Doctor of Veterinary Science (DVSc)

The DVSc degree is offered in large animal surgery, small animal surgery, large animal medicine, small animal medicine, anesthesiology, cardiology, neurology, ophthalmology, radiology, emergency and critical care and companion animal nutrition depending upon availability. The program provides advanced academic preparation in both clinical training and research and is a unique post-professional doctoral-level degree. The DVSc differs from PhD training by emphasizing the development of both clinical research and applied skills in the various areas of clinical specialization appropriate for preparation for specialty Board certification.

Doctor of Veterinary Science positions are usually funded positions, and are usually advertised and selected through the American Association of Veterinary Clinicians' website at www.virmp.org which can be accessed in early October. The start date is early August. Occasionally specialty training positions become available and are advertised on our website and through appropriate veterinary channels.

The DVSc is currently an interdepartmental program and receives input from all academic departments in the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC):

• Biomedical Sciences
• Clinical Studies
• Pathobiology
• Population Medicine

Program Requirements

This program involves two-thirds of the time in applied clinical practice. and one-third of the time taking a minimum of five 0.5-credit graduate courses, conducting a research project related to the veterinary specialty, a written and oral qualifying exam to be taken before the end of the 6th semester, writing a thesis in a publication ready format, and a thesis defense in front of an examination committee. Candidates are required to develop investigative skills in their chosen area of specialization by carrying out an original study, generally related to animal health. The results of the research must make a significant contribution to the candidate's area of specialization and be written up as a thesis. Five graduate level courses are required.

Eligibility

We accept applications from qualified domestic and international students. International students do not require visa sponsorship to apply for a study permit.

Eligibility requirements:

• Graduate of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree program
• Minimum of Ontario Equivalent average of 'B' (73% minimum) or GPA 3.0/4.0 in a DVM program.
• Depending on the specialty a 12 month rotating or specialty internship in veterinary medicine or equivalent is required, as defined by the specialty board (ABVS).
• Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or study permit required.
• Licensure by College of Veterinarians of Ontario will be required after being matched.
• Protective rabies titre is required.
• Interest in performing an original research project with graduate degree.