Veterinary Science

The normal basis for admission to DVSc studies is a DVM or equivalent degree that would allow the applicant to be eligible for licence to practice veterinary medicine in Ontario. The applicant must have achieved high academic standing according to the standards of the University of Guelph.

Students who meet the aforementioned requirements and possess either an acceptable graduate diploma, MSc degree, or PhD degree with 'B+' average standing may be admitted and granted credit for two semesters in the DVSc program.

A student enrolled in the graduate diploma program who achieves a superior record and shows a particular aptitude for applied studies may be authorized by the Board of Graduate Studies, on recommendation of the student’s advisory committee, to transfer to the DVSc program without completing the graduate diploma program. This authorization must be granted no later than the end of the second semester of study. The transfer will be effective the following semester.

A minimum of 2.50 course credits is required. A qualifying examination must be taken prior to the end of the sixth semester to assess the student's knowledge of the selected area of specialization and the basic sciences supporting this area. Candidates are required to develop investigational skills in their distinctive area of specialization by carrying out an original study, generally related to animal health. The research must make a significant contribution to the area of specialization, be written up as a thesis, and defended.

At least nine semesters of full-time study must be devoted to the DVSc program. Additional information on the DVSc program may be found in the calendar description of each participating department.