List of Veterinarian Colleges and Schools in the U.S.

Those considering veterinarian colleges should consider location, cost and the types of available programs. For example, individuals might be interested in earning just a doctoral degree or concurrently earning a master's degree in a supplementary field.

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How to Select a Veterinarian School

The standard credential to become a practicing veterinarian is the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). However, some schools offer joint degree programs where students can simultaneously earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Master of Public Health (MPH) or Master of Business Administration (MBA). Prospective students seeking employment in public health agencies may be interested in DVM-MPH programs, while those looking to run their own practice may be interested in a joint DVM-MBA program. Another option is the DVM-Ph.D. for those who would like to practice medicine but also work in academia.

When considering degree options, length of commitment is an important factor. Traditional DVM programs are four years long. Adding a master's degree curriculum could make the program span an additional year, depending on the school. The DVM-Ph.D. lasts about seven years.

Location is also an important factor for many students considering veterinarian schools. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) only accredits 28 schools in 26 states (www.avma.org). Due to the limited number of universities, an individual may need to relocate in order to attend a veterinarian college, especially if he or she is seeking a joint degree program.

Another factor many students must consider is cost. DVM programs can be lengthy and expensive. Lab and technology fees, tuition costs and loan or funding availability impact a candidate's choice of veterinarian school; however, some states offer loan forgiveness for veterinarians agreeing to work in underserved or rural areas for a period of time, according to the AVMA.

Veterinary Program Overview

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

To be accepted into a DVM program, prospective students must have documented experience working with animals and satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Once enrolled, they take courses in animal anatomy, pharmacology and pathology. They also study diagnostic radiology, equine care and epidemiology. Upon successful completion of courses, individuals must take and pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam.

Veterinary Schools Offering DVM Programs by Student Enrollment

College/University Student Population Institution Type
Ohio State University56,0644-year, Public
University of Florida49,8274-year, Public
Texas A&M University49,1294-year, Public
Michigan State University46,9854-year, Public
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign43,8624-year, Public
University of Wisconsin-Madison42,1804-year, Public
Purdue University41,0634-year, Public
University of Maryland-College Park37,6414-year, Public
University of Georgia34,6774-year, Public
North Carolina State University34,3764-year, Public
University of Missouri-Columbia32,3414-year, Public
University of California, Davis31,3924-year, Public
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University31,0064-year, Public
The University of Tennessee30,3004-year, Public
Colorado State University - Fort Collins30,1554-year, Public
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College29,4514-year, Public
Iowa State University 28,682 4-year, Public
Washington State University26,3084-year, Public
Auburn University 25,078 4-year, Public
University of Pennsylvania 25,007 4-year, Private not-for-profit
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