2013/2014 Course Catalog - University of Missouri - College of ...

Frequently Asked QuestionsQDoes attending MUfor undergraduatecoursework provide anyadvantage to attendinganother in–state institution?There is no advantage in selectingMizzou for undergraduate workcompared to other in-state institutions.There are many reasons for selectingan undergraduate institution: financialconsiderations, location, academics,all of which are necessary factorsin the decision-making process.One should choose an institutionbased on academic needs and futurecareer endeavors. There are variousundergraduate curricula that providequality educational preparedness for aveterinary program — some are moreextensive in terms of preparation thanothers. Prospective students shouldchoose an academic institution basedon a curriculum that provides sufficientexposure and the necessary preparationpursuant to that profession.QIs animal science the bestmajor in preparationfor competitive applicationand admission into aveterinary program?An animal science degree does notgive any advantage in admissions.Animal science is not necessarilythe best, most suitable course ofadvance preparation for competitiveapplication and subsequent admissioninto a veterinary program.Traditionally, animal science wasthe major field of study for veterinarymedicine. However, it is no longer thepredominant major or degree held byundergraduates entering the College ofVeterinary Medicine. There are otherrelated preparatory fields of study, suchas biological sciences, biochemistryand chemistry, that qualify as pertinentto entrance into a veterinary program.A pragmatic approach is to select amajor conducive to achieving the bestpossible academic performance that isalso applicable to veterinary medicineand relevant to the academic evaluation.A significant percentage of applicantsare not admitted into a veterinaryprogram. Therefore, it would best servethe interests of all applicants to select amajor based on their academic interestswith subsequent career implicationsrelated to that field of study.QDo I have to take theMCAT or GRE?Students applying to the University ofMissouri College of Veterinary Medicinemust submit their score from either theGRE or the MCAT.QHow much weight oremphasis is placedon my GRE score?A student must achieve the minimumGRE to apply and the GRE is givenfour academic points in the calculationsfor academic evaluation (4 percent oftotal points).QIs a bachelor’s degreerequired to be admittedinto a veterinary program?Completion of an undergraduate degreeis not required in order to apply or tobe admitted into the MU CVM. Thereare prerequisite course requirementsthat must be completed in order to beinitially eligible to apply.QHow much emphasis isplaced on shadowingand experience?There is considerable emphasis placedon the accumulation and quality ofshadowing experience. The extent of anapplicant’s experience reflects on theirknowledge about the profession, depthof that knowledge, motivation, trustand reliability, attention to detail, abilityto listen, ability to receive and applyconstructive criticism as well as theiroverall persistence.QWhen should a prospectivestudent begin thenecessary preparation forbecoming an applicant toa veterinary program?Students seeking admission into aprofessional veterinary curriculum beginat a variety of stages. Some begin inhigh school, others in college. However,the latest trends show a significantnumber of prospective students start theprocess as early as junior high school.4TEACHING. HEALING. DISCOVERY. SERVICE.