Why is NY a Good Place to Attend Veterinary School?
Trying to get into one of the vet schools in New York, can seem like a daunting task. However New York is a great place to attend veterinary school because you have one school in the beautiful town of Ithica in upstate NY and the other school out on Long Island not far from the beach.
Additionally, you will be close to NYC, which can provide you with many prestigious places to work and internship and job opportunities.
New York has two veterinary colleges, plenty of vet tech colleges, and many veterinary programs. Additionally, there was only one school in NY for studying veterinary medicine until recently. Which was Cornell University; however, now we also have Long Island University, which earned its provisional accreditation status on April 14th, 2020.
The Cornell University College of Vet Medicine is one of the country’s most highly respected veterinary schools. It is on our list for Vet Schools In New York. Furthermore, it’s located in Ithaca, New York, this veterinary school offers top-notch education and opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.
Not to mention, LIU-CVM is on the road to becoming a fully accredited veterinary school; however, if you graduate from LIU, the vet school in New York, you will become a fully licensed ve riparian after completing the program and passing the NAVLE.
- Why is NY a Good Place to Attend Veterinary School?
- How Many Years Is Vet School in New York?
- Vet School Requirements – What Are They?
- Vet Schools In New York- Average Tuition
- List Of The Best Vet Schools In New York
- List of Vet Schools in New York That Offer a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology
- Schools in New York Where You Can Get Certified As A Vet Tech Through an Associate's Degree – Vet Schools in New York
- Colleges With Pre-Vet Programs In NY
- Vet Schools In New York With Wildlife Programs
- Suny Veterinary Schools (Vet Tech)
- Veterinary Assistant Programs – Vet Schools in New York
- Frequently Asked Questions About Vet Schools In New York
- Final Thoughts on Vet Schools In New York
How Many Years Is Vet School in New York?
Vet schools in NY are just as long as any other veterinary programs. The veterinary program will last four years if you study to be a DVM. On the other hand, if you are learning to become a vet tech, you are looking at a 2-year program.
Although a few veterinary technician programs in New York allow you to get a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technician science, we will cover that below on our list of schools.
Furthermore, as you will see from our list, there are only two veterinary schools where you can earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree. On the other hand, there are quite a few where you can make a veterinary technician degree. Want to learn how much a vet tech makes in New York? We have a guide!
Some are 4-year Bachelor of Science Programs, and others are two-year associate degree programs.
Vet tech vs. vet assistant – Veterinary technicians are licensed by the state and have to pass an exam, whereas a vet assistant is not licensed and does not have to pass an exam.
What Does Vet School Cost in New York?
Tuition for vet school in New York will differ depending on the veterinary college you attend. However, most colleges are around the same price range, with a few exceptions.
Depending on whether you are talking about a veterinary school where you earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree or vet tech school, the price will vary accordingly. It will be between $7,880 and $78,000 per year. More importantly, as you can see that is quite a big range. Additionally, the vet tech schools are cheaper and the DVM programs are more.
Vet School Requirements – What Are They?
Are vet school requirements different in New York?
No, the vet school requirements are not different for NY. Keep in mind that vet school requirements are similar across all schools, although the prerequisite classes may differ. More importantly, LIU veterinary college and Cornell both do not require the GRE, and you do not need a bachelor’s degree to gain acceptance. However, you need 60 credits of college classes that encompass their pre-requisites.
Grades
Both Cornell and LIU do not set lower limits for their admitted students. Although the majority of students have a high GPA, both schools have a holistic approach to admissions.
GRE
Neither Cornell nor LIU require the GRE for veterinary school admission.
Veterinary Experience
Admissions counselors place a significant percentage on veterinary experience hours.
Keep in mind that volunteer experience can encompass veterinary experience, however, it may also involve research or biomedical experience.
Recommendations
You will need letters of recommendation from a veterinarian.
Interviews
Many students make it all the way to the interview but still don’t get into their dream school. With interviews, it’s important to do some mock interviews, especially if the idea of interviewing makes you nervous and uncomfortable.
Vet Schools In New York- Average Tuition
It depends on if you are a NY resident or not. Cornell’s average tuition for the 2023 school year is between $59,000 and $78,000 each year. Of course, this average includes books, room & board, and personal expenses.
Long Island University College of Veterinary Medicine has an average tuition of $82,000, and it’s the same for everyone. (residents and non-residents)
List Of The Best Vet Schools In New York
You’ll need plenty of essential items before starting a veterinary program; we’ve made a list of some vet school supplies to get you started.
#1. Cornell University – One of the Vet Schools in New York
One of the best wildlife veterinary schools in the country, Cornell has a lot of students interested in Cornell wildlife. The vet students get to work with local wildlife rescue organizations and treat wild animals natively found in upstate New York.
Cornell is a top-ranked veterinary school that has a well-rounded curriculum. More importantly, bring a good umbrella since they have a rainy season in the spring.
Tuition – average $59,000 and $78,000
Degree – DVM
#2. Long Island University College of Veterinary Medicine
The college is led by Dr. Carmen Fuentealba, DVM, MSc, Ph.D., who has years of research experience. Furthermore, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Fuentealba during my years at Ross University. Dr. Fuentealba taught a histology class and veterinary pathology, among others. Above all her teaching style was hands-on. Nevertheless, I am more than excited that she is now a part of bringing another veterinary college to the New York metropolitan area.
Tuition – average $82,000
Degree – DVM
List of Vet Schools in New York That Offer a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology
They are AVMA CVTEA-Accredited 4 Year Programs. Before you enroll in a vet tech program, there are essentials that you’ll need like a vet tech stethoscope, a medical kit, scrubs, and a good vet tech watch.
#1. Long Island University; Brookville, NY
The B.S in Veterinary Technology is a great educational foundation for those who plan on entering into the veterinary medicine field as either a technician or veterinarian. Nevertheless, the degree program at LIU will give students the tools for lifelong learning.
Tuition – $38,684 per term – for 24-36 credits (not including room and board or books)
Degree – Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology
#2. Medaille College; Buffalo, NY
Veterinary school is tough, but you can get a head start through a pre-veterinary pathway. Going this route is great if you need large animal experience for applying to veterinary school.
In the 4-year vet tech program, you’ll have the opportunity to work with large animals on their veterinary campus. Keep in mind that you’ll also get to work at large animal facilities and local farms around town.
Choose from four years of coursework that will prepare you for the rigors and rewards awaiting in veterinary school! If you don’t plan on going to veterinary school, you will be able to work as a vet tech in an advanced field like veterinary technician radiology.
Tuition – $32,500/year for full-time education (not including room and board or books)
Degree – Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology
#3. Mercy College; Dobbs Ferry, NY
We like Mercy because it’s the cheapest school where you can earn your Bachelor of Science in veterinary technology in New York State.
With this in mind, you can attend Mercy college either part-time or full-time. In particular, by completing 120 credits, you will earn a bachelor’s in veterinary technology science. More importantly, the school has a few campuses to choose from. They also have some online courses to prepare you for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE).
Common clinical tests are a standard part of the veterinary technology program at Mercy College. Above all these skills include drawing blood, taking temperatures with an oral or rectal probe, and performing X-rays.
Getting hands-on experience with all of the clinical tests you will need to perform in a veterinary clinic is priceless for helping you adjust to the work environment.
Tuition – $21,358 per year (not including room and board or books)
Degree – Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology
#4. State University of New York (SUNY)-Canton; Canton, NY
They design the four-year degree program to provide students with advanced technical training and tools needed for success as veterinary technicians in any field. Some students even pursue a Doctor of veterinary medicine degree (DVM).
Students in this SUNY program who maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher can get into Ross veterinary school to study veterinary medicine automatically. Above all, it may be a cost-effective way to get into vet school since the tuition is low and sometimes free at this SUNY school.
Graduates will also have opportunities available in other higher-level degrees after completing their studies here; this was the case last year when one graduate pursued a vet tech radiologist externship!
Tuition – NY residents $7,070.00/year; Out of State $16,980.00/year (not including room and board or books); NY also offers free tuition at their SUNY schools if your family makes under $125,000
Degree – Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology
#5. State University of New York (SUNY)-Delhi; Delhi, NY
Let SUNY help you take your passion for animals to the next level and advance veterinary skills with this program! You will learn advanced technology practices, take relevant science courses (even ones about liberal arts), and upper-level coursework in pertinent veterinary subject matters. Keep in mind that, SUNY Delhi wants you to first complete their associate’s degree program before moving into this bachelor’s degree.
Tuition – NY residents $7,070.00/year; Out of State $16,980.00/year (not including room and board or books)
Degree – Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology
Schools in New York Where You Can Get Certified As A Vet Tech Through an Associate’s Degree – Vet Schools in New York
#1. LaGuardia Community College – CUNY
It’s a 2-year program where you go through a specific course sequence, and at the end, you can take your VTNE. The students at LaGuardia have an 89.7% pass rate. Nevertheless, students work in private practice, education, shelters, zoos, public health, and research laboratories.
Tuition – NY resident Tuition – $4,800/per year; OOS – $9,600/per year
Degree – Associate’s Degree in Applied Science
#2. SUNY Genesee Community College
In particular, A 2-year program will teach you animal handling techniques, laboratory techniques, and more. Learn everything from how to take a temperature on an animal to what types of CORE vaccines each animal needs.
Tuition – NY resident Tuition – $4,750/per year; OOS – $5350/per year
Degree – Associate’s Degree in Applied Science
#3. SUNY Westchester Community College
These associate degree programs in veterinary technology are a starting point for a career in vet med. Whether you stay working as a vet tech or move onto a more advanced degree, the choice is yours.
Through a program like this, you will gain clinical skills under supervision. In particular, being confident in your clinical skills will pay off in the long run.
Tuition – NY resident Tuition – $4,730/per year; OOS – $11770/per year
Degree – Associate’s Degree in Applied Science
#4. SUNY Ulster Vet Tech Program
Although SUNY Ulster is not one of the AVMA CVTEA-Accredited 4 year programs, you can still earn a degree and then take the VTNE exam. You do not need to graduate from an approved school to work as a vet tech.
In particular, the SUNY Ulster vet tech program will prepare you for the VTNE test while providing hands-on, real-world veterinary technician experience.
Tuition – NY resident Tuition – $4,880/per year; OOS – $9760/per year
Degree – Associate’s Degree in Applied Science
#5. SUNY College Of Technology At Canton
SUNY at Canton is an accredited vet tech school, and they have been helping students get certified since the 1970s. More importantly, SUNY will walk you through the process of finding work as a veterinary technician. While in school at SUNY Canton you will gain hands-on experience and be placed into a preceptorship.
Tuition – NY resident Tuition – $7070/per year; OOS – $11,000/per year
Degree – Associate’s Degree in Applied Science
#6. SUNY Alfred State College of Technology
With a 93.5% VTNE pass rate, you know you are in good hands at this accredited New York vet tech college. One of the great vet schools in New York where you can graduate and head straight into the workforce.
More importantly, the degree also allows you to continue to bigger and better things, like advanced degrees (f you choose). Many of the graduating students at Alfred transfer to Cornell or Purdue to continue in the animal sciences.
Tuition – NY resident Tuition – $7070/per year; OOS – $11,000/per year
Degree – Associate’s Degree in Applied Science
#7. Suffolk County Community College
Keep in mind that the need for certified vet techs is vital in 2022. For example, the ever-growing pet population requires veterinary technicians to assist veterinarians in their clinical practices.
In particular veterinary technicians also find themselves working in biomedical research, supporting the humane care of animals. Moreover, there is an increasing demand for qualified veterinary professionals, and you are almost guaranteed job security!
Tuition – NY residents $5470/year; Out of State $10,940/year (not including room and board or books)
Degree – Associate’s Degree in Applied Science
Colleges With Pre-Vet Programs In NY
You don’t need to attend a school that has a dedicated pre-veterinary program (like the ones below). Most veterinary schools want to see diverse candidates, so don’t think you won’t get in because your school didn’t have a pre-vet program.
You can choose from many colleges in New York that offer great pre-veterinary programs! However, as long as you get the required classes for whatever veterinary college you want to apply to, you will be ok.
Additionally, attend whatever undergrad college is cheapest, try to maintain a high GPA, and work on gaining animal experience hours. You can get into vet schools in New York by following the vet school pre-requisite requiremnents.
There are plenty of pre-vet internships out there; it might take a bit of digging around to find them.
Pre-Veterinary Programs in New York
Hunter NYC – Check Website
Adelphi University Long Island – Check Website
SUNY Oneonta – Check the Website
NYU NYC – Check Website
Cornell Ithica – Check Website
Vet Schools In New York With Wildlife Programs
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Suny Veterinary Schools (Vet Tech)
#1. Alfred State College of Technology
#2. Canton State University at New York
#3. Delhi State University of New York
#4. Genesee Community College
#5. Suffolk County Community College
#6. Ulster County Community College
#7. Westchester Community College
Veterinary Assistant Programs – Vet Schools in New York
Hudson Valley Community College
Frequently Asked Questions About Vet Schools In New York
What’s the Average Tuition for Veterinary Colleges in New York?
The average tuition for vet schools in New York where you earn a DVM, ranges from $59,000 to $80,000. As far as vet tech school goes, the average depends on if you are an in-state student or out of state. For example; for NY residents, a vet tech school will average between $4,700 and $11,000.
Which are the Top 3 colleges of Veterinary Medicine in NY?
There are only 2 colleges in NY where you can earn a DVM degree, Cornell and LIU. For example, Cornell University alongside Davis are two of the top veterinary schools in the country.
With this in mind, all of the other veterinary schools on our list are vet tech schools. However they are all good, and it’s best to choose the one that is the least expensive. More importantly, as long as you study smart, not hard, you will be able to pass your National VTNE exam.
How Many Veterinary Schools are in NY?
Firstly there are 2 veterinary schools where you can earn a Doctor of Veterinary medicine degree. Secondly, there are 5 veterinary technician colleges where you can earn a bachelor’s in veterinary science. Lastly, there are 7 schools for you to earn an Associate’s degree in the vet tech field.
What is the Average GPA to get into Veterinary School?
Keep in mind that most veterinary schools nowadays do not have a lower GPA limit because they are trying not to limit themselves when choosing applicants. In other words on average most students who get into veterinary schools have between a 3.3 and 3.8 GPA
Does SUNY have a Vet School?
Cornell is a private Ivy League school that is partnered with the State University of NY (SUNY). In other words, the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine is part of the SUNY school system.
Final Thoughts on Vet Schools In New York
So, if you are looking for a veterinary school in the Northeast United States, New York is definitely a great place to check out. With one vet school upstate and another on Long Island, you have plenty of options to choose from.
And don’t forget, both programs offered by these schools are just as long as any other veterinary program across the country. In other words, if you want to become a DVM or a vet tech, there is certainly a program for you in the Empire State.
Further Reading
Do you want a list of vet schools in California too? We can help!
