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### Top Veterinary Schools in Oklahoma for 2024

Looking for the Finest Veterinary Schools in Oklahoma? Oklahoma is home to some of the top veterinary institutions in the United States. The state’s vast plains, vibrant culture, and thriving agriculture industry set the stage for excellence in veterinary education.

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In today’s landscape, animal welfare and healthcare hold greater significance than ever before. The demand for skilled veterinarians and specialized veterinary professionals continues to rise.

If your ambition is to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and acquire exceptional education and training, Oklahoma offers a selection of prestigious veterinary schools renowned for their academic distinction, innovative research initiatives, and unwavering dedication to advancing animal health.

And for those with aspirations reaching for the skies, don’t miss our article on opportunities in the aviation industry. Step into the realms of veterinary medicine or aviation with confidence, knowing you’re on the path to realizing your aspirations!

Understanding Veterinary Schools

Veterinary schools, commonly referred to as “vet schools,” are higher education establishments offering professional programs leading to degrees such as Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD).

These institutions specialize in educating individuals on becoming proficient veterinarians, equipped to identify and treat animal illnesses, injuries, and ailments.

Students enrolled in veterinary schools undergo rigorous classroom instruction and hands-on training across various domains of animal health, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, surgery, and preventive medicine.

The curriculum typically encompasses lectures, laboratory work, and clinical practice, providing students with practical experience working with animals under the supervision of licensed veterinarians.

Upon graduation, veterinary school alumni can pursue diverse career paths in veterinary medicine, spanning small animal practice, large animal practice, exotic animal medicine, research, public health, food safety, education, and government service.

List of Top 10 Best Veterinary Schools in Oklahoma

Numerous veterinary schools in Oklahoma offer programs for aspiring veterinarians. However, selecting the most suitable one can be a daunting task.

To simplify this decision-making process, we have conducted research and compiled a list of the top 10 veterinary schools in Oklahoma. Let’s explore these esteemed institutions:

1. Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City

Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma CityOklahoma State University-Oklahoma City

  •  Average ACT Composite: 24
  •  Average SAT Composite: 1209
  •  Acceptance Rate: 67%
  •  Type of Institution: Public
  •  Level of Institution: 4-Year
  •  Campus Setting: Major City
  •  Average Net Price: $6,753
  •  Number of Students: 4,456

Established in 1961 as part of Oklahoma State University-Stillwater, this institution has evolved into a thriving university with its primary campus in Oklahoma City.

Offering classes on weekdays, weeknights, on-campus, online, and in hybrid formats, the university accommodates diverse learning preferences. With a repertoire of over 40 degrees and certificates, its core mission of facilitating accessible education remains central to fostering student advancement and community engagement.

2. Tulsa Community College

  •  Average ACT Composite: Not available
  •  Average SAT Composite: Not available
  •  Acceptance Rate: Not available
  •  Type of Institution: Public
  •  Level of Institution: 2-Year
  •  Campus Setting: Major City
  •  Average Net Price: $6,078
  •  Number of Students: 14,428

Tulsa Community College, a public college in Tulsa, Oklahoma, stands out for its commitment to affordable education. Offering a diverse array of degree and diploma programs, the college emphasizes that 71% of its graduates complete their studies without incurring student loans.

Additionally, the Tulsa Achieves Free Tuition Program benefits high school students in Tulsa County, enhancing accessibility to higher education.

3. Oklahoma Panhandle State University

Oklahoma Panhandle State UniversityOklahoma Panhandle State University

  •  Average ACT Composite: 18
  •  Average SAT Composite: 890
  •  Acceptance Rate: 100%
  •  Type of Institution: Public
  •  Level of Institution: 4-Year
  •  Campus Setting: Suburb or Town
  •  Average Net Price: $10,537
  •  Number of Students: 1,294

Situated in Goodwell, Oklahoma, Oklahoma Panhandle State University is renowned for its bachelor’s degree programs. Boasting a picturesque 120-acre campus and a founding year of 1909, this institution, despite its modest size, offers a distinctive learning environment and fosters a close-knit community.

4. Murray State College

Murray State CollegeMurray State College

  •  Average ACT Composite: Not available
  •  Average SAT Composite: Not available
  •  Acceptance Rate: Not available
  •  Type of Institution: Public
  •  Level of Institution: 2-Year
  •  Campus Setting: Suburb or Town
  •  Average Net Price: $11,527
  •  Number of Students: 2,162

Murray State College, a public community college in Oklahoma serving 10 counties, operates branches in Tishomingo and Ardmore. Offering a wide range of degree and diploma programs, the college plays a pivotal role in facilitating higher education accessibility for the surrounding communities.

5. Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College

Northeastern Oklahoma A&M CollegeNortheastern Oklahoma A&M College

  •  Average ACT Composite: Not available
  •  Average SAT Composite: Not available
  •  Acceptance Rate: Not available
  •  Type of Institution: Public
  •  Level of Institution: 2-Year
  •  Campus Setting: Suburb or Town
  •  Average Net Price: $9,095
  •  Number of Students: 1,763

Located in Miami, Oklahoma, Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College is recognized for its closely-knit classroom environments. With a 100% acceptance rate, the college underscores its commitment to student welfare and progress. The intimate college population of 1,234 students fosters personalized interactions between faculty and students.

6. Eastern Oklahoma State College

Eastern Oklahoma State CollegeEastern Oklahoma State College

  •  Average ACT Composite: Not available
  •  Average SAT Composite: Not available
  •  Acceptance Rate: Not available
  •  Type of Institution: Public
  •  Level of Institution: 2-Year
  •  Campus Setting: Suburb or Town
  •  Average Net Price: $5,871
  •  Number of Students: 1,334

Eastern Oklahoma State College, a public two-year college in Wilburton, Oklahoma, specializes in academic programs tailored to equip students with job-ready skills. With satellite campuses in McAlester, Idabel, and Antlers, the college caters to a diverse student population seeking practical skills for the job market.

7. Community Care College

  • Average ACT Composite: Not available
  • Average SAT Composite: Not available
  • Acceptance Rate: Not available
  • Type of Institution: Public
  • Level of Institution: 2-Year
  • Campus Setting: Major City
  • Average Net Price: Not available
  • Number of Students: Not available

Community Care College, a nonprofit institution in Tulsa, Oklahoma, focuses on providing students with in-demand business and healthcare training. The college’s mission revolves around equipping students with the requisite knowledge and skills for success in their chosen career paths.

8. Western Oklahoma State College

  • Average ACT Composite: Not available
  • Average SAT Composite: Not available
  • Acceptance Rate: Not available
  • Type of Institution: Public
  • Level of Institution: 2-Year
  • Campus Setting: Suburb or Town
  • Average Net Price: Not available
  • Number of Students: Not available

Situated in Altus, Oklahoma, Western Oklahoma State College offers a personalized learning experience. With a 100% acceptance rate, the college prioritizes accessibility and student support. Despite its modest student body, the college delivers quality education and fosters close student relationships.

9. Northern Oklahoma College

  • Average ACT Composite: Not available
  • Average SAT Composite: Not available
  • Acceptance Rate: Not available
  • Type of Institution: Public
  • Level of Institution: 2-Year
  • Campus Setting: Suburb or Town
  • Average Net Price: Not available
  • Number of Students: Not available

Nestled in a serene locale, Northern Oklahoma College offers a conducive learning environment. With a student population exceeding 1,000 and a diverse program portfolio, the college cultivates a close-knit community that emphasizes collaborative learning and camaraderie.

The presence of a veterinary school within its agricultural sciences department underscores the college’s commitment to providing comprehensive education and training in animal care.

10. Langston University

  • Average ACT Composite: Not available
  • Average SAT Composite: Not available
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Type of Institution: Public
  • Level of Institution: 4-Year
  • Campus Setting: Rural
  • Average Net Price: $5,871 (based on available data)
  • Number of Students: 1,903

Langston University, with an open admission policy, offers ease of access compared to many U.S. universities. Whether local or international, applicants merely require a high school diploma or equivalent for admission. The total cost of attendance varies based on factors such as residency and family income.

Selecting the Best Veterinary Schools in Oklahoma

When evaluating veterinary schools to identify the most suitable option, several factors warrant consideration to ensure optimal education and training. To aid in your decision-making process, here are key considerations:

  • Certification: Verify the school’s accreditation by the relevant veterinary certification body in your region. In the U.S., accreditation by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) holds significant importance.

  • Program Structure: Assess the curriculum of each school, considering factors such as course depth and breadth, availability of elective rotations, opportunities for specialization, and integration of hands-on clinical experience.

  • Faculty Expertise: Evaluate the faculty members’ expertise in your areas of interest, considering their research background and clinical experience.

  • Facilities and Resources: Scrutinize the school’s laboratories, research centers, animal hospitals, and teaching facilities. These resources play a pivotal role in facilitating practical learning and readiness for real-world scenarios.

  • Clinical Exposure: Consider the school’s provisions for clinical practice and hands-on training. Prioritize institutions offering diverse rotations in various veterinary specialties and exposure to a wide range of animal species.

  • Student Support Services: Explore the array of student support services offered by each school, including academic assistance, career guidance, and mental health resources. A supportive environment enhances the learning experience.

  • Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the tuition fees, living costs, and available financial aid options at each school. Research scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs to alleviate the financial burden of education.

  • Location: Factor in the school’s location and proximity to internships, externships, or job opportunities. Consider aspects like climate, cost of living, and proximity to family and friends.

  • Reputation and Alumni Network: Research the school’s accreditation status, board exam pass rates, and post-graduation employment statistics. Compare the size and strength of the alumni network to gauge the institution’s reputation and networking opportunities.

  • Personal Fit: Lastly, align your educational goals and personal preferences with the school’s culture and teaching approach. Visit each institution to gauge the atmosphere, teaching style, and overall fit with your aspirations in veterinary education and career pursuits.

FAQs

1. Does the University of Oklahoma offer a veterinary school?

The University of Oklahoma (OU) does not provide a Pre-Veterinary Medicine degree. However, the Zoology Advising Office has devised a curriculum to prepare students for acceptance into veterinary medicine programs at other institutions. Upon admission to a veterinary medicine program, students typically pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.

2. What is the duration of veterinary school in Oklahoma?

To obtain a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, students typically complete three to four years of pre-veterinary undergraduate coursework followed by four years of professional training at a veterinary college.

3. How is Oklahoma State Vet School ranked?

Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine has demonstrated notable progress, ranking 75th out of 325 colleges nationally in the Military Times 2023 ‘Best for Vets: Colleges’ rankings. This marks a significant improvement from its previous ranking of 141st in 2022.

4. Is becoming a successful veterinarian challenging?

Achieving success as a veterinarian demands dedication and extensive knowledge, as each patient presents unique challenges due to anatomical and physiological variations.

5. Is veterinary science a promising career?

Veterinary Science offers promising career prospects for individuals passionate about animal welfare. The field presents abundant opportunities for those dedicated to animal care, with ample room for growth and fulfillment.

Conclusion

Oklahoma houses a selection of renowned veterinary schools known for their comprehensive programs and commitment to animal welfare.

These institutions play a pivotal role in shaping the future of animal healthcare by equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in various realms of veterinary medicine. Aspiring veterinarians in Oklahoma can benefit from top-tier education and contribute significantly to the field, making the state an ideal destination for veterinary studies.