Michigan State University Reviews of Doctorates in Veterinary Science

"DO NOT COME TO THIS SCHOOL!!!!!!!!!! They have completely changed the curriculum and they DO NOT TEACH!!!! They have tried to copy other schools that are using "flipped" curriculums, but they have done very little preparation! They just implemented the new curriculum in Fall of 2018 and it is a COMPLETE DISASTER!!!! They do not teach the material, they are completely unorganized, and they constantly apologize and tell the students to "be patient" because they are just learning how to teach this way! Most of my classmates are completely fed up, frustrated, angry, and depressed. They do not do anything with our feedback. They have hired a person to oversee the new curriculum and she has never been to vet or medical school and does not know what she is doing! Do yourself a favor and find another school to go to, or you WILL be sorry."

"Michigan State University is a very large land grant school with many strong graduate and doctoral programs. I was drawn to the veterinary school for a number of reasons. First, the curriculum, faculty, and administration are world-renowned. In my opinion, this should not be a significant deciding factor in terms of selecting veterinary programs, though it is an attribute I want to point out . An important area that distinguishes Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine (MSU CVM) from the rest is the quality of education and unique opportunities the school offers. An crucial factor in assessing the quality of education of a program that is not often highlighted is whether students experience an inclusive and welcoming environment that best facilitates learning. The administration at MSU CVM work tirelessly to create just that-- a place where students spend time focusing on their studies rather than feeling out of place, isolated, etc. Any veterinary program that tells you it has achieved a perfect state of inclusion is likely not fully surveying their college, this task is far more difficult than putting up a few posters or changing a mission statement. Creating a culture where every member of the college is not only un-biased in their treatment of others but welcoming to those who are different than them requires training, intension, and resources. MSU CVM has come a long way in terms of curriculum review and preserving a safe learning environment, but they also recognize that there is more work to be done. It is important to me that a program recognizing areas for improvement as well as their successes and then takes action to strengthen areas of weakness. Despite already providing an above average quality of education to students, MSU CVM is taking great care to identify areas of improvement and acting purposefully to improve, never accepting complacency. The curriculum is constantly reevaluated to ensure students receive an education that is extensive yet relevant. Veterinary programs that only emphasize research rather than the teaching achievements of their faculty are resting on their laurels rather than ensuring students see a return on their investment. MSU CVM takes student input seriously and works to promptly incorporate feedback into next year's curriculum. The faculty and administration have a wide array of experiences in different areas of veterinary medicine which allows you to get to know non-traditional careers from someone who has actually done the job. Getting to know MSU CVM faculty means becoming connected with thousands of the top veterinary professionals all over the world. I have yet to find their connections lacking. Like many fields, "who you know" is more important than other qualities you can display on paper, like GPA, so the extensive network provided to you by the college is very rewarding. Overall I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to interact with such a fantastic group of peers and mentors who challenge and support me every day. Investing in my education at MSU CVM has been a very rewarding process."

"MSU CVM has access to some of the best facilities in the state for diagnosis and testing, as well as a newly improved emergency center. There is also a strong research background at the College. The student population is overwhelmingly female, but this is true of all US veterinary programs. In recent years MSU has had a larger male:female ratio than comparative programs. East Lansing has many places for entertainment and dining, especially since there is such a large undergraduate population nearby. Many people choose to live a little further away to avoid MSU's undergrads and have a quieter study environment; Okemos is a very nice community to the east. Financial aid can be applied for after each term through CVM, but even with high grades and financial need scholarships aren't guaranteed. This program is very expensive, even for in-state students."

"Parking on campus is expensive and the lots still require you to walk quite a distance and over train tracks to get to your destination. Parking is free after 6pm on weeknights and on weekends at the VMC. On campus housing for graduate students is not pet friendly. The undergraduates like to party just north of campus, so if you are looking for a quiet area, try further out. The veterinary school is located in the southeast section of campus. The anatomy lab is available 24/7 which has been extremely helpful for studying!"

"Wonderful faculty and support staff. Very much of a community feel. The three week clinical rotations are much to the advantage of the students. Top of the line medicine and diversity of caseload."