Veterinarian Career Guide

Veterinarians diagnose, treat, and prevent disease and injury in animals. Day-to-day responsibilities include performing physical exams, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (blood work, x-rays, ultrasounds), performing surgeries, prescribing medications, providing vaccinations, advising clients on nutrition and behavior, and maintaining medical records. Work settings include private clinics, emergency hospitals, research institutions, farms, zoos, and public health agencies. Veterinarians often balance clinical care with administrative duties, client communication, and continuing education.

What skills does a Veterinarian need?

Clinical diagnosis and medical decision-makingSurgery and procedural skillsProficiency with diagnostic tools (imaging, lab tests)Strong client communication and empathyAnimal handling and restraint techniquesProblem-solving and critical thinkingTime management and record-keeping

How do I become a Veterinarian?

Prepare and Complete Undergraduate Studies

Choose a pre-veterinary or science-focused bachelor’s degree (biology, animal science, or chemistry). Maintain a high GPA, gain hands-on animal experience (volunteering, working in clinics, shelters, farms), and build relationships for strong vet school recommendations.

Apply and Graduate from an Accredited DVM Program

Prepare for and take the GRE (if required), apply through the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS), attend an AVMA-accredited DVM program, and complete clinical rotations to develop core medical and surgical skills.

Obtain Licensure and Practical Experience

Pass the NAVLE and any state licensing exams, pursue an internship for broad clinical experience if aiming for competitive positions or specialties, and begin practicing in general practice, emergency medicine, or another chosen setting.

Specialize or Advance Your Career

If pursuing a specialty, complete a residency and board certification (e.g., ACVIM, ACVS). For leadership or industry roles, seek certifications, management training, or advanced degrees (MS, MBA, or PhD) and build a professional network.

Maintain Continuing Education and Professional Development

Stay current through continuing education, attend conferences, subscribe to journals, renew state licensure, and pursue optional credentials (Fear Free, USDA accreditation) to expand services and career opportunities.

What education do you need to become a Veterinarian?

Earn a bachelor’s degree with strong coursework in biology, chemistry, animal science, and math (pre-veterinary track recommended), then complete a 4-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) program accredited by the AVMA. After graduation, pass the NAVLE and any state-specific licensure exams. Optional internships or residencies are recommended for specialty practice.

Recommended Certifications for Veterinarians

State Veterinary License (required) — passing the NAVLE and state exams
American Board Certification (e.g., ACVIM, ACVS) — specialty board certification
USDA Accredited Veterinarian — for regulatory and livestock work
Fear Free Certified Professional — animal handling and welfare credential
Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) — for practice leadership roles

Veterinarian Job Outlook & Demand

Employment for veterinarians is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade as pet ownership, advanced pet treatments, and public health needs increase. Demand will be especially strong in companion animal practices, emergency/urgent care, and food animal public health. Competition for admission to vet schools remains high, but practicing roles and specialty fields continue to expand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Veterinarian

How long does it take to become a veterinarian?

Becoming a veterinarian typically takes 8 years: 4 years of undergraduate study plus 4 years in an accredited Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, plus time to complete licensing exams and any internships or residencies.

What exams are required to practice as a veterinarian?

You must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) and any additional state licensing or jurisprudence exams required by your state to obtain a veterinary license.

Do veterinarians need special certifications beyond a DVM?

After a DVM and state licensure, additional certifications are optional: board certification in a specialty via colleges like ACVIM/ACVS, USDA accreditation for certain work, and professional credentials like Fear Free or Certified Veterinary Practice Manager for practice roles.

What is the average salary for a veterinarian?

Veterinary salaries vary by role and location; general practice veterinarians typically earn a median salary in the mid-to-high five figures, while specialists and those in industry or management can earn six-figure incomes.