Since you were little, chasing butterflies and cuddling kittens, you’ve known your calling: becoming a veterinarian! So, you’re ready to take the first step – choosing a college major. But with many options available, how do you find the best undergrad for vet school?
Veterinary medicine is a rewarding career that allows you to work with animals and make a difference in their lives. And, in becoming one, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree program in a science-related field. Many undergrad programs can prepare you for vet school, but some are better than others, but we have only the best.
This article will discuss the best undergraduate majors for vet school. We will also provide a list of top-ranked undergraduate programs that can help you prepare for a career in veterinary medicine.
Enjoy the read!
Table of contents
- 10 Best Undergrad Majors for Vet School in 2024
- What Should I Consider Before Choosing the Best Undergrad Majors For Vet School in 2024?
- What are the Requirements For Veterinary School?
- Can I Work With the Undergraduate Majors for Vet School
- 2024 Best Bachelor’s In Veterinary Science Programs
- Job Outlook for Veterinarians
- FAQS on Best Undergrad for Vet School
- Conclusion
- Recommendations
10 Best Undergrad Majors for Vet School in 2024
These majors offer a solid foundation for pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. Here are ten of the best undergraduate majors for vet school in 2024:
Animal Science:
As the first of the best undergrad for vet school, this major focuses specifically on the study and care of animals, covering topics such as animal anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and reproduction. It provides a comprehensive understanding of animal health and management.
Biology:
A major in Biology provides a broad foundation in the life sciences, covering areas such as cell biology, genetics, microbiology, and ecology. It offers a solid understanding of fundamental biological concepts relevant to veterinary medicine.
Biochemistry:
Biochemistry combines biology and chemistry, emphasizing the chemical processes within living organisms. This major provides in-depth knowledge of molecular biology, metabolism, and bioenergetics, which are essential in understanding veterinary pharmacology and biochemistry.
Microbiology:
Next on our list of best undergrad for vet school is microbiology. This major focuses on the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It provides a strong background in infectious diseases and microbiology, vital in veterinary medicine.
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Zoology:
A major in Zoology concentrates on studying animal behavior, evolution, physiology, and ecology. It offers insights into various animal species and their biological processes, which can benefit veterinary studies.
Biomedical Sciences:
This interdisciplinary major combines biology, chemistry, and human health sciences. It covers anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology, providing a solid foundation for veterinary medicine.
Genetics:
A Genetics major delves into studying genes, heredity, and genetic variation. It offers valuable knowledge in understanding genetic diseases, breeding programs, and genetic research in veterinary medicine.
This is another best undergrad for vet school.
Environmental Science:
This major focuses on the interactions between organisms and their environment. It provides an understanding of ecology, conservation, and environmental health, which can apply to veterinary practice, especially in wildlife or ecological veterinary medicine.
Chemistry:
A major in Chemistry provides a strong background in chemical principles and laboratory techniques. It can be beneficial for understanding pharmacology, toxicology, and chemical aspects of veterinary medicine.
Psychology:
Psychology is another best undergrad for vet school. While not directly related to animal health, a Psychology major can be valuable for veterinarians, as it helps develop interpersonal skills, an understanding of animal behaviour, and the ability to work with clients and their pets.
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What Should I Consider Before Choosing the Best Undergrad Majors For Vet School in 2024?
Here are some of the factors you should consider before choosing an undergraduate major for vet school in 2024:
- Foundation in Sciences: First, you need to ensure that your chosen major will give you a strong foundation in the sciences. Veterinary medicine is a science-based field, so you must have a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Your interests and strengths: Choose a major that you are interested in and good at. You will be more likely to succeed in a major that you are passionate about.
- The requirements of the vet schools you are interested in: Some vet schools have specific requirements for undergraduate majors. For example, some schools may require students to have taken a certain number of science courses.
- The job market: Consider the job market for your chosen major. Make sure that there are jobs available for people with your major.
- Cost of tuition: The cost of tuition can vary depending on the school and the program. Make sure that you can afford it before you choose a major.
- Availability of internships and research opportunities: Some majors offer more opportunities for internships and research than others. If you want to gain experience in the field, you may want to choose a major that offers these opportunities.
- Flexibility of the major: Some majors are more flexible than others. If you are unsure what you want to do after college, you may want to choose a more flexible major.
What are the Requirements For Veterinary School?
The specific requirements for veterinary school can vary among institutions, but here are some common prerequisites and general requirements to consider:
Bachelor’s Degree:
Most veterinary schools require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. However, a few schools may accept a certain number of college-level credits or have early admission programs for exceptional students.
Prerequisite Coursework:
Veterinary schools have specific prerequisite coursework requirements that applicants must fulfill. Typical prerequisite courses include biology (with lab), chemistry (general and organic, with labs), physics (with lab), math (usually college-level algebra or higher), and English composition.
Some schools may also require additional coursework in subjects like biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, or animal science.
The prerequisie courses typically include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- English
- Animal Science
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
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Grade Point Average (GPA):
Veterinary schools consider an applicant’s cumulative GPA and science GPA (including biology, chemistry, physics, and math coursework). A competitive GPA can vary but generally falls within the range of 3.0 to 4.0. However, it’s important to note that GPA requirements can vary among schools, and a higher GPA is generally more competitive.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE):
Many veterinary schools require applicants to take the GRE, a standardized test that assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills. Some schools may have minimum score requirements, while others consider GRE scores as part of the overall application evaluation.
Most veterinary schools also require applicants to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The GRE is a general test of academic aptitude, while the MCAT is a more specific test of knowledge in the biological and physical sciences.
Veterinary Experience:
Veterinary schools highly value hands-on experience in the field. It is essential to gain experience working or volunteering in veterinary clinics, animal shelters, research labs, or other animal-related settings. This experience helps demonstrate your commitment to the profession, understanding of veterinary practices, and ability to work with animals.
Letters of Recommendation:
Most veterinary schools require letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic abilities, veterinary experience, work ethic, and personal qualities. These letters typically come from professors, veterinarians, or other professionals who know you well.
Personal Statement:
Applicants are usually required to submit a personal statement or essay highlighting their motivation for pursuing a career in veterinary medicine, relevant experiences, and future goals. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your passion, communication skills, and suitability for the profession.
Interviews:
Some veterinary schools conduct interviews as part of the application process to assess an applicant’s interpersonal skills, professionalism, and ability to handle ethical dilemmas or critical thinking scenarios. If selected for an interview, it’s important to prepare and showcase your enthusiasm and readiness for veterinary school.
It’s essential to thoroughly research and review the specific requirements of the veterinary schools you are interested in, as they may have additional requirements or preferences. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as competition for veterinary school can be intense.
Therefore, aiming for a well-rounded application that demonstrates your academic excellence, veterinary experience, and commitment to the field is advisable.
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Can I Work With the Undergraduate Majors for Vet School
Yes, you can work with the undergraduate majors for vet school. Many students who are interested in becoming veterinarians choose to major in one of these fields.
This gives them a strong foundation in the sciences and prepares them for the rigorous veterinary school coursework.
2024 Best Bachelor’s In Veterinary Science Programs
Here are some of the best bachelor’s in veterinary science programs in 2024:
#1. University of Pennsylvania
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine is one of the most prestigious veterinary schools in the world. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Science (BSVS) degree, a rigorous program that prepares students for careers in veterinary medicine.
#2. Cornell University
Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, located in Ithaca, New York, is another highly ranked veterinary school. It offers a BSVS degree, a four-year program that prepares students for careers in veterinary medicine.
#3. University of California, Davis
Located in Davis, California, the University of California, Davis’s School of Veterinary Medicine is a public veterinary school that offers a BSVS degree. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in veterinary medicine. Still, it also allows students to explore other areas of interest, such as animal behaviour or public health.
#4. Tufts University
Besides being ranked as one of the best undergrad vet schools, this renowned institution is Located in Medford, Massachusetts, Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine offers a BSVS degree.
The program is designed to prepare students for careers in veterinary medicine. Still, it also allows students to pursue a minor in a related field, such as animal behaviour or public health.
#5. University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine offers a BSVS degree in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in veterinary medicine and allows them to pursue a minor in a related field, such as animal behavior or public health.
Others include;
- Massey University – School of Veterinary Science (Palmerston North, New Zealand)
- University of Sydney – Sydney School of Veterinary Science (Sydney, Australia)
- University of Edinburgh – Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies (Edinburgh, Scotland)
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London (London, United Kingdom)
- University of Pretoria – Faculty of Veterinary Science (Onderstepoort, South Africa)
- University of Melbourne – Melbourne Veterinary School (Melbourne, Australia)
Job Outlook for Veterinarians
The job outlook for veterinarians is expected to grow 19% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing demand for veterinary services and the ageing pet population.
The highest-paid 10% of veterinarians earned more than $152,150, while the lowest-paid 10% earned less than $65,240.
Veterinarians work in various settings, including private practice, government, and research. They may work with dogs, cats, horses, livestock, and exotic animals.
The job outlook for veterinarians is good, but a few factors could limit job growth. One factor is the increasing number of foreign-trained veterinarians eligible to work in the United States. Another factor is the rising use of telemedicine in veterinary medicine.
Overall, the job outlook for veterinarians is positive. However, those interested in this career should be prepared to compete.
Factors that contribute to the positive job outlook for veterinarians:
The increasing demand for veterinary services: The pet population in the United States is growing, and pet owners are increasingly seeking veterinary care for their animals.
The ageing pet population: The average lifespan of pets is increasing, which means that older pets will need veterinary care.
The growing demand for specialty care: There is an increasing demand for animal care, such as cancer treatment and surgery.
The increasing availability of pet insurance: Pet insurance is becoming more affordable and accessible, making it easier for pet owners to afford veterinary care.
FAQS on Best Undergrad for Vet School
Many different undergraduate majors can prepare you for vet school. Some of the most popular and well-respected majors include:
Animal science
Biology
Chemistry
Microbiology
Physics
Veterinary technology
Pre-veterinary medicine
Biology. A major offered in a wide variety of colleges and universities that will help you get into vet schools is biology. This degree usually focuses on biology, but you’ll also take courses in other science-related subjects.
University of Pennsylvania
Cornell University
University of California, Davis
Tufts University
University of Minnesota
Conclusion
No matter what major you choose, taking as many science courses as possible is essential. This will give you a strong foundation in the sciences and prepare you for the rigorous veterinary school coursework. It is also important to get involved in extracurricular activities that will give you experience working with animals. This could include volunteering at a local animal shelter or shadowing a veterinarian.
If you are interested in becoming a veterinarian, I encourage you to research the requirements of the veterinary schools you are interested in. This will help you ensure you are on the right track to achieving your goals.
References
- Universities.com – Best undergrad for vet school
- Bestcolleges.com – Best undergrad for vet school
Recommendations
