Pre-Veterinary Preparation

High School Preparation 
High school students considering a career in veterinary medicine should pursue a strong background in high school science courses, especially in biology and chemistry.  A foundation in mathematics and physics is also helpful as students enter their pre-professional studies in college.  High school students are also encouraged to become familiar with the veterinary profession by seeking experiences with practicing veterinarians and broadening their experiences with a variety of animal species.  These experiences might include volunteering at a veterinary clinic or animal shelter.

Pre-Veterinary Studies 
Pre-veterinary studies include required courses in chemistry, biology, physics, math, English composition and liberal education.  Please see the listing of specific requirements enclosed.  Students may pursue their pre-veterinary studies at any accredited college or university and pursue any undergraduate major.  Many community and junior colleges offer the majority of courses required with the possible exception of some of the more advanced science courses such as genetics and biochemistry.   Although a Bachelor's degree is not required for admission to the D.V.M. program, approximately 70% of the students entering the program each year have completed their Bachelor's degree.  The most common majors of students entering the D.V.M. program are biology and animal science but include a variety of  majors including engineering, business administration, history and music to name a few.