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Nicole
Student
Yuma, Arizona
1
Question
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How do I learn more about how to become a veterinarian?
Ever since I learned what a career is, I have set my mind to becoming a veterinarian I don’t plan on changing my choice. I would love to put a clinic in Yuma,AZ to help keep any animal big, small, or even dangerous safe and healthy.
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Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1590
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Nicole earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) takes at least eight years. That includes four years of undergraduate study at a college or university to earn at least a bachelor's degree and four years attending an accredited veterinary school.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE
After graduating from high school, earn an undergraduate degree in chemistry, biology, animal biology, zoology or other related scientific studies. Most undergraduate programs take four years to complete and include classes in areas that can prepare you for veterinary programs, such as math, writing and advanced science classes. Check with veterinary programs to find prerequisite and required courses for vet school so you're prepared to enter a DVM program once you graduate college.
VETERINARIAN SCHOOL
Nicole.your next step to starting a career as a vet is to apply and gain admission at an accredited veterinary school. Most vet programs include four years of study encompassing coursework and hands-on clinical experience to earn your Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). You also pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) to complete your degree. Some veterinary schools require aspiring veterinarians to complete previous work experience in veterinary clinics or gain experience dealing with animals in an animal shelter, farm, stable or similar environment.
GET YOUR LICENSE
Once you've earned your DVM degree, you can apply for licensure in the state where you plan to practice. The process includes passing a certification exam supported by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).
Veterinary schools appreciate applicants who have involved themselves in activities related to veterinary medicine. This could be volunteering at animal shelters, working at a vet clinic, or joining an animal welfare organization. These activities not only show your passion for the field, but also help you gain practical experience.
You aren’t required to complete formal training or be certified to become a vet assistant, so it’s possible to start a career in the field right out of high school. At minimum, most clinics require their vet assistants to have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent; specific training is then done on the job. This can be a good path for someone who wants to jump right into the workforce after graduation. However, it can sometimes be much more difficult to secure a job as a vet assistant without specific training or experience when you’re competing against those who have gone to vet assistant school.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE
After graduating from high school, earn an undergraduate degree in chemistry, biology, animal biology, zoology or other related scientific studies. Most undergraduate programs take four years to complete and include classes in areas that can prepare you for veterinary programs, such as math, writing and advanced science classes. Check with veterinary programs to find prerequisite and required courses for vet school so you're prepared to enter a DVM program once you graduate college.
VETERINARIAN SCHOOL
Nicole.your next step to starting a career as a vet is to apply and gain admission at an accredited veterinary school. Most vet programs include four years of study encompassing coursework and hands-on clinical experience to earn your Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). You also pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) to complete your degree. Some veterinary schools require aspiring veterinarians to complete previous work experience in veterinary clinics or gain experience dealing with animals in an animal shelter, farm, stable or similar environment.
GET YOUR LICENSE
Once you've earned your DVM degree, you can apply for licensure in the state where you plan to practice. The process includes passing a certification exam supported by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Thank you for answering, some stuff you told me I didn’t know, but I do know that I will continue to follow my career. A question I was wondering after I sent the email is, what are amazing universities I can apply to for veterinarians?
Nicole
Nicole, Arizona State University is a public research university with its main campuses located in the metro Phoenix area. The university is repeatedly ranked No. 1 in categories such as innovation, global impact and sustainability.
• Founded in 1885, Arizona is the state's flagship 4-year public institution. The University of Arizona features 20 colleges, hundreds of degree options, and top-ranked online programs. Committed to innovation and research.
• Midwestern University is a private medical education institution, established in 1900. The Glendale campus is located in the state of Arizona, approximately 15 minutes from downtown Phoenix. The Glendale campus is home to a wide variety of facilities.
Doc Frick