What it is
The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) (also awarded as VMD) is the professional degree to become a licensed veterinarian, caring for animal health across companion, food, and wild animals.
The degrees & designations
How long it takes
Four years of veterinary school; specialties require additional internship/residency and board certification.
What you study
Veterinary science and clinical training, with the NAVLE licensing exam.
Getting in
Requires a bachelor's degree and prerequisites, plus the field's admission test; admission is typically very competitive.
Cost & funding
Professional degrees are among the most expensive, and debt can be significant; loans, scholarships, and service-based repayment are common.
Where it leads
Leads to licensed veterinary practice; specialties require further training.
How it compares
A professional practice doctorate; veterinary research is pursued via a PhD (sometimes a combined DVM/PhD).
Is it right for you?
Fits those pursuing veterinary medicine.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring:
Key facts
- WhatThe veterinarian degree (DVM/VMD)
- Length4 years
- EntryPrerequisites (GRE at some)
- LicenseNAVLE
- NextOptional internship/residency
Where to learn more
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