Veterinary medicine is the branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, control, diagnosis and treatment of disease, disorder and injury in animals and along with this, it also deals with animal rearing, husbandry, breeding, research on nutrition and product development.
The pre-veterinary program at Marshall University offers several advantages for students aspiring to enter veterinary medicine. The program provides:
- Connections to local veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and farms for internships or volunteer work, which are important for gaining practical experience
- A strong foundation in sciences, including biology, chemistry, and animal science, which are crucial for veterinary school
- Preparation for the challenges of veterinary school and careers in animal health and welfare
- Dedicated pre-veterinary advisors who help with course selection, application processes, and preparing for veterinary school entrance exams
Prerequisites in the pre-veterinary program at Marshall University typically includes a combination of science, mathematics, and general education courses. Here is an overview of what you might expect:
- Core Science Courses: Biology, General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, which often include lab components.
- Introductory Physics courses
- Calculus and/or Statistics, depending on veterinary school requirements
- Animal Science courses related to animal behavior, nutrition, and husbandry
- Humanities and social sciences to fulfill degree requirements, such as psychology, communication, and ethics
Refer to the Marshall University Undergraduate Catalog for accurate course offerings.
At Marshall University, there are several student clubs and organizations focused on veterinary professions. Some of these clubs include:
- Pre-Veterinary Club – Pre-Veterinary Club at Marshall University aims to provide an array of opportunities for students to broaden their knowledge in the field of Veterinary Medicine, along with building a competitive application for veterinary colleges.
- Collegiate 4-H at Marshall University – The club is dedicated to making the community a better place through events, fundraising and acts of service. Students of the club are involved in helping with local events and organizing fundraising events to help charities and non-profit organizations.
For a complete list and details, check out HerdLink.
If you’re considering veterinary schools after completing a pre-veterinary program at Marshall University, here are some options:
- Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (Blacksburg, VA)
- Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine (Mississippi State, MS)
- The Ohio State University (OSU) – College of Veterinary Medicine (Columbus, OH)
- North Carolina State University – College of Veterinary Medicine (Raleigh, NC)
- University of Pennsylvania (Penn Vet) – School of Veterinary Medicine (Philadelphia, PA)
These schools have varying admission requirements, so it’s essential to review their specific prerequisites and application procedures as well as possible exams required.
Start Your Pathway (PDF)
If you have questions about the pre-veterinary program or need guidance, you can reach out to The Medical Professions Pathways advisor in the College of Science:
