Master of Veterinary Science Degree
A degree designed to meet animal health professionals at all stages of their careers and help them reach the next level.
The Master of Veterinary Science (MVS) program at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine empowers professionals, pre-veterinary students, and career changers to thrive in the rapidly evolving animal health industry. Through a blend of advanced coursework, mentorship, and applied learning, you’ll gain the skills to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in veterinary science.
138
Students Enrolled
Fall 2025
95%
Course Satisfaction Rate 2024
3.72
Average GPA
Spring 2025 Semester
Two majors, one shared goal—your success. Let’s explore which path is the right fit for you.
Explore how each Master of Veterinary Science major helps you grow your expertise and make an impact in animal health.
Master of Veterinary Science
Major in Applied Veterinary Science
Develop a practical foundation in veterinary science through applied coursework and real-world problem solving that prepares you to address animal health challenges across diverse settings.
Master of Veterinary Science
Major in Livestock Systems Health
Advance your understanding of herd and production animal health by integrating veterinary science with systems-based management, disease prevention, and sustainability practices.
Hear From MVS Students
“My path hasn’t always been clear, but the MVS degree has helped me develop my passion(s) that I didn’t know would be so important for me. I plan on starting off working in conservation programs and helping design new efforts! I also will be considering applying for veterinary school in the future as well.”
Suzie Migut, Current Student
“The high quality of the in-person classes in the MVS program, coupled with its one-year structure, has allowed me to achieve more in a shorter period of time than I ever anticipated. This intensive program has provided me with a depth of knowledge and hands-on experience that far exceeds my expectations, enabling me to grow both personally and professionally at an accelerated pace.”
Elisabeth Sullivan, 2025 Program Graduate
“When choosing the program, you are not only making the best decision in your career, but you also get to know many professors who are at the top in their industry who teach you how you make the best decision in any situation (small animal or farm system). Through the program, you can get the best ideas on how to reach any goals you have for your future career.”
Pavlos Stavrou, 2024 Program Graduate
What Can You Do with a Master of Veterinary Science?
A degree in veterinary science opens doors across animal health, research, and beyond. Our graduates pursue diverse career paths that make an impact in veterinary medicine, industry, education, and public service. Whether you want to prepare for veterinary school or apply your knowledge directly in the workforce, the Master of Veterinary Science in Applied Veterinary Science equips you with the skills to succeed.
Career Paths Include:
- Animal Nutrition & Feed Industry – Develop and evaluate diets that support animal health and performance.
- Research & Development – Contribute to scientific discovery in animal health, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.
- Government & Public Health – Support policy, food safety, and animal welfare initiatives at agencies such as the USDA, FDA, or CDC.
- Education & Outreach – Teach in academic or community settings, or lead training programs for animal professionals.
- Animal Shelters & Welfare Organizations – Improve care standards, manage operations, and lead health initiatives for companion animals.
- Veterinary Practice Management – Oversee operations, compliance, and client relations in private or corporate veterinary practices.
- Pharmaceuticals & Animal Health Companies – Work in sales, technical support, or product development.
- Wildlife & Conservation – Support field research, rehabilitation, and conservation programs.
- Regulatory Affairs – Ensure compliance and safety in veterinary products and services.
- Graduate & Professional School Preparation – Strengthen your application and knowledge base for veterinary school or related advanced degrees.
Build a Career That Fits Your Goals
This program is designed for students on different paths: those preparing for veterinary school, those advancing in current careers, and those seeking new opportunities in animal health and related fields. Wherever your journey leads, the Master of Veterinary Science provides the foundation, mentorship, and professional skills to get you there.
Who is the Master of Veterinary Science degree program for?
Everyone wanting to:
- Continue education in the area of animal health
- Advance their career
- Build their knowledge for content creation in veterinary science
- Gain a new network of peers
“We designed a degree program to meet people where they are and help advance them to the next step in their career.”
MVS Program Director
Dr. Jim Lowe
Associate Dean of Online Programs and Extension
EXPLORE COURSES
Learn about our curriculum The program is available both online, with a flexible timeframe tailored to students’ needs, and on-campus, which can be completed in one year.
SCHEDULE A CALL
Talk with our team Meet one-on-one with our team to discuss your goals.
APPLY
Begin your application today View admission requirements, application instructions, and upcoming deadlines.
Trying to decide if this program is right for you?
We’d be happy to answer any questions that you have.
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