Description of Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Degree Option
Animal Science includes the study of domestic and companion animals and animal products. While pursuing a B.S. degree, Animal Science students work with animals and learn how animals function through the study of genetics, physiology, anatomy, nutrition, medicine and behavior. Students interested in a career in veterinary medicine also enroll in courses in biochemistry, physics and microbiology.
In addition to excellent preparation for admission into colleges of veterinary medicine, the Animal Science major provides for many other career options. The Department has modern teaching facilities and barns for dairy and beef cattle, horses, sheep, swine and poultry; these are located within walking distance of campus.
Specific admission requirements vary slightly among veterinary colleges, but all emphasize a strong science background. Veterinary medicine programs are four years in length and admission is competitive.
Applications to veterinary college are made during the final year of the B.S. program. Successful applicants must maintain a high grade point average in college, and competitive GRE or VCAT scores.
The Department of Animal Science has three advisors for pre-veterinary. The advisors will assist and guide you through your undergraduate career.
High School Preparation for a Career in Veterinary Medicine
You should meet all the admission requirements in the undergraduate catalog of the University Connecticut. In addition, it will be helpful if you have a strong science background. If you have the option to take college credit courses at your high school, it will give you greater flexibility in course selection during your college pre-veterinary medicine program.
Obtaining experience working for a veterinarian is an excellent way to determine if veterinary medicine is an appropriate career choice. Most veterinary colleges require this type of work experience prior to application. Other positions working with animals may also enhance your veterinary college application.
To view a sample of a sequence of courses for the prevet option, click here.