If you are an animal lover this career pursuit may be for you. Pre-veterinary Studies is not a major that you commonly hear of being chosen, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not the right one for you. There will always be animals that need attention and care, and maybe you can be the one to provide that in the future!
Education
According to The College Board, most students pursuing a career as a veterinarian attend four years of vet school after earning a bachelor’s degree. Throughout high school it’s important to focus on classes in the science department, such as: Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Typical college courses will expand on those and will most likely include biochemistry, organic chemistry and microbiology, among others.
What to know before you apply
Students interested in a veterinary career should be sure their college choices have what they need to succeed at the next level. Colleges that they’re applying to should have strong science departments, since these are the basis of the major. Since Pre-veterinary Studies is a rare major it’s crucial to talk to an advisor at the college about the success of students after completing their degree there. Also be sure that there are opportunities locally to get some hands-on experience.
Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, veterinarians earned an average of $91,250 in 2011.