In 1892, Auburn University established the Department of Veterinary Science and Physiology. Those seeking admission to the veterinary program must have completed the required pre-veterinary courses. It is also necessary to have experience working with a veterinarian before applying to the program. This veterinary medical school is competitive. In fact, only 95 students were accepted from the 681 students that applied for the fall 2010 term.
Colorado State University has a four-year course of study in veterinary medicine. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. During the first two years, students attend the main campus and get hands-on experience. The last two years of the program involve participating at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Working the rotations at the hospital allows students to develop treatment plans, meet with clients and provide direct care.
North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine is located on 180 acres near downtown Raleigh. Several programs allow students to obtain a master's or doctoral degree in addition to the four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Students have the opportunity to gain experience working with large animals because a working farm is on site. The House Officer Program provides a one- to three-year internship in more than 20 clinical specialties.
Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida has the state's only veterinary college. Students can treat animals at the University of Florida's small and large animal hospitals. This curriculum is based on the study of disease processes, clinical applications, disease therapy and much more. After completing the four-year program, it is possible to focus on a specialty, which includes equine medicine and surgery.