Additional Information
Getting the education to become a veterinarian is a long haul. It takes
at least six to eight years of post-secondary school to become a doctor of
veterinary medicine.
Some veterinary science students also choose to do a one-year internship
after graduation to help them get some hands-on experience before jumping
into this field.
The minimum requirement of most veterinary colleges is two years of pre-veterinary
study at a regular university. But your chances of admission are better if
you start with a bachelor's degree.
The number of students that can be accommodated is quite limited. In the
U.S., there are only 27 schools offering veterinary medicine.
You'll need good grades and experience with animals. You'll also have to
pass an entrance interview or examination. Once you're admitted, you can start
your four years of veterinary school.
Those who want to become specialists will need another three years of education,
in the form of a residency program.
People who successfully complete their studies receive their DVM -- a doctor
of veterinary medicine degree.
Then they must become licensed in the state where they will work, just
like medical doctors.