Care for animals. Pursue your calling. Prepare with excellence.
Presbyterian College’s Pre-Veterinary Medicine Program prepares students for admission into veterinary schools by offering a strong foundation in biological sciences, animal physiology, and hands-on research. With personalized advising, rigorous academics, and opportunities for clinical experience, students gain the skills and preparation needed to become compassionate and knowledgeable veterinary professionals.
The Power of Your Degree
- Expand your perspective.
Understand the complex biological, chemical, and behavioral systems that underpin animal health and welfare. - Broaden your knowledge.
Study genetics, microbiology, zoology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology to meet veterinary school prerequisites. - Solidify your skill set.
Gain clinical experience, research skills, and critical thinking abilities essential for veterinary practice. - Become a critical thinker.
Develop scientific inquiry skills and ethical reasoning to address animal health challenges in diverse environments.
Varied Coursework
Required in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and animal-related sciences
Personalized Advising
Faculty mentors guide students through veterinary school prerequisites, clinical experience, and applications
12:1 Student-To-Faculty Ratio
In discussion-based classroom settings
What You’ll study
The Pre-Veterinary curriculum includes foundational coursework in biology, chemistry (general and organic), physics, mathematics, and English. Students also study animal biology, microbiology, genetics, and physiology to meet veterinary school requirements. Additional courses in public health, animal behavior, and ethics help prepare students for the diverse challenges of veterinary medicine.
Get Involved
At Presbyterian College, you can actively pursue your future in veterinary medicine through programs and opportunities that take your discipline out of the classroom and into the real world—all while expanding your experience, perspective, and skillsets.
- Veterinary Internships and Shadowing:
Gain real-world experience by shadowing veterinarians in private practices, zoos, farms, or research facilities.
- Community Service:
Volunteer with local animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and agricultural organizations.
Careers in Veterinary Medicine
PC’s Pre-Veterinary Medicine program prepares students for veterinary school, leading to rewarding careers in animal healthcare. Veterinarians serve in private practice, public health, research, conservation, and military service. The field continues to expand as society places greater emphasis on animal welfare, food safety, and public health.
Career Professions
Veterinarian (D.V.M.)
Small Animal Veterinarian
Large Animal or Livestock Veterinarian
Equine Veterinarian
Wildlife Veterinarian
Veterinary Surgeon
Veterinary Anesthesiologist
Public Health Veterinarian
Laboratory Animal Veterinarian
Veterinary Pathologist
Veterinary Research Scientist
Food Safety Inspector
Epidemiologist (Veterinary Focus)
Conservation Biologist (with veterinary specialization)
Veterinary Practice Owner or Manager
Military Veterinarian (U.S. Army Veterinary Corps)
Animal Behavior Specialist
Zookeeper or Zoo Veterinarian
Veterinary Policy Advisor
Exotic Animal Specialist
Acquired Skills
Scientific research and laboratory techniques
Animal anatomy and physiology expertise
Clinical observation and patient care skills
Critical thinking and diagnostic reasoning
Communication with clients and interdisciplinary teams
Ethical reasoning in veterinary practice
Laboratory analysis and pathology interpretation
Data analysis and record-keeping
Adaptability across clinical and research settings
Professional preparation for veterinary school applications
Leadership and teamwork in healthcare settings
Problem-solving in complex biological systems
Cultural competency in working with diverse communities
Time management and organizational skills
Understanding of animal behavior and welfare
Public speaking and client education
Medical terminology proficiency
Advocacy for animal health and public safety
Lifelong learning and professional development
Knowledge of public health principles
Quick Stats
$119,100
Average Median Salary
Graduates who complete a pre-veterinary medicine program and go on to earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree can expect a median annual salary of around $119,100. Salaries can vary based on role and experience; for instance, veterinarians employed in veterinary services earn a median salary of $119,720 per year, while those in social advocacy organizations earn $110,590 annually. Top earners in the field can make over $201,440 per year.
19% Growth
Projected Employment Rate
Veterinary occupations are projected to grow much faster than average. Veterinary technologists and technicians (125,700 jobs in 2023) are expected to see 19 percent growth in the next decade. Similarly, veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers (118,200 jobs) face 19 percent growth, as well, as demand is driven by rising pet ownership and expanded care services
High Versatility
Career Diversity Index
A pre-veterinary medicine degree offers a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors. Graduates can pursue roles in veterinary clinics, research institutions, animal shelters, and government agencies. The versatility of the degree allows professionals to work in diverse fields such as clinical practice, research and development, public health, and education.
Source(s): U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
