What are the key requirements for becoming a veterinarian?

There are a number of important prerequisites for pursuing a career in veterinary practices. These include: 1) Licensure, 2) Complex Problem-Solving Skills, 3) Communication Skills, 4) Professionalism & Ethics, 5) Leadership, and 6) Scientific Applications

What things should you consider when choosing a veterinary program?

There are four primary considerations when selecting you veterinary program. These include: 1) Accreditation, 2) Faculty Experience, 3) Licensure Preparation, and 4) Professional Networking Opportunities.

Veterinary Schools & Programs Providing Compassionate Care to Animals

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Those who love working with animals and have a passion for improving the health and welfare of pets and animals will thrive in a career as a veterinarian or veterinarian technician. Veterinary schools offer comprehensive degree programs that teach students how to diagnose, treat, and immunize all types of animals. This guide provides an overview of veterinary careers and degree programs that set the stage for this exciting career path.

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OUR METHODOLOGY +

Veterinary professionals play a vital role in maintaining the well-being of sick or injured animals, whether they are veterinary technicians, attendants, doctors, or another role within this field. However, before one can enter a career in veterinary sciences, they must complete the required level of education for their desired profession. To help with this process, we have carefully analyzed every veterinary school and program in the country to find the best academic options for prospective students. Explore the top veterinary schools and programs.

Rank	School Title	Net Price	Financial Aid	Total Programs	Student-Teacher ratio	Ranking Score	School Description	Additional Benefits:	Placement Services	Counseling Services	Credit for Experience
1	Barton County Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 71%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 2	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 99.82	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
2	Western Nebraska Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 60%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 98.86	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
3	Casper College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 42%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 98.57	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
4	Western Wyoming Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 39%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 97.81	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
5	Eastern Wyoming College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 63%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 97.49	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
6	Itawamba Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 52%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 97.00	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
7	Front Range Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 9%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 2	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 96.41	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
8	Hinds Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 22%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 95.69	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
9	Copiah-Lincoln Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 35%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 95.40	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
10	Metropolitan Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 20%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 94.81	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
11	Northwest Mississippi Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 26%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 94.29	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
12	El Paso Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 3%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 93.71	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
13	Murray State College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 30%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 93.68	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
14	Harcum College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 94%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 93.24	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
15	North Idaho College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 28%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 93.21	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
16	Allen County Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 68%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 93.08	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesNo	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
17	Northeast Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 38%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 92.95	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
18	College of Southern Idaho	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 46%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 92.40	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
19	Angelina College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 8%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 92.25	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
20	Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 1%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 92.08	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
21	Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 57%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 91.38	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesNo	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
22	Alpena Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 24%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 91.27	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
23	Treasure Valley Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 30%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 91.21	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesNo	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
24	South Plains College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 20%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 89.37	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
25	Palo Alto College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 20%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 88.47	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
26	Grand Rapids Community College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 7%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 87.95	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
27	Northwest Vista College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 9%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 87.34	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
28	Austin Community College District	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 13%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	Ranking SCORE 86.00	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesNo	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo

Rank	School Title	Net Price	Financial Aid	Total Programs	Student-Teacher ratio	Grad Rate	Ranking Score	School Description	Additional Benefits:	Placement Services	Counseling Services	Credit for Experience
1	University of Georgia	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 20%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 7	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 81%	Ranking SCORE 99.76	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
2	Washington State University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 51%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 5	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 67%	Ranking SCORE 99.46	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
3	University of Maryland-College Park	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 52%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 4	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 82%	Ranking SCORE 99.14	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
4	Michigan State University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 44%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 5	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 79%	Ranking SCORE 99.02	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
5	Kansas State University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 65%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 4	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 58%	Ranking SCORE 98.21	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
6	University of Nebraska-Lincoln	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 69%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 2	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 65%	Ranking SCORE 97.67	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
7	Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 37%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 3	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 86%	Ranking SCORE 97.14	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
8	University of Minnesota-Twin Cities	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 54%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 5	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 73%	Ranking SCORE 93.80	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
9	Clemson University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 59%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 82%	Ranking SCORE 90.59	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
10	Delaware State University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 60%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 33%	Ranking SCORE 90.44	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
11	Northwest Missouri State University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 93%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 52%	Ranking SCORE 90.32	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
12	Madonna University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 82%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 36%	Ranking SCORE 90.00	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
13	University of Arizona	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 77%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 61%	Ranking SCORE 89.83	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
14	University of Massachusetts-Amherst	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 60%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 70%	Ranking SCORE 89.68	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
15	Newberry College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 99%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 40%	Ranking SCORE 89.65	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
16	Saint Xavier University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 100%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 54%	Ranking SCORE 89.60	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
17	Lincoln Memorial University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 97%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 45%	Ranking SCORE 89.29	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
18	Lubbock Christian University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 91%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 43%	Ranking SCORE 88.92	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
19	University of Nevada-Reno	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 45%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 54%	Ranking SCORE 88.87	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
20	Oral Roberts University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 100%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 51%	Ranking SCORE 88.84	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
21	Boise State University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 33%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 29%	Ranking SCORE 88.53	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
22	SUNY College of Technology at Canton	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 16%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 32%	Ranking SCORE 88.24	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
23	Faulkner University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 92%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 33%	Ranking SCORE 86.88	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
24	University of the Southwest	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 98%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 22%	Ranking SCORE 86.39	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesNo	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo
25	Mercy College	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 88%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 34%	Ranking SCORE 86.00	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceYes
26	MCPHS University	Net Price	FINANCIAL AID % 85%	TOTAL PROGRAMS 1	STUDENT-TEACHER RATIO	GRAD RATE 66%	Ranking SCORE 86.00	Read more	Additional Benefits:	Placement ServicesYes	Counseling ServicesYes	Credit for ExperienceNo

Veterinarian Schools & Careers: Snapshot

Accredited veterinarian schools require students to take a combination of science courses and complete laboratory-based coursework. At the undergraduate level before applying for veterinary school, students complete advanced courses in biochemistry, chemistry, and mathematics along with labs. Students who meet the undergraduate course requirements can apply to veterinary school to earn their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree and state license.

Nearly half of veterinary
medical college graduates
finish their undergraduate
degree with no debt, according to research conducted by the American Veterinary
Medical Foundation.

Two-thirds of all the 2013
U.S. Veterinary Medical
College graduates who
accepted full-time positions earned more than $31,000 annually.

Employment of
veterinarians is expected to
grow 9 percent through 2024, which is faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The mean first-year
employment starting salaries
for veterinary medicine college graduates was $67,535 in
2013; the median annual
wage for veterinarians was $87,590 in May 2014.

Similar Programs

For students who are interested in the veterinarian career, but find themselves better suited to follow a different track, there are several related degree paths to consider. The following degree programs may help students enter a career in the science and healthcare field:

Veterinary Technician (Vet Tech)
Veterinary technician programs provide students with technical skills and knowledge to work alongside veterinarians to perform various procedures while providing care for different types of animals. Coursework typically encompasses anatomy and physiology of domestic animals, pharmacology, and an externship component.
Biology
Completing a biology degree program provides the educational framework for careers in the healthcare and science field. Students study topics like anatomy, microbiology, chemistry, and ecology. These programs can serve as the undergraduate portion of a veterinary doctor’s education.
Medical Billing & Coding
Medical billing and coding jobs are more technical in nature and require long hours at the computer processing paperwork and creating reports. Students can complete vocational training or a degree program at an accredited trade school, community college, or four-year university.

How to Become a Veterinarian

After completing a four-year accredited undergraduate program, graduates can apply to a veterinary school accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). An undergraduate degree in biology, physical sciences, or related field is recommended since these degree programs provide a strong foundation in health and science for an aspiring animal doctor. There are currently 30 AVMA-accredited veterinarian schools and admission is very competitive. Here is a closer look at veterinary schools and degree options at each level:

Veterinary Associate Degrees

Type of Schools:

Community Colleges, Technical Colleges

Time to Complete:

Two to three years

Career Opportunities:

Veterinary Technologist, Veterinary Technician, Animal Trainer, Kennel Attendant, Humane Society Worker

Students learn technical skills, such as how to dispense drugs, basic veterinary clinic operations, and how to use various types of technology and specialized equipment. Many two-year programs also include an internship component where the student works at a local veterinary clinic or other partner facility to obtain hands-on experience. Courses completed at this level can also serve as foundational coursework for bachelor’s and advanced degrees in veterinary science, or can open the doors to entry-level positions as veterinary technicians or technologists.

Associate’s degree programs include courses in animal biology, nutrition, and veterinary medicine. These courses provide a strong knowledge base for those who want to work as a veterinary technician or continue their educations. Find detailed course descriptions below.

Animal Anatomy

Fundamentals of anatomy of domestic animals so that students know how to identify different anatomical regions and use appropriate topographical terms when communicating with supervisors and clinical staff members.

Animal Physiology

Physiology of domestic animals and the link between certain aspects of physiology and the pathogenesis of certain diseases.

Animal Pharmacology

In-depth study of principles and practices related to veterinary pharmacology and pharmacokinetics. Includes applications of pharmacology principles in the small practice setting.

Laboratory Animal Medicine

Focused on the technical clinical aspects of animal care in the laboratory setting, including how to handle and restrain different animals, diseases, and appropriate nutrition principles for laboratory species.

Veterinary Bachelor’s Degrees

Type of Schools:

Four-year universities and colleges

Time to Complete:

Four years

Career Opportunities:

Veterinary Clinic Manager, Animal Care Technician, Research Technician

Suggest Majors:

Veterinary Science (Pre-Vet), Biology, Chemistry, Animal Science, Zoology

Graduates of bachelor’s degree programs in veterinary science are trained to serve as health care providers for small animals and as biomedical scientists. However, they are not yet qualified to practice medicine. At this level of study, students learn how to solve medical problems related to small animals, gain core biology and chemistry knowledge, and study the link between nutrition, environment, and animal behavior and disease.

Completing a four-year degree is a pre-requisite for admission to a doctor of veterinary medicine program. While students may opt for a pre-vet degree or a closely related track, the main goal during undergraduate studies is to complete the pre-requisite courses for vet school. At the undergraduate level, students can major in whichever subject they like, so long as they make sure to complete the necessary science and math courses to move on to advanced veterinary medicine programs.

Undergraduate education for pre-veterinary students includes specialized science courses centered on topics such as animal diseases, toxicology, and pharmacology. Examples of coursework completed at this level include:

Introduction to Molecular Pharmacology

Covers the basic principles of drug development, pharmacology and applications.

Principles of Animal Disease Control

In-depth study of the principles of disease control pertaining to animals and the analysis of causes and effects of certain conditions.

Laboratory Animal Science

Study of and applications of disease management and prevention on laboratory animal colonies.

Wildlife Diseases

An introduction to diseases affecting wildlife and how these impact both domestic animals and humans.

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

Type of Schools:

AVMA-accredited veterinary schools

Time to Complete:

Four years

Career Opportunities:

Veterinarian, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), Researcher

Doctor of veterinary medicine programs teach scientific principles related to animal behavior, anatomy, pharmacology, and other subjects. Many schools offer several programs of study where a student specializes in a certain field of medicine, such as infectious diseases, physiology and pharmacology, population health, and small animal medicine and surgery. Courses are more theoretical in nature but some coursework is completed in a lab setting so students can apply their knowledge. They can prepare students to meet state licensing requirements to practice medicine.

Advanced degree programs in veterinary medicine are centered on clinical applications and theories of animal science. Students apply knowledge and theories to solve medical and health problems pertaining to domestic animals and wildlife. Examples of coursework completed at these levels include:

Animal Health and Disease

An integrated approach to the study of animal medicine, surgery, anesthesiology practices, radiology, and other topics. May include a combination of lectures, lab work, and demonstrations.

Anesthesiology Service

Provides clinical experience for the administration of anesthetics in animals safely and effectively using modern techniques.

Veterinary Practice Ethics

Ethical issues related to the administration of veterinary medicine, including clinical operations and genetics counseling.

Introduction to Clinical Procedures

Prepares the student for clinical rotations at an area hospital or clinic. Procedures and protocol include fluid administration, IV and IM injections, and IV catheterization practices.

Choosing a Veterinary School: Pre-Enollment Checklist

Accreditation
The Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) accredits all 30 veterinary medical colleges in the United States. Veterinary schools can also join the American Association of Veterinary Medical Association’s Council on Education (AVMA/COE) which accredits DVM and similar higher level programs.
Faculty Experience
Determine how many faculty members are practicing veterinarians or have worked in veterinary medicine. These staff members can share valuable real-world insights and serve as a source for a recommendation when applying for a job or other educational opportunities.
Licensure Preparation
In order to take the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE), applicants have to graduate from an AVMA/COE-accredited college. Attending schools that offer NAVLE preparation courses can increase the chances of passing the licensing exam the first time.
Professional Networking Opportunities
Schools that offer opportunities to meet doctors, veterinary professionals, and industry leaders at networking events or professional presentations throughout the year may offer more value to an ambitious student. These events give students a chance to interact with established professionals, learn more about the industry from an insider, and develop their professional network.

Specializations & Career Options for Veterinarians

In addition to the role of a veterinarian, there are several supporting and related careers that graduates of different levels can choose from.

Veterinarian

Projected Job Growth (2014-2024): 9%

Annual Salary (2014): $87,590

Typical Education: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Responsible for the care and treatment of animals compliant with ethical rules and state regulations. Veterinarians are directly involved with diagnosing and treating the medical conditions and diseases of pets. They may also work with livestock and other animals to provide comprehensive veterinary care in a field or clinical setting.

Veterinary Assistant/Laboratory Animal Caretaker

Projected Job Growth (2014-2024): 9%

Annual Salary (2014): $23,790

Typical Education: High School Diploma or equivalent

Responsible for taking care of animals in a lab, clinic, or hospital setting before or after the animal is being treated by a veterinarian. They provide support services to other veterinary professionals to ensure the animal can stay calm and relaxed during visits. May also be involved with making sure that animals stay still while undergoing surgery.

Veterinary Technologist/Technician

Projected Job Growth (2014-2024): 19%

Annual Salary (2014): $31,070

Typical Education: Associate’s Degree

Responsible for performing all medical tests and lab work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. The test results are used to diagnose medical conditions, injuries, and illnesses. Since this role is more technical in nature and requires strict compliance with clinical procedures and practices, the technologist or technical must be registered, licensed or certified, depending on state guidelines.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2014)

The best part of my job is that I wear many hats. I am a surgeon, radiologist,
pediatrician, hematologist, oncologist, and many more. You also have to manage people, both employees and clients. I find that this job requires that you be a people person. Explaining why a pet is failing or what we need to do to fix a patient who cannot speak for themselves, to a worried mom and dad takes dedicated time. Now I find that helping people is as rewarding as helping a pet.

Dr. John Patrick Smith, Licensed Veterinarian

The American Veterinary Medical Association recognizes 22 veterinary specialties that focus on specific areas of the discipline. Each of the following specialties maintains their own organization under the umbrella of the AVMA and may offer their own membership, certification and research opportunities.

Veterinary Practitioners
Veterinary Toxicology
Animal Welfare (provisional recognition)
Laboratory Animal Medicine
Poultry Veterinarians
Theriogenologists
Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia
Veterinary Behaviorists
Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology
Veterinary Dermatology
Veterinary Internal Medicine

Veterinary Microbiologists
Veterinary Nutrition
Veterinary Ophthalmologists
Veterinary Pathologists
Veterinary Preventive Medicine
Veterinary Radiology
Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (provisional recognition)
Veterinary Surgeons
Zoological Medicine
Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care
Veterinary Dental College

Key Requirements for Becoming a Veterinarian

Licensure
In order to practice as veterinarian, you will need a license. Licensing requirement vary by state, but generally you will need to graduate from an AVMA-accredited veterinary school and pass an exam.
Complex Problem-Solving Skills
Veterinarians need to be able to resolve complex health problems affecting the animals they treat with appropriate solutions. They may need to turn to personal experience or seek out resources to diagnose and treat animals suffering from a disease or injury.
Communication Skills
Most veterinarians and veterinarian technicians work in a clinical setting or lab environment with a team of medical professionals. They need to be able to communicate clearly and maintain a professional demeanor at all times. They also need to convey information accurately and in a timely manner to ensure accuracy of medical records and to maintain clear communications with animal owners.
Professionalism & Ethics
All health and medical professionals are required to abide by a set of ethics and maintain a high degree of professionalism. They must refrain from disclosing sensitive information and understand the dynamics of relationships with clients (the animal owners) and fellow staff members.
Leadership
Those in managerial roles, such as animal clinic managers and doctors, need to have strong leadership skills to ensure all team members are contributing in the most effective way. They may be involved with making critical decisions pertaining to an animal’s health and well-being, as well as leading and training teams of other veterinary professionals.
Scientific Applications
Veterinarians and health care professionals must use scientific rules and methods to solve problems. Inductive reasoning may be needed to form a conclusion or diagnosis but applying fundamental scientific rules and protocols when treating different animals is critical for the ethical care and surgical treatment of animals in a clinical setting.

Resources for Veterinarians

FIND PROGRAMS Select a Degree LevelSelect a CategorySelect a Subject

Veterinary Schools & Programs Providing Compassionate Care to Animals

Best Veterinary Schools & Programs

Veterinarian Schools & Careers: Snapshot

How to Become a Veterinarian

Veterinary Associate Degrees

Veterinary Bachelor’s Degrees

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

Choosing a Veterinary School: Pre-Enollment Checklist

Specializations & Career Options for Veterinarians

Veterinarian

Veterinary Assistant/Laboratory Animal Caretaker

Veterinary Technologist/Technician

Key Requirements for Becoming a Veterinarian

Resources for Veterinarians

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