Why Study Pre-Veterinary?
Pursuing a pre-veterinary emphasis at Belmont University can be extremely beneficial for an undergraduate student who is interested in becoming a veterinarian. The program provides hands-on experience and personalized guidance, preparing students for entry into veterinary school. Additionally, the program can give students a competitive edge when applying to veterinary school. Furthermore, the emphasis can provide an opportunity for students to gain a deeper understanding of the field and to develop the skills and knowledge that are essential for success as a veterinarian. Lastly, the program will help students to discover their passion and make the best decision for their future career.
What You'll Learn
- Basic science courses such as biology, chemistry, and physics
- Core courses in their chosen field of study
- Research skills and experience
- Time management and study skills for graduate level coursework
- Opportunities for internships, volunteering, and other experiential learning opportunities
- How to develop strong communication skills, both written and oral.
- Develop the ability to work in teams and collaboration with peers and professors
- Cultural competency and understanding of diversity and inclusion in their field
- Develop critical thinking, problem solving, and analytical skills
- Understanding of current trends and issues in their field of study.
Career Possibilities
- Veterinarian
- Veterinary Surgeon
- Veterinary Pathologist
- Veterinary Microbiologist
- Veterinary Epidemiologist
- Veterinary Pharmacologist
- Veterinary Toxicologist
- Veterinary Anesthesiologist
- Veterinary Behaviorist
- Veterinary Nutritionist
Note: These are just a few examples of the many career opportunities available to graduates of pre-veterinary programs. The specific career options will depend on the student's interests and the program they pursue.
Program Details
Similar to medical school, pre-requisite courses are required for entrance to veterinary school which include classes in biology, organic chemistry, physics, English, statistics, math and genetics.
Possible majors include:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Biology with a Pre-Medical Emphasis
- Chemistry with a Pre-Health Emphasis
- Psychology (with appropriate pre-requisite courses in chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics.
As you narrow in on your well-researched career path, you can start to dive into experiences that will complement your knowledge-building in coursework, give you leadership opportunities, and allow you to give back to your community
As you “dig in”, reflect on what drives you, your “Why”, your interests, and the types of health-care that you would like to do, rather than “checking a box”.
Health-care programs do not like several shallow experiences, but rather like your resume to reflect a deeply thoughtful, intentional path through your career.
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | Dr. Christopher Barton | Assistant Professor, Biology Department; Rachel Rigsby | Professor, Chemistry and Physics Department
- Biology with a Pre-Allied Health emphasis | Dr. Christopher Barton | Department Chair & Professor, Biology Department
- Chemistry with a Pre-Health emphasis | Rachel Rigsby | Professor, Chemistry and Physics Department
- Psychology | Dr. Patrick Morse | Department Chair & Associate Professor of Psychology