The University of Findlay is in Findlay, 35 miles from Lima. The school offers a bachelor of science degree in animal science/pre-veterinary. The program combines biology and animal science with pre-veterinary coursework, preparing students to enter a program at a veterinary college. In addition to classwork and theoretical skills, students can observe the practice of veterinary medicine firsthand at the Equine Veterinary Services Clinic on one of the university's two farms. The university also offers degrees in equine studies and animal science, both of which can help students get into veterinary college.
Brown Mackie College campuses are located in Findlay and in Akron, 150 miles from Lima. Both campuses offer a two-year program that earns students an associate of applied sciences degree in veterinary technology. The school trains students in clinical care as well as administrative skills associated with working in veterinary clinics, such as record-keeping, ethics and law. Though the program is focused on preparing for entry-level positions, students may also use this degree as a starting point to apply to a college of veterinary medicine. The two-year associate's degree can be credited toward the bachelor's degree needed to apply to veterinary college.
Ohio State University is in Columbus, 90 miles from Lima. The university has the only college of veterinary medicine in Ohio. It offers a doctorate in veterinary medicine and residencies in several specialties, including equine medicine, surgery and neurology. Students may also earn master's and Ph.D. degrees while completing a residency program or the doctorate of veterinary medicine. The college runs a Veterinary Medical Center, a full-service hospital for domestic pets, farm animals and horses, providing students with a place to gain clinical experience and complete a residency program.
Columbus State Community College is also in Columbus. Students can take advantage of the presence of two other universities with veterinary programs by participating in joint programs. The school offers an associate of applied science degree in veterinary technology. Students may also choose equine or animal sciences as a specialty and have the opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree through the college's joint programs with Ohio State's department of animal science and Otterbein College's department of equine science. This aspect of the school's program is an advantage to students hoping to go on to veterinary college. The program includes the opportunity to complete an internship at the Ohio State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.