Facts About Attending Veterinary Colleges

Though veterinary colleges vary, there are some common facts to keep in mind about attending them.  The admission is competitive, and the schools require extensive education and long years of commitment.  Once completed, an education gained at a veterinary college can lead to a lucrative and fulfilling career.

Education

Someone interested in becoming a veterinarian must attend an accredited college of veterinary medicine. These veterinary programs are 4-year programs with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree being obtained.  Acceptance into a veterinary school is very competitive. To be admitted to a veterinary program, you must possess either a certain number of undergraduate credit hours or a bachelor’s degree.  This is dependent on the program you choose.  Earning a bachelor’s degree beforehand is recommended because it can help you become accepted into a program more readily.

Prerequisite Courses

Courses studied should include those related to science, such as chemistry and biology courses, physics, genetics and microbiology. Other courses to take are math and English.  Courses in business are also recommended to teach private practice business management.

Additional Requirements for Veterinary College

Other requirements for admission into veterinary college include submitting test scores from the Graduate Record Examination, the Veterinary College Admission Test or the Medical College Admission Test.  Each veterinary college has its own requirements as to which test scores must be submitted.

Experience

Those having experience in the veterinary field may have an easier time being accepted into a veterinary college than those who do not.  Acceptable prior experience may include working in a veterinarian's office or clinic, conducting research or working in an animal shelter.   

Obtaining a License

All veterinarians must possess a license to practice medicine.  While every state has its own licensing requirements, they all require prospective veterinarians to possess a DVM degree and a passing grade on the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam.