How to Become a Veterinarian in Canada
If you are interested in a career that deals with both medicine and animals, then veterinary medicine is a great option. However, becoming a veterinarian is difficult to do, and it will take a lot of dedication on your part. Follow these steps to become a veterinarian in Canada.
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Things You'll Need
- Pre-veterinary education
- Veterinary school education
- Certificate of Qualification
Instructions
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Become a Veterinarian in Canada
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Complete your pre-veterinary education at a college of arts and science or at a college of agriculture. You will need at least 60 credits to qualify for admission to a Canadian school of veterinary medicine. Most colleges require that you complete coursework in English, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, physics, genetics, organic chemistry, math and microbiology. You will need to consult with the veterinary school of your choice to determine what classes your undergraduate degree needs to contain.
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Get your veterinary school training. There are several schools of veterinary medicine located throughout Canada. On the west coast you can attend the University of Saskatchewan Western College of Veterinary Medicine and on the east coast you can attend the University of Prince Edward Island, Atlantic Veterinary College. The school that you attend doesn't have to be accredited, although it is preferable.
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Test for your CQ, or Certificate of Qualification. This is a requirement for licensing in all of the Canadian provinces. It is a three- part exam that includes the basic and chemical science examination, the clinical proficiency examination and the North American veterinary license examination. Information and application materials for these exams can be obtained from the National Examining Board.
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Contact the Canadian province where you want to practice veterinary medicine for the remaining licensing requirements. Each province has jurisdiction over its veterinary medical licenses and its own requirements for completing the licensing process.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep in mind that vocational schools will not generally provide you with an adequate enough pre-veterinary education to qualify you for admission to a school of veterinary medicine.
