Dual degree programs

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Veterinary scientists are increasingly important contributors to research in biomedicine, agriculture, ecosystems health, and companion animal medicine. Our combined DVM/PhD and DVM/MS programs offer rigorous training for careers at the interface between basic sciences and veterinary medicine, preparing students for academic or private sector careers in veterinary and biomedical research. By combining both training programs, graduates can complete both degree requirements in expedited time. 

What to expect

Graduates of our combined degree programs are skilled in both clinical veterinary medicine and in research. The DVM/PhD training prepares you to be independent scientists capable of leading and directing hypothesis-drive research teams. The DVM/MS program instills research aptitutde and technical expertise for translational and applied scientific investigations.

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DVM-PhD

We offer a highly competitive formal DVM/PhD curriculum. Through this program, students complete all professional degree requirements, as well as additional graduate study and bench research that are the basis of the PhD thesis. Dual degree candidates must be accepted into the DVM program before consideration for the PhD program. Once accepted, students have two options for completing a dual degree: the concurrent dual-degree option (students pursue the PhD in the middle of their veterinary studies) and the sequential dual-degree options (students complete the DVM degree before starting PhD studies). Financial support is available.

Explore the DVM-PhD program

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DVM-Masters in Public Health

In this program veterinary students can simultaneously earn a DVM and a master of public health (MPH) degree in as little as four years. Students obtain the credentials to work in government or industry on issues relating to food safety, emerging infectious diseases, biosecurity, and public health. MPH students complete veterinary and human public health field experience and a "culminating experience" project under the guidance of a faculty adviser. The MPH is offered by the School of Public Health, and the tuition costs are separate from those of the College of Veterinary Medicine. The program is designed so that both degrees can be earned in four years.

Explore the DVM-MPH program

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Application criteria

We seek outstanding, motivated students interested in all areas of biological sciences. 

  • To be considered for the PhD program, applicants must first be either selected for an interview or already be enrolled in the professional DVM program.  Students interested in the DVM/PhD dual degree program should apply separately to the DVM and PhD programs, but indicate in their personal statement that they are interested in applying to the dual degree program.   
  • Successful applicants will have prior research experience, demonstrate a passion for science, and express clear career goals.

Plan of study

DVM/PhD Program

  • Select either the Comparative and Molecular Biosciences or the Veterinary Medicine graduate program. 
  • There are then two options for formal DVM/PhD study. 
    • Concurrent option: complete the first five semesters of the DVM curriculum and then transfer to the PhD program. After completing the defense of the PhD program, students will return to the DVM program to complete clinical training and degree requirements.
    • Consecutive option: complete DVM requirements and then transfer to the PhD program.
  • Students must participate in two rounds of the Veterinary Summer Scholars program to allow students  to complete research rotations and identify an advisor for the PhD program. 

DVM/MS Program

  • Students will complete the DVM program before completing one additional year of MS research and coursework. 
  • Students should participate in the Veterinary Summer Scholars program to identify a project and advisor prior to year three of the DVM curriculum.

Tuition, fees, and funding

The concurrent degree option requires the student to complete the first five semesters of the DVM curriculum. During your graduate research training, your advisor provides stipend and tuition support. 

  • Students who successfully complete the PhD requirements receive $12,500  each semester in tuition waivers for each of the four semesters of the DVM curriculum. 
  • Alternatively, students completing PhD or MS degree requirements after completing the DVM program are provided an enhanced stipend and tuition waiver during their final year(s) of PhD or MS study. 

You will also receive a stipend each summer you participate in the Veterinary Summer Scholars program.

Prepare for application process

Ready to apply?

Please review the “Application Instructions” document to assist you in completing your MS or PhD application. Refer to the "Application Frequently Asked Questions" document for additional information.

Application deadline: MS/PhD applications must be received by December 1

Application fee: 

  • U.S. citizen / permanent resident ($75)
  • International ($95)

Gather the following before you start the application process:

  • Resume or CV
  • Names and email addresses of three people who can comment on your academic and research skills 
    • A complete application will require three letters of recommendation submitted by your recommenders via the application portal
  • Personal  statement of research experiences and interests
  • Unofficial transcripts or academic records from each post-secondary learning institution attended, including incomplete or partial academic records 
  • GRE scores, required for CMB PhD program application
  • English proficiency test scores (e.g. TOEFL, MELAB, or IELTS), if applicable.

Start your application