Michigan Tech provides an excellent foundation for veterinary school. As a technological university, our curriculum is rigorous and highly respected throughout the Midwest. In addition to key classes in the sciences, students take courses in humanities and social sciences that fulfill the entry reuirements of most veterinary schools.

After completing a bachelor's degree, many of Michigan Tech's pre-vet students continue their education at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University, and our program is tailored to meet its course requirements. If you plan to attend another vet school, we will work with you to help assure that you are qualified for admission when you graduate from Michigan Tech.

The Road to Becoming a Veterinarian

After graduating from high school, you will first earn a bachelor's degree (four years) and then complete veterinary school (another four years) to earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).

This prepares you to practice general veterinary medicine. If you decide to enter a specialty, such as surgery or exotic small-animal practice, you may need an additional four years of education.

Many veterinary school graduates complete a year of internship and then undertake a two- or three-year residency in their specialty.

Requirements for Entry into Veterinary College

There is more to becoming a vet than going to class, but strong academic preparation is essential for admission into any veterinary college. The average college GPA of accepted veterinary students is 3.4 (on a 4.0 scale), and you'll probably need at least a 3.2 to be considered for admission. Generally, veterinary schools require one year of study in each of the following areas, unless otherwise noted:

• Biology with lab
• Introductory chemistry with lab
• Organic chemistry with lab
• Biochemistry
• Physics with lab
• English composition

In addition, you should take a variety of courses in the arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Vet schools will also expect you to take a standardized test, such as the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).

Schools generally require that you have experience working with a veterinarian. Most students perform at least 250 hours of volunteer service before entering vet school. You should also have worked on a farm, stable zoo, kennel, etc., to gain more experience with animals. Opportunities are available near Michigan Tech, but many students meet these requirements when they return home during the summer.

After completing a bachelor's degree, many of Michigan Tech's pre-vet students continue their education at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University, and our program is tailored to meet its course requirements. If you plan to attend another vet school, we will work with you to help assure that you are qualified for admission when you graduate from Michigan Tech.

Pre-veterinary Medicine at Michigan Tech

Michigan Tech also offers you flexibility. Pre-veterinary students typically pursue the bachelor's degree in biological sciences, and the pre-vet course work parallels our other programs relating to medicine: pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-optometry, and clinical laboratory science. If you decide later to pursue another career, you'll find you are well prepared to enter a variety of professions.

Our director of pre-health professions studies will help you chart a course to your future as a veterinarian. You'll receive support and advice in the following areas:

• Selecting courses and planning curriculum
• Learning to study effectively
• Choosing the profession that is right for you
• Assuring that you meet the entry requirements for the professional school of your choice
• Getting the necessary application forms for the tests required for entry into veterinary school
• Getting accepted in a veterinary medicine program

For further information, contact the Director of Pre-Health Professions Studies, Ronald K. Gratz, PhD