Whether you’re still in high school, in college, or considering a career switch, if you want to become a veterinarian, you need to start strategizing now. Becoming a veterinarian is pretty competitive because there are only 28 accredited vet schools in the United States, and there are additional licensing requirements after graduation from vet school.
- Get Experience Early
The key to getting into a good veterinary program is making your application stand out among the competition. Give veterinarian admission teams a reason why they should choose you to be one of the few who make it into veterinary programs. If you’re in high school, consider doing internships or working for a veterinary clinic. This will help you get into related bachelor’s programs.
- Get into a Program Related to Veterinary Studies
While getting a bachelor’s degree isn’t strictly required to become a veterinarian, it tends to be what you need in order to get into vet school. Some schools may have bachelor’s degrees offered in animal sciences or related fields that can help you stand out when applying for veterinary school. Make sure you also pay attention to any required classes that you need to get into vet school.
- Stand Out Against the Competition
While you’re earning your degree, continue to try and get experience wherever you can in order to make yourself stand out to admissions. Get internships, work with animals in some capacity, and take opportunities that help you decide whether becoming a vet is really for you.
- Go to Veterinary School
Veterinary programs last four years and are required to practice animal medicine. Through vet school, you’ll earn your Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M), and you’ll get the needed experience and expertise to diagnose and treat animals.
- Take the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam
In order to obtain a license to practice veterinary medicine, you have to take and pass this exam. This test comes after completion of a D.V.M program. Your degree will help to prepare you for this exam, so make sure you study hard in vet school.
- Pass State Licensing Exams
Every state has different licensing requirements and guidelines. Like other physicians and nurses, these exams are “boards” that certify you to practice in the state, and these exams are generally easier than the national exam. After you take the board, you take a veterinary oath to the state. This is the final step that allows you to practice veterinary medicine.
- Find a Job or Find a Specialization Internship
If you want to specialize in animal surgery, zoo animals, or other specializations, then consider doing a one-year internship or residency with a licensed vet. This will allow you to build expertise that’ll help you advance your career.
