MVS: Applied Veterinary Science
Online
flexible, applied major within the Master of Veterinary Science degree — designed for students who want practical, real‑world skills in animal health, diagnostics, and case‑based learning.
From Anywhere
Study 100% online, whether you’re across the country or right here in Illinois.
On Your Schedule
Choose full-time, part-time, or accelerated summer pathways.
Build Applied Skills
Gain real-world experience through case-based veterinary learning.
Join Us Online at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine
The University of Illinois is a prestigious institution offering students top-notch online programs worldwide.
The online MVS program at the University of Illinois has a wide reach! Our students come from the East Coast, across the Corn Belt, and all the way to Colorado. Many students in Illinois, or even from our own backyard in Champaign, IL, have found our online program to be the perfect fit for their current stage in life.
Choose Your Learning Path
Find the AVS Online Option That Fits Your Goals
The AVS major offers two flexible pathways. Each is designed to meet you where you are in your academic or professional journey.
Standard Online Track
Perfect for students balancing coursework with work or personal commitments.
- Ideal for working professionals, recent graduates, or career changers
- Fully online with weekly modules
- Predictable schedule and flexible pacing
- Start in Fall
- Complete in two years, depending on your workload
Summer Accelerated AVS Option (NEW!)
Move quickly through core content with structured support and real‑time interaction.
- Complete major coursework in one 12‑week summer term
- Mandatory live sessions three days per week
- 35–40 hours/week of coursework
- Best for students who want a fast‑paced, highly structured experience
Live Session Schedule:
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (CST)
Asynchronous Learning:
Complete additional assignments, readings, and practical applications between live sessions.
About
A Curriculum Built from Veterinary School Foundations
The MVS curriculum mirrors the core scientific principles of the first two years of veterinary school, introducing the science of animal health through engaging, graduate-level coursework:
- Science of Health Evaluation – Build clinical reasoning skills through case-based analysis.
- Veterinary Form and Function – Explore the structure and systems that drive animal health.
- Biology of Veterinary Pathogens – Understand the organisms that challenge animal well-being.
- Science of Health Homeostasis – Study how animals maintain balance in health and disease.
Program Path & Time Commitment
Delivery: Online | Live and Asynchronous
Time to Completion: 12 weeks OR Two semesters (Fall & Spring)
Courses & Curriculum
The courses taught in this degree program are new courses not taught in veterinary school or undergraduate programs. Our veterinary faculty developed new courses on infectious disease management, business operations, and veterinary science foundation principles. We also partnered with colleagues across campus to offer you a variety of elective course options to truly help build the degree best for you.
Required Courses, 20 Credit Hours:
- VCM 504 Introduction to Veterinary Science (3 Credit Hours)
- VCM 507 Veterinary Form and Function (3 Credit Hours)
- VCM 509 Biology of Veterinary Pathogens (3 Credit Hours)
- VCM 513 Science of Health Homeostasis (3 Credit Hours)
- VCM 565 Biostatistics, Information Management, and Data Analytics (4 Credit Hours)
- VCM 594 Applied Veterinary Science Capstone (4 Credit Hours)
- A team-based capstone project designed to apply your coursework to real-world challenges in animal health. Students receive close faculty mentorship and support throughout the process, gaining practical experience in research design, analysis, and professional communication.
Elective Courses, 12 Credit Hours
Total Degree Credit Hours for Completion: 32 Credit Hours
View All CoursesWho should apply?
Our program is designed for individuals seeking to fill knowledge gaps to help them achieve their career goals. We offer electives that help students tailor a curriculum to meet their specific needs and desired goals. Our students come from a diverse range of backgrounds and complete the program, finding success in both the animal health and agriculture industries.
- Recent graduates seeking a structured pathway before entering graduate programs or veterinary school
- Students aiming to expand their expertise and career opportunities in veterinary science or animal health
- Individuals new to the veterinary field who want additional experience in applied animal science to enhance their current credentials.
Tuition
Please visit the Costs and Aid Page for the most up to date information.
Tuition and fees are direct costs charged by the university. The cost of attendance also includes indirect cost allowances for food, housing, books, supplies and other expenses. You will not be billed by the university for these costs unless you live in university housing. Use the Illinois Cost Calculator for an estimated cost of attendance.
Learn More: Costs and Aid
Faculty Mentorship
You’ll be matched with a faculty mentor who will guide you through the program, answer your questions, and share insights from real veterinary experience.
Career Coaching
Our coaches will help you uncover your strengths, connect you with opportunities, and create a personalized plan for your next step.
Small Group Learning
With just eight students per faculty member, you’ll get the support and attention you need to build confidence and skills.
Goal-Oriented Growth
Whether your future is in veterinary school, industry, government, or animal health leadership, we’ll help you get there.
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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