Curriculum
Examine the Curriculum
Employers of our first graduates expressed an impressive 95% satisfaction rate, based on our graduates’ knowledge, performance, communication, problem solving, and learning skills.
WesternU’s four-year DVM curriculum uses a problem-based learning approach, and is guided by a reverence-for-life philosophy. Your education will include not only wellness care, primary and tertiary care, but also client communication, collegial exchange, and business training.
Review the Course Listing in our Catalog
For more detail regarding the curriculum, please review the course descriptions (PDF) in our University catalog.
Problem-Based Learning
Problem-based learning (PBL) is significantly different from the traditional lecture-based format. In WesternU’s PBL curriculum, groups of approximately 7 students actively engage in the learning process while faculty facilitate and provide subject-matter knowledge.
Working independently and in small groups, students explore case studies to learn basic science and clinical concepts. As a student, you’ll learn to uncover answers, assess the quality of information, learn basic science knowledge and communicate effectively as you explore 64 carefully selected cases during your first and second year in the program.
Western University of Health Sciences’ College of Veterinary Medicine Assistant Professor of Physiology David Kersey, PhD,
Although the transition from a traditional to a problem-based learning style can be challenging, students and alumni say it is extremely rewarding and worth the effort!
Reverence-for-Life Philosophy
You will master all the technical skills you need to become a skilled professional, and you will learn them in a manner that does not harm animals. For example, you will acquire skills, such as how to anesthetize and perform surgeries through use of inanimate and dynamic models, computer simulations and apprenticeships. Mastery of skills is required before you work on live animals; we never perform unnecessary surgeries or procedures on healthy animals. You will have the chance to practice your skills on real animals with real medical issues at various points in the program.
Veterinary Clinical Center
You will also gain experience in the Veterinary Clinical Center, which opened in May, 2008. The first floor of the center is fully equipped with exam rooms, laboratory, pharmacy, medical imaging, and surgery capabilities.
On the rest of the first floor is the student commons, student lockers, a large Wet Lab, and an A/V room. The second floor consists of an auditorium/classroom and a large divided conference room that can also be used as classrooms. Offices are also on both floors.
Join us for information session where you can tour the facilities, chat with faculty and students, and learn more about WesternU’s DVM curriculum and admission requirements.
On the rest of the first floor is the student commons, student lockers, a large Wet Lab, and an A/V room. The second floor consists of an auditorium/classroom and a large divided conference room that can also be used as classrooms. Offices are also on both floors.
Join us for information session where you can tour the facilities, chat with faculty and students, and learn more about WesternU’s DVM curriculum and admission requirements.
