, and Kennett. SEMO offers study...

“…

Southeast is a wonderful university for Education Major. This school is ranked in the Top 10 colleges across America for teaching. The teachers are really understanding of your personal situations and they do their very best to see that you get a...

” – Misty from Malden, MO
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...

“…

While at Snow College I learned so much! All the professors were willing to help me outside of class and had an environment inside of class set up in a way where students weren't afraid to speak up. Not only did I learn a lot about math, English...

” – Sorine from Grantsville, 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...

“…

Professors are extremely helpful, and are available to help whenever you need them!

” – Katherine from Trenton, NC
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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...

“…

Wow I can't tell you how much I learned at this school. To me it was hard work but I learned more than I ever did in all 4 yrs of high school in one semester

” – Alicia from Odonnell, TX
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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...

“…

The professors here really make sure that you learn the material they are teaching. Classes are small so you really can have one on one time with your teacher if you are not understanding something. They will give you their office ours as well as set...

” – Shamika from Lubbock, 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 love lees-mcrae. it is a beautiful mountain school that makes you feel like you live in a personal snow globe. this school prides itself on a strong community.

” – Cassandra from Weldon, NC
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...

“…

You will never get bored, that's for sure! I am a third year PharmD student at MCPHS, and let me tell you, MCPHS is very serious when it comes to academics. Although you'll find that there aren't too many homework assignments like those you get in...

” – Choua from Fitchburg, 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...

“…

All the teachers I have had are great I am learning so much more than I thought. The teachers really are good they help you when you need, very flexible with your schedule and understanding.

” – Brenda from San Antonio, 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...

“…

Although it depends on the class and the professor, you will definitely walk away with more than one thing you never knew from each course. Each of the professors have their unique touch in the classroom, and it fascinates me to know how educated...

” – Emily from Strathmore, CA
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...

“…

The class sizes are smaller so you can get a lot of one on one time with teacher. The atmosphere is more casual in the classroom than in high school, but the teachers still expect you to do your work, naturally. Most of the teachers have a dry sense...

” – Tiffany from Gulfport, MS
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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...

“…

i am learning a lot in classes like speech 111. it's kind of a tough class if you're really shy like i am but the teacher makes it fun because he makes up jokes and funny stories. this class is very important if you're going to be in any field of...

” – Leticia from Wilder, 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...

“…

SUNY Canton's main campus facilities are incorporated into the side of a hill making almost all window a pleasant view. The staff and the students here are intuitive and pleasant. Ethnic diversity at SUNY Canton is also a big factor when...

” – Scott from Heuvetlton, 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...

“…

You wouldn't think that a community college would have the same quality education as a university, but this one really does. We have the same textbooks, follow the same fast-paced schedules, cover the same topics, and receive the same homework. Plus...

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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 really enjoyed visiting campus. But I'm curious how good is there welding program?

” – Ashlee from Chadron, NE
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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...