Brookings Main Campus
Taking the first steps toward becoming a veterinarian.
This program prepares you for the next steps in a journey to an exciting and fulfilling career as a veterinarian. You will gain the basic knowledge and skills needed by veterinary students to master all of the fascinating aspects of the medical care of animals. Students in the pre-veterinary program complete coursework that will qualify them to compete successfully for admission to a college of veterinary medicine.
As a veterinarian, you will use your knowledge of science and problem-solving skills to directly help animals, ensure a wholesome and safe food supply and help protect public and environmental health. Veterinarians have a broad set of skills that make them valuable in clinical, research, educational and government settings.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in medical fields.
- Enjoy problem solving.
- Enjoy working with people.
- Enjoy biology and other sciences.
- Like to work with livestock and pets.
Internship Opportunities
- Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory at SDSU (ADRDL)
- Area veterinary clinics and hospitals
- On-campus laboratory research with professors
- Area animal research companies
- SDSU Animal Units (dairy, cow-calf, horse, etc.)
Suggested Majors
Suggested Minors
Clubs and Organizations
- Pre-Veterinary Club
- Block and Bridle
- Collegiate 4-H
- Horse Club
- Swine Club
Professional Schools Admitting Graduates
- SDSU Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine (Brookings, SD)
- University of Minnesota (Minneapolis, MN)
- Iowa State University (Ames, IA)
- Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS)
- Many others
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.