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Pathways to Veterinary Nursing

No matter what stage of life you are in, there's always something you can do to prepare for a career in veterinary nursing.

Have you already decided that you would like to become a veterinary nurse? You are not alone! Many students decide at an early age that veterinary medicine is their heart's desire.

How can you begin preparing? One day you will be asked to write down all of your experiences in working with animals. The best way to do this is by keeping a journal of all the things you do and the amount of time (dates, hours, etc.) you spend doing them. In that way, you will have a jump start on everyone else.

If you are planning your high school schedule, you are strongly encouraged to complete four years each of:

  • English Composition
  • Mathematics
  • Laboratory Sciences

Other electives to round out your educational experience are dependent upon your own interests and the requirements of the college/university to which you seek admission.

If you are interested in a career in veterinary nursing and are now planning your high school schedule, you must meet the following admissions requirements set by the Purdue Office of Admissions.

For questions on admissions requirements and procedures, contact the Purdue University Office of Admissions:

Office of Admissions
Schleman Hall of Student Services
475 Stadium Mall Drive
West Lafayette, IN 47907-0544
admissions@purdue.edu

In addition, it is suggested that you participate in activities that help you research and experience any career; but specifically for Veterinary Nursing, we recommend:

  • General animal: 4-H animal projects, humane society, zoo, racetrack, livestock farm, etc.
  • Veterinary work: hands-on work under the supervision of a veterinarian or credentialed veterinary technician/nurse

If you are a current student at Purdue University in a major other than Veterinary Nursing and wish to change majors or learn about the Veterinary Nursing major, see the Purdue Change of Degree Option (CODO) Page 

Students who previously attended Purdue West Lafayette campus follow slightly different application procedures. Apply to Purdue as a re-entry or re-entry Post–Baccalaureate (if you completed a Purdue degree) student. For more information, visit Purdue Admission's Re-entry website.

Complete the Office of Admissions Transfer Student Checklist by March 1.

For questions on transfer admissions requirements and procedures, contact the Purdue University Office of Admissions.

Office of Admissions
Schleman Hall of Student Services
475 Stadium Mall Drive
West Lafayette, IN 47907-0544
admissions@purdue.edu