Studying Veterinary Science in the USA

I'm interested in pursuing veterinary studies in the USA. What steps should I take to make this happen, and are there specific schools or programs known for their veterinary science offerings?

Sure, I'd be glad to guide you through the process of planning your veterinary studies in the US.

Step 1: Start with a Pre-Vet or Similar Undergraduate Degree - Veterinary schools require that you have a certain number of hours of pre-professional experience, so a Pre-Vet or equivalent major can help you prepare for the professional school. These programs generally focus on hard sciences like biology and chemistry and include coursework in subjects such as animal biology, cellular biology, and general chemistry.

Step 2: Gain Experience with Animals - Veterinary schools typically require hundreds of hours of hands-on experience with animals, with some requiring experience with a variety of species. Volunteering at animal shelters, becoming a veterinary assistant, and observing and assisting in a vet's office are great ways to accumulate these hours.

Step 3: Take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) - Most veterinary schools require GRE scores, though a few accept MCAT scores instead.

Step 4: Apply to a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Program - DVM programs typically last four years. The Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) is the most centralized application service for DVM programs, but verify the application process for each school you're interested in as some might have additional requirements.

As for schools, the U.S. offers multiple reputable veterinary programs. Cornell University, the University of California, Davis, and Colorado State University are a few that consistently rank high due to their impressive curriculum, opportunities for hands-on experience, and strong success rates of their graduates. Yet remember to look beyond rankings and consider factors that personally matter to you, such as location, student life, and opportunities for specialization.