What steps do I need to take to become a marine mammal vet? From the reasearch that I’ve already done, I found that you can major in marine biology and then go to vet school. Is this the best option or is there another way that would be more beneficial? Also are there any double majors or minors that would contribute to this career? Thank you!
It is not necessary to major or minor in marine biology in order to gain entrance into vet school. If that is your interest, I would suggest an undergraduate school that offers this as a major. It is doable but rigorous to double major with a marine science track. You could probably fulfill at least one or two minors of your choice. It could be in the sciences, but vet schools want to see a well rounded student with interests outside of veterinary medicine. It is important to develop a relationship early with your pre-professional advisor who will assist with the necessary pre-reqs for vet school. Some vet schools have slightly different course requirements than others.
There are some vet schools that offer a marine science or aquatic science concentration in their 4th year clinical rotations. Most will offer externships and internships in the aquatic science field to their 3rd and 4th year students. Some vet schools will offer a dual DVM/MSc in marine medicine. You can always apply for a residency or fellowship in aquatic medicine following your DVM.
Important things to remember: vet school is expensive, attend an undergraduate program that will offer the lowest cost and where you will be able to attain the highest GPA you can, and has a strong pre professional mentor program with high acceptance rate to vet schools. Things Vet schools look for: high GPA, high GRE scores, completion of pre-reqs. Vet schools all have their own requirement for GPA in the hard sciences. Each school has their own rule for the numbers of hours students have worked in direct patient care, under the auspices of a veterinarian. They want a well rounded student with interests and leadership in the community outside of veterinary medicine. Look at the demographics of students accepted into the individual vet school programs. See what will make you the most attractive candidate to them.
Routes to vet school: Examine your own state school first. This will provide a good chance of acceptance as the state vet schools must fill a majority of the seats with instate students. It will more than likely be the least costly unless you receive large merit awards to private schools. There is also a BS/DVM route that will provide acceptance into the vet program if you fulfill the GPA requirements. These programs are very rigorous and very competitive. Some are a 3+3 yr program, others are 7 years. The other out of state and private 4 yr programs and dual degree programs.
Below is a link that will also answer your questions about vet schools that offer aquatic programs:
study.com/articles/MarineVeterinaryCollegesandSchoolsinthe_US.html
An undergraduate degree in marine science will prepare you well for vet school!