15 Best Veterinary Schools In Missouri 2024

With a growing demand for qualified veterinarians, the field of veterinary medicine has become increasingly competitive. Aspiring veterinarians now face the challenge of selecting from a plethora of veterinary schools, each with its own unique strengths, programs, and specialties.

Missouri, a state known for its diverse landscapes and commitment to agricultural practices, houses several veterinary institutions that stand out for their exemplary veterinary programs.

In this article, we explore the top 15 veterinary schools in Missouri, each distinguished for its academic excellence, faculty expertise, and contributions to the advancement of veterinary science.

Whether you are a prospective student seeking the ideal institution for your studies or someone passionate about the thriving field of veterinary medicine, this comprehensive list aims to provide insights into the top veterinary schools in Missouri, shaping the future of veterinary care in the state.

Best Veterinary Schools in Missouri

1. University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine

The University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine is one of the best veterinary schools in Missouri and is known for its high-quality education, strong research programs, commitment to animal welfare, clinical practice, and community engagement.

Established in 1946, the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for a variety of veterinary careers, including companion animal medicine, large animal medicine, surgery, and public health.

With state-of-the-art facilities, including a teaching hospital and research centers, students can benefit from hands-on experiences and exposure to cutting-edge advancements. MU CVM also has a strong commitment to research, with faculty members conducting research in various fields, including infectious diseases, veterinary oncology, and animal welfare.

2. St. Louis University College of Veterinary Medicine

Established in 1864, the St. Louis University College of Veterinary Medicine (SLUCVM) is one of the oldest veterinary schools in Missouri. It is consistently ranked among the top 50 veterinary schools in the United States, known for its commitment to excellence in both education and research.

SLUCVM offers a four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program that prepares students for a wide range of veterinary specialties, including companion animal medicine, large animal medicine, surgery, and public health.

SLUCVM also has a strong commitment to research, with a rich history of research in various fields, including infectious diseases, veterinary oncology, and animal welfare. SLU CVM also has a strong commitment to community service, with students and faculty members volunteering their time to provide veterinary care to underserved populations.

3. Washington University School of Medicine

The Washington University School of Medicine (WashU Med) is a private research university located in St. Louis, Missouri. WashU Med is consistently ranked among the top 10 medical schools in the United States, known for its strong research and clinical programs.

WashU Med offers a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program that prepares students to become leaders in animal health. The program is known for its emphasis on research and innovation, as well as its commitment to serving the community.

The school’s teaching hospitals, the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH), and the Small Animal Clinic all provide students with hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings.

WUSM also has a strong focus on global health, and its veterinary students are encouraged to participate in international veterinary programs. The school offers a variety of opportunities for students to study abroad and work with veterinarians in other countries.

4. Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Founded in 1895, the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (K-State CVM) is a public veterinary school located in Manhattan, Kansas. It is consistently ranked among the top 50 veterinary colleges in the United States, known for its strong clinical training, focus on rural animal medicine, and commitment to public health.

The college is home to a state-of-the-art teaching hospital, the Veterinary Health Center (VHC), which provides students with hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings, including large animal medicine, small animal medicine, surgery, and public health.

K-State CVM also has a strong commitment to rural animal medicine, with faculty members conducting research and providing outreach to veterinarians in rural communities. The college is also active in public health, with faculty members conducting research on zoonotic diseases and other health issues that affect animals and humans.

5. University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Veterinary Medicine

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Veterinary Medicine (UNL CVM) is one of the best veterinary schools in Missouri, known for strong clinical training, experiential learning, and commitment to public health.

UNL CVM offers a four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program that prepares students to become compassionate and competent veterinarians who can care for a wide range of animals, including companion animals, food animals, and exotic animals.

The college has a strong commitment to food animal medicine, with a focus on preparing veterinarians to serve the needs of the livestock industry. They also offer a variety of programs and initiatives to support food animal veterinarians, including the Food Animal Practice Certificate Program and the Food Animal Small Animal Rotation.

6. Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Established in 1879, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine holds a record of the oldest among the veterinary schools in Missouri.

The school is currently ranked among the top 60 veterinary colleges in the United States and is known for its strong clinical training, experiential learning, and commitment to food and animal medicine.

ISU CVM offers a four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program that prepares students to become compassionate and competent veterinarians in a variety of settings.

ISU CVM has a strong commitment to food animal medicine, with a focus on preparing veterinarians to address the health needs of livestock and poultry.

The college also offers a variety of programs and initiatives to support the food animal industry, including the Food Animal Veterinary Medical Education Consortium (FAVMEC) and the Global Food Security Initiative.

7. University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine

The University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine (UMN CVM) is a public veterinary school located in St. Paul, Minnesota. It is one of the largest and most respected veterinary schools in the United States, consistently ranked among the top 30 veterinary colleges in the country.

The college is home to two state-of-the-art teaching hospitals, the Veterinary Medical Center (VMC) and the Small Animal Clinic, which provide students with hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings.

UMN CVM also has a strong commitment to research, with faculty members conducting research in various fields, including infectious diseases, veterinary oncology, and animal welfare.

The college is home to several research institutes, including the Center for Comparative Medicine and the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences. This research institute allows students to gain hands-on experience while they learn.

8. University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine

The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine is a public veterinary school located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is one of the oldest veterinary schools in Missouri, founded in 1883.

UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine offers a four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program that prepares students to become compassionate and competent veterinarians.

Aside from the four-year program, the school offers a variety of programs and initiatives to promote public health, including the One Health Program and the Global Health Initiative.

UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine also has a strong commitment to research, with faculty members conducting research in a wide range of fields, including aquatic animal health, comparative medicine, and veterinary biotechnology.

9. Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Founded in 1910, the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine (MSU CVM) stands as a cornerstone in veterinary education, research, and service in Missouri.

The college offers a comprehensive Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, nurturing the next generation of veterinarians through academic excellence and practical experience.

MSU CVM is renowned for its state-of-the-art Veterinary Medical Center, providing students with hands-on training in various clinical specialties, including small animal medicine, large animal medicine, surgery, and diagnostics.

The faculty, composed of accomplished professionals, actively contributes to the advancement of veterinary science through impactful research in areas such as infectious diseases, comparative medicine, and veterinary public health.

10. Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine

The Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine (PUCVM) is one of the few veterinary schools in Missouri that is committed to excellence in veterinary education, research, and clinical care.

The college offers a comprehensive Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, providing students with a solid foundation in veterinary science and preparing them for diverse career paths.

PUCVM is home to cutting-edge facilities, including the Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, where students gain hands-on experience in various clinical specialties, including small animal care, large animal medicine, surgery, and diagnostics.

The faculty, comprised of accomplished professionals, actively engages in impactful research across fields such as infectious diseases, epidemiology, and comparative medicine.

As a leader in research and education, the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine continues to make significant contributions to the field, advancing animal health and addressing global challenges in veterinary science.

11. Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine (OSU CVM) is a pioneer in veterinary education, renowned for its commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service.

OSU CVM boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including the Veterinary Medical Center, where students gain hands-on experience in diverse clinical settings, encompassing small and large animal medicine, surgery, and specialized services.

OSU CVM also has a strong commitment to animal welfare, with faculty members conducting research in various fields, including animal behavior, animal pain, and animal ethics.

The college is home to the Center for Comparative Animal Welfare Studies, which supports research on animal welfare issues. This school is a great option for students looking to attend one of the best veterinary schools in Missouri.

12. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign College of Veterinary Medicine

Established in 1947, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign College of Veterinary Medicine (UIUC CVM) is one of the oldest public veterinary schools in Missouri.

Consistently ranked among the top 20 veterinary colleges in the United States, UIUC CVM is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, emphasis on research, and commitment to animal health and welfare.

UIUC CVM offers a comprehensive four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program that prepares students to become well-rounded and compassionate veterinarians. The college’s curriculum integrates hands-on clinical training with a strong foundation in scientific knowledge, ensuring that graduates are equipped to handle a wide range of veterinary challenges.

UIUC CVM is also a leading research institution, with faculty members conducting groundbreaking research in various areas, including infectious diseases, veterinary oncology, and animal welfare.

13. University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine

University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet) is a premier institution in veterinary education, research, and clinical service. The school offers a comprehensive Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD) program, renowned for its rigorous curriculum and commitment to advancing the field.

Penn Vet boasts cutting-edge facilities, including the Ryan Hospital, where students gain hands-on experience in various clinical specialties, from small animal care to large animal medicine, surgery, and specialized services.

The faculty, comprised of distinguished experts, actively contributes to the forefront of veterinary science through research in areas such as regenerative medicine, infectious diseases, and translational research.

With a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and global impact, Penn Vet remains one of the best veterinary schools in Missouri that prepares graduates to excel in diverse veterinary roles.

14. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is a private veterinary school located in Ithaca, New York. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 veterinary colleges in the United States, known for its strong clinical training, innovative research, and commitment to global health.

The college is home to a state-of-the-art teaching hospital, the Cornell University Veterinary Medical Center (VC), which provides students with hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings.

CVM also has a strong commitment to research, with faculty members conducting groundbreaking research in different fields, including infectious diseases, veterinary oncology, and animal behavior.

In addition to its strong clinical and research programs, CVM is also committed to global health. The college offers a variety of programs and initiatives to promote global health, including the Global Health Initiative and the One Health Program.

15. Missouri Western State University

Established in 1915, Missouri Western State University (MWSU) is a public university located in St. Joseph, Missouri. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a pre-veterinary program that prepares students for admission to veterinary school.

MWSU’s pre-veterinary program provides students with a strong foundation in science and math, as well as opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships and volunteer work. The program also requires students to complete a minimum of 400 hours of veterinary experience.

As a leader in research and education, the veterinary program at Missouri Western State University continues to make significant contributions to the well-being of animals and the advancement of veterinary science.

Missouri Western State University prepares graduates to excel in a range of veterinary roles, from private practice to research and public health. With a dedication to innovation and a focus on addressing the evolving challenges in animal and human health, the school continues to make significant contributions to the field of veterinary science.

Is it difficult to gain admission to veterinary schools in Missouri?

Yes, gaining admission to veterinary schools in Missouri is difficult. The average GPA for accepted students at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine is 3.5, while the average GRE scores are 319 (verbal) and 325 (quantitative).

Additionally, most veterinary schools require applicants to have at least 400 hours of veterinary experience.

Missouri Vet School Requirements

Here are some of the general requirements for admission to veterinary schools in Missouri:

Bachelor’s degree: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required for admission to veterinary school. Most veterinary schools prefer that students have a major in science or animal science.
GPA: A strong GPA is essential for admission to veterinary school. The average GPA for accepted students at veterinary schools in Missouri is typically around 3.8.
GRE: The GRE is a standardized test that is required for admission to most veterinary schools in the United States. The average GRE scores for accepted students at veterinary schools in Missouri are typically around 320 (verbal) and 325 (quantitative).
Veterinary experience: Most veterinary schools require applicants to have at least 400 hours of veterinary experience. This experience can be gained through volunteering at animal shelters, working at veterinary clinics, or shadowing veterinarians.

How much is veterinary schools in Missouri?

Veterinary schools in Missouri have different prices, based on the school and location. However, the average veterinary school in Missouri charges around $51,368.00 for Missouri residents and around $75,398 for non Missouri Residents.

What is the #1 veterinary school in the US?

There are several veterinary schools in the US, but the University of California Davis, Cornell University, and Colorado State University are ranked the top three colleges of veterinary medicine in the US.

How long is vet school in Missouri?

Veterinary school in Missouri is typically four years long. This includes two years of pre-veterinary coursework, followed by two years of clinical training at a veterinary school.

Conclusion

Missouri offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring veterinarians, with several top-notch veterinary schools located throughout the state. These schools provide students with a rigorous curriculum that prepares them for a rewarding career in veterinary medicine.

With their commitment to clinical training, research, and community engagement, the top 15 best veterinary schools in Missouri are shaping the future of veterinary care in the US and beyond.

Whether you’re interested in small animal medicine, large animal medicine, or exotic animal medicine, the veterinary schools in Missouri listed in this article will help you achieve your goals and aspirations.

15 Best Veterinary Schools in Missouri

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