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Your Career in Veterinary Science Starts Here

Two programs created by veterinary faculty experts at the University of Illinois provide an excellent foundation, whether you plan to enter veterinary school or another animal industry career.

Master of Veterinary Science (MVS)

The Master of Veterinary Science degree offers a comprehensive and flexible program with interdisciplinary elective courses available across various units on campus.


This program is available both online, with a flexible timeframe tailored to students’ needs, and on-campus, which can be completed in one year.

Learn More About the MVS Program

Graduate Certificate in Veterinary Science (CVS)

The Graduate Certificate in Veterinary Science consists of 4 courses for a total of 12 credit hours. The four courses focus on the main concepts taught in the first year of veterinary school.


This program is online and offered as an intensive 12 week full-time program or 2-semester part-time program.

Learn More About the CVS Program

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Group of veterinary students and a dog with Block I bandana in front of the gate to Grange Grove

A Program Designed for Aspiring Veterinarians

  • Improve your veterinary school application
  • Build your network of veterinary professionals, students, and colleagues
  • Receive individualized coaching on your personal statement and admissions packet
  • Bridge the gap as you move from undergraduate to graduate studies
  • Prepare for your professional journey with mentorship from faculty at the College of Veterinary Medicine

Ready for the next step? Apply now and join a community of animal health professionals dedicated to making a difference!

veterinary student smiling in group

Personal Journeys

Megan Cochran with brown horse

MVS Alumna, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2028

“My favorite course so far was VCM 509 Biology of Veterinary Pathogens. This course sparked my interest as I knew it would be a beneficial curriculum for someone wanting to go to vet school.”

Mallareigh Moser headshot

CVS and MVS Alumna, University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2028

“The MVS professors genuinely care about your well-being while also challenging you academically. It also allows you to continue working and gain valuable experience.”

Can’t Decide Which Program Is Best for You?

We can help. Do you want to set yourself apart on your veterinary school application or set yourself up for veterinary school success? We can help you determine which option will best prepare you to reach your goals and develop the skills and confidence you need to thrive from single courses that can roll into a certificate or fulfill a complete master’s degree. The choice is yours.

Sample One Course

Invest in one course to determine if this program is a good fit or gain knowledge in a topic of interest. We suggest VCM 507 or 509.

Earn a Graduate Certificate

A combination of core courses to give you a foundation in veterinary science. You will receive a certificate that you can use to demonstrate your achievement.

Enroll as a Master’s Degree Student

A comprehensive and flexible program designed by veterinary faculty to strengthen your skills in critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership while building upon your knowledge of animal health.

Students who complete VCM 507, 509, 513, or 514 may apply that credit toward the Certificate in Veterinary Science. Students who complete the four courses in the CVS program will receive their certificate and may also apply 12 credit hours toward the MVS degree.

The bar line shows the Master of Veterinary Science degree is 32 credit hours, and if you complete the CVS certificate, you already have 12 of the 32 hours completed.

Schedule a Meeting with an Advisor

We would be happy to answer any questions you have.

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