Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Vet Schools in Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Des Moines.
Looking to study veterinary medicine in Iowa but unsure where to begin? We’ve got you covered.
This guide highlights the top vet schools in Iowa, detailing their unique programs and strengths. Whether you’re aiming for a DVM degree or a vet tech certification, find the best school to match your career goals.
Iowa State University – College of Veterinary Medicine
The Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, located in Ames, Iowa, is a leader in veterinary education and research.
Key Features
- Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center: Providing 24-hour emergency care, specialized small animal, equine, and food animal services.
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL): Offering diagnostic services and clinical pathology for a comprehensive veterinary practice.
- Research Opportunities: Through the Research and Graduate Studies programs, students can participate in cutting-edge veterinary research.
- Diverse Specialties: Students can focus on small animal, equine, mixed animal, and food animal medicine.
- Centers of Excellence: Home to the Center for Food Security & Public Health and other specialized research centers.
Student Support Services
- Office of Academic and Student Affairs: Dedicated to student success with academic guidance and support.
- Counseling and International Programs: Offering various resources to support mental health and international experiences.
- Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: Ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.
Established in 1879, Iowa State’s College of Veterinary Medicine is known for its strong emphasis on practical experience and research opportunities. This school prepares students for a successful career in veterinary medicine.
Explore Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine to learn more about their offerings.
Iowa State University – Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program at Iowa State University blends rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical experience.
Program Structure
- Four-Year Curriculum: The program includes three years of classroom instruction followed by a final year of clinical training.
- Hands-On Experiences: Opportunities for internships, externships, and international programs.
- Curriculum Specializations: Including small animal, equine, mixed animal, and food animal medicine.
Practical Training
- Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center: Students gain practical, hands-on experience in a leading veterinary medical center.
- Partner Institutions: Opportunities to train at Iowa Veterinary Specialties clinic, Swine Medicine Education Center, and Des Moines’ Blank Park Zoo.
- Supportive Faculty: Dedicated to student success and well-being, offering personalized mentoring and guidance.
Iowa State University’s DVM program ensures students are well-prepared for a variety of veterinary career paths through a comprehensive blend of academic and practical training.
Learn more about the DVM program at Iowa State University.
University of Iowa – Preprofessional Program in Veterinary Medicine
The University of Iowa’s Preprofessional Program in Veterinary Medicine offers essential preparation for students planning to pursue a DVM or VMD.
Program Highlights
- Foundational Coursework: Courses in chemistry, biology, and genetics to help meet veterinary school prerequisites.
- Specialized Advising: Personalized guidance from the Academic Advising Center.
- Experience Opportunities: Volunteer activities and job shadowing with veterinarians to gain real-world experience.
Academic Preparation
- Solid Academic Foundation: The program ensures students complete all necessary prerequisites for veterinary school.
- Advising and Support: Comprehensive support to help students succeed academically and prepare for the application process.
Although the University of Iowa does not offer a veterinary degree, their preprofessional program sets a solid foundation for aspiring veterinarians.
Explore the Preprofessional Program in Veterinary Medicine at the University of Iowa.
University of Northern Iowa – Pre-Veterinary Program
The University of Northern Iowa’s Pre-Veterinary Program is designed to prepare students for veterinary school after graduation.
Program Structure
- Common Majors: Students can choose biology or biochemistry to meet pre-veterinary requirements.
- Extensive Lab Experiences: Major-specific courses provide essential laboratory work and practical skills.
Academic Pathways
- Biology Major: Offers a comprehensive pre-veterinary curriculum.
- Biochemistry Major: Focuses on drug development and toxicology.
Support Services
- Faculty Advisors: Offering personalized guidance to meet veterinary school prerequisites.
- Academic Success: Ensuring students have the necessary support and resources to succeed.
The University of Northern Iowa’s program provides a structured path for students aiming to enter veterinary school, with a strong focus on academic excellence and practical experience.
Learn more about the Pre-Veterinary Program at the University of Northern Iowa.
Kirkwood Community College – Veterinary Technician Program
Kirkwood Community College offers a Veterinary Technician Program designed to prepare students for roles supporting veterinarians and researchers.
Key Features
- Accredited Program: Accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
- Comprehensive Training: Covering surgical assistance, anesthesia, clinical laboratory procedures, and pharmacological principles.
- Selective Admission: Admits 24 students on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Career Preparation
- Licensing Exams: Prepares graduates for state and national exams, including the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
- Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, and financial assistance available, such as the Kibbie Grant.
Ethics and Standards
- High Ethical Standards: Program follows laws and ethical codes applicable to veterinary technology.
Kirkwood Community College’s program ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles in veterinary technology.
Explore the Veterinary Technician Program at Kirkwood Community College.
Northeast Iowa Community College – Veterinary Technician Program
The Veterinary Technician Program at Northeast Iowa Community College focuses on both companion and livestock animals.
Hands-On Training
- Small Animal Surgical Suite: Offers hands-on surgical experience.
- Digital Radiology: Access to cutting-edge imaging technology.
Training Facilities
- Iowa Dairy Center: Provides experience with dairy cattle.
- Beef Science Education Center: Additional training with livestock animals.
Accreditation and Costs
- AVMA Accredited: Program is accredited by the AVMA.
- Tuition: $15,716 for in-state and $17,960 for out-of-state students.
- High Pass Rates: 91.67% pass rate for the Veterinary Technician National Examination.
Northeast Iowa Community College’s comprehensive program prepares students for successful careers in veterinary technology.
Learn more about the Veterinary Technician Program at Northeast Iowa Community College.
Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine – Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program
The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine offers a comprehensive education through a rigorous curriculum. The program equips students with essential veterinary skills and knowledge.
Program Highlights
- Four-Year Curriculum: The first three years focus on classroom instruction, bridging into a fourth year of intensive clinical training.
- Foundational Sciences: Strong emphasis on biomedical sciences, clinical sciences, and veterinary microbiology.
- Clinical Training: Extensive hands-on experiences at the Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center and partner institutions like the Swine Medicine Education Center.
- Specialization Options: Flexibility to pursue concurrent degrees such as DVM/MS or DVM/MBA.
- Admission Requirements: Competitive admissions focusing on GPA, experiences, and personal skills.
Hands-On Experiences
- Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center: Provides real-world clinical experience.
- Partner Facilities: Access to diverse veterinary practices and specialized training settings.
Iowa State University’s DVM program aims to prepare dedicated and skilled veterinarians ready for a range of career paths.
To learn more about the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine DVM program, visit their website.
Des Moines Area Community College – Veterinary Technology Degree Program
The Veterinary Technology Degree program at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) offers comprehensive training for veterinary technicians.
Program Overview
- Hands-On Training: Includes skills like hospitalization care, surgical assistance, and technical procedures.
- Small and Large Animal Practices: Training covers a wide range of veterinary scenarios.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Students have access to modern labs and equipment.
Career Opportunities
- Diverse Settings: Positions in clinics, zoos, research labs, and federal agencies.
- Support Services: Personalized instruction and career support to help graduates succeed.
Commitment
- Full-Time Program: The program requires a two-year full-time commitment and is offered exclusively at the Ankeny campus.
DMACC’s program ensures students are thoroughly prepared for essential roles in veterinary technology.
Discover more about the Veterinary Technology Degree program at DMACC.
University of Iowa – Pre-Veterinary Program
The Pre-Veterinary Program at the University of Iowa provides essential coursework to prepare for veterinary school.
Foundational Courses
- Chemistry and Biology: Including general and organic chemistry with labs.
- Biochemistry and Genetics: Critical courses for a strong understanding of veterinary sciences.
- Mammalian Anatomy/Physiology: Essential knowledge for prospective veterinarians.
Advising and Support
- Academic Advising Center: Helps ensure all veterinary school prerequisites are met.
- Practical Experiences: Opportunities for volunteering and job shadowing.
Key abilities for candidates include compassion, leadership, and dedication to animal care.
For more details, visit the University of Iowa’s Pre-Veterinary Program page.
Iowa Central Community College – Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Iowa Central Community College’s Pre-Veterinary Medicine program prepares students to transfer to a four-year institution.
Program Highlights
- Science Focus: Courses in microbiology, organic chemistry, and physics.
- Humanities Electives: Ensures a well-rounded education.
Small Class Sizes
- Personalized Attention: Small classes allow closer interactions with faculty.
Costs and Admissions
- Affordable Tuition: Competitive pricing within Iowa.
- Transfer Preparedness: Earning a minimum of 60 credits with a GPA of 2.5+.
This program provides a solid educational foundation for aspiring veterinarians. Discover more on the Iowa Central Community College website.
Grand View University – Pre-Veterinary Program
Grand View University’s Pre-Veterinary Program strategically prepares students for veterinary school admissions.
Academic Preparation
- Critical Courses: Focuses on general biology, biochemistry, and essential veterinary science courses.
- GPA Emphasis: Maintaining a competitive GPA is crucial.
Experience and Research
- Internships and Research: Encouraged to enhance veterinary school applications.
- Animal Work: Opportunities to work with animals under veterinarian supervision.
Personalized Support
- Small Class Sizes: Allows for personalized academic advising.
- Career Resources: Assistance with resume building and mock interviews.
Grand View University’s program supports students in achieving their veterinary career goals. Learn more by visiting their Pre-Veterinary Program page.
What to Consider When Choosing a Vet School in Iowa
When evaluating vet schools in Iowa, keep several critical factors in mind to ensure you select the best fit for your educational and professional goals.
Key Considerations
- Curriculum Quality: The program should offer a comprehensive veterinary education with opportunities for specialization.
- Certifications: Check if the school is accredited by relevant authorities like the AVMA.
- Hands-On Experience: Look for programs offering extensive clinical training, internships, and lab work.
- Campus Facilities: Evaluate the resources available, such as veterinary hospitals and diagnostic labs.
- Career Support: Explore the career services provided, including job placement, academic advising, and mental health support.
- Financial Aid: Research the availability of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options.
- Success Rates: Consider schools with high graduation rates, board exam pass rates, and positive employment outcomes for graduates.
Making the Right Choice
To make an informed decision, follow these steps:
- Research Thoroughly: Visit school websites, read reviews, and reach out to current students or alumni.
- Visit Campuses: If possible, tour the campuses to get a feel of the environment and facilities.
- Compare Financials: Look into tuition costs, potential financial aid, and future earning potential.
- Align with Career Goals: Ensure the program aligns with your specific career aspirations in veterinary medicine.
By considering these factors, you’ll be better positioned to choose a vet school in Iowa that aligns with your personal and professional goals.
Vet Schools By State
Conclusion
Choosing the right veterinary school in Iowa is a crucial step towards a rewarding career in veterinary medicine. Each program reviewed offers unique strengths and comprehensive training to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. Take the time to thoroughly research and consider what each program offers, ensuring you make an informed and confident decision.
Ready to take the next step in your veterinary career? Explore the options above, and find the program that best aligns with your career goals.