phd in veterinary science eligibility

College of Veterinary Medicine

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The Veterinary Sciences graduate program provides high-quality research training to help graduates discover and improve ways to benefit the health and well being of companion and food animals and wildlife. 

The PhD program prepares independent basic and applied scientists for successful careers in academia, industry, or government. The MS program instills technical competencies to promote research and medical practice careers. Students choose from four areas of scientific investigation.

• Infectious and zoonotic disease
• Population medicine
• Small and large animal clinical science
• Ecosystem health

Prospective students interested in the VMED program have the opportunity to connect with our extensive faculty that are experts in various research fields. Those interested in practicing veterinary sciences in a clinical setting should refer to the  DVM program .

Application criteria

Applicants interested in the VMED graduate program should review the following preferred performance standards:

• A minimum grade performance average (GPA) of 3.25 (on a four-point scale); 
• Laboratory experience is strongly preferred but not required;
• DVM or equivalent degree preferred, but not necessary;
• GRE test scores are not required to apply.

International applicants 

Prospective students whose native language is not English will be considered if they have received the following minimal scores obtained within the past two (2) years of the graduate program start date from one of the following English proficiency examinations:

• TOEFL: total score of 79; reading subscore of 19; and writing subscore of 21
• IELTS: total score of 6.5, reading subscore of 6.5, writing subscore of 6.5

Note: Review the Graduate School's English Language Proficiency page to review other acceptable tests to demonstrate language proficiency.

What to expect

Tuition, fees and funding.

• First year : The VMED graduate program supports incoming PhD students during their first academic year with a Research Assistantship position, which includes a $29,000 annual stipend, tuition waiver, and healthcare benefits.
• Subsequent years : Faculty advisors provide financial support. After successfully passing preliminary exams given during the second year of a PhD program and if the student is paid at the base stipend level, students are eligible for a $1,000 increase. 
• MS students must identify a faculty advisor who will provide financial support during their training.
• A number of grants and fellowships are also available. Interested students should consult the U of M Graduate School and the college’s graduate program grant and fellowship opportunities.
• Additional information on tuition and fees are detailed on the U of M OneStop .

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Meet the Veterinary Sciences faculty

Our faculty will help to provide you with individualized training to gain new knowledge in the understanding of comparative aspects of biology and pathology across animal species, animal models of human disease, and animal diseases and populations. Our faculty conduct research in infectious and zoonotic diseases, the development of novel treatments for cancer and other diseases, genetic research and therapies, virology and bacteriology, population medicine, and ecosystem and wildlife health.

Meet our Veterinary Sciences graduate students

MS and PhD students in the Veterinary Sciences graduate program are engaged in research related to animal and human health and welfare, as well as ecosystem health. Our students study infectious and zoonotic diseases, the development of novel treatments for cancer and other diseases, genetic research and therapies, virology and bacteriology, population medicine, and ecosystem and wildlife health, among other areas of research.

Meet our graduate students

Need additional information or advice?

Interested students should contact Dr. Ned Patterson , Veterinary Sciences Director of Graduate Studies, or Dr. Sandra Godden , Interim Associate Dean of Graduate Programs.

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The VMD-PhD Program at Penn

The VMD-PhD Program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, established in 1969, aims to train exceptional veterinarian-scientists for groundbreaking contributions to science and medicine. The program has expanded significantly in the last decade through our commitment to his mindset. For further details, contact us at  [email protected] .

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About Applying

To apply to the VMD-PhD Program, two applications are needed: the VMD-PhD Program application, and the Vet School application. The VMD-PhD application is due November 1 of each year for admission the following fall.   The Vet School application is due September 15 for admission the following fall.

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Graduate Programs

The School of Veterinary Medicine offers a rich educational environment for students pursing advanced professional or graduate education leading to the M.S., MPVM, Ph.D., or dual DVM/Ph.D. degrees. Our faculty collectively bring a breadth of expertise and experience to train our veterinary students, veterinary scientists and academic scholars in the clinical and research skills to be successful in their chosen career path. Students are encouraged to explore the variety of advanced educational offerings and research disciplines available within the school.

DVM/PhD Dual Degree

Our mission is to prepare students seeking dual DVM-PhD degrees to become compassionate and exceptionally trained veterinarian-investigators engaged in basic and translational research to advance the health of animals, people and environment.

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Preparing veterinarians and physicians to address animal, human, and ecological problems and to design and evaluate disease control or other health programs.

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Graduate Studies cultivates the best learning experiences for graduate and postdoctoral scholars at UC Davis.

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Combining veterinary clinical training and graduate-level research

The College’s DVM-PhD dual degree program is designed to enhance the career development of students with an interest in science, veterinary research, and graduate education by pursuing a DVM and PhD degree concurrently. Also known as the Veterinary Medical Scientist Training Program (VMSTP) , this innovative program produces scientists with a clinical background who go on to investigate complex human and animal health issues.

The philosophy of this program is “One Health,” where veterinary medicine intersects with human medicine, and both interlock with basic research to contribute to the advancement of biomedical research. Our goal is to produce an outstanding group of biomedical researchers capable of identifying new emerging diseases, revealing their mechanisms of pathogenesis, and providing novel solutions for their control. Our College’s rigorous curriculum, superb training facilities, and highly competitive research opportunities provide the link for outstanding students to develop into clinical scientists generating cutting-edge discoveries.

About the program

How it works.

Typically the dual DVM-PhD program takes at least seven years to complete. This includes 30 hours of PhD coursework, nine semesters of DVM study, and several years of research study. In any one semester, VMSTP scholars are enrolled in either the DVM or a PhD curriculum and students may begin their training in either curriculum.

Some scholars have entered the VMSTP after their first year in the DVM curriculum, enrolled as a graduate student and initiated their research prior to continuing / finishing the DVM. However, the ideal program of study for a new VMSTP student begins with 2 to 4 years of graduate training. This allows the student to complete graduate coursework and be admitted to candidacy for the doctoral degree. During this time, the student should also acquire extensive experience with research protocols that will be used to obtain data for research publications and the doctoral dissertation. The student will enter the veterinary curriculum the first fall semester after admission to doctoral candidacy.

During the summers and for some elective periods, the student will return to the research laboratory in order to continue their doctoral research. Completion of the research project and dissertation defense can occur during this time or after completing the DVM curriculum.

We expect every VMSTP scholar to become a clinically competent veterinarian as well as a biomedical researcher capable of acquiring research funding and publishing their work. In order to function at a high level of cross-competency, the scholar must focus his/her efforts on medicine when enrolled in the DVM curriculum and on research productivity when enrolled as a graduate student.

Picking a PhD program

Possible PhD graduate programs within the CVM or outside of the CVM that may be compatible with the dual DVM-PhD degree program are: computer science, statistics, biological sciences, cellular biology, toxicology, psychology, pharmacology, genetics, biochemistry, ecology, chemistry, microbiology, nutrition, policy, engineering and others. A complete list of PhD programs offered at UGA is available through the UGA Graduate School.

The curriculum for PhD programs varies considerably and not all doctoral programs are willing to allow students to be dually enrolled. Contact the graduate coordinator of your desired PhD program to determine its suitability for the VMSTP. You can also request that the VMSTP Coordinator confer with the PhD Graduate Coordinator.

Eligibility

Any student already pursuing a DVM or PhD degree at UGA may apply to this dual degree program. We also accept applicants from prospective UGA students new to both programs.

Candidates for the DVM-PhD program must have strong academic credentials and a documented interest in biomedical research. This program is not appropriate for students who have little research experience or for those who have not already decided to pursue research training. Applicants will be ranked for acceptance based on their overall GPA, science GPA, GRE scores, and the depth and duration of their veterinary and research experience. The DVM-PhD program is highly competitive, accepting only a limited number of students each year.

To be considered for the program, candidates must also meet the eligibility requirements and be accepted into the college’s DVM program and into the PhD program that they are wanting to pursue, if they are not already enrolled in those programs.

How to apply

All prospective students must apply to the VMSTP program, to their PhD program of choice (unless already enrolled) and to the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine’s DVM Program (unless already enrolled). Your eligibility for enrollment is contingent upon the DVM Admissions Committee, the PhD program to which you applied, the DVM-PhD Advisory Committee, and the UGA Graduate School accepting your application to their respective portion of the program. For the VMSTP portion of the application process, candidates are required to complete and submit a supplemental application form along with their resume, a letter of intent, and three letters of recommendation to the UGA Office of Research and Graduate Affairs by December 1.

Your resume should include all research publications, relevant employment, volunteer activities, research activities, research abstracts, manuscripts and presentations. Please also provide copies of any published articles you have authored or co-authored.

Your letter of intent is restricted to 500 words or less and should indicate your reasons for wanting to obtain both a DVM and PhD degree, why you have chosen your particular research field of interest and your long-term career goals. We are most interested in your academic and research background, research interests and professional plans. You should describe why you are interested in biomedical research and why the program is a good fit for your interests and background.

Your references should fill out the recommendation form required by the Graduate School. The references — not you — should mail copies of the letter directly to the VMSTP office. You should get letters from professors who have taught you and know you well. Their letters should describe your academic work in detail so that the VMSTP Advisory Committee can be assured that you can complete a rigorous graduate program. The committee will expect a letter from the professor who supervised your research. Letters from work supervisors may be of value to document your work ethic. Your letters of recommendation can be those used to apply to the DVM and/or graduate program as long as one letter addresses research experience.

DVM tuition will be required while enrolled in DVM courses. PhD tuition will be required when PhD classes are taken.

Financial Aid

The Dorothy and Thomas Morris Scholarship is available to VMSTP students during the DVM portion of the DVM-PhD program. This scholarship provides $18,000 per year for tuition and expenses. UGA graduate assistantships are available to students during the PhD portion of their program. Students may be eligible for assistantships funded by the Graduate School or by an individual department. Talk to the program director for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What career opportunities does a dvm-phd degree provide.

Individuals with veterinary clinical training (DVM) and research training (PhD) can work in any number of settings that focus on translational research. These settings include universities and research institutes, as well as government research labs and public policy bodies such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the United States Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and NASA. There are additional DVM-PhD career opportunities within a number of international agencies, including the World Health Organization, the United Nations, the Pan American Health Organization, and the World Organization for Animal Health.

Why a dual degree program?

Training in both veterinary medicine and a basic science discipline at the same time will prepare graduates to be exceptionally qualified to practice both clinical veterinary medicine and perform biomedical research relevant to human and animal health. While the program does not significantly reduce the amount of time needed to acquire both degrees, it does help provide financial support during the DVM portion of the training. In addition to providing financial support during the DVM portion of the training, the VMSTP program provides an avenue for students to focus on research training.

Can I apply to the VMSTP program if I am already enrolled in a veterinary or graduate program?

Yes. Applicants who are enrolled in graduate school may apply for the VMSTP program during DVM training but may not be eligible for assistantships from the Graduate School. Please contact the Coordinator for more information about available financial aid.

How do I verify the status of my application?

You must verify that all three applications are completed. See www.grad.uga.edu for more information about confirming the status of your graduate application. You can verify the status of your veterinary application by emailing CVM Admissions. To verify the status of your VMSTP application, e-mail the Coordinator.

What if I miss a deadline for the graduate school or veterinary school application?

You will not be eligible for admission to the VMSTP program until the following year.

What is holding up my VMSTP application – why have I not heard back yet?

The Coordinator will periodically email the applicant with an update on the status of the application. However, because of privacy laws, the Coordinator may not be able to verify the status of the applicant’s graduate application if the application is made to a department that is not in the College of Veterinary Medicine.

The applicant is responsible for verifying that the graduate school and veterinary application are complete. Applications can be stalled if one of the letters of reference, transcripts, GRE scores, or personal statement has not been received OR if the application to the graduate school or veterinary school is incomplete. Applications may also be delayed in the department evaluation.

If you have not received any confirmation of your application, you should contact the department to which you applied. Copy all e-mails to the Coordinator.

Where can I find more information?

For questions about the structure of the program, whether this program is right for you and your research interests, or potential fellowships and awards associated with admission, contact:

Kelsey Hart, DVM, PhD, DACVIM Program Director [email protected]

For questions about the application process, formal requirements, application status, etc., contact:

Lisa Norris Program Coordinator (706) 542-5733 [email protected]

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Graduate Education (MS & PhD) at MSU CVM

Faculty in CVM’s Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Department of Clinical Sciences and Department of Pathobiology & Population Medicine lead each student’s graduate education. Involvement in ongoing research projects conducted by the faculty is an important part of each of these degree programs.

MS – Veterinary and Biomedical Science (MS-VBMS)

Concentrations in the following areas:

Population Medicine Non-Thesis (PMNT) Requires: 35 hours of coursework

Population Medicine Thesis (POPM) Requires: 25 hours of coursework + 6 hours research

Population Medicine (POPM) Requires: See general requirements above. Coursework must include CVM 8333 Food Safety, CVM 8513 Applied Epidemiology, CvM 8503 Epidemiology and Biostatistics.

Veterinary Medical Research (VMRC)-default Requires: 24 hours of coursework including 1 seminar and 1 statistics + 6 hrs research

Computational Biology (VCBC) Requires: 24 hours of coursework including 1 seminar, 1 statistics, BCH/PSS 8653 Genomes and Genomics, CSE 6613 Bio-computing, CSE 6623 Computational Biology + 6 hrs research

Infectious Diseases (VIDC) Requires: 24 hours of coursework including 1 seminar, 1 statistics, CVM 8303 Advanced Immunology, BCH 6013 Principles of Biochemistry or BCH 6713 Molecular Biology + 6 hrs research

Toxicology (VTOX) Requires: 24 hours of coursework including 1 seminar, 1 statistics, CVM 8543 Mechanisms Toxic Action and CVM 6513 Environmental Toxicology + 6 hours research

PhD – Veterinary and Biomedical Science (PhD-VBMS)

General CVM PhD Requirements All PhD programs require 60 hours beyond the MS degree or 90 hours beyond the B.S. degree. Students with a MS are required to take at least 20 hours of research, 3 seminar courses, and two statistics courses. The remaining 31 hours can be met by a combination of graduate coursework and research/dissertation (CVM 9000) as approved by the student’s doctoral committee.

Students with a BS degree admitted without a MS are required to take a minimum of 24 hours of graduate coursework, at least 20 hours of research, three seminar courses, and two statistics courses. The remaining 46 hours of credit can be met by a combination of graduate coursework and research/dissertation (CVM 9000) as approved by the student’s doctoral committee.

Veterinary Medical Research (VMRC) Default concentration. See general requirements above.

Computational Biology (VCBC) See general requirements above. Coursework must include BCH/PSS 8653 Genomes and Genomics, CSE 6613 Biocomputing, and CSE 4623/6623 Computational Biology.

Infectious Diseases (VIDC) See general requirements. Coursework must include CVM 8303 Advanced Immunology, BCH 6013 Principles of Biochemistry or BCH 6713 Molecular Biology.

Application and Admission to the Program

In addition to the MSU OGS application, the CVM Graduate Faculty would like to evaluate prospective student’s research interests using the CVM Graduate Student  – Background and Interest Form.  Students interested in the CVM graduate program should complete the form and submit to the CVM ORGS Office by emailing the form to Tia Perkins at [email protected] .  This form will be used to evaluate the student’s research interests and place students within the appropriate research program when admitted to the CVM Graduate Program.  The form is also used to determine/award available graduate research assistantships/grants.

If you have additional questions or need assistance concerning CVM graduate education, please call 662-325-1417.

MSU 2019-2020 Graduate Academic Catalog

DVM-PhD & DVM-MS Dual Degree

DVM-PhD FAQs

In addition to the traditional MS and PhD programs in the College, there is a path within the DVM program in which students may pursue a DVM-PhD or DVM-MS Dual Degree. 

A student in our DVM professional curriculum can simultaneously pursue the MS or PhD degree while working toward completion of the DVM degree. Students wishing to pursue the DVM and a graduate degree simultaneously are carefully screened for admission because of the rigorous requirements and time commitments necessary to work on two degrees simultaneously. Eighteen hours of graduate credit course work can be used as electives for the DVM degree.

If you have additional questions or need assistance concerning CVM graduate education opportunities, please call Tia Perkins at 662-325-1417 or email [email protected] .  

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Acknowledging the interconnectedness of human and animal medicine, Ohio State’s College of Veterinary Medicine is at the forefront of advancing discoveries in translational research that can be taken from the field, clinic, and laboratory bench to direct application at a patient's bedside and on a broader scale, benefiting entire populations.

The Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program offers a unique approach to advanced training of professional and graduate students leading to MS and PhD degrees in preparation for careers in biomedical, clinical and field-based epidemiological research.

A significant need exists at the national and international levels for skilled scientists who are trained in modern translational research methods to apply advances in medicine to improve animal and human health. Graduates of the Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program acquire a profound understanding of hypothesis-driven research and gain the essential skills and knowledge required to embark on versatile career paths. These paths encompass academia, government agencies, and industry, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared for a wide range of professional opportunities.

Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program (MS and PhD) Section Links

Graduate programs & degrees.

Our programs offer a distinctive approach to advanced training of aspiring professional and graduate students, culminating in attaining MS and PhD degrees in translational research. These degrees empower graduates for impactful careers in biomedical, clinical and field-based epidemiological research.

Research leading to either an PhD and/or MS is supported by graduate faculty of the college. Competitive applicants will have completed a BS, MS, or DVM degree. This research-based program requires all students to complete a thesis or dissertation. Application criteria is available here . 

This course of study is tailored for DVM’s selected to participate in residency training programs within the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences (including specializations such as anesthesiology, camelid medicine, emergency and critical care, equine ambulatory, radiology, radiation oncology, cardiology, dermatology, small animal internal medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, and small animal surgery) and Veterinary Preventive Medicine (encompassing laboratory animal medicine, zoo and wildlife conservation medicine, and ecosystem health residency).

Interested veterinarians should submit their applications to the respective department's residency program coordinator. Upon acceptance into the residency program, the applicant's information will be shared with the College Graduate Program Coordinator for necessary processing. With their graduate advisory committee's guidance, students can extend their research beyond obtaining an MS degree. This extension allows them to pursue a PhD dissertation subsequent to completing the residency phase of the program.

This course of study is designed for DVM's with some prior research experience that are selected for pathology residency training in the Department of Veterinary Biosciences. Applications are submitted to Kelsey Bradford, program coordinator in the Department of Veterinary Biosciences. Candidates selected for the Combined Residency/PhD Program will be simultaneously evaluated by the college graduate studies committee prior to formal admission to the program.

This program is tailored for individuals currently enrolled in the DVM professional degree program and who wish to engage in research leading to the MS degree concurrently. The DVM and MS degrees are pursued simultaneously. Those interested in this opportunity should contact the College Graduate Program Coordinator for comprehensive details about program prerequisites and the application process.

To embark on this journey, students are required to first enroll in the DVM program and successfully complete one year before initiating their MS studies. Subsequently, a distinct application process is essential for admission into the MS program.

Upon enrollment, students can opt, with the assistance of their graduate advisory committee, to prolong their research activities, eventually culminating in the defense of a PhD dissertation after completing the DVM/MS program.

The Colleges of Public Health and Veterinary Medicine collaborate to offer this specialization in the Masters of Public Health Program. It is one of only two programs certified by the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine. More information and application instructions regarding the Veterinary Public Health specialization within the Masters of Public Health program (MPH-VPH) can be found on the College of Public Health's website here .

Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences Program Admissions

Talented students seeking graduate training in the focus areas of Clinical Sciences, Infectious Diseases, Neuroscience and Reproductive Biology, Human-Animal Interaction, and Pathology apply to our Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program. Students applying to the program match with a faculty member with compatible research interests who will serve as a mentor upon admission. The program fosters students’ scientific research and technical skills, communication, and critical analysis and prepares students to advance in their careers as PhD scientists.

Admission to the Ph.D. program is based on an evaluation and recommendation by the Ph.D. Program Committee. Applicants to the program must submit an  online application  and meet all  application requirements  by  February 1 .

Admission of Ph.D. students requires that students are ‘matched’ to an appropriate faculty member with the funding necessary to provide a stipend to the student and the resources to support a PhD Dissertation project. Applicants who do not require stipend support may seek out a mentor from the PhD faculty who aligns with their interests regardless of the mentor’s ability to provide a stipend for a student. Each year, the Ph.D. Program Committee identifies faculty able and willing to become mentors to new Ph.D. students and then seeks to match qualified applicants to the Ph.D. program with the most appropriate faculty members based on the applicants’ prior training and future goals. It is thus helpful for applicants to clearly describe their career goals in their personal statements, and to explain how research performed by specific members of the Ph.D. program faculty would provide useful training toward achieving those goals.

Applicants are advised to contact faculty members to assess their interest and ability to serve as their applicant’s mentor prior to submitting an application.

It is expected that students will pursue their doctoral degree as full-time students. There may be special instances when a student may want to pursue the program on a part-time basis. Authorization for registering in the Ph.D. program as a part-time student may be granted on a case-by-case basis.

Tuition and fees  are payable according to Tufts University guidelines. Admitted Ph.D. students may be eligible for a Ph.D. tuition waiver through a school scholarship.

For additional information or questions about the Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program, please contact:

Office of Admissions Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University 200 Westboro Road North Grafton, MA 01536 Phone: (508) 839-7920 [email protected]

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Combined DVM/PhD Degree

Become a clinician scientist forging new breakthroughs in veterinary research.

The goal of the Combined DVM/PhD Program is to address the critical need for veterinary researchers and academic clinicians.  The Program is a  multi-disciplinary, multi-College program  that will provide the clinical and research training and financial support necessary to produce the leaders of the next generation of veterinary clinician scientists.  The focus of the program is flexibility and integration, emphasizing seamless transition between the veterinary school and graduate school while promoting integration between the two curricula. The Combined DVM/PhD accepts students to the  Comparative Biomedical Sciences  where they study with faculty who are employing state-of-the-art techniques to address a number of interesting scientific problems in the basic and applied biomedical sciences.

College of Veterinary Medicine emphasizes basic and clinical research using an array of  in vitro  approaches and animal models of veterinary and human disease. The research environment relies on collaborations between clinician scientists and basic scientists. This team approach will include outstanding individuals selected to join our Combined DVM/PhD Program, producing researchers destined to expand the frontiers of veterinary and human medicine.

Research at NC State and the College of Veterinary Medicine

North Carolina State University  is a leading research institution with particular strengths biomedical research and veterinary medicine. The  College of Veterinary Medicine  is one of the top 5 Veterinary Schools in the nation, in part because of the quality of the research programs at the college. Faculty at the College of Veterinary Medicine participate in the  Comparative Biomedical Sciences  graduate program.  The College is also home to the Comparative Medicine Institute. The College of Veterinary Medicine anchors the  Centennial Biomedical Campus , part of the North Carolina State University Centennial Campus consisting of multi-disciplinary R&D neighborhoods, with university, corporate, and government facilities intertwined. The Centennial Biomedical Campus neighborhood focuses on biomedical applications, both to animals and human.

North Carolina State University is strategically located within a 20 miles radius of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and Duke University, homes to two premier medical schools, and the Research Triangle Park, home to the  National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences ,  Hamner Institute for Health Sciences , and the  Environmental Protection Agency  RTP campus.  The research Triangle is also home to many biomedical companies forming one of the hottest biomedical research regions in the United States. The College of Veterinary Medicine has numerous collaborations with these agencies and universities from which multi-institutional research projects arise and from which to draw world-renowned scientists and students to participate in Combined Degree Program activities and seminars.

Curriculum and Timeline

The Curriculum for the DVM and graduate programs will be integrated as much as possible for individual students. The timeline outlined below is a template that we expect most students to follow. The timeline can be modified to best suit the student’s needs, with approval of the Director of the Combined DVM/PhD Program, the Director of the CBS Graduate Program, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies, and the student’s major advisor(s). We expect most students to complete the program in 7-8 years, but this may vary depending on circumstances.

Students will enter Year 1 in graduate school to begin taking graduate courses, complete laboratory rotations (2-3), and choose a thesis lab.

The summer after Year 1 will be spent in their thesis lab doing research

In Year 2, students will enter the DVM program and complete the first year of the DVM curriculum.

The summer after Year 2 will be spent in their thesis lab doing research in the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research (T35) training program.

In Year 3, students will complete the second year of the DVM curriculum.

In Year 4, the student will re-enter graduate school to finish graduate school classwork and to complete their thesis research.

The final 2 years of the DVM curriculum will be completed once the student has defended his or her thesis. Students may re-enter the DVM curriculum before the final oral examination for the PhD (thesis defense) as long as the thesis dissertation is written and submitted to the Graduate Advisory Committee and the final oral examination is scheduled.

Schematic Timeline

• Year 1 of Graduate School
• Years 1 and 2 of the DVM
• Graduate School and Thesis Research
• Years 3 and 4 of the DVM

Graduate Programs Offered

The Comparative Biomedical Sciences (CBS) graduate program is the PhD home for Combined DVM/PhD students. The CBS program consists of seven concentration areas, Cell Biology, Neurosciences, Immunology, Infectious Diseases, Pharmacology, Pathology, and Population Medicine.

The Clinician Scientist Focus Area

We’ve created a  Clinician Scientist Focus Area  to provide veterinary students with research opportunities that combine clinical and basic science.  This focus area allows students time to do significant research during the DVM.  The students in the DVM/PhD program will be encouraged to choose this focus area to allow more time for research and graduate school coursework during the DVM curriculum. However, students may choose any focus area.

Students will have two assigned mentors, a clinician in the area of clinical interest and the major graduate advisor (these duties may end up assigned to the same mentor).  The Director of the Combined DVM/PhD Program will also serve as a mentor to ensure that the student makes good choices and navigates the combined program efficiently and productively.

Programmatic Activities

• Students are required to complete all of the requirements for the Comparative Biomedical Sciences graduate program.
• Students are required to participate in the Comparative Medicine and Translational Research journal club each year they are in the PhD phase of the program. This journal club is for DVM/PhD program students to discuss clinical and scientific aspects of health problems in animals and humans, and to discuss current scientific literature that use translational approaches to solve these problems.
• Students are expected to apply for and participate in the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research training program under the guidance of their thesis advisor during the summer between years 1 and 2 of the DVM curriculum. Students are required to attend the National Veterinary Scholars Symposium at the end of this summer and participate in the DVM/PhD program colloquium at this event.
• Students are expected to present their research at the CVM research forum.
• Students are required to attend one national or international scientific meeting to present their research.
• A number of social events will enable students to keep in contact with veterinary students and graduate students in other programs, maintaining a tight knit student community.

Financial Support

Students will receive support throughout the program as long as they remain in good academic standing.  The College of Veterinary Medicine provides a stipend (currently $24,000) plus tuition and health insurance during the first year of the graduate program.  Students will be responsible for fees. During all four years in veterinary school, the College provides a $10,000 scholarship for each year to offset the costs of tuition.  Funding for the summer between years 1 and 2 of the DVM curriculum will be provided by the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research training program (NIH T35 grant), including travel costs to the National Veterinary Scholars Symposium. For the years spent in graduate school after the first year, the student’s mentor will provide a stipend, tuition, and health insurance, usually from a research grant or a training program grant. Students are strongly encouraged to seek fellowship funding for the years of graduate school after year 4.

Applying to the Program

Undergraduates satisfying the prerequisites for veterinary school and the graduate program of their choice may apply.  Students already enrolled in veterinary school or graduate school may also apply. Please contact the program director for application instructions if already enrolled in veterinary school or graduate school. The application process is outlined below:

• Complete the electronic application for veterinary students available through Veterinary Medical College Application Service ( VMCAS ).  The deadline for the VMCAS application is September 15.
• Describe your areas of interest in the medical sciences and how your research experiences contributed to their development.
• What are your long-term career objectives in the veterinary field and how you plan to achieve them.
• Explain how the Combined DVM/PhD Program will contribute to achieving your goals.
• Describe the role you envision for research in your career.

*** Please note  that these supplemental application questions are in addition to the regulate DVM program supplemental application questions.  All questions must be answered to complete your application for the Combined DVM/PhD program. The supplemental application is submitted online through the NC State CVM website.

• Students are required to submit an application for the CBS graduate program once offered admission to the combined DVM/PhD program.  Application materials and instructions for all graduate programs are located at the  Graduate School  webpage. The graduate school application will appear redundant, but must be completed to be admitted to the graduate program.  Transcripts and letters of reference, for example, must be submitted with each application. The Graduate Program Coordinator will assist students with the graduate school application.

Qualifications and Eligibility

The Combined DVM/PhD Program is seeking outstanding individuals with a commitment to a career in veterinary or biomedical research. These individuals will have strong academic records, knowledge of the veterinary medical profession and comparative medicine, and significant biomedical and/or translational research experience. The research experience should be emphasized in the letter of intent, supplemental application, and the letters of reference.  Only US citizens and permanent residents are eligible.

CVM Coordinator of Graduate Programs and Research Training Email:  [email protected] Phone: (919) 513-6357

Dr. Samuel L. Jones, DVM, PhD Director, Combined DVM/PhD Program Email:  [email protected] Phone: (919) 513-7722

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Comparative Biomedical Sciences (VMSC)

Graduate Degree Program College: Agriculture and Natural Resources

The Department of  Veterinary Medicine  is under the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) at the University of Maryland and is home to the Comparative Biomedical Sciences (CBSC) Graduate Program (code: VMSC). The Department of Veterinary Medicine is the Maryland Campus of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine .

The program offers both Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. Members of the Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program faculty specialize in a wide range of research interests in infectious diseases and zoonoses, including cell and molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, virology, and poultry health management and disease prevention.

Financial Assistance

A number of graduate assistantships are available and awarded to candidates with strong academic records. Teaching Assistantships, Research Assistantships, Scholarships, and Fellowships are available on a competitive basis. Research Assistantships (RAs) are 12-month appointments and Teaching Assistantships (TAs) are 10-month appointments. Benefits for each assistantship include stipends, ten credits of tuition remission per semester, and health benefits. Generally, student assistantships are offered for two years for an M.S. degree and four years for a Ph.D. degree.

Sources of funding include the department; Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station; Maryland Cooperative Extension; College of Agriculture and Natural Resources; Graduate School open-nomination and block grant fellowships (for recruitment of new students only); University diversity fellowships; endowed fellowships; and funds from faculty research contracts and grants. Inquiry about the stipends can be made to the VMSC Graduate Program.

George Belov, Ph.D. Associate Professor & Director VMSC Graduate Program Department of Veterinary Medicine  Avrum Gudelsky Veterinary Center 8075 Greenmead Drive College Park, MD 20742 Telephone: 301.314.1259 Fax: 301.314.6855 Email:   gbelov @umd.edu

Website:   https://vetmed.umd.edu/

Courses:    VMSC

Relationships:   Biological Sciences (BISI)

General Requirements

• Statement of Purpose
• Transcript(s)
• TOEFL/IELTS/PTE ( international graduate students )

Program-Specific Requirements

• Letters of Recommendation (3)
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) (optional)
• Supplementary Application (optional for Ph.D., not required for M.S.)
• Description of Research/Work Experience

Applicants with a minimum degree of Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in a biological science or related field of study are eligible for admission to the VMSC Graduate Program, either for Ph.D. or M.S. degree.

A minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (B or better). Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is optional. Applicants who have GRE scores are encouraged to submit.

RESOURCES AND LINKS:

Program Website:  http://vetmed.umd.edu Application Process:  gradschool.umd.edu/admissions/application-process/step-step-guide-applying

• Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
• Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Master of Science (M.S.)

The Avrum Gudelsky Veterinary Center, the University of Maryland home of the VMRCVM, lies in the heart of Maryland’s thriving biotechnology community and is near Maryland’s major university research campuses and government laboratories, including the USDA Beltsville Agriculture Research Center, the National Institutes of Health, and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The Center contains 32,000 square feet of research and support laboratories, including animal care facilities. Over 10,000 square-foot research laboratories are fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for  research on  cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology, virology and immunology, including cell culture facilities, ZEISS LSM 800 confocal microscope, fluorescence activated cell sorter, flow cytometer, the Illumina MiSeq System for next-generation sequencing, fluorescence microscopes, Elispot/Fluorospot Reader, and a sophisticated electron microscope suite. Approximately 18,000 square feet of space comprises Biological Safety Level (BSL) 2 and BSL-3+ facilities and ABSL2 and ABSL3 suites for laboratory animals. The poultry unit has 15 rooms, each equipped with 20 poultry isolators to contain any infectious pathogens. The animal facility has a fully equipped necropsy room designed for postmortem analysis.

The Laboratory for Biological Ultrastructure in the Department of Biology is equipped with a transmission and scanning electron microscope, a confocal microscope, ultramicrotomes, and equipment for freeze-fracture studies. The Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics maintains imaging core, genomics core, flow cytometry, and proteomics core. The Fischell Department of Bioengineering maintains the BioWorkshop in A. James Clark Hall at the University of Maryland, which offers access to an array of cutting-edge scientific instruments spanning from biological imaging, cellular and biochemical analysis to biomaterial characterization, and histology. The  University of Maryland has the  Department of Laboratory Animal Resources (DLAR), a support unit for animal-based research and teaching. Extensive library facilities are available on campus. In addition, the College Park campus is close to the National Agricultural Library (NAL) and the National Library of Medicine (NLM). The Library of Congress and the National Archives, along with several other libraries of biomedical research and academic institutes, are located within a short driving distance.

Computer facilities at the University of Maryland are outstanding. The department provides computer access to all faculty and graduate students. Students are provided with e-mail accounts and free Internet access. The campus maintains both Unix and mainframe systems, and access to supercomputers for specific research projects. Software for graphics, modeling, statistics, and the analysis of molecular data is readily available.

The College Park campus is also ideally situated near a number of federal agencies involved in veterinary medical sciences. Collaborative initiatives are underway with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Centers for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN); U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS), Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and Beltsville Agriculture Research Service (BARC); National Institutes of Health (NIH); Walter Reed National Military Medical Center; World Bank; and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Scientists from some of these agencies have adjunct appointments with the College of Veterinary Medicine and participate on students’ graduate committees.

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What Is the Difference Between a PhD in Veterinary Science & a DVM?

The Advantages of a Ph.D. in Biotechnology

Have you ever wondered why your cat sneezes? Do you want to understand what is in the vaccine that your dog gets yearly? When you’ve heard news stories about advances in food science that involve animals, do you try to figure out what those actually are, and if they’re safe? If you have an interest in the health and welfare of animals, then a future in animal science may be right for you. Several advanced degree options can lead to exciting and fulfilling careers.

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree prepares you for clinical practice, working directly with clients and their animals. Upon completion of your undergraduate degree, the DVM typically takes an additional four years. The first three years focus on coursework, laboratory skills and observations in preparation for the fourth year in which you will learn hands-on in a clinical setting. You will learn about a wide variety of scientific disciplines from a veterinary perspective and will also usually have the opportunity to choose from a number of sub-specialties, including surgery, nutrition and dentistry.

Ph.D. in Veterinary Science

A Ph.D. in veterinary science is a research-based degree, which will train and prepare you for a broad range of career choices in a variety of industries involved in animal sciences. The types of organisms you may study will depend on the specific school or program you choose. Opportunities for study include fields such as animal nutrition, agriculture, disease control, pathology, health, wildlife conservation efforts, food safety and animal behavior. The Ph.D. in veterinary science does not allow you to work with any animals in a clinical setting; rather, your research could potentially be used by veterinarians in their own practices.

Other Career Options

A DVM or Ph.D. in veterinary science can open doors to work experiences that you may have never considered. Some of these include employment with the United States Department of Agriculture, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nonprofit organizations such as animal rescues and shelters, the military and pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries. Many people who choose a career option outside of academia with their Ph.D. or outside of private practice with their DVM will often return to academic research or teaching later on in their career to share their experiences with new students. Many career options are very similar with both degrees; the main difference is the lack of ability to practice clinical veterinary medicine with a Ph.D.

Combined DVM-Ph.D. Programs

If you have an interest in animal science from both the research and clinical perspective, pursuing a dual-degree program may be right for you. These programs are extremely competitive and rigorous, only accepting a handful of applicants each academic year. The training provided will allow you to earn both the DVM and Ph.D. degrees, which can set you on a path to conduct excellent research into animal welfare that you can apply directly in your own animal practice. This is known as translational research and is one of the fastest-growing fields in the biological sciences.

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• Education Portal: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree Program Overviews
• DegreeDirectory.org: PhD in Veterinary Science
• Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges
• Vet.com: Vet Students: Student Resources

Dr. Holzman earned a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Emory University, and taught introductory biology there for 10 years. She also holds a teaching license in high school biology, and has extensive experience with curriculum development and implementation in both college and high school classes.

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Companion Animal Hospital in Ithaca, NY for cats, dogs, exotics, and wildlife

Equine and Nemo Farm Animal Hospitals in Ithaca, NY for horses and farm animals

Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists, on Long Island for every horse

Ambulatory and Production Medicine for service on farms within 30 miles of Ithaca, NY

Animal Health Diagnostic Center New York State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

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Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Ithaca, New York 14853-6401

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Department of Animal, Veterinary and Food Sciences

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Ph.D. Food Science

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To prepare for courses required to earn a degree in food science, we recommend you:

• have a master's degree in food science, chemistry, microbiology or biology
• enjoy independent lab work and research
• Degree Roadmap

Find a wealth of knowledge to help you succeed – from taking care of preliminary items associated with starting your graduate studies at the University of Idaho to finishing your degree.

Follow the detailed graduate admission requirements before filling out your application to the College of Graduate Studies .

To find out about deadlines and eligibility requirements, please visit the University of Idaho Financial Aid office .

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Over 400 scholarships are offered exclusively to College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) students based on GPA and other qualifications.

You can find general need- and merit-based scholarships on the Financial Aid office's scholarships page .

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• Design and conduct scientific experiments
• Mentor undergraduates in research or club activities
• Join faculty in international research projects
• Collaborate with the UI Food Technology Center, WSU Creamery, USDA Western Wheat Quality Lab, and more!
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Exploring What We Eat

A doctorate gives graduates the professional and leadership skills to succeed in food and allied industries, government or academia. Students interact with faculty at both the University of Idaho and Washington State University, allowing for a more diverse education and access to research facilities at both institutions.

Your program of study will be individualized based on your research interests, academic experience and collaboration with your major advisor. You will conduct innovative and high-quality research to solve emerging problems in food science. Our faculty are exploring issues like E. coli, dairy chemistry and processing, food safety and processing, bacterial pathogens, mycotoxins, microbiology and bioactive packaging.

• Work for universities, the FDA or USDA, and with major food manufacturers
• Apply for research or teaching assistantships
• Lead research projects and publish your findings
• Collaborate through grant-funded research projects
• Get hands-on experience through cooperative teaching and research facilities

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Premedical Program

Prepare for medical, dental, veterinary, or physician assistant (PA) school through the postbaccalaureate Premedical Program at Harvard Extension School.

Overview & Benefits of the Premedical Program

In the Premedical Program, you’ll take challenging core science courses, many of which are taught by Harvard University faculty. And you’ll have the opportunity to enroll in clinically relevant electives.

Through either the premedical or pre-physician assistant (physician associate) track , you’ll develop the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in professional school and demonstrate your competency to admissions committees.

Individualized curriculum to help you become a competitive applicant

Personalized advising on course selection, the application process, & sponsorship

Harvard faculty from such schools as the Medical School & School of Dental Medicine

Flexible course schedules for the part-time student

Clinical & research opportunities

Engaged peer community & Harvard alumni network

The Premedical Program offers two tracks:

We’ll work with you to create a customized course curriculum to meet your academic needs based on:

• Your chosen curriculum track
• An assessment of the courses you took as part of your undergraduate degree
• The courses you’ll need to fill gaps and complete prerequisites.

Most students take a mix of core courses and electives in biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and math.

Watch Our Information Session

Learn more about the Premedical Program from our program administrators and a current student in our recorded information session .

Our faculty come from across Harvard University, including Harvard Medical School, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, and the TH Chan School of Public Health.

Director, Premedical Program, Harvard Extension School

Sirinya Matchacheep

Lecturer on Chemistry and Chemical Biology and Director of Instructional Laboratory Programs, Harvard University

Britt Stockton Lee

Clinical Simulation Faculty, MEDscience Simulation Lab, Harvard Medical School

Our Student Community

Graduates of the Premedical Program have been accepted into—and graduated from—top medical and dental schools across the United States, including Brown University, Emory University, Johns Hopkins, and Weill Cornell Medical College.

As a student, you'll engage with peers and faculty regularly in class and weekly gatherings. After you complete the program, you’ll join the global network of the Harvard Alumni Association.

Learn more about our students in the Premedical Program Fast Facts sheet .

Check out the full list of program benefits .

Average age

Average # of years between undergrad degree earned and program admission

Have healthcare work experience

Average # of years to program completion

The weekly clinician chats are excellent opportunities to connect with physicians in the Boston area and gain exposure to the various paths in medicine one can take.

Cost & Aid

The total cost of the program will depend on how many courses (credits) you need to complete the requirements of your chosen programs and schools.

• Course tuition: Our 2023–24 tuition for a 4-credit undergraduate course is $2,040.
• Financial aid: After admission, you may qualify for federal aid. Typically, eligible students receive grant funds to cover a portion of tuition costs each term, in addition to federal financial aid options.
• Reduced Harvard Summer School tuition: You’ll pay Harvard Extension School tuition rates for Summer School courses as a student in the program. 
• Payment plan: Program participants may be eligible to enroll in an interest-free payment plan for fall, spring, and summer tuition.

Admission to the Premedical Program

Students in the postbaccalaureate Premedical Program are chosen through a selective application process. The application process is the same for all students interested in pursuing medical school, physician assistant school, dental school, and veterinary school. 

You are eligible to apply if you meet the following criteria:

• Have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Are a US citizen or permanent resident.
• Have English language proficiency.

Applications for the Premedical Program are accepted between January 10 and April 10.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

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William Dean Decker , 65, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for production of child pornography and possession of child pornography. According to court documents, on and before Dec. 15, 2023, the Wyoming Division of Investigation (DCI) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force received six Cybertips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Investigators learned that a minor child, known to Decker, was involved in the production and they moved quickly to stop the abuse. A search warrant uncovered hundreds of images and video files of Decker sexually abusing the child in his residence. Decker pleaded guilty on Mar. 8 and Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on May 31. This crime was investigated by DCI’s ICAC task force and the case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold.

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Taylor Jay Whiting, 33, of Lusk, Wyoming, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on Oct. 22, 2023, Lusk Police Department located Whiting, who had a warrant for his arrest, walking down the street and instructed him to put his hands up and turn around. As officers approached him, Whiting told them he had a gun in his hoodie pocket. Officers located a Ruger .380 handgun in Whiting’s sweatshirt. Whiting is a previously convicted felon and not allowed to possess a firearm. He pleaded guilty to the charge on Mar. 8, and Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on May 31. This crime was investigated by the Lusk Police Department and the FBI. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Hammer.

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Amanda Lynn Piercy , 37, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 40 months and 21 days in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. According to court documents, on Sep. 8, 2023, Cheyenne Police Department officers were dispatched to a Cheyenne residence because of an unconscious person. Officers learned Piercy had overdosed on fentanyl in the basement of the residence. When she was revived, officers removed 7 fentanyl pills from her pants pocket. During a search of the property, officers found additional drugs and a handgun. Piercy pleaded guilty to the charges on Feb. 20 and Senior U.S. District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal imposed the sentence on May 22. The crime was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney T.J. Forwood.

Sandra Munoz, 40, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. According to court documents, on Oct. 8, 2023, a Cheyenne Police Department officer attempted to stop Munoz for speeding and having a cracked windshield. She fled, but after a short pursuit, she crashed, and the officer detained her and three other passengers. During a search of the vehicle, the officer found approximately 2,000 fentanyl pills and 173 grams of methamphetamine. Piercy pleaded guilty to the charges on Feb. 20 and Senior U.S. District Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal imposed the sentence on May 22. The crime was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney T.J. Forwood.

Illegal Re-entry of a Previously Deported Alien Carlos Marcelo Lopez-Hernandez,  34, of Guatemala, was sentenced to time served for illegal re-entry into the United States of a previously deported alien. According to court documents, a Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper arrested Lopez-Hernandez on Jan. 31 for driving with no license and no identification. During the booking process, Lopez-Hernandez’s fingerprints were matched with a profile in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) database. ICE verified that Lopez-Hernandez had previously been deported and was in the United States illegally. This case was investigated by ICE and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on May 24.

Gonzalo Parra-Munoz , 31, of Chihuahua, Mexico, was sentenced to 6 months’ imprisonment for illegal re-entry into the United States of a previously deported alien. According to court documents, On Jan. 27, Parra-Munoz was arrested by the Converse County Sheriff’s Department (CCSD) for possession of stolen property/motor vehicle, unlawful acts, and driving under the influence. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) verified that Parra-Lopez had previously been deported and was in the United States illegally. This crime was investigated by CCSD and ICE. The case was  prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on May 31.

Contact: Lori Hogan (Contractor) Public Information Officer Office: 307-772-2124  Email: [email protected] Twitter: @usaowy

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