Prospective Veterinary Students

Turn your passion into a purposeful career. Our Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) curriculum shapes confident and compassionate professionals through a “systems approach” offering rigorous academics and clinical experience.

Our graduates are in high demand, earning an average base starting salary of $111,797 according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) 2024 Graduating Senior Survey and an average of 2.9 job offers before graduation.

Our Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program is a dynamic, four-year journey designed for individuals with a deep commitment to animal care and scientific excellence. With a curriculum that combines rigorous academics and real-world clinical experience, Auburn prepares you to thrive—whether your passion lies in private practice, research, public health, or beyond.

Mapping your DVM journey

Our DVM students take 19 to 24 credit hours per term, spending an average of 36 hours per week in classrooms and labs. Your first year will begin with an immersive learning experience that builds a strong foundation in the normal anatomy and physiology of animals. The remainder of the year will include gross and microscopic anatomy, physiology, imaging and other related courses.

During the first semester of your second year, you will take principle courses covering such areas as immunology, pathology and infectious diseases.

The next phase offers a deeper dive into specific body systems (for example, cardiovascular or gastrointestinal systems), with each system including pathology, diagnostic techniques and therapeutic measures for large and small animal diseases. Each semester also includes case-based courses related to the topics being taught.

Your future in veterinary medicine begins here

Whether your goal is to care for household pets, support livestock health, or contribute to groundbreaking veterinary research, our DVM program equips you with the knowledge and know-how to make it happen. Learn more about our program or how to begin the application process by using the resources below.

It's hard work but you'll leave here practice ready. Libby Goldstein

Surgical Training Methods

The Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine is committed to ethical, humane and validated training methods. Our surgical training experiences only employ humane training methods, such as:

  • Inanimate models for pre-surgical training
  • Supervised student engagements with regional spay/neuter programs
  • Clinical rotations in the veterinary teaching hospital
  • Preceptorships with approved practicing veterinarians

Contact Information

Academic Affairs
217 Veterinary Education Center
Auburn, AL 36849
(334) 844-2685
academicaffairs@vetmed.auburn.edu