Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary Medicine at a Glance
Veterinarians care for the health of animals and work to protect public health. They diagnose, treat, and research medical conditions and diseases of pets, livestock, and other animals.
Get more information at Explore Health Careers and the Occupational Outlook Handbook
Directory of Programs: American Veterinary Medical Association
National Association: American Veterinary Medical Association
Pre-Admission Coursework: Check Sheet (PDF), Accessible Check Sheet (PDF)
References: KSU requires three letters – one must be from a veterinarian, one must be from your advisor or a professor, and one must be a personal evaluation from someone not related to you. This is typical of other regional vet programs.
Shadowing/Healthcare Experience: KSU recommends at least 500 hours of varied experiences with veterinarians. This could include clinical, agribusiness, health sciences, and research as long as it's under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Other Animal Experience: This includes farm and ranch experience, 4-H membership, animal training, or similar activities that were not under the supervision of a veterinarian. [https://www.vet.k-state.edu/admissions/requirements/application.html]
Community Service/Leadership Experience: Recommended
Research Experience: Recommended
Pre-Admission Standardized Tests: KSU does not require any, but some schools utilize the Computer-based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics (CASper).
Student Organizations: Pre-Veterinary Society, International Pre-Health Sciences Organization, Delta Epsilon Mu (co-ed healthcare fraternity), University of Kansas Women in Medicine, Future Leaders in Healthcare
Application Window: Early-May to mid-September
Resume Required: No
Centralized Application Service: Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS)
Early Decision Option: Some programs offer early decision programs
Interview Required: Yes, for most programs