Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM)

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) stands as a cornerstone of animal health education in Peru. Officially established on March 11, 1946, the faculty traces its roots to the 1943 Escuela Militar de Ciencias Veterinarias and the Escuela Nacional de Agricultura y Veterinaria. Its integration into the UNMSM marked the formal beginning of university-level veterinary instruction in the country, establishing the institution as a premier center for academic excellence and scientific research.

Core Mission and Academic Structure

The faculty is dedicated to the advancement of veterinary science, with a primary focus on animal health, food safety, and the welfare of society. The undergraduate program in Veterinary Medicine spans six years, providing students with a rigorous curriculum designed to produce ethical professionals with a strong vocation for service. The institution emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, supported by modern infrastructure and specialized laboratories.

Research and Specialized Facilities

A defining feature of the faculty is its commitment to scientific inquiry, consistently ranking first in national research according to the Scimago ranking. Central to this research output is the Veterinary Institute for Tropical and High-Altitude Research (IVITA), which operates five specialized stations across Peru:

• IVITA El Mantaro: Located in Junín.
• IVITA Iquitos: Located in Loreto.
• IVITA Maranganí: Located in Cusco.
• IVITA Pucallpa: Located in Ucayali.
• IVITA Huaral: Located in Lima.

These stations serve as hubs for scientific investigation, ranging from the study of functional diets for aquatic species to broader veterinary clinical research. The faculty also maintains a strong international presence, facilitating student exchange programs with universities in Germany, Colombia, and Italy, ensuring that its graduates are prepared for the global demands of the veterinary profession.

Community and Professional Engagement

Beyond its academic programs, the faculty actively engages in professional development and community outreach. It hosts various events, including workshops on university accreditation and specialized congresses, such as the Peruvian Congress of Primatology. Through its commitment to research, clinical practice, and continuous education, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at UNMSM continues to lead the development of veterinary science in Peru, fostering a community of students, researchers, and professionals dedicated to the health and well-being of animals.