Pre-Health Advising: Veterinary Medicine Preparation

• Veterinarians provide healthcare to companion animals, livestock, zoo animals, and laboratory animals.
• Although veterinarians focus mainly on animal health and wellness, many use their expertise to protect humans against diseases carried by animals.
• Veterinarians have many career options outside of private practice, including the federal government and US Army. Organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and National Institutes of Health (NIH) all employ veterinarians.
• There are 33 veterinary medicine programs in the United States with Oregon State University being the only Vet Med program in the state of Oregon. A general veterinarian degree takes 4 years to complete.
• Common majors pre-veterinary UO students pursue: Biology, Multidisciplinary Science, Human Physiology, or Biochemistry.

• Completing the prerequisite courses is just one aspect of the process. You must also have a well-rounded application consisting of experience (shadowing, volunteer work, experience with animals, life experience, etc.), letters of recommendation, GRE scores (not always required), a strong admissions essay, and interview.
• Some veterinary medicine programs allow applicants to apply without a bachelor’s degree, but applicants who have a bachelor’s degree are more competitive.
• Most veterinary schools are public schools, so state residency is an important factor to consider when choosing programs. The likelihood of acceptance is greatest at the public institution in the state where you are a resident.
• Applying to veterinary medical school is a year-long process. Students applying in their final year at UO will have a gap year before starting medical school. Students can work, take courses, travel, etc. during the year.

The chart below illustrates one way common requirements can fit into a 4-year plan. 

• Keep in mind that a graduation plan is as unique as the student following it - Math placement, major, transfer credits, application timeline, and other factors will help shape your graduation plan and timeline. 
• Following the "common requirements" list above will allow you to cast a wide net when applying to Veterinary Programs. 
• The list above outlines "requirements that vary". It is recommended that students explore programs to ensure their graduation plan captures all of the requirements they need for their programs of interest.
• Additionally, we strongly encourage students to take 4-8 credits of the “highly recommended advanced biological science” required by various veterinary programs. Keep in mind, some courses may be listed as a common requirement for one program, but at a different school, that course may be considered "highly recommended". Plan strategically. 
  • Use the AVMA Program Directory to explore Veterinary Medicine programs. 
• Work with a pre-health advisor to solidify your graduation plan! 

Watch the Veterinary Medicine Prerequisite Overview Video for additional details on prerequisite courses. 

Questions? Email pre-health advisors at prehealthadvising@uoregon.edu.