Veterinary Science

The Veterinary Science major is a CTE pathway from the Agricultural Education career cluster. Agricultural Education is a program for middle and high school students interested in pursuing careers in natural resources and environmental and agricultural careers. The Veterinary Science major teaches students plant and animal science basics, including scientific research and development and agriculture's role in society. The major is a hands-on program designed for students who enjoy working with plants and animals. It includes topics such as animal care and handling, veterinarian medicine, floriculture, greenhouse management, and animal nutrition. 

Required Courses

Agricultural Science and Technology

The Agricultural Science and Technology course teaches essential concepts and understanding related to plant and animal life including biotechnology, the conservation of natural resources, and the impact of agriculture and natural resource utilization on the environment. Emphasis is placed on the role of agriculture in our society and the importance of agriculture to the welfare of the world. Basic personal and community leadership and safety and agricultural mechanical technology are included as a part of the instructional program. Each student is required to design and participate in a supervised agricultural experience. This is a required course for this major. 

Farm Animal Production

Farm Animal Production teaches technical knowledge and skills for entry-level positions in an animal production enterprise by developing students’ competency in the selection, breeding, physiology, nutrition, health, housing, feeding, and marketing of farm animals. Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences with the principles and practices essential in the production and management of farm animals and farm animal products for economic, recreational, and therapeutic uses; participating in personal and community leadership development activities; planning and implementing a relevant work-based learning transition experience; and participating in Future Farmers of America (FFA) activities. This is a required course for this major. 

Small Animal Care

The Small Animal Care course is designed to teach technical knowledge and skills for occupations in the pet industry or the companion animal industry. Skills also relate to the veterinarian or the veterinarian technician career field. This is a required course for this major. 

Introduction to Veterinary Science

In this advanced animal science course, students will explore the field of veterinary medicine. Students will study the role of a veterinarian and veterinary technician in the diagnosis and treatment of animal diseases. Topics to be discussed include: veterinary terminology, anatomy and physiology, pathology, genetics, handling and restraint, and physical examinations along with common surgical skills. Students will engage in a variety of laboratory activities and will participate in shadowing and/or other work-based learning experiences. This is a required course for this major. 

Optional 4th Course

Agricultural Mechanics and Technology

The Agricultural Mechanics and Technology course is designed as an introductory course to the Agriculture Mechanics Career Pathway. In addition, it provides development of general mechanical skills, which are required in all areas of Agricultural Education. Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences in woodworking, metalworking, welding, small engine repair, basic farm and homestead improvements, participating in personal and community leadership development activities, planning and implementing a relevant work-based learning transition experience, and participating in Future Farmers of America (FFA) activities.