What exactly is a DVM MPH degree, and should you apply for a program? First, let’s cover what the acronym stands for; earning a DVM-MPH dual degree means getting the title of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine/Master of Public Health.
The MPH is a public health degree, while the DVM is obviously in veterinary medicine. The first thing you should consider before applying to a program is if you have the time to commit since it will take approximately 5-6 years to complete, which is longer than completing a DVM alone.
Those who earn a DVM/MPH degree will become educators and scientists on a global level. Your knowledge will put you at the forefront of public health policies while making changes in government. Effective communication is a big part of earning a DVM/MPH degree.
When Do DVM MPH Start?
Many DVM MPH degree programs start in the fall. A DVM MPH program will require you to take MPH classes in the fall, spring, and summer. A vet student can enter an MPH program after they enroll in veterinary school. This means that you don’t have to decide to complete a DVM MPH degree before getting into the veterinary program.
Each MPH program will allow you to apply a certain number of vet school credits towards the MPH degree. Applying coursework will give you a head start on your credits for the MPH program. Most MPH programs will begin in the third year of veterinary school.
For example, The Ohio State MPH program allows you to apply 12 credits of DVM electives towards the MPH degree. On the other hand, the University of Wisconsin- Madison only will enable you to use 8 DVM earned credits towards the MPH degree.
What Does MPH Mean After A Vet’s Name?
MPH stands for Master of Public Health. It means the veterinarian earned not only a DVM degree but a second Master’s degree in public health.
What Do MPH Programs Look For?
They look for well-rounded students who show that they can handle a rigorous academic schedule. You will need a competitive GPA, a bachelor’s degree, statistics and math courses complete, recommendations, and a passion for public health to be accepted into most programs.
What Kind of Work Does a Veterinarian Do With a DVM/MPH Degree?
Many veterinarians with a dual DVM/MPH degree gain employment with the federal government or academia. Many DVM/MPH vets work within the food safety section of the federal government. It’s also suitable for those looking to get into wildlife management with an emphasis on zoonotic diseases.
There are many unique employment opportunities for veterinarians with this dual degree.
You may also be interested to learn how Emily got into the DVM PHD program at the University of Minnesota.
What Are the Veterinary Schools That Offer DVM/MPH Programs?
Please check out our interview with Kate, an Iowa vet school student in the dual degree DVM/MPH program. Kate began the MPH program at the University of Arizona, and then once she got accepted to Iowa State, she applied for the dual degree DVM/MPH program. Kate says, “My plan was then, if I did not get in, I would finish my MPH at the University of Arizona.”
- The University of Pennsylvania (PENN vet)
- Auburn: you earn the MPH degree from the University of Alabama
What Kind of Classes Do You Take in A DVM/MPH Program?
If you excel in your DVM program, the MPH part of your degree will be much easier. You will take many classes focusing on projects and group work for the MPH side of the degree. The main thing you will need is time (to complete all of the required assignments and papers for the MPH).
Examples of Classes in a DVM/MPH program
DVM Side of the Degree
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Neuroanatomy
- Histology
- Parasitology
- Clinical Skills
MPH Side of the Degree
- Intro to Zoonotic Diseases
- Communicating in Public Health Effectively
- Policy and Public Health
- Biostatistics
- Global Environmental Health
How Many MPH Programs Are There in the US?
There are over 100 accredited public health programs in the US. However, if you are looking for a dual degree program where you can earn a DVM and MPH in 5-6 years, check out our list of schools that offer DVM/MPH programs above.
As of 2022, there are 15 veterinary colleges in the US where you can earn a dual DVM/MPH degree.
Final Thoughts for “What is a DVM MPH Degree? and Where to Apply to One?”
So there you have it! You now know a DVM MPH degree and where to apply for one. Veterinary school can be challenging, but with the addition of an MPH program, your education will be that much more well-rounded and impressive. Plus, you’ll be able to practice all those new public health skills when you start working as a veterinarian. We hope this article helped answer any questions you may have had about DVM MPH degrees.
Learn all about the Colorado State University PHD program from Nora doing a dual degree.