Goals and objectives

We aim to provide our students with the solid academic and clinical skills background they need to be successful, whether they pursue careers in veterinary practice, industry, government or biomedical research. We also strive to provide the best possible overall academic experience for our students. Our curriculum was established to achieve the following goals:

  • To impart key concepts and skills such as critical and analytical thinking for lifelong learning, success and professional growth.
  • To provide students with knowledge and experiences that will foster consideration of the full spectrum of career opportunities and interest in postgraduate education.
  • To provide classroom and clinic environments wherein high moral ethics, professional values, leadership qualities and sensitivity to societal needs are emphasized.
  • To emphasize the important and central roles of veterinarians in the advancement of animal and human health and the preservation of humane animal care.

Phases of study

Our DVM program involves three phases of study, with 150 total credits required to graduate.

Phase 1

Phase I (first-year) is designed to build a foundation in the basic sciences. Students also begin the four-semester experiential course in Supervised Patient Care and Clinical Skills in the newly built Clinical Techniques Laboratory.

Skills lab

Phase II

Phase II (second-year) builds on the foundations acquired in Phase 1, while introducing students to the complexities of treating and diagnosing common and unique aliments found in all species in veterinary medicine. Students explore all organ systems and their functions in Phases I and II.

Clinical skills lab

Phase III

Phase III occupies the third and fourth years of the curriculum (Semesters 5-9), and consists of advanced core and elective courses and clinical clerkships. Students begin their clinical rotations in our Small and Large Animal Hospitals the summer after completing Phase II.

Zoo med clinics

additional information

Externships

Externships are completely optional and not required for a student to graduate. However, these experiences provide great opportunities for students to gain insight into working in private practices, specialty clinics and various locations.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Education of the American Veterinary Medical Association accredits Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent educational programs at colleges or schools of Veterinary Medicine.

NAVLE Pass Rates

The North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) is required for licensure to practice veterinary medicine in North America.