Pre-Veterinary
Pre-Veterinary
As you become a veterinarian, you'll diagnose, treat, and research medical conditions and diseases of pets, livestock, and other animals. Veterinarians offer many services including more complicated procedures such as cancer treatments and kidney transplants.
CurriculumSchedule an Appointment
Why Consider Veterinary?
You'll have a rewarding career as you provide care and relieve the suffering from animals and pursue one of the most popular career options for animal lovers.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of veterinarians is projected to grow 16 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
- Animal Veterinarian
- Equine Veterinarian
- Food Animal Veterinarian
- Veterinary Technician
- Food Safety & Inspection veterinarian
- Research Veterinarian
- Animal Hospital or Clinic
- Farms and Ranches
- Public Health Agencies
- Public Humane Shelters
Explore: Veterinary Pathways
Become a student at USM and obtain the necessary requirements to apply to veterinary programs, with the guidance of our pathways expert!
Undergraduate Credit Required | Bachelor's degree |
Entrance Exam | Most programs require the GRE |
Professional Schooling Required | Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) |
Professional Organization Websites |
American Veterinary Medical Association, Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges |
Here are some of the local or surrounding area professional schools:
- Mississippi State University (Starkville, MS)
- Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge, LA)
- Auburn University (Auburn, AL)
- University of Tennessee (Knoxville, TN)
Navigating the Application Process
Beginning early with the application process allows students to structure an academic plan of study and ensures you are on track. Veterinary schools have relatively similar requirements that we can help prepare you for, including competitive scores and high GPA (overall and prerequisite), preparing for the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations), providing evidence of care for people through service and shadowing experiences, leadership roles, and more!
We encourage you to contact our pathways expert to support you in your professional development endeavors.
Strategies for Success
- Find the curriculum, timeline, and requirements suggested by our pathway expert.
GRE Prep
- Some veterinary programs may require the GRE, prepare to take it using an online practice test!
Shadowing or Externship
- Students are strongly encouraged to participate in the Hatten Externship (BSC 392), which is offered each Fall.
Practice Your Interview Skills
- Prepare by using USM's online Big Interview resource.
- Sign-up for mock interviews through Career Services or Pre-professional Office.
What Should I Major In?
Veterinary Schools do not require a particular major—pursue a major in which you feel the most comfortable with! Many students choose a major at USM in one of the sciences, but also look into the humanities, social sciences, or business. Explore related majors:
Not interested in the sciences? Explore Schools that have compatible majors, so you pursue a degree that fits your abilities and passions!