Frequently Asked Questions
College Specific
Why is the USU College of Veterinary Medicine needed?
Utah has a robust agricultural sector and beef industry, but it also has 15% fewer veterinarians per person than the national average, placing it 42nd out of 50 in the nation. Even as the rest of the nation faces a shortage of veterinarians, especially for large animals, the demand is even higher in Utah. On top of that, there are only 33 accredited veterinary medical schools in the country.
What makes USU's program different?
The USU College of Veterinary Medicine already stands out by providing students with hands-on large animal experience from the very start of their education. Facilities like the Animal Science Farm Complex and Caine Dairy Education and Research Center offer opportunities to work with, horses, cattle, goats, and more, while collaborations with Utah veterinarians provide broad and practical small animal experience. USU is also home to the Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, which serves veterinarians and animal owners throughout the state and provides students with pathology laboratory and research experience.
Will there be a veterinary hospital on campus that treats patients?
Students’ clinical rotations will be performed at veterinary clinics and hospitals throughout the state, and board-certified veterinarians on the college’s faculty will teach and supervise students at those locations. Veterinarians with various medical specialties will also work with students as they treat patients in clinics statewide and at other sites in the region.
Incoming Students
How will students be paired with veterinary practices for clinical rotations?
Veterinarians will offer set periods of time where they can host and train USU students depending on the needs and availability of their practices. The university will coordinate with students to ensure educational needs are met, with some clinical rotations likely to be mandatory, while others in medical specialties will be available on an elective basis.
Where will students live during their third and fourth years if they’re working with veterinarians around the state?
The college plans to provide resources for third- and fourth-year students who require temporary housing during clinical rotations. Financial assistance for travel and housing will be provided based on distance from the Logan campus.
How much will the program cost?
Although there are no hard numbers yet, Utah State tuition for the College of Veterinary Medicine's independent program is expected to be similar to the current cost of attending the WIMU Regional Program and no more than mid-range compared to other universities. USU is intent on reducing the cost of a veterinary education while still providing a world-class educational experience.
Will scholarships be available to students?
USU aims to provide scholarships based on both need and merit. While it’s too early to offer more details at this time, the university aims to make its financial aid for the veterinary medicine program comparable to established four-year programs.
Partnerships
Who should clinics and hospitals contact to learn more about partnering with USU?
Clinics and hospitals interested in hosting USU veterinary medicine students during their clinical rotations should contact Dr. Kerry Rood.
What is the expected growth of the field in coming years?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, veterinarian jobs are expected to grow by 17% between 2020 and 2030 — well above the average growth rate of 8% for all professions.