Understanding What Degrees You Need to Be a Veterinarian in 2025
- start-with-the-right-undergraduate-degree
- why-a-dvm-degree-is-essential
- other-certifications-and-advanced-options
- real-life-example-from-pre-vet-to-practice
- navigating-the-path-to-veterinary-success
1. Start with the Right Undergraduate Degree
If you're asking what degrees you need to be a veterinarian, the journey starts with a bachelor's degree. While there's no single mandated major, most students choose a science-heavy path. Biology, animal science, zoology, and chemistry are among the most popular—and practical—majors.
Pre-vet coursework typically includes organic chemistry, physics, genetics, anatomy, and microbiology. These courses are prerequisites for veterinary school applications, and admissions committees look for strong performance in them.
Many students also gain experience by volunteering at clinics or shadowing professionals, which not only enhances applications but confirms whether veterinary medicine is the right path.
2. Why a DVM Degree Is Essential
2.1 What Is a DVM?
After completing a bachelor's degree, the next step is obtaining a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. This is the core credential required to legally practice as a vet in the United States. DVM programs typically take four years to complete and are rigorous—combining classroom science with clinical hands-on experience.
2.2 Admission Requirements and Competition
Admission to veterinary school is highly competitive. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), less than 50% of applicants are admitted each cycle. Schools like UC Davis, Cornell, and Colorado State are especially selective, placing high value on academic records, recommendation letters, and clinical experience.
3. Other Certifications and Advanced Options
3.1 State Licensure
Graduating with a DVM isn’t the final step. Every state requires licensure, usually involving the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE). Some states have additional jurisprudence exams focused on local laws and regulations.
3.2 Specialization Degrees
If you’re interested in going beyond general practice, there are post-DVM certifications in fields like oncology, dermatology, cardiology, and exotic animal medicine. These residencies can add 3–5 years of training but significantly increase both your expertise and earning potential.
4. Real-Life Example: From Pre-Vet to Practice
Let’s look at Sarah Nguyen, who shared her journey on LinkedIn in early 2024. She majored in Animal Science at Texas A&M, aced her prerequisites, and volunteered at a rural animal shelter. After a few setbacks—including a rejection in her first DVM application cycle—she refined her résumé and was accepted to Purdue University’s vet school the following year.
Sarah earned her DVM in 2023 and now works in emergency animal care. Her story highlights the persistence and clarity needed to achieve this career. When asked what degrees do you need to be a veterinarian, her answer is simple but honest: "You need a science-heavy bachelor’s and a DVM—but most of all, you need heart."
5. Navigating the Path to Veterinary Success
So, what degrees do you need to be a veterinarian? The typical pathway includes a relevant bachelor’s degree followed by a DVM. Along the way, you’ll need clinical experience, strong academics, and passion for animal health. While the road isn’t easy, the reward is a lifelong career serving animals and the people who love them.
If you're exploring how to begin this journey—or looking for tools to support your application process—now’s the time to invest in your future. From interview prep courses to pre-vet mentoring services, having the right support can make all the difference. Let your search start with clarity—and let your first step be your strongest.
Still wondering what degrees do you need to be a veterinarian? Start researching programs, build your experience, and take one confident step toward your dream career today.
