The 10 Best Veterinary Schools in the US
Do you dream of caring for creatures great and small? A career in veterinary medicine allows you to make a real difference in the lives of animals. However, choosing the right veterinary school is important.
The US boasts a list of top-notch institutions offering exceptional Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) programs. But with only 32 accredited by the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) veterinary schools in the US, where do you begin?
This blog shares the 10 best veterinary schools in the US. These institutions were shortlisted, taking into account academic excellence, program diversity, research opportunities, and real-world experience.
What is Veterinary Medicine?
Veterinary medicine is essentially animal healthcare. Just like human medicine, it focuses on keeping creatures healthy, preventing and diagnosing illnesses, and treating injuries. This applies to a wide range of animals, from the beloved cats and dogs we share our homes with to farm livestock, zoo animals, and even wild creatures.
Veterinarians, the doctors of the animal world, are highly trained professionals. They can perform surgeries, prescribe medications, conduct dental procedures, and provide all sorts of medical care. They also play an important role in preventative care, like recommending vaccinations and advising on proper nutrition.
Veterinarians also work to ensure the health of animal populations as a whole. This includes monitoring for and controlling the spread of diseases in farm animals, protecting endangered wildlife species, and safeguarding public health by preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases (illnesses that can jump from animals to humans). Veterinarians play a significant role in the food industry by ensuring the health of animals raised for food production.
And the good news is, even if you don’t specialize after veterinary school, you’re looking at a rewarding career path. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for veterinarians in the US was around $100,370 per year as of 2021.
The 10 Best Veterinary Schools in the US
The top veterinary schools consistently rank highly for comprehensive education, advanced facilities, esteemed faculty, and clinical/research opportunities. These institutions, including global leaders like Cornell University and the University of Pennsylvania, prepare graduates for the ever-evolving veterinary scenario.
The top 10 veterinary science schools in the US
- University of California, Davis
- Colorado State University
- Cornell University
- Ohio State University
- North Carolina State University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Florida
- University of Georgia
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Texas A&M University-College Station
1. University of California, Davis
Source: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
A leader in its field, the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, has earned a global reputation for excellence. Located in California, the school fosters a culture dedicated to top-tier education, research, and clinical care for animals. This commitment is reflected in their consistent ranking among the best veterinary schools worldwide.
UC Davis provides a comprehensive curriculum with advanced facilities and clinical experiences. It ensures students are well-prepared for all aspects of veterinary medicine. From treating small animals to wildlife conservation and public health initiatives, UC Davis offers a supportive environment where students can find their passion and thrive.
The school’s impressive alumni network is a testament to its quality. Dr. Temple Grandin, a renowned animal behavior expert and autism advocate, is just one of many notable graduates. Current UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine Dean, Dr. Michael Lairmore, and Dr. Roger Mahr, former President of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), are also proud alumni.
2. Colorado State University
Source: Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (CSU-CVMBS) is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and impactful research. Consistently ranked among the top veterinary schools in the US, CSU-CVMBS boasts a comprehensive curriculum, world-class faculty, and advanced facilities.
Their dedication to animal health shines through in their diverse range of specialties and research opportunities, preparing graduates for success in various veterinary fields.
This esteemed college fosters a rich learning environment that provides future veterinarians with fulfilling careers. Whether it’s traditional clinical practice, fascinating biomedical research, or even animal-related public policy, CSU-CVMBS graduates are well-prepared to make a significant impact.
3. Cornell University
Source: Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine
Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine stands out for its exceptional academic programs and groundbreaking research. The college’s reputation is built upon a diverse range of specialties and research opportunities, ensuring students graduate with the knowledge and skills to excel in various veterinary fields.
Their unwavering commitment to animal health and welfare is evident in the comprehensive curriculum, world-class faculty, and advanced facilities available to students. This rich learning environment prepares future veterinarians for careers in traditional clinical practice, fascinating biomedical research, or even animal-related public policy.
It’s worth noting that some of Cornell’s most distinguished alumni hail from the College of Veterinary Medicine. This impressive list includes Dr. Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist and UN Messenger of Peace; Dr. Kenneth R. Hinchcliff, who formerly served as Dean of the College itself, and Dr. William F. Hornbuckle, a prominent veterinary pathologist and past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
4. Ohio State University
Source: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program is designed to prepare students to become exceptional veterinarians and researchers. The curriculum emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and excellence in various fields such as education, research, patient care, outreach, and service.
OSU CVM offers exceptional practical experience through its Veterinary Health System, which includes four hospitals and a large animal practice. This allows students to care for over 72,000 animal patients each year, gaining valuable clinical experience with companion animals, farm animals, and equines.
The college’s research focuses on areas like comparative oncology, infectious diseases, and neuromusculoskeletal science, not only impacting veterinary medicine but also contributing to advancements in human healthcare.
5. North Carolina State University
Source: North Carolina State University’s Veterinary Medicine News
North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is a well-respected institution focused on advanced degrees and research. They offer Master’s and Doctorate programs in various veterinary and comparative medicine fields.
Their research is interdisciplinary, working on topics from genetics to animal health. The college boasts advanced facilities on its Centennial Biomedical Campus, including a 100,000-square-foot research building.
What sets the program apart is its focus on hands-on experience and student success. Students gain experience through the nationally ranked veterinary hospital that treats over 30,000 patients a year, including companion animals, farm animals, and exotics. Faculty are known for their dedication to students and their commitment to innovative research that improves animal health and safety.
6. University of Pennsylvania
Source: University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania’s veterinary program, often called Penn Vet, is a highly regarded program with a rich history dating back to 1884. It’s the only veterinary school in Pennsylvania and awards a unique Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris (VMD) degree.
Penn Vet is known for its innovative approach and its close integration with the university’s medical school, Penn Med. This collaboration allows for a deep understanding of animal health and advanced research opportunities, placing Penn Vet among the top veterinary schools in the world.
7. University of Florida
Source: University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine
The University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine is the only veterinary school in the state. It offers a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program for professional students and graduate programs for those seeking Masters (MS) or Ph.D. degrees.
The college is known for its focus on research alongside clinical care. They have strong programs in areas like immunology, neuroscience, and infectious diseases. Interestingly, the college collaborates with both the university’s Institute for Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) and the UF Health Science Center (UF Health), which provides unique opportunities for students.
8. University of Georgia
Source: University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine
The University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine is a well-respected program, consistently ranked among the top 10 veterinary schools in the nation. They offer the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, the standard professional degree for veterinarians. The program is known for its strong curriculum, which combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience to prepare students for a variety of veterinary careers.
In addition to the DVM program, they also offer a Master’s in Veterinary Biomedical Sciences and unique dual-degree programs that allow students to earn a DVM alongside a Ph.D. or Master of Public Health degree. This makes UGA a good option for students interested in research or public health careers alongside clinical veterinary work.
9. University of Wisconsin-Madison
Source: University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Veterinary Medicine
The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Veterinary Medicine is a well-regarded program, consistently ranking among the top eight veterinary schools in the nation. They offer a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, which is a four-year professional degree. The school is known for its focus on clinical training, biomedical research, and clinical service. The program is quite competitive, admitting only 96 students each year.
While they don’t have an undergraduate program, they do offer courses open to undergraduates and graduate degrees like residencies, master’s, and Ph.D.s. If you’re interested in applying to their DVM program, keep in mind that they look for strong academic performance, relevant work experience with animals, and good communication skills.
10. Texas A&M University-College Station
Source: Texas A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at College Station
Texas A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at College Station is a prestigious program consistently ranked among the top 10 in the nation by U.S. News. It was founded in 1916 and is one of the few veterinary schools in the US and Canada.
They offer a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, which is a four-year professional degree. The first three years focus on classroom and laboratory instruction, while the fourth year provides hands-on clinical experience. They also have undergraduate programs in Biomedical Sciences and numerous graduate programs related to veterinary medicine. The school is known for its innovative research and its commitment to providing excellent veterinary care to animals.
What Makes These Veterinary Schools the Best?
1. Well-rounded education with specialized options
Top veterinary schools offer a thorough curriculum, including all essential areas of veterinary medicine. This includes foundational subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and surgery. It provides you with various veterinary practice challenges.
Look for schools providing specialized tracks or elective courses tailored to your interests. These could be in areas like small animal medicine, equine health, or exotic species. This allows you to refine your education and gain expertise in specific fields aligned with your passions and career goals.
2. Hands-on training with advanced facilities
Top veterinary schools boast advanced facilities and resources to provide hands-on clinical experience. Look for schools with well-equipped veterinary hospitals or clinics on campus where you can gain practical skills while interacting with diverse animal patients.
Access to advanced diagnostic tools, surgical suites, and rehabilitation facilities ensures you receive training in the most up-to-date veterinary techniques and technologies. Furthermore, the opportunity to work alongside experienced faculty and veterinary professionals in real-world settings is invaluable. This experience helps develop your clinical skills and builds confidence in your abilities.
3. Research and mentorship for growth
The top veterinary schools prioritize research and offer excellent student involvement opportunities. Research experience allows you to contribute to the advancement of veterinary knowledge and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Look for schools with active research programs and faculty members who are leading experts in their fields.
Mentorship is crucial for professional development. Seek out schools that provide mentorship programs connecting you with faculty members or practicing veterinarians who can guide and support you throughout your educational journey.
From the Desk of Yocket
Defining the absolute best veterinary schools in the US can be tricky. Rankings often consider research output, facilities, and faculty expertise, which are excellent measures but don’t necessarily reflect the perfect fit for every student.
However, some schools consistently rank high across various metrics. Institutions like Cornell, the University of California, Davis, and the University of Pennsylvania are renowned for their advanced research, facilities, and experienced faculty. These schools would be ideal for those drawn to academic rigor and potentially pursuing research careers.
Other factors to consider include program focus and location. Schools like North Carolina State or the University of Florida might be perfect for someone interested in large animal medicine, given their proximity to agricultural centers. Additionally, certain schools may prioritize rural or community practice, which could appeal to students seeking that career path.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many veterinary schools are there in the US?
There are 32 schools or colleges of veterinary medicine (CVMs) in the US. All of these CVMs are members of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) and hold either full accreditation or have received a letter of reasonable assurance (indicating accreditation pending) from the AAVMC’s Council on Education (COE).
What qualities do colleges of veterinary medicine look for in applicants?
Veterinary schools seek well-rounded applicants. While a passion for animals remains essential, they now value skills in business, communication, research, and emerging fields like public health and food safety. This diverse training positions veterinarians for a broader range of careers beyond traditional clinical practice.
What is the average veterinary medical school tuition?
Veterinary school tuition varies greatly depending on residency. In-state students typically pay around $32,000 annually, while out-of-state students can expect to pay closer to $53,000.