To become a veterinarian, you must complete a bachelor's degree in a science-related field before applying to veterinary school. Core subjects include biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. These courses fulfill vet school prerequisites and develop the analytical skills essential for diagnosing and treating animal health conditions.
Veterinary medicine demands rigorous scientific training. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) confirms that most veterinary schools require applicants to have completed specific undergraduate coursework, including general biology, organic chemistry, and calculus. Students who skip these foundational classes often struggle during the first year of vet school, where material builds rapidly on prior knowledge.
A common misconception is that any science degree qualifies. A bachelor's in environmental science may cover animal behavior but lacks required lab components in biochemistry and physiology. Students must verify course equivalency through the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS), which evaluates transcripts for eligibility.
Most accredited veterinary programs expect applicants to have completed the following courses:
| Subject | Required Credits | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Biology (general) | 8-10 credits | Introduces cellular structure, genetics, and organismal systems. |
| Organic Chemistry | 8-10 credits | Essential for understanding drug metabolism and biochemical pathways. |
| Physics | 8 credits | Supports understanding of fluid dynamics in circulation and imaging techniques. |
| Calculus | 3-6 credits | Used in pharmacokinetics and modeling disease spread. |
| English Composition | 3-6 credits | Develops written communication for patient records and research. |
These requirements are standardized across AVMA-accredited schools. For example, the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine lists these exact courses as mandatory for application. Students who take equivalent courses at community colleges must ensure credit transferability through official course syllabi and transcripts.
Some students pursue a double major in animal science and psychology to better understand pet-owner relationships. While not required, this combination supports behavioral medicine, a growing specialty in veterinary practice. According to the National Association of Veterinary Technicians, 43% of veterinarians report managing client anxiety during consultations, making interpersonal communication a practical skill.
The most frequent undergraduate degrees for aspiring vets are biology, animal science, and zoology. Each offers distinct advantages depending on career goals.
Students choosing animal science often gain early access to internships at livestock clinics or wildlife rehabilitation centers. One student I worked with at a state university completed a summer internship at a dairy farm, where he assisted in diagnosing mastitis using basic lab tests. That hands-on experience improved his application to vet school by demonstrating commitment beyond classroom learning.
That a degree in veterinary technology does not substitute for a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) program. Veterinary technicians perform diagnostics under supervision but cannot prescribe medication or perform surgery. The American Veterinary Medical Association states that only DVM graduates can legally diagnose and treat animals independently.
Admission to vet school is competitive. The average GPA for accepted applicants is 3.6 or higher. Most schools also require a minimum of 100 hours of veterinary experience, such as shadowing a licensed veterinarian or volunteering at an animal shelter.
For example, a student from Texas A&M University applied to five vet schools after completing 180 hours of clinical observation at a mixed-animal clinic. She documented her experiences in a reflective journal, which she submitted with her application. Her personal statement highlighted how observing a complex orthopedic repair helped her decide to specialize in surgery.
Use the VMCAS portal to track your progress. It allows you to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays in one system. You can apply to up to 20 schools, but fees range from $125 to $175 per application. Budget accordingly-some students apply to multiple schools to increase acceptance chances.
Many applicants assume they can major in art history or business and still qualify for vet school. This is incorrect. While diverse backgrounds bring unique perspectives, missing prerequisite courses requires remedial work, delaying entry by one to two years.
Another mistake is relying solely on online courses. The AVMA warns that hybrid or fully remote courses may not meet vet school standards unless taken from regionally accredited institutions. For example, a student from Oregon attempted to fulfill organic chemistry via a MOOC platform but was denied admission because the course lacked lab components and accreditation verification.
Finally, avoid assuming that "pre-vet" is a formal major. Many universities offer a pre-vet advising track, but it doesn't confer a degree. You must earn a bachelor's in a science discipline to qualify for vet school.
Understanding what to study to become a vet begins with selecting a relevant undergraduate program. Focus on core sciences, accumulate direct animal experience, and maintain strong academic performance. These steps lay the groundwork for a successful career in veterinary medicine.