What Would You Major in to Become a Veterinarian? A Complete Guide

Veterinarian Major Options
Steps to Becoming a Veterinarian
Veterinary School Requirements
Real-Life Stories of Becoming a Veterinarian
Best Majors for a Veterinary Career

Veterinarian Major Options

Becoming a veterinarian is a dream career for many, but one of the first questions aspiring vets face is: what would you major in to become a veterinarian? The answer to this question varies, but there are a few key majors that stand out as excellent pathways to a veterinary career. As someone who has long been interested in animals and the sciences, I’ve learned that pursuing the right major is crucial to setting yourself up for success in veterinary school. 1. Pre-Veterinary Science: A common choice among aspiring veterinarians, pre-veterinary science programs are tailored to give students a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics. I chose this route, and it prepared me for the rigorous courses I faced in vet school. Many universities offer pre-veterinary programs specifically designed to prepare students for the demands of veterinary school. 2. Animal Science: Another popular option is animal science. This major focuses on the biology and management of animals, and many veterinary schools look favorably upon students with a background in this field. Animal science covers topics like animal behavior, genetics, and nutrition, all of which are crucial for anyone aspiring to work as a veterinarian. 3. Biology or Zoology: For those who have a deep love for science, a biology or zoology major can provide a strong foundation for vet school. These fields delve into the study of living organisms, ecosystems, and biological processes, which are directly relevant to the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful veterinarian.

Steps to Becoming a Veterinarian

Becoming a veterinarian requires more than just picking the right major; there are several essential steps that I discovered through research and personal experience. Here’s a roadmap of the key stages in the journey to becoming a vet: 1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree: The first step is to earn a bachelor's degree. While there isn’t a specific major required for veterinary school, having a background in the sciences, such as biology or chemistry, is highly recommended. I found that a solid understanding of these subjects made veterinary school much more manageable. 2. Gain Experience with Animals: Veterinary schools are highly competitive, and one way to stand out is by gaining hands-on experience with animals. Volunteering at animal shelters, working in veterinary clinics, or interning at animal farms can make a huge difference. I personally worked at a local animal shelter and gained valuable experience that helped me secure my place in vet school. 3. Apply to Veterinary School: Once you’ve completed your undergraduate degree and accumulated relevant experience, the next step is to apply to veterinary schools. Admission requirements can vary by school, but they typically include standardized test scores (like the GRE or the Veterinary College Admission Test, VCAT), letters of recommendation, and a solid academic record. 4. Complete Veterinary School: Veterinary school typically takes four years and involves both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program is intensive, but it provides you with the skills and knowledge necessary to care for animals in a variety of settings. 5. Obtain Licensure: After graduating from veterinary school, the final step is to become licensed. This usually involves passing a national or regional exam, such as the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE). Once licensed, you can start practicing as a veterinarian.

Veterinary School Requirements

Veterinary school admission is competitive, and I quickly learned that each school has its own set of prerequisites and requirements. However, most veterinary schools require the following: 1. Coursework: Most veterinary schools expect applicants to have completed certain coursework, including biology, chemistry, physics, and animal science. Many schools also look for students who have taken courses in English and humanities to ensure they have strong communication skills. 2. Experience: In addition to academic qualifications, veterinary schools want to see that you have hands-on experience with animals. As mentioned earlier, I worked at a local animal clinic, which allowed me to gain valuable insight into the daily work of veterinarians. 3. Letters of Recommendation: Vet schools often require letters of recommendation from professors or veterinarians who can speak to your skills, experience, and passion for working with animals. I found that having strong letters from my professors and mentors made a big difference in my application. 4. Standardized Tests: While some veterinary schools may require the GRE, others use their own specific exams. It’s important to check the requirements for each school you’re applying to and prepare accordingly.

Real-Life Stories of Becoming a Veterinarian

The path to becoming a veterinarian is often full of challenges, but it’s also rewarding. I remember hearing about a colleague who had always dreamed of becoming a vet but was unsure about what major to pursue. She initially started with a general biology degree before realizing that a more focused animal science major was a better fit for her aspirations. After switching, she gained more confidence and was accepted into a top veterinary school. Her story inspired me to stay committed, even when the journey seemed overwhelming at times. Another inspiring story comes from a well-known veterinarian who grew up on a farm. From a young age, he was surrounded by animals and always had a passion for caring for them. He majored in animal science, attended veterinary school, and eventually opened his own practice. His story shows that while the journey to becoming a veterinarian is not always linear, it’s important to follow your passion and be persistent.

Best Majors for a Veterinary Career

The best majors for a veterinary career vary depending on the person and their specific interests. However, based on my research and personal experience, here are some of the top choices: 1. Animal Science: As previously mentioned, this major provides students with a deep understanding of animals, which is crucial for anyone wanting to become a veterinarian. 2. Biology: A strong foundation in biology is essential for understanding the physiology and anatomy of animals, which makes biology one of the best majors for aspiring vets. 3. Pre-Veterinary Science: This major is tailored to prepare students for veterinary school and offers a curriculum designed specifically for aspiring veterinarians. If you're still unsure which major is best for you, consider talking to a career advisor or reaching out to professionals in the field to gain insight into their experiences.

What Would You Major in to Become a Veterinarian? A Complete Guide