Career Guide
Veterinarian
Veterinarians play a major role in the healthcare of pets, livestock, zoo, sporting, and laboratory animals. Some veterinarians use their skills to protect humans against diseases carried by animals and conduct clinical research on human and animal health problems. Others work in basic research, broadening the scope of fundamental theoretical knowledge and, in applied research, developing new ways to use knowledge. It usually takes at least 8 years of schooling to become a veterinarian: 4 years of undergraduate work leading to a baccalaureate degree (although a bachelor’s degree is not required at most US Veterinary Schools) and 4 years of veterinary school.
Note: Veterinary Technicians perform medical tests under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian to assist in diagnosing the injuries and illnesses of animals. Locally, Genesee Community College and SUNY Alfred State have Vet Tech Associate degree programs. These are two-year programs.
Degree Requirements
Veterinarians must graduate with the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an AVMA accredited college, pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam, and apply for licensure in the state they wish to practice. Admission to Veterinarian Schools is highly competitive. There is no required undergraduate major for admission to vet school. Students should study in an area they enjoy and will do well in AND can take the required lab science courses. Many students major in the sciences (ex. biology, chemistry, animal science, or zoology).
Criteria for Acceptance
- Coursework rigor: some programs may prefer students take the pre-vet courses at selective 4-year institutions
- Undergraduate cumulative GPA; science GPA will also be considered
- A minimum of 3 letters of evaluation, at least one from a veterinarian and one academic evaluation
- Related work or volunteer experience with a diverse species of animals (this does not include pet ownership)
- Related research and veterinary experience
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
- Personal statement/essay and interview
- Other achievements/awards, leadership, community involvement
MCC Prerequisite Courses
It is advised to take upper division science courses at a competitive 4-year college. Contact the Admissions Office at the Veterinary School that you are interested in attending early on to discuss your academic planning, attending MCC and transfer.
Typical Minimum Prerequisite Courses for Veterinary Medicine:
- Two semesters of general biology with labs
- Two semesters of physics with labs
- Four semesters of chemistry with labs, including organic
- One semester of biochemistry
- One semester of microbiology
- Two semesters of English composition
For college specific requirements, visit:
AAVMC website, Student Applicants and Advisors Institutions
Other Important Information
While every effort is made to ensure that the information in this guide is accurate, students are advised to contact transfer institutions for specific course requirements and the most up-to-date information.
Updated 09/17/2025