Interdisciplinary Excellence in Animal Welfare, Health, and Productivity

The VDPAM Graduate Programs offer a unique interdisciplinary approach to studying animal welfare, health, and productivity in populations. Our diverse disciplines are unified by a common methodology: applying strategies to solve complex animal population problems.

We provide comprehensive skill development, offering valuable experience for careers in livestock health, productivity, and well-being. Students engage in applied research and coursework that teach them to identify and implement practical solutions to improve population health and productivity issues. Graduates will be well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in the biological or pharmaceutical industries, public veterinary practice, military veterinary service, international service agencies, regulatory agencies, and more.

What Sets Us Apart?

Our program is unique in that the core coursework you begin during your program can be transferred to a higher degree, should you choose to continue your educational journey.

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    Graduate Certificate in Veterinary Preventive Medicine

    Credits: 15

    Delivery: Online or In-Person

    No thesis or dissertation required

    With approval, you may be able to transfer credits from a Graduate Certificate towards a Master’s degree in Veterinary Preventive Medicine.

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    Masters of Science in Veterinary Preventive Medicine

    Credits: 32 (thesis), 36 (creative component)

    Delivery: Online or In-Person

    Thesis Option: 4+ chapters from which 2+ should be suitable for peer reviewed publication

    Creative Component Option: Publication of one creative component as defined by major professor

    With approval, you may be able to transfer credits from a Master’s degree towards a PhD degree in Population Sciences in Animal Health.

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    PhD in Population Sciences in Animal Health

    Credits: 72

    Delivery: In-Person

    Dissertation: 6+ chapters, from which 4+ should be publishable in the peer-reviewed literature

     

The master’s program offered an excellent research experience, bridging industry and academia. Continuous industry interaction provides students with valuable networks and practical training for future roles.

How our MSc and PhD programs work

Master’s and PhD Programs

Qualified applicants will be accepted into the program ONLY after the graduate student has been accepted by a major professor. Potential applicants are encouraged to research the VDPAM faculty and contact those with similar research interest prior to submitting an application.

Graduate Certificate Program

You will not need to identify a major faculty member to sponsor you, as this is an online program designed to put you in the driver’s seat. You will work with the Graduate Program Coordinator and Director of Graduate Education to fulfill your requirements. Simply apply through the ISU portal.

The following materials should be submitted through the online application system:

  • Graduate application with statement of purpose; describing background, research interests, and career objectives.
    • TOEFL/IELTS (nonnative English speakers only).
  • Official Undergraduate or professional transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation

 

We accept applications throughout the year with entrance into the program all terms (Fall, Spring and Summer). To allow review of your complete application we suggest that your application be completed by:

Fall admission: June-July

Spring admission: October-November

Summer admission: March-April

Ready to make a difference?

Take the first step and find a graduate faculty member who aligns with your interests and will agree to fund your research and education. Once you establish your major faculty member, apply to join the VDPAM Graduate Programs and become a leader in solving the health challenges of tomorrow.