Veterinary Science Major

Explore and protect animal and human health through the study of veterinary science. A Bachelor of Science undergraduate degree in veterinary science from the University of Arizona prepares you to pursue an advanced degree in veterinary medicine or to start work in the field of veterinary and comparative biomedical sciences upon graduation.

Why Major in Veterinary Science?

You understand the relationships between animals and humans and want to make a difference in the lives of both. You'll experience the full scope of veterinary science from research to medical care, to understanding human and animal interdependencies, to educating the public about caring for all species of animals.

A veterinary science degree will prepare you to work in careers in the fields of veterinary care, public health, scientific research, and education and advocacy. Moreover, a veterinary science degree can serve as a springboard into graduate, medical, veterinary, law, or pharmacy school.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Veterinary Science?

There are a variety of career options available to students who complete a bachelor of veterinary science, including:

• Inspector: Work for the state or federal government to ensure a range of professionals and agencies are in compliance with sanitation standards and implement systems that prevent toxins and infectious agents from entering the food supply.
• Technologist or technician: Conduct clinical work under the supervision of a veterinarian in private or academic practice. You'll perform various medical test and assist with diagnosing and treating medical conditions in animals.
• Researcher or research assistant: Work in the public or private sectors to advance insight, medicines, and technologies related to emerging diseases, environmental health, food safety, population health, and bioterrorism.
• Education and advocacy: Advise legislators and other decision-makers about best practices and issues related to veterinary regulations and policies. Job opportunities exist in public and private sectors.
• Nonprofit executive director: Lead organizations dedicated to the research and education of critical issues related to animal, food, and public health within the context of agriculture and companion animals.

Veterinary Science Degree Requirements

As a veterinary science student at the University of Arizona, you'll explore human-animal relationships; animal reproduction, anatomy, and physiology; the care of animal population; microbiology; disease ecology; and pathology. Courses required to complete a bachelor of veterinary science are subject to change, so remember to meet with your adviser regularly to review your course plan.