
The Ohio State University's Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program is a highly respected and competitive program. It's a four-year program that requires a minimum of 150 semester credit hours to complete.
The program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in veterinary medicine. The curriculum includes both classroom and clinical instruction.
Ohio State's DVM program has a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice, with opportunities for students to work with faculty members on research projects and gain hands-on experience in the university's veterinary teaching hospital.
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Curriculum
The curriculum for a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program is designed to give students a solid foundation in veterinary practice. Students take courses that follow an organ-system approach, building core competencies required for veterinary practice.
The program's focus on student-centered, team-based learning prepares students for hands-on clinical experiences. This approach equips them with professional and problem-solving skills essential for success.
During the first three years, students focus on studying the normal animal, the pathogenesis of diseases, and the prevention, alleviation, and clinical therapy of diseases.
Courses
Our curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive education in veterinary medicine.
The courses follow an organ-system approach, which allows students to build the core competencies required for veterinary practice. This approach ensures that students gain a solid understanding of how different body systems work together.
With a focus on student-centered, team-based learning, the program prepares students for hands-on clinical experiences. This approach is essential for developing the professional and problem-solving skills needed for success in veterinary practice.
Course Overview
The Curriculum covers a wide range of topics, but the foundation of it all is the Course Overview. This section sets the stage for the entire program, providing a comprehensive outline of what students can expect to learn and achieve.
The Course Overview is divided into three main areas: Foundations, Core Curriculum, and Electives. These categories are designed to provide a well-rounded education, covering everything from the basics to specialized skills.
The Foundations section lays the groundwork with introductory courses that cover essential concepts and skills. This is where students learn the fundamentals that will serve as the building blocks for the rest of their studies.
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Core Curriculum courses are the meat of the program, providing in-depth training in key areas. These courses are designed to help students develop practical skills and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
Electives offer students the opportunity to specialize in areas that interest them most. This is where students can dive deeper into specific topics and develop expertise in their chosen field.
Faculty
Our faculty members are highly dedicated to shaping the next generation of veterinary professionals.
They are not just educators, but also mentors, innovators, and researchers who are passionate about their work.
With a strong commitment to teaching, our faculty members create an engaging and supportive learning environment for their students.
Their expertise in various fields of veterinary medicine ensures that students receive a well-rounded education.
As dedicated veterinarians, our faculty members bring real-world experience and knowledge to the classroom, making the learning experience even more valuable.
Program Details
The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program is a rewarding career path for those who want to make a difference in the lives of animals.
Ohio State's College of Veterinary Medicine offers a DVM program that's perfect for prospective students with dreams of a rewarding veterinary career.
The University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine also offers a DVM program, which is a three-year program designed to develop the next generation of veterinary leaders.
Through hands-on, evidence-based training and real-world experiences, students build critical thinking skills and become confident problem-solvers, graduating ready to practice on day one.
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Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation Program
The Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation Program is a three-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine. This innovative program is designed to develop the next generation of veterinary leaders.
Through hands-on, evidence-based training and real-world experiences, students build critical thinking skills and become confident problem-solvers. This program prepares students to practice on day one after graduation.
The University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine offers this program, which is a great opportunity for aspiring veterinarians.
Clinical Year
During the clinical year, third-year students rotate through a broad network of partner practices, gaining hands-on experience with diverse animal cases.
Students apply their knowledge in real-world settings, making critical decisions and developing skills in diagnosis, treatment, client communication, and business practices.
Third-year students spend their time making a significant impact, working with a variety of animals and learning to navigate complex situations.
Hands-on experience is key during this year, as students learn to think on their feet and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.
Professional Program Goals
Our professional program goals are designed to shape confident and competent veterinarians, equipping them with a solid medical knowledge foundation, essential clinical skills for patient care, and robust professional and interpersonal abilities.
Graduates of our program will have a broad working knowledge of scientific concepts, principles, and processes relevant to current veterinary medicine practice.
They will understand the role of scientific inquiry in advancing medical knowledge and be able to obtain, evaluate, and apply new knowledge in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.

Graduates will effectively apply basic medical skills in patient diagnosis and treatment, including administering analgesics and anesthesia with concern for patient welfare.
They will also provide basic emergency treatment and critical care, as well as timely documentation in medical records that is clear, concise, and organized.
Our graduates will demonstrate good oral and written communication skills, interacting compassionately with patients and clients, and recognizing and upholding their professional, legal, and ethical obligations.
They will understand the importance of sound business and financial management principles to veterinary medicine practice, and will be self-motivated learners and critical thinkers.
Here are the key skills our graduates will possess:
- Have a broad working knowledge of scientific concepts, principles, and processes relevant to current veterinary medicine practice
- Understand the role of scientific inquiry in advancing medical knowledge
- Can obtain, evaluate, and apply new knowledge in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease
- Effectively apply basic medical skills in patient diagnosis and treatment
- Administer analgesics and anesthesia with concern for patient welfare
- Provide basic emergency treatment and critical care
- Provide timely documentation in medical records that is clear, concise, and organized
- Demonstrate good oral and written communication skills
- Interact compassionately with patients and clients
- Recognize and uphold their professional, legal, and ethical obligations
- Understand the importance of sound business and financial management principles to veterinary medicine practice
Why Choose This Program
This program is fully accredited and takes four years to complete, preceded by three to four years of pre-professional studies. That's a significant investment, but it pays off in the long run.
The DVM-PhD program is highly competitive and offers a unique opportunity to earn both degrees in a shorter amount of time. You can choose to pursue the PhD in the middle of your veterinary studies or complete the DVM degree before starting PhD studies.
Our professional program goals are designed to shape confident and competent veterinarians. We want our graduates to have a solid medical knowledge foundation, essential clinical skills, and the ability to promote health and prevent disease.
Here are some of the specific goals of our program:
- Have a broad working knowledge of scientific concepts and principles
- Understand the role of scientific inquiry in advancing medical knowledge
- Effectively apply basic medical skills in diagnosis and treatment
- Administer analgesics and anesthesia with concern for patient welfare
- Provide timely documentation in medical records
We also emphasize the importance of good communication skills, compassion, and sensitivity to clients and their animals. Our graduates will be able to collaborate effectively with colleagues and technical staff, and recognize their professional, legal, and ethical obligations.
Ultimately, our program is designed to produce veterinarians who are equipped to make a meaningful impact in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, VMD or DVM?
Both VMD (Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris) and DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) are equivalent degrees that lead to licensure as a veterinarian, with no significant difference in their educational outcomes.
Which is harder DVM or MD?
While both DVM and MD programs are challenging, medical school tends to have a slightly higher average GPA requirement, but veterinary school covers a broader range of species. Ultimately, the difficulty of each program depends on individual students' strengths and interests.
How many years is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree?
A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree typically takes 4 years to complete, but some programs like Ross Vet's can be finished in as few as 3.25 years.
Is a veterinarian an MD or PhD?
A veterinarian holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD) degree, not an MD or PhD. This specialized degree qualifies them to practice veterinary medicine and perform various professional duties.
What is the highest degree in Veterinary Medicine?
The highest degree in Veterinary Medicine is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree, typically earned after completing a 4-year program at an accredited college of veterinary medicine.
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