Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine (MSU Vet)

The Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine (MSU CVM) stands as a premier institution dedicated to the advancement of veterinary science and the training of future animal health professionals. Established by an act of the Mississippi Legislature in 1974, the college welcomed its inaugural class during the 1977-78 academic year. For nearly five decades, the institution has remained committed to producing highly skilled veterinary professionals through a rigorous and hands-on educational approach.

Core Mission and Facilities

Located on a sprawling 40-acre campus in Starkville, Mississippi, the college is primarily housed within the Wise Center. This facility is unique in its design, integrating classrooms, laboratories, and a fully operational animal hospital under one roof. The flagship Animal Health Center (AHC) serves as a critical hub for the college, providing essential emergency and referral care for both large and small animal species. This onsite clinical environment is central to the college's mission, ensuring that students gain extensive, real-world experience that prepares them for immediate professional practice upon graduation.

Training and Academic Programs

The MSU CVM distinguishes itself through a high-intensity clinical training model. Students benefit from unparalleled access to surgical instruction, with many graduates having performed 90 or more surgeries before completing their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree—a figure that significantly exceeds the national average. In addition to the DVM program, the college offers a diverse range of academic pathways, including:

• Undergraduate degrees in Veterinary Medical Technology (VMT).
• Advanced graduate-level programs of study.
• Specialized diagnostic and research initiatives.

Research and Outreach

Beyond its primary campus, the college oversees the Mississippi Veterinary Diagnostic and Research Laboratory system, which operates across multiple locations in Starkville, Pearl, and Stoneville. Furthermore, the institution extends its expertise to the Mississippi Gulf Coast through the Gulf Coast Aquatic Lab, focusing on conservation and the health of marine mammals. Through these diverse activities, the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine continues to serve as a vital resource for animal health, research, and veterinary education in the United States.