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Veterinary Medicine


Bridgewater College has an agreement with Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) which allows a student to follow the curriculum for the pre-med emphasis in biology plus the general education component. To successfully complete this course of study usually requires three (3) years. The student may apply for early admission to the Veterinary School at Virginia Tech. Two of our students have participated in this cooperative which has allowed them to get an early start in t heir career. As with the 3-2 program with Duke University, the student receives a Bachelor of Science degree form Bridgewater College upon successfully completing the fourth year of study and ultimately graduates form Virginia Tech with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.

The course work required for such a preparation is basically the same as the "pre-med" program. There is an equine studies minor that was implemented for the 2003-2004 year, and many students will have to consider that option. There are also many laboratories and veterinary offices where you can volunteer or do an internship.

The following is a sample of course requirements from two schools:

VA Tech Ohio State
English: 6 semester hours English: 3-4 semester hours
General Chemistry: 8 semester hours Chemistry: 10 semester hours
Organic Chemistry: 8 semester hours Organic Chemistry: 4 semester hours
General Biology: 8 semester hours Biology: 6-8 semester hours
Genetics: A suggested elective Genetics: 3-4 semester hours
Math: 6 semester hours Math: 3-4 semester hours
Biochemistry: 3 semester hours Biochemistry: 3-4 semester hours
Physics: 8 semester hours Physics: 6-8 semester hours
Microbiology: a suggested elective Microbiology: 4/8 semester hours
Humanities/Social Sciences: 6 semester hours Humanities: 14 semester hours
Electives: see recommended list! Electives: 6-8 semester hours

These are the recommended classes for two vet schools, but every school is slightly different. Make sure you look into the school's requirements BEFORE you apply!

Remember, admissions to vet school is extremely competitive, try to have your cumulative GPA at BC graduation well over 3.0!