The Core Curriculum
The Core Curriculum is the central component of a Penn Vet education. Course requirements for the entire first and second years are based on this curriculum, as are the courses for the fall term of the third year. In the spring term of the third year, students move into the clinical aspect of the curriculum. In the fourth year, the Core Curriculum is combined with foundation clinical rotations. All students must complete the entire Core Curriculum, while also satisfying clinical competency requirements for each class year.
About Elective Courses
Elective courses are available throughout the Penn Vet curriculum, with the most diverse range of electives concentrated in the third and fourth years.
Choosing an Academic Major
In their third year, Penn Vet students choose an academic major from the following choices:
Dual Degree Programs
Students may choose to pursue a dual degree program, such as the VMD/PhD, VMD/MBA, or VMD/MPH. In addition to an increased course load and a greater time commitment, these programs have a number of requirements above and beyond the VMD degree.
Independent Studies and Externships
Our extensive elective Independent Study program allows you to earn academic credit for activities beyond the regularly structured core and elective courses.
You may also earn academic credit for externship experiences during the clinical year at certain approved sites, including other vet schools, zoos, shelters, government agencies, and private practices.
About Academic Departments at Penn Vet
Penn Vet's dedicated and distinguished faculty members bring a diverse range of academic backgrounds and unique perspectives to their research and teaching. Organized into four departments, our faculty conduct research at every level, from the fundamental aspects of molecular and cellular biology to translational research, clinical trials and human-animal interaction.