Veterinary science deals with the health and wellbeing of animals. Much like a medical degree, it covers everything from preventative care to psychological assessment to complex surgical procedures.
In order to become a qualified practitioner, students should anticipate a relatively long and demanding period of study (an average of five years) and once established within the field, veterinary science is competitive and demanding. That being said, veterinary physicians and scientists are always in demand, so there is a very low unemployment rate among graduates.
The course will cover many of the same topics covered on a medical degree, but focusing on animals rather than humans. Modules include anatomy, animal behaviour, animal husbandry, cell biology, nutrition, physiology, genetics, epidemiology, pharmacology, infectious diseases, pathology, parasitology and public health. Less scientific modules may be offered as part of the course, such as communication skills, law, ethics and business management – all of which are useful in preparation for a veterinary career.
A vet often takes responsibility for more roles than a doctor would, whereas some vets will specialise in a specific field of animal care, such as oncology or surgery. There is also the opportunity to specialise in certain groups of animals, such as pets, livestock or exotic animals.
Most veterinary science graduates pursue careers as veterinary physicians, with positions in surgeries, local practices or as part of an organisation like a zoo. But there are many more career paths, including animal nutritionist carers, a career in research or education or as a scientific journalist.
Students who want to get into the best veterinary colleges will need to put in a lot of effort while they are still undergraduates, get excellent scores in topics like biology and chemistry, and perform exceptionally well on any required placement exams, such as the GRE or MCAT. It takes an average of four years to graduate from veterinary school, and you’ll need to pass a licensing exam before you’ll be authorized to start your medical practice.
What kind of veterinary degree should you get?
Many of these schools are just the tip of the iceberg to get you started on your path in veterinary science. You could take this degree a number of different directions. These programs will help you narrow your focus and specialize. Hands down, all of these programs will give you a foundation in the sciences, especially biology, chemistry, and anatomy.
Do you envision yourself working with farm animals? Then you should check out University of Findlay, Northwest Missouri State University, or Clemson University.
Is your goal to become a veterinary technician? Start by checking out Michigan State University, Purdue University, and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Are you hoping to go one step further to become a veterinarian? Then look into the Pre-Vet programs at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Kansas State University, or Murray State University.
Consider cross-checking these colleges with College Choice’s ranking of the Best College and Universities.
How much money do people make with a veterinary degree?
You’ll find a wide range of average salaries for jobs in this field. Understandably, the salary ranges correspond with the amount of schooling that is required. Most students who graduate with a bachelor’s in veterinary Science go one of a few ways. They become veterinary technologists or technicians, veterinarians, or zoologists and wildlife biologists. So here’s a breakdown of what you can expect for these specific jobs:
- Veterinary Technologist: $33,400
- Veterinarian: $90,420
- Zoologist: $62,290
Regardless of how these salaries vary, rest assured you’ll be making a comfortable amount of money. Good news for you, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for veterinarians is expected to increase by 19 percent over the next ten years!
Best 17 Vet Schools In The World In 2023/2024
Best 17 Vet Schools In The World In 2023/2024
Do you know that this year’s edition of the annual QS World University ranking has been released? If no, now you know. QS University rankings is an exclusive list of all universities in the world and the positions they occupy based on subjects or faculties.
This list is in different categories and each university is placed under the category it belongs to, depending on the subjects and courses it renders to students. QS ranking isn’t our focus for today anyway, hence, you can click here to learn more about the highly-rated annual ranking system.
Just as we are known for our desire and mission to help provide unbiased information to students who are seeking admission into universities, we have managed to lay our hands on the list and we shall be sharing it with you later in this article.
To help reduce the stress of going through all the categories before getting to the one of your interest, we have decided to discuss the list from one category to another — and today’s focus is strictly on the best Veterinary Medicine category.
Therefore, you are advised to stay glue to this page if you have been searching for the best place to study veterinary-related course or program.
Having said all of that, below is a quick rundown of the 17 vet schoos that have all it takes to be regarded as the best institutions in the world according to the latest ranking.
1. Cambridge University
Cambridge University is right there at the top when it comes to the list of institutions offering veterinary courses.
Being the fourth oldest higher institution in the world is by no means a fluke and its experience has helped in providing quality education to students from across the world.
Its conducive learning environment, impressive teaching facilities and regular scholarship opportunities makes learning very exciting and pleasing to all students.
For those who cares about the Cambridge University history, It was created in 1209, and has since become a force to reckon in the world.
Click here to see its admission criteria and how you can successfully apply. Meanwhile, you can equally begin your application process through the link.
2. Texas A&M University
Established in 1948, Texas A&M is one University you could go without needing to break the bank, thanks to its affordable tuition fee.
Despite its relatively cheap fee, you can be rest assured of getting quality education that will enhance your speed and desire to becoming one of the best vets in this generation.
It is known for its great research facilities and well experienced lecturers who knows the in and out of different kinds of animals’ organs and their behaviors.
You can follow this link to begin your application process, while you can equally make use of the link to discover more info about the texas-based higher institution.
3. Michigan State University
MSU, as it is fondly called, was created in 1855 and has since become one of the most sought-after Universities in the world. Being considered among the best schools in Vet Medicine is a prove of its academic excellence.
Interestingly, you stand a very good chance of being admitted into the university as there is a lot of admission slots available to applicants. It’s relatively affordable, while its academic calendar is the best you can ask for.
4. University of Sydney
This is Australia’s oldest university and it also doubles as the best tertiary institution in the country. What else do you expect from an institution of this caliber? It is included in this list by QS not only because of its fame but as a result of the quality education it renders to students.
Are you interested in studying Law, Veterinary Medicines, or Economics? This university has all of them and more in its kitty.
Its scholarship programs are opened to both national and international students, while there is a very welcoming atmosphere for people to explore their academic potentials. Click here to see the application requirements and how you can go about it.
5. Wageningen University & Research
Here is another Holland-based Public Research University that offers you the chance to become the best in vets medicine and agricultural sciences.
Created some years ago, this University is located in Wageningen Netherlands, and it remains a hot-spot for those who desire to have an impressive reputation in the field. You might want to see more about the school’s other courses and programs, that can be done here.
6. University of Glasgow
University of Glasgow can count on its experience to deliver good education services to its students as it was created in 1451 by papal bull. As a matter of fact, it is rated as the fourth oldest universities among anglophone countries.
The UK-based University supports all forms of undergraduate and post graduate programs as far as Veterinary Medicine is concerned.
7. University of California
Here is another institution rated among the best vet schools in the world as a result of its laudable research programs.
Known for its well experienced lecturers and peaceful learning environment, University of California is definitely one place you would want to go and study all that is related to veterinary proffession
Located in Davis, this university is known for its awesome and quality research program that gives you the opportunity to know more about animal’s behaviors and activities.
Meanwhile, apart from going for your undergraduate programs in the school, the institution is also engaged in PhD programs, Professional Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Programs; Graduate Clinical Residency Program; Masters of Preventive Veterinary Medicine Program among others.
It will interest you to know that this tertiary institution is part of the UC System, and it is rated as the best vet school in the world according to the QS rankings.
You can click here to begin your application process. You can equally explore the above link to know more about the school and the criteria you must possess to have a successful application session.
8. Cornell University
Created in 1865, the new york-based university is the first private university in the list and it belongs to the statutory Ivy League of Universities.
known for its academic excellence, the Cornell University has become home to students who desire to be regarded as the best in this field.
It isn’t only good in the theoretical aspect of learning, the well-equipped institution is known for its laudable practical session which aids to develop a huge chemistry between its students and the animal world.
Courses such as Public health, Animal Medicine, and Biomedical Research are extensively thought through the University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
Meanwhile, Cornell University is equally a one-stop eco-friendly institution for students who are interested in other disciplines.
Are you looking for a place to kickstart your undergraduate programs, PhD program or Masters program? This 155-year-old institution is inarguably one of the best places to be and you can Apply now.
9. Utrecht University
Utrecht University is another force to reckon with in the world when we are to talk of quality education and attractive learning environments.
Established in 1663, the Netherlands based institution consist of over 100 faculties, including the faculty of veterinary medicine which is best known for its prowess in the areas of education research and patient care.
It is important you know that the faculty of veterinary consist of 8 departments, hence, you have more options to choose from. Talking of the learning facilities, Utrecht University has lots of laboratories where students can carry out diverse practicals and researches for more understanding.
One of the Laboratories, belonging to the faculty of Veterinary Medicine, includes the central laboratory for animal research which is wide enough to host hundreds of researchers at a go.
Aside the veteranary-related discipline, Utrecht is engaged in other academic programs such as several departments in Sciences, Humanities, Law and Engineering.
Are you interested in knowing how to be admitted into the tertiary institution and the tuition fee? You are advised to click hereif your answer to the question is ‘yes’.
10. The University of Pennsylvania
Here is another private US-based university that has all it takes to teach you all you should know as a veterinarian.
Considering the number of graduates who are currently doing well in the veteranary field, you should be rest assured you are in the best place to chase your dream of becoming a well-known vet doctor.
Just as the Cornell University, this institution belongs to the Ivy League Research Universities in the country and it’s one of the well-known citadel of learning in the country.
This is why many admission seekers and applicants often make it their first choice. Hence, you should be ready to face stiff competition in your desire to be one of its students.
According to the QS ranking, the University of Pennsylvania is a place to be due to the quality education it renders to students of every discipline.
Also known as PennVet, its oneness is another reason why it gains so much impressive rating among the public as it possesses zero tolerance for racism and discrimination. Equal scholarship opportunity is rendered to both citizens and international students without descrimination.
Therefore, you can be rest assured that you are going to get quality education which will enhance your ability to treat animals of any kind and sizes; and the ability to provide solutions to any diseases outbreak.
11. The University of Guelph
This Canadian University is listed as one of the best vet schools in the world by QS ranking based on its obvious achievements since its creation in 1964.
Located at Ontario Guelph, the tertiary institution is known for its quality education and ability to provide with top-notch research facilities.
There are different laboratories for different departments as part of the management’s desire to provide friendly learning atmosphere.
Just as it is with the schools discussed above, University of Guelph welcomes students of other academic programs or disciplines such as Law, Lab Science, economics etc.
To be a part of this school, you are advised to apply as soon as possible by visiting its official websitewhich also reveals more info about the citadel of learning.
12. University of Edinburgh
University of Edinburgh has a spot in the list of world’s oldest universities as it was created in 1582 in Scotland.
Apart from its experience, this lovely tertiary institution serves as home to more than 3000 students because of its quality education and well-secured environment.
Don’t be confused, the university has a special name for its faculty of veterinary medicine which is known as The Royal (Dick) School of veterinary studies and it was founded in 1823 by William Dick.
It specialises on veterinary education; clinical practice and research. it is inarguably one of the best universities you will find in Scotland and other UK countries. Learn more about the tertiary institution here.
13. University of Liverpool
Most of you probably get familiar with Liverpool as a result of the football club, but that’s not all the city is known for. It possesses one of the best universities you can come across in the world and that’s the University of Liverpool.
Listed among the best vet schools by QS, the tertiary institution was created in 1881 initially as a college before being transitioned to University.
This public Research University is truly one of the best we can recommend to every admission seeking candidate. Its unending lists of academic achievements and recognitions in this discipline are largely responsible for students’ desire to be part of the highly competitive institution.
With two on-site working farms; three first opinion practices; and two referral hospitals, you can be rest assured you are set to get quality education as far this discipline is concerned.
Having check the University’s profile, we can conclude that the University of Liverpool consists of beautiful side attraction, clean and conducive learning environment. It also boasts of convenient academic calendar which gives room for students to partake in extra-curricular activities or petty side hustles.
14. Royal Veterinary College
Unlike most learning schools in this list, Royal Veterinary College strictly on Vet Sciences. Unfortunately, not all students can be admitted because the London-based institution is not open to other disciplines.
However, this doesn’t take anything away from its quality and importance as it is rated among the best vet schools in 2020.
15. Ghent University
The Ghent University’s history can be traced back to 1817 when it was created by King William I of the Netherlands in Ghent.
it is also another school you can count on when it comes to delivering of quality education to students at an affordable tuition fee.
16. Melbourne University
the Melbourne University is a beauty to behold. Take a walk around the school facilities, you’ll be wowed. Indeed, you would see many reasons why you should apply for admission as soon as possible.
Created 1853 as a Public Research Institute, the Melbourne University didn’t based on vet medicine only, it equally participate in other faculties such as Law, Sciences and Humanities.
You can be rest assured that you will be exposed to all the practicals and details you need to succeed in the field.
17. Ohio State University
Last but not the least, the Ohio State University is inarguably one of the best institutions you can see in the United States and it’s not a surprise to that it is included in QS ranking.
However, you need to apply as soon as possible as it is known for an average acceptance rate.
What can you do with a veterinary degree?
As we mentioned above, earning a degree in Veterinary Science can take you in a number of different directions. A few of the programs on this list offer specialized tracks in career-specific areas like Equine Health or Livestock Management. These kinds of concentrations will help carve out a future career for you.
There are plenty of job openings available for you in veterinary clinics or animal hospitals, but you could do something unique too. Many veterinarians travel to farms or ranches to do their work. Others travel to far-flung places to work with wildlife animals. The options are endless!
This degree will also prepare you for graduate-level education. If you want to earn a master’s or doctorate in veterinary medicine, you will have the foundation, knowledge, and research experience to succeed in a competitive academic environment.
What are the requirements for a veterinary degree?
Getting into one of these programs is the first step. The biggest hurdle, though, is if you want to take it a step further and get into veterinary school.
In 2013, there were 6,800 applicants hoping to get into 2,700 spots. That means competition will be a factor in this field. That’s just a fact. However, there are ways to keep yourself at the front of the pack. While you’re completing your undergraduate degree here are a few things you can do to stay ahead:
- Keep your GPA above 3.5
- Volunteer with a vet to get clinical experience
- Study for the GRE and MCAT
- Join a Pre-Vet club
These programs will all give you a solid foundation in the natural and biological sciences. You’ll likely spend the first two years taking courses in biology, anatomy and physiology, and animal nutrition. Make sure you feel confident in these areas. They will serve you well the rest of your career.
In your last two years, you’ll get to the thick of the degree. You’ll jump into a track or concentration that fits your career goals and you take more specific electives. A number of these programs include capstone projects, research opportunities, internships, clinical rotations, and more. Take advantage of it all! Good luck!
What are the best veterinary degrees?
Below you’ll find the 20 best veterinary degrees in the nation. The data team at College Choice constructed a fool-proof methodology. First, they considered the academic quality of each program. Then they looked at affordability and the return on investment. And, last but not least, they factored in student happiness using retention rates and graduation rates.
The methodology draws from the data experts at College Choice, the excellent resources at U.S. News & World Report, and the reliable statistics at Payscale.com. Use your smarts to help and heal animals. Start with one of the best veterinary degrees below!
Rankings
See our rankings methodology page.Collapse All Expand All
- Cornell UniversityLOCATIONIthaca, NYTUITION$$$$$
- University of Massachusetts AmherstLOCATIONAmherst, MATUITION$$$$$
- Michigan State UniversityLOCATIONEast Lansing, MITUITION$$$$$
- University of ArizonaLOCATIONTucson, AZTUITION$$$$$
- Pennsylvania State UniversityLOCATIONHershey, PATUITION$$$$$
- Clemson UniversityLOCATIONClemson, SCTUITION$$$$$
- Northwest Missouri State UniversityLOCATIONMaryville, MOTUITION$$$$$
- Purdue UniversityLOCATIONHammond, INTUITION$$$$$
- University of Nebraska–LincolnLOCATIONLincoln, NETUITION$$$$$
- Kansas State UniversityLOCATIONManhattan, KSTUITION$$$$$
What Are Three of the Best Pre-Vet Schools in the US?
Ohio State University (OSU) in Columbus
OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine tied for fourth in U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 rankings for top veterinary medicine programs, and tied for 56th overall among national universities. The Department of Animal Studies pre-veterinary program offers a major in animal bioscience and collaborates with the Department of Human Nutrition to offer a major in animal nutrition. With a strong first and second year GPA and an interest in food supply medicine, you might be one of the ten early commitment students guaranteed a seat in the veterinary school.
You can showcase your research in OSU’s College of Food, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences forum. Animal sciences students have traveled to Australia to study animal welfare and the export economy, and other foreign study options are possible. Degrees offered in the OSU pre-veterinary program include:
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Animal Bioscience
- B.S. in Nutrition
Texas A&M University in College Station
Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM) tied for fourth in U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 evaluation of top veterinary medicine programs, and the university was tied as 66th among top national universities in 2019. CVM operates the summer Veterinary Enrichment Camp for rising high school juniors and seniors. You could enter a community college 2-year veterinary technology program at Blinn College, completing your clinical work at CVM.
While the university does not offer a specific pre-vet degree, it does recommend some suitable options that will prepare students for admittance to veterinary school. The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science offered by the Integrative Biosciences Department is recommended for pre-vet students, with potential upper-level concentrations in genetics, anatomy, physiology or microbiology. These juniors and seniors can alternate school work with cooperative practical experience. The following degrees are offered:
- B.S. in Biomedical Science
University of California in Davis
In 2019, UC Davis tied for 38th among U.S. News & World Report national universities, and its veterinary school was first in the rankings of top veterinary medicine programs of 2019. Its School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM) hosts 29 research centers, ranging from aquatic to wildlife health, and public service units that include hospitals, laboratories and extension services.
The SVM Undergraduate Research Center supports a research conference, the CAMP Research Program and off-campus and summer research opportunities. The Education Abroad Center supports major-specific international opportunities. SVM considers admitting students with at least 108 completed undergraduate quarter units, which should include organic and biochemistry, physics, genetics and physiology. According to UC Davis, degree programs that could prepare you for veterinary school include:
- B.S. in Animal Biology
- B.S. in Animal Science
- B.S. in Animal Science and Management
- B.S. in Biotechnology
- B.S. in Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology
- B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- B.S. in Biological Sciences
- B.S. in Cell Biology
- B.S. in Chemistry
Ten Other Pre-Vet Programs
| COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY | INSTITUTION TYPE | LOCATION | ESTIMATED UNDERGRAD IN-STATE TUITION (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cornell University | 4-year, Private | Ithaca, NY | $55,000 |
| Colorado State University | 4-year, Public | Fort Collins, CO | $12,000 |
| North Carolina State University | 4-year, Public | Raleigh, NC | $9,000 |
| University of Wisconsin – Madison | 4-year, Public | Madison, WI | $11,000 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 4-year, Private | Philadelphia, PA | $56,000 |
| University of Minnesota – Twin Cities | 4-year, Public | St. Paul, MN | $15,000 |
| Tufts University | 4-year, Private | North Grafton, MA | $56,000 |
| University of Georgia | 4-year, Public | Athens, GA | $12,000 |
| Michigan State University | 4-year, Public | East Lansing, MI | $14,000 |
| Iowa State University | 4-year, Public | Ames, IA | $9,000 |
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