What Major Should I Choose to Be a Veterinarian? A Comprehensive Guide
- Choosing the Right Major for a Veterinary Career
- Popular Majors for Aspiring Veterinarians
- Required Courses for Veterinary School
- Real-Life Stories: Choosing the Right Major
- Tips for a Successful Veterinary Journey
Deciding on a career as a veterinarian is exciting and rewarding, but one of the first challenges you might face is choosing the right major to pursue. For those wondering, “What major should I choose to be a veterinarian?” the answer isn't as simple as picking the first available pre-vet program. Becoming a veterinarian requires a solid academic foundation, specialized knowledge, and a deep passion for animals. In this article, I’ll share the different paths and majors that lead to veterinary school and eventually to becoming a successful veterinarian.
1. Choosing the Right Major for a Veterinary Career
When I first decided to become a veterinarian, I didn’t know where to start. The major I chose would lay the groundwork for the rest of my education, so it was essential to make an informed decision. While some might think that you need to major in “Veterinary Medicine” directly, that’s actually not the case. Veterinary schools typically don’t require a specific undergraduate major, but they do have strict prerequisites, so the right major can help fulfill these requirements while aligning with your personal interests.
The good news is that there are multiple paths you can take. Some of the most common undergraduate majors for aspiring veterinarians include biology, animal science, and zoology. However, majors in chemistry, biochemistry, and even physics can also help build a strong foundation for veterinary school. The key is to ensure that you take the right courses and gain enough hands-on experience working with animals.
2. Popular Majors for Aspiring Veterinarians
Over the years, I’ve spoken with many veterinary students and professionals, and while there is no one-size-fits-all answer, some majors stand out as the most common pathways into veterinary school. Here are a few of the top majors I recommend considering:
1. Animal Science
Animal science is the most obvious choice for aspiring veterinarians. This major focuses on the biology and care of animals, and it provides a comprehensive understanding of animal husbandry, physiology, and genetics. I personally know several veterinarians who majored in animal science, and this major allowed them to get practical experience working with animals while also covering the necessary scientific coursework needed for veterinary school.
While this is a great choice, it’s important to note that animal science programs can be competitive, and the coursework is demanding. You’ll need to balance theory with practical experience, which can include internships or working in veterinary clinics, farms, or animal shelters. This major sets a strong foundation for both veterinary school and a career in animal health.
2. Biology
Another popular major for future veterinarians is biology. This major covers a broad spectrum of life sciences and provides a solid understanding of biology, ecology, genetics, and biochemistry. Since veterinary schools require a deep understanding of animal biology, this major helps students build the scientific knowledge needed to succeed in veterinary programs. In fact, biology majors are often well-prepared for the coursework and exams veterinary schools require.
From my personal experience, biology offers a good balance between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. It also gives you flexibility if you decide that veterinary medicine isn’t the right fit for you, as it can open doors to many other careers in science, healthcare, and research.
3. Zoology
Zoology is a major that focuses specifically on the study of animals and their behavior. This major can provide a more specialized approach compared to broader fields like biology or animal science. If you’re particularly interested in wildlife conservation, exotic animals, or veterinary care for wild species, zoology might be an excellent fit for you.
While zoology may not provide as much hands-on clinical experience as animal science, it still covers crucial topics such as animal physiology, ecology, and genetics. It’s also an ideal path for those who want to work with a wide variety of animals, from domestic pets to wildlife. For example, many veterinarians in zoos or wildlife reserves have degrees in zoology.
3. Required Courses for Veterinary School
In addition to selecting a major, there are specific courses that aspiring veterinarians must take in order to meet the entrance requirements for veterinary school. Whether you choose biology, animal science, or another major, these courses will be essential for your success. Here are some common classes that I encountered during my pre-vet years:
- General Biology
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics
- Animal Nutrition
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
- Animal Anatomy and Physiology
As you can see, most of these courses are heavily focused on science and biology. Some schools may also require additional coursework in animal behavior, ethics, and veterinary pharmacology. This is why it’s essential to choose a major that not only interests you but also provides a comprehensive foundation for these critical subjects. Additionally, gaining hands-on experience working with animals through internships or volunteer work is just as important as acing your coursework.
4. Real-Life Stories: Choosing the Right Major
Let me share the story of Sarah, a friend I met during my undergraduate years. Sarah was passionate about animals from a young age, and she initially thought about majoring in animal science. However, after talking to her academic advisor and learning about the broad range of courses in biology, she decided to major in biology with a focus on animal biology. Sarah was able to gain valuable research experience in molecular biology while also volunteering at animal shelters on the side.
Sarah’s story is an excellent example of how flexibility in choosing the right major can set you up for success. She eventually got into one of the top veterinary schools in the country and is now a veterinarian specializing in animal surgery. Her journey shows that while animal science is a great choice, other science-focused majors can provide the necessary foundation for veterinary school as well.
5. Tips for a Successful Veterinary Journey
As someone who has been through this journey, I have a few key tips for those considering veterinary school:
- Don’t be afraid to choose a major that excites you. It’s important to pursue something you’re passionate about because veterinary school will require years of dedication.
- Get hands-on experience early. Whether through internships, volunteer work, or jobs in animal care, practical experience will help you stand out to veterinary schools.
- Stay focused on building a strong academic record, but also seek out extracurricular activities like research or animal welfare organizations to broaden your experience.
- Connect with mentors and professionals in the field. They can offer valuable advice and help guide your path to veterinary school and beyond.
Choosing the right major is only the beginning of your veterinary journey. With determination, the right education, and hands-on experience, you can make your dream of becoming a veterinarian a reality. And if you're interested in learning more about the process of getting into veterinary school, resources like Scent Snob offer great advice and support along the way.
