Affordable Schools

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15 of the Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees in Veterinary Studies

 

(source)

If you are like the average American, you probably enjoy watching the occasional kitty, puppy or other cute animal video on YouTube, Facebook and other media outlets. But if you really love animals so much that you get excited watching shows such as the British TV series “All Creatures Great and Small,” then a degree in a veterinary studies program may be worth considering, if you are looking for such a career. In this college rankings list, the focus is on affordable bachelor’s degree programs in veterinary studies and closely-related topics. Their affordability is based on the yearly average net price of each college’s undergrad programs, as recorded in the NCES.ed.gov Web database.

Careers in Veterinary and Related Fields

Below, is a partial compilation of veterinary-related occupations, as well as sectors/ industries/ organizations that have shown the need for graduates of a bachelor’s or advanced degree in veterinary studies or closely related topics. The list aggregates this information from the Web sites of the 15 colleges and universities ranked in this article. Some of the occupations below may require studies beyond a bachelor’s degree, including special certificates, professional certification, or an advanced/ graduate degree. Note: The list is scrollable; use the scroll bar at right to see all the veterinary occupations referenced.
  1. anesthestics
  2. animal behaviorist/ counselor
  3. animal care manager
  4. animal clinics – large or small
  5. animal disease control
  6. animal food industry
  7. animal forensics specialist
  8. animal health management
  9. animal health products companies
  10. animal hospital manager
  11. animal hospitals
  12. animal housing director
  13. animal nursing care
  14. animal nutrition
  15. animal rights advocate
  16. animal safety representative (film industry)
  17. animal welfare/ advocacy
  18. animal-related-business manager
  19. biological research labs or firms
  20. biosecurity
  21. biotech firms
  22. charity education director
  23. client educator
  24. clinic manager
  25. clinic/ hospital team leader
  26. clinical pathology
  27. clinical practice
  28. colleges
  29. dental prophylaxis
  30. diagnostic labs
  31. education
  32. emergency and critical care
  33. equestrian farms
  34. equine and farm practice
  35. equine animal medicine
  36. exotics
  37. farms
  38. feed sales rep
  39. food companies
  40. food inspection agencies
  41. food safety
  42. government departments/ regulatory agencies
  43. humane societies
  44. humane societies/ shelters
  45. internal medicine
  46. lab technician
  47. laboratory specimen analysis
  48. large animal practices
  49. large-animal nursing home care
  50. national parks
  51. neurology
  52. nutrition companies
  53. nutritional management
  54. oncology
  55. ophthalmology
  56. pathology
  57. pet daycare owner
  58. pet psychologist
  59. pharmaceutical companies
  60. pharmaceutical sales or marketing
  61. pharmaceutical technical rep
  62. physical therapy
  63. practice manager
  64. private veterinary practices
  65. production medicine
  66. public health
  67. radiography technician
  68. regulatory agencies
  69. rescue shelters
  70. research institutes
  71. research labs
  72. research technician
  73. shelter director
  74. shelters
  75. specialty and referral hospitals
  76. specialty practice technologist
  77. specialty practices
  78. specialty referral hospitals
  79. surgery
  80. surgical assistance
  81. surgical veterinary nurse
  82. teaching
  83. technical research assistant
  84. university labs
  85. vet clinics
  86. vet schools
  87. veterinarian
  88. veterinary and biomedical research and development
  89. veterinary anesthetist
  90. veterinary clinic or hospital management
  91. veterinary clinic supervisor
  92. veterinary clinics/ animal hospitals
  93. veterinary diagnostic laboratories
  94. veterinary equipment and supplies
  95. veterinary health inspector
  96. veterinary medical educator
  97. veterinary practice management
  98. veterinary practices
  99. veterinary products sales rep
  100. veterinary support staff
  101. veterinary teaching hospitals
  102. veterinary technician
  103. veterinary technologist
  104. VT program educator
  105. wildlife centers
  106. wildlife management agencies
  107. wildlife preserves
  108. wildlife rehabilitator
  109. wildlife rescue centers
  110. zoo/ aquarium director
  111. zoological medicine

Data on job growth for the 2014-2024 period for some of the above or related careers are profiled in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH). See the list below for some veterinary-specific occupations that are profiled. Also, clicking on the “Similar Occupations” tab at far right on each bls.gov Web page will show additional related occupations.
  1. Veterinary Technologists and Technicians: 19%
  2. Veterinarians: 9%
  3. Animal Care and Service Workers: 11%
  4. Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers: 9%
What’s important to note on the BLS OOH occupational profile pages is not just the percentage job growth but also the actual estimated job growth numbers. The OOH profile pages also show more detail about which industries hire for a given occupation. If you are interested in a career in a veterinary or closely-related occupation, this rankings list of relevant bachelor’s degrees may help you find a suitable college/ university. This list continues our series of “Affordable Schools” for various bachelor’s degree programs. A summary of available data follows the Notes section, preceding the actual list of ranked schools.

Notes

Some points to consider while using this college rankings article:
  • A college’s accreditation can change or only be valid regionally. Please verify accreditation of any college to which you are planning to apply.
  • See the “Methodology” section of the ranking list article 15 of the Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees in Marketing for an explanation of the process we use to rank colleges in each list.
  • NCES data is subject to change and some of these “affordable degrees” guides may use more recent data than described in the Methodology.
  • For the full list of programs covered to date, please check our School Rankings page.

Statistics Summary for Veterinary Studies Degree Programs

This is a summary of data available for the colleges/ universities mentioned in this college rankings list for bachelor’s of veterinary studies or related degree programs.
Yearly net price range: $7,499 – $27,920 (avg. for all students per school after discounts/ financial aid).
In-state tuition range: $3,292 – $30,447.
Out-of-state tuition range: $11,524 – $34,965.
Lowest in-state: St Petersburg College.
Lowest out-of-state: St Petersburg College.
Graduation rate range: 32-86%.
Transfer-out rate range: 11-22% (11 schools did not report).
Highest graduation rate: Pennsylvania State University.
Lowest transfer-out rate: University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Student population range: 771-50081.
Undergrad population range: 618-40541.
Largest # students: Michigan State University.
Largest # undergrad: Pennsylvania State University (aka Penn State).
Oldest school: approximate tie between Penn State and Michigan State University (est. 1855).
Youngest school: Medaille College (est. 1937).
# states covered: 13.
States covered: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky (2), Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania (2), Tennessee.

Alphabetic list of schools covered in this ranking

The following college names (leftmost column) are based on NCES data.
NCES Name (abbrev, estdate, rank) location $in-state $out-of-state $net price
Fort Valley State University (FVSU, 1895, #7) Fort Valley, Georgia $6,448 $18,954 $14,122
Lincoln Memorial University (LMU, 1897, #5) Harrogate, Tennessee $19,970 $19,970 $12,484
Medaille College (MC, 1937, #2) Buffalo, New York $25,002 $25,002 $9,698
Michigan State University (MSU, 1855, #9) East Lansing, Michigan $13,200 $34,965 $14,791
Mississippi State University (MSU, 1878, #11) Mississippi State, Mississippi $7,140 $18,478 $15,297
Morehead State University (MSU, 1887, #4) Morehead, Kentucky $7,866 $19,666 $11,373
Mount Ida College (MIC, 1899, #15) Newton, Massachusetts $30,447 $30,447 $27,920
Murray State University (MSU, 1922, #3) Murray, Kentucky $7,392 $20,112 $9,970
North Dakota State University (NDSU, 1890, #8) Fargo, North Dakota $7,940 $18,969 $14,249
Pennsylvania State University (PSU, 1855, #14) University Park, Pennsylvania $17,502 $30,452 $24,220
Purdue University (Purdue, 1869, #6) West Lafayette, Indiana $10,002 $28,804 $13,081
St Petersburg College (SPC, 1927, #1) Clearwater, Florida $3,292 $11,524 $7,499
University of Arizona (UA, 1885, #12) Tucson, Arizona $10,957 $29,421 $15,681
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL, 1869, #10) Lincoln, Nebraska $8,170 $22,090 $15,109
Wilson College (WC, 1869, #13) Chambersburg, Pennsylvania $24,380 $24,380 $20,955

Interactive Chart: Tuition vs Net Price

The following chart compares net price against both in-state and out-of-state tuition for each of the 15 ranked colleges in this list. Here is a summary on how to use the chart:
  • A modern browser is required for most of the charting features.
  • The vertical Y axis represents cost in dollars, for net price and both in-state and out-of-state tuition per college.
  • The schools are ordered left-to-right across the horizontal X axis by rank from #1 to #15.
  • Blue bars: in-state tuition; orange bars: out-of-state tuition; connected green dots: net price
  • Hover your mouse over a tuition bar or net price point, and a tooltip will pop up that shows the institution name and the three cost values – net price and both tuition amounts. Use your mouse’s scroll wheel to zoom in on a section in the main chart. The sub-chart below the main chart will indicate what section you are viewing. Hover your mouse over either of the three labels, “in,” “out” or “net” underneath the sub-chart to visually highlight just the selected chart.
  • The chart is built using the C3.js JavaScript code library, which in turn relies on the D3.js data visualization library. See http://c3js.org if you want to explore further.

Map for schools ranked

Note: the following Google Map is auto-generated from addresses listed in the NCES database for the schools referenced below and may not be 100% accurate. As well, the map may not render correctly in some Web browsers due to security issues. (Simply click on the map’s “view larger” icon at top right to be taken to the Google Maps page — which should work properly in all modern browsers.) We apologize for any inconvenience.

15: Mount Ida College

Mount Ida College (source)

Mount Ida College is a private, non-profit college established in 1899 as the Mount Ida School for Girls. It is located in Newton, Massachusetts, about 15 miles southwest of Boston, MA. Mount Ida offers one Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s program — its AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Technology (VT). This BS prepares students for a range of career opportunities, including in specialty areas such as anesthesia and surgery, animal behavior, biotechnology, clinical pathology, emergency and critical care, equine and farm practice, exotics, neurology, nutrition, oncology, ophthalmology, wildlife, or zoological medicine. And, new vet techs can find work with a variety of potential employers, including animal hospitals, biotech companies, diagnostic labs, farms, humane societies/ shelters, large animal practices, specialty practices, vet schools, wildlife preserves, or zoos/ aquariums. The BS requires 122-124 credits (approx. 39 courses), with 79 for the VT core (incl. Animal Behavior; Clinical Methods; Large Animal Medicine and Management; Small Animal Anesthesia and Surgery; Veterinary Management; Veterinary Medical Calculations; six Senior Clinical Rotations; and a Senior Seminar capstone).
  • Graduation rate: 41%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $30,447.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $30,447.
  • Yearly average net price: $27,920.
  • Student population: 1320.
  • # undergraduates: 1293.
  • Campus setting: City: Small.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: F.

14: Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Pattee Library and Mall at Penn State University, by Nathaniel C. Sheetz (source)

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is a public research university established in 1855 as a degree-granting agricultural college (politically named the Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania). Its main campus is located in University Park, Pennsylvania, about 135 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, PA, and 190 miles northwest of Philadelphia, PA. Penn State has one Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s program — its Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences. This BS prepares students to work or pursue graduate studies in veterinary and biomedical research and development (animal food industry, biotechnology firms, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, university labs) to help control animal diseases and work on biosecurity and food safety. Students can also apply for vet school or continue on to graduate studies in related areas such as animal science, biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, nutrition, or physiology. The BS requires at least 124 credits (approx. 41 courses), with 87-90 for the major, including 53 for prescribed courses (feat. Principles of Animal Disease Control; Principles of Animal Nutrition; and The Immune System and Disease). A further 25-28 credits are for additional courses (incl. such options as General Biochemistry; Mammalian Physiology; and Molecular and Cell Biology). The remaining 9 credits are for supporting courses (incl. such options as Biology of Parasites; Principles of Avian Diseases; and Medical Virology).
  • Graduation rate: 86%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $17,502.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $30,452.
  • Yearly average net price: $24,220.
  • Student population: 47040.
  • # undergraduates: 40541.
  • Campus setting: City: Small.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: D+ (State College, PA).

13: Wilson College

Wilson College (source)

Wilson College is a Presbyterian-affiliated, private, not-for-profit college that admits students of all faiths. It was established in 1869 as a college for women, but is now co-educational. Wilson is located in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, some 160 miles east of Philadelphia, PA, and 160 or so miles southeast of Pittsburgh, PA. Wilson offers one Veterinary Studies related Bachelor’s program — its AVMA accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Medical Technology. Overall, the degree requires at least 40 credits (approx. 41 courses), with 12 for required courses (incl. a Clinical Experience opportunity and a full-time Veterinary Internship) and 10-11 for a chosen concentration. The Veterinary Biology Concentration requires 10 credits (incl. courses in Biochemistry; Microbiology; and Organic Chemistry) and prepares students for veterinary technologist career opportunities in clinical practice, education, industry, or research. The Veterinary Business Management Concentration, meanwhile, requires 11 credits (incl. such course options as Financial Accounting; HR Management; and Marketing Management). It prepares students for leadership roles, such as animal hospital manager or veterinary clinic supervisor. Finally, Wilson’s unique, new Equi-Assist Concentration requires 10 credits (incl. Effective Speaking; Equine Clinical and Surgical Practices; and Equine Health Management). It enables vet technologists to independently (under veterinarian direction) provide nursing home care for horses.
  • Graduation rate: 41%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $24,380.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $24,380.
  • Yearly average net price: $20,955.
  • Student population: 771.
  • # undergraduates: 618.
  • Campus setting: City: Small.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A.

12: University of Arizona

Old Main, University of Arizona (source)

The University of Arizona (UA) is a public research university established in 1885 as a normal school. Its main campus is located in Tucson, Arizona, about 115 miles southeast of Phoenix, AZ. UA offers one Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s program — its Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Science (VS). This BS prepares students for a variety of career options (some requiring additional study). These options include becoming an animal behaviorist, animal forensics specialist, animal rights advocate, animal safety representative (film industry), charity education director, pet psychologist, shelter director, veterinarian, veterinary health inspector, veterinary technologist, wildlife rehabilitator, or zoo/ aquarium director. The BS requires 120 units (approx. 45 courses), with about 56 for pre-major requirements (incl. such courses as a Biology of Microorganisms Lab; Careers in Veterinary Science; Introduction to Animal Science; Lectures in Organic Chemistry; and Metabolic Biochemistry). The major requires 25 units (including such course options as Animal Anatomy and Physiology; Applied Animal Nutrition; Companion Animal Diseases; Equine Reproductive Physiology and Management; Medical and Molecular Virology; Independent Study; and/ or an Internship opportunity).
  • Graduation rate: 60%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $10,957.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $29,421.
  • Yearly average net price: $15,681.
  • Student population: 42236.
  • # undergraduates: 32987.
  • Campus setting: City: Large.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A.

11: Mississippi State University

Lee Hall, Mississippi State University (source)

Mississippi State University is a public research university established in 1878 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of the State of Mississippi. Its main campus is located in Mississippi State, Mississippi, some 130 miles northeast of Jackson, MS, and about 145 miles west of Birmingham, Alabama. Mississippi State offers one Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s program — its AVMA provisionally accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Medical Technology (VMT). This BS prepares students for veterinary technologist careers, working in areas such as animal nutrition, education, emergency and critical care, equine medicine, government departments/ agencies, humane societies, nutrition companies, private practice, production medicine, public health, or wildlife centers. Specialty areas include anesthesia, animal behavior, internal medicine, surgical nursing, and zoological medicine. Program admission is by application to the third year of study. Overall, the BS requires at least 120 credit-hours (approx. 51 courses), with 56 for prerequisite courses taken during each student’s first two pre-vet-tech years. The BS course of study itself requires at least 64 hours of VMT courses (incl. Clinical Pathology Laboratory Techniques; Equine Diseases and Management; Hematology for Veterinary Technologists; Professional Development for Vet Techs; and a Small Animal Clinical Experience practicum).
  • Graduation rate: 60%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $7,140.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $18,478.
  • Yearly average net price: $15,297.
  • Student population: 20138.
  • # undergraduates: 16536.
  • Campus setting: Town: Remote.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A+.

10: University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Museum, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (source)

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is a public research university that was established in 1869. It is the flagship of the University of Nebraska System and its two main campuses are in Lincoln, Nebraska, some 55 miles southwest of Omaha, NE, and 190 or so miles southwest of Des Moines, Iowa. UNL has two Veterinary-Studies-related Bachelor’s programs and one minor. Its Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Technology (VT) is a completion program that helps students further their careers, including becoming an animal care manager, feed sales rep, pharmaceutical technical rep, practice manager, research technician, or veterinary medical educator. The BS can also prepare students for vet school or graduate studies. Admission requires an accredited VT associate’s degree. In total, the BS requires 120 credits, with 25-35 VT credits (depending on the BS option chosen) from the associate’s degree. The BS’s Business Option requires 85 credits, including 12 for animal/ veterinary science, biology, chemistry, etc. (AVSBC) courses, and 19-20 for business courses. The Science Option requires 88 credits, including 28 for AVSBC and 6-7 for business. The Veterinary Science Option requires 95 credits, including 37-43 for AVSBC and 6-8 for business. For those seeking broader animal, biomedical, microbiological, or veterinary career options, UNL has its three-option, 120-credit BS in Veterinary Science (VS). Finally, for students in other majors, UNL has its 12-credit VS Minor.
  • Graduation rate: 67%.
  • Transfer-out rate: 11%.
  • In-state tuition: $8,170.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $22,090.
  • Yearly average net price: $15,109.
  • Student population: 25006.
  • # undergraduates: 19979.
  • Campus setting: City: Large.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A+.

9: Michigan State University

Main Library, Michigan State University (source)

Michigan State University (MSU) is a public research university established in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. Its main campus is located in East Lansing, Michigan, about 90 miles northwest of Detroit, MI. Michigan State offers two Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s program options — both leading to its AVMA-accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Technology (VT). This BS prepares students for careers as veterinary technologists in animal hospitals, shelters, and vet clinics, taking on such key medical duties as anesthesia, animal nursing care, dental prophylaxis, laboratory specimen analysis, nutritional management, physical therapy, and surgical assistance. Specialized career options can include working in biomedical research, equine animal medicine, practice management, or pathology). The BS can be taken as a full, 4-year program or a completion option for those with a VT associate’s degree. Either way, it requires at least 120 credits (approx. 48 courses) in total. In the 4-year program, this means 73 credits for required major courses (incl. VT Clinical Clerkships in Anesthesiology, Radiology, and Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery). Another 15 credits is for one of two elective tracks: Option 1, specialty clinical clerkships; or Option 2, study abroad options and career-focused courses in areas such as agribusiness, communications, or zoology.
  • Graduation rate: 79%.
  • Transfer-out rate: 13%.
  • In-state tuition: $13,200.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $34,965.
  • Yearly average net price: $14,791.
  • Student population: 50081.
  • # undergraduates: 38786.
  • Campus setting: City: Small.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: B+.

8: North Dakota State University-Main Campus

North Dakota State University (source)

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a public research university established in 1890 as North Dakota Agricultural College. It is part of the North Dakota University System and its main campus is in Fargo, North Dakota, some 200 miles east of Bismarck, ND, and about 240 miles northeast of Minneapolis, Minnesota. NDSU offers one Veterinary Studies related Bachelor’s program and one minor. The AVMA-accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Technology (VT) prepares students to become veterinary technologists and serve in a variety of roles within veterinary practices, including as an anesthetist, client educator, clinic manager, lab technician, radiography technician, and surgical nurse. Some career options outside of a clinic setting include becoming an animal-related-business manager, pet daycare owner, technical research assistant, or veterinary products sales rep. The BS requires 128 credits (approx. 46 courses), with 50-56 for pre-professional and professional major requirements (incl. courses such as an Anatomy and Physiology Lab; Fundamentals of Veterinary Radiography; Ward Care/ Clinic Care; a Clinical Veterinary Practicum; and a VT Externship capstone). Meanwhile, electives account for up to 28 credits, which allows students to customize a series of courses or select an appropriate minor to suit their career interests. One potential minor for VT majors is NDSU’s 16-credit Minor in Large Animal Veterinary Technology.
  • Graduation rate: 56%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $7,940.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $18,969.
  • Yearly average net price: $14,249.
  • Student population: 14747.
  • # undergraduates: 12124.
  • Campus setting: City: Midsize.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A+.

7: Fort Valley State University

Huntington Hall, Fort Valley State University (source)

Fort Valley State University (FVSU) is a public HBCU (Historically Black College/ University) established in 1895 as Fort Valley High and Industrial School. It is part of the University System of Georgia and its main campus is in Fort Valley, Georgia, about 105 miles southeast of Atlanta, GA. FVSU offers two Veterinary-Studies-related Bachelor’s program options — both leading to its AVMA-accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Technology (VT) (PDF, p.135-139). This BS prepares students primarily for leadership roles in animal science or veterinary care facilities (incl. with animal hospitals, colleges, food companies, humane societies, pharmaceutical companies, research labs, or zoos). But, students can also utilize it to prepare for vet school, other professional studies programs, or graduate studies in various biomedical specialtes. The BS can be taken as a full undergraduate program or as a completion option for students who already have a VT associate’s degree. In total, the BS requires 125 credit-/semester-hours (approx. 47 courses), with 45 for the major (incl. courses in Animal Diseases and Preventative Medicine; Hospital Procedures; Radiology; and Veterinary Microbiology). A further 15-16 credits are for electives in VT and supporting sciences (incl. options such as Applied Animal Nutrition; Biomedical Research Methods; Calculus; Genetics; and Cooperative Education in Veterinary Science).
  • Graduation rate: 32%.
  • Transfer-out rate: 22%.
  • In-state tuition: $6,448.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $18,954.
  • Yearly average net price: $14,122.
  • Student population: 2594.
  • # undergraduates: 2231.
  • Campus setting: Town: Fringe.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A+.

6: Purdue University-Main Campus

University Hall, Purdue University (source)

Purdue University, the flagship university of the public Purdue University System, was established in 1869. Purdue is located in West Lafayette, Indiana, some 65 miles northwest of Indianapolis, IN, and about 125 miles southwest of Chicago, Illinois. Purdue offers two Veterinary-Studies-related Bachelor’s program options — both leading to its AVMA-accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Technology (VT). This BS prepares students to become veterinary technologists, taking on advanced or leadership roles in animal care and veterinary services. That includes becoming an animal behavior counselor, animal housing director, clinic/ hospital team leader, pharmaceutical sales rep, specialty practice technologist, or VT program educator. The BS can be taken as a full 127.5-credit (approx. 60-course) undergraduate degree, or as a 66-credit completion program for students who already have an associate’s degree in VT, including Purdue’s own Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in VT. Either option requires a minimum of 81 credits in total for all of the major courses (incl. Applied Small Animal Behavior; Clinic Rotations; Grand Rounds; Large Animal Nursing; Parasitology for Veterinary Technicians; Pharmacology for Vet Techs; Seminars in Animal Welfare; Small Animal Nursing; a summer Practicum; and a Senior Project).
  • Graduation rate: 73%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $10,002.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $28,804.
  • Yearly average net price: $13,081.
  • Student population: 39752.
  • # undergraduates: 30237.
  • Campus setting: Suburb: Midsize.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A.

5: Lincoln Memorial University

Lincoln Library and Museum, Lincoln Memorial University (source)

Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) is a private, non-profit university established in 1897 as a “living memorial” to Abraham Lincoln, and to honor his supposed wish that a university be created to reward the loyalty of the people of east Tennessee. LMU’s main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee, about 60 miles northeast of Knoxville, TN, and some 200 miles southeast of Louisville, Kentucky. LMU offers two Veterinary-Studies-related Bachelor’s programs. The AVMA accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Medical Technology (VMT) furthers the career options of credentialed veterinary technicians. This includes working in or for large or small animal clinics, specialty referral hospitals, veterinary practice management, or veterinary teaching hospitals. Admission requires an associate’s degree in Veterinary Technology (VT), including LMU’s own Associate of Science (AS) in VMT. Combined, the AS and BS require at least 139 credit-hours (approx. 70 courses), with 48 for the AS’s VMT courses (incl. Diagnostic Lab Procedures; Surgical Nursing and Anesthesia; and a Vet Tech Practicum). Another 33 hours is for the BS’s VMT courses (incl. Companion Animal Management; a Nursing Care Assessment Plans capstone; and a VT Senior Seminar capstone). Finally, LMU’s 131-133 hour BS in Veterinary Health Science prepares students for vet school; graduate studies in animal health or various biological sciences; or careers in animal health management, education, animal welfare/ advocacy, or pharmaceutical sales/ marketing.
  • Graduation rate: 47%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $19,970.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $19,970.
  • Yearly average net price: $12,484.
  • Student population: 3735.
  • # undergraduates: 1699.
  • Campus setting: Town: Distant.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A+.

4: Morehead State University

Morehead State University (source)

Morehead State University is a public university established in 1887 as Morehead Normal School. Its main campus is located in Morehead, Kentucky, about 140 miles east of Louisville, KY, and around 105 miles southeast of Cincinnati, Ohio. Morehead offers two Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s programs. The AVMA accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Technology (VT) prepares students for career roles involving caring for animals and supporting veterinarians. This includes working for animal welfare organizations, biomedical research firms, government regulatory agencies, private veterinary practices, or wildlife management agencies. Admission requires an approved VT associate’s degree, including Morehead’s own Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in VT. In total, the BS requires 120 credit-hours (approx. 45 courses), with 55 for core requirements (incl. courses in Large Animal Clinics; Small Animal Clinics; and Veterinary Clinical Pathology). Another 28 hours are for VT program requirements (incl. courses in Veterinary Practice Management; a full-time Advanced Veterinary Clinical Practicum; and a Veterinary Technician Seminar capstone). Finally, for students interested in graduate studies (incl. vet school) or paraprofessional careers in government regulatory medicine or research and development, Morehead has its BS in Veterinary Science.
  • Graduation rate: 43%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $7,866.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $19,666.
  • Yearly average net price: $11,373.
  • Student population: 11052.
  • # undergraduates: 9951.
  • Campus setting: Town: Remote.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A+.

3: Murray State University

Pogue Library, Murray State University (source)

Third on our list of schools offering the most economical degrees in Veterinary Studies is Murray State University, a public, comprehensive, residential university established in 1922 as Murray State Normal School. Its main campus is located in Murray, Kentucky, about 120 miles northwest of Nashville, Tennessee, and some 210 miles southeast of St Louis, Missouri. Murray State offers one Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s program (PDF) — its AVMA-accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Agriculture – Veterinary Technology Track. This BS prepares students for career opportunities with animal food producers, animal health products companies, biological labs, food inspection agencies, pharmaceutical companies, universities, veterinary diagnostic laboratories, or veterinary practices. The BS requires 120 semester-hours (approx. 40 courses), with 24 for agriculture core courses (incl. such options as Animals Emergency Preparedness; Diseases of Livestock; Principles of Animal Nutrition; and an Agriculture Senior Capstone) and 22 for the Veterinary Technology Track (incl. courses in Animal Anatomy and Physiology; Veterinary Laboratory Principles; Veterinary Nursing; Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesia; and a Cooperative Education or Internship opportunity). Finally, a further 30-31 hours go toward the selection of one of three areas of emphasis: Large Animal, Veterinary Technology, or Zoological Animal Health Technology.
  • Graduation rate: 52%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $7,392.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $20,112.
  • Yearly average net price: $9,970.
  • Student population: 11207.
  • # undergraduates: 9444.
  • Campus setting: Town: Remote.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A+.

2: Medaille College

Medaille College (source)

The second-most cost-effective program on our list of Veterinary Studies-related degrees comes from Medaille College. Medaille is a private, not-for-profit, non-sectarian college originally established as Mount Saint Joseph Teachers College in 1937 (although its roots go back to 1875). Its main campus is in Buffalo, New York, some 20 miles southeast of Niagara Falls, NY, and about 200 miles northeast of Cleveland, Ohio. Medaille’s one Veterinary-Studies-related Bachelor’s program is its AVMA-accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Veterinary Technology (VT). This BS prepares students for research, teaching, or technologist roles within a variety of organizations, including animal shelters, equestrian farms, government agencies, national parks, pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, universities, veterinary clinics/ animal hospitals, wildlife rescue centers, or zoos. The BS requires 120 credits (approx. 40 courses), including 72 for an Associate in Science (AS) in VT (at which point students can choose to continue on to complete the BS). Overall, the BS requires 51 credits for VT courses, with 5 for experiential learning (two preceptorships/ internships) and 31 for the major (incl. courses in Surgical Nursing and Anesthesiology; Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging; and Veterinary Practice Management). The remaining 15 of 51 credits is for VT electives (incl. such course options as Advanced Dental Techniques; Applied Animal Behavior for Veterinary Practice; Pain Management in Animals; and Independent Study in VT).
  • Graduation rate: 44%.
  • Transfer-out rate: n/a.
  • In-state tuition: $25,002.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $25,002.
  • Yearly average net price: $9,698.
  • Student population: 2479.
  • # undergraduates: 1914.
  • Campus setting: City: Large.
  • Campus housing avail.: Yes.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: A+.

1: St Petersburg College

Saint Petersburg College Downtown Center (source)

St. Petersburg College (SPC) is a public college established in 1927. It is based in St. Petersburg, Florida, and has multiple campuses and learning centers, including a campus in Clearwater, FL. Its Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s program tops our list as the most affordable degree in this category in the U.S. SPC’s one Veterinary Studies-related Bachelor’s program, its AVMA-accredited Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Veterinary Technology (VT), can be taken fully online (except by residents in a handful of states). The BAS prepares students for career opportunities in a variety of areas, including in/ with: pharmaceutical sales or marketing; regulatory agencies; research; specialty and referral hospitals; teaching; veterinary clinic or hospital management; or veterinary equipment and supplies. Admission requires an approved Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in VT, including SPC’s own online or on-campus program. In total, the BAS requires 120 credits (approx. 54 courses), with about 66 coming from the AS/ AAS. The BAS portion of study accounts for around 54 credits, 42 of which are for the major, including 18 for core courses (feat. Leadership in VT; Veterinary Pharmacology; and a VT Capstone). The remaining 24 credits for the major are for the selection of one of three subplans: the Clinical Track, Hospital Management Track, or combined Clinical and Hospital Management Track.
  • Graduation rate: 33%.
  • Transfer-out rate: 13%.
  • In-state tuition: $3,292.
  • Out-of-state tuition: $11,524.
  • Yearly average net price: $7,499.
  • Student population: 32681.
  • # undergraduates: 32681.
  • Campus setting: City: Small.
  • Campus housing avail.: No.
  • Areavibes.com cost of living score: B+.

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