53-61 total credits

The Certificate in Pre-Veterinary Medicine prepares students for careers in biomedical sciences and zoology while guiding students through the coursework needed to pursue a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine (DVM). The certificate equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the professional veterinary curriculum, and when completed alongside a bachelor’s degree, the certificate fulfills prerequisites for admission to many DVM programs, including the Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine at Oregon State University.  

Admission to DVM programs is limited and extremely competitive. In addition to high grades in science and prerequisite courses, applicants should demonstrate extensive veterinary experience and deep knowledge of the veterinary profession. By working directly with faculty advisors for Pre-Veterinary Medicine, students enrolled in this certificate will understand how to build a record of academic success and extracurricular activities that is required for a competitive DVM application.

This certificate is a standalone program open to all undergraduate, graduate, and post-baccalaureate students who wish to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and have completed the necessary prerequisite course work: two quarters of precalculus (MTH 111Z and MTH 112Z), three quarters of introductory biology with lab (BI 211/L, BI 212/L, and BI 213/L), and three quarters of general chemistry with lab (CH 221+227, CH 222+228, CH 223+229). The certificate is designed for students majoring in Biology or Biomedical Sciences, who typically complete the above prerequisites in years 1-2 of their program. Students of other majors should develop a plan to complete the prerequisites in consultation with their major advisor and the advisor for Pre-Veterinary Medicine (Dr. Jacob Youngblood, youngjaco@sou.edu). Undergraduate students who do not intend to complete a bachelor’s degree before pursuing a DVM are typically required by DVM programs to complete a certain number of credit hours in English writing, public speaking, social sciences, and humanities. Many DVM programs require or strongly recommend that students complete a bachelor’s degree. 

All courses taken for the certificate must be completed with a grade of C- or better.  

* Designates course that requires additional prerequisite or instructor approval.