What Kind of Education and Background are Generally Required? After completing at least 3 years of under- graduate college studies with a focus on math, science, biology, animal science, chemistry and physics, successful candi- dates enter a 4 year veterinary degree pro- gram at an accredited college of veterinary medicine. Communication skills are important, and you will be ex- pected to write essays and give presenta- tions during your college years. High school students should concentrate on these subjects and consider taking ad- vanced placement classes if available. The graduate record exam (GRE) is a required entrance exam for most veterinary col- leges. Grades are important, yet most vet- erinary schools prioritize well-rounded individuals. A vet school applicant should have experience working with animals. Working in the veterinary field is a great way to experience the inner workings of the profession. Work experiences with live- stock, animal shelters, research facilities and zoos can be helpful. Backgrounds that include 4-H, FFA and similar organiza- tions, especially when the experience in- cludes leadership roles, are a good start for would-be veterinarians. Letters of recom- mendation are important, and an interview with a panel of veterinarians and educators will be part of the veterinary school appli- cation process. There are 33 accredited veterinary colleges in the United States, and the application process is competitive. For more information about how to pre- pare for veterinary school, visit Vet School Admission 101 by the AVMA. Once an individual has obtained their DVM degree, they must pass the national veterinary licensing exam as well as the state licensing exam. Each state requires yearly attendance at continuing education events to maintain their license. Profes- sional associations like the Tennessee Vet- erinary Medical Association (TVMA) and the American Veterinary Medical Associ- ation (AVMA) offer support to veterinari- ans in the form of continuing education and wellness programs, legislative advo- cacy and action for animals and the pro- fession, and much, much more. Veterinary assistants might have some education beyond high school but are usually trained on the job. Their re- sponsibilities often include the basic care of kenneled animals, cleaning, laundry, and learning how to safely position and restrain animals for doctor exams and treatments. Assistant salaries vary greatly. Entry level positions begin around $28,600 a year. Depending upon experi- ence, location, and type of practice, an as- sistant could earn up to $40,000 a year. To become a Licensed Veterinary Medical Technician (LVMT), individ- uals must complete a 2 or 4 year college course in veterinary technology, after which they take the national creden- tialling exam and a state licensing exam. Tennessee has 6 accredited colleges offer- ing degrees in veterinary technology. Yearly continuing education is required to maintain the license. While earning the degree, the future LVMT will learn basic anatomy and physiology of normal and abnormal life processes, safe animal han- dling techniques, and how to perform a variety of procedures ordered by the doc- tor like dental cleanings, anesthesia ad- ministration, how to collect patient samples (blood, urine) and perform labo- ratory tests, how to take x-rays and much more. Vet techs are essential in providing patient care, answering client questions and communicating with other clinic or hospital team members. Licensed Veterinary Medical Technician (LVMT) salaries vary depending on expe- rience, location and type (emergency, spe- cialty, rural, etc.) of practice. LVMT’s can expect to earn approximately $40,000 - $60,000 annually. There is a growing need for veterinarians in rural areas, especially to serve in food animal practice. Government student loan debt forgiveness programs may exist to encourage veterinarians to practice in underserved rural communities. To Learn More About Careers in Veterinary Medicine tvmanet.com vetmed.tennessee.edu/admissions/ www.tnvta.org www.navta.net Tennessee Career Guide | 2026 111 Tennessee’s Top Careers TVMA has been the united voice of veterinarians and veterinary medicine since 1909. We are dedicated to the profession and provide numerous member benefits like wellness care and world class continuing education to our 2,000 plus members. We work with the TN Veterinary Technicians As- sociation (TVTA) to advocate for animal welfare and the veterinary profession. The Information on this career is submitted and sponsored by
