Veterinary Science vs Veterinary Medicine: What’s the Difference?

For animal lovers looking to build a career helping our furry, feathered, and scaled friends, veterinary medicine is an obvious choice. However, you may be wondering whether to specialize in veterinary science or veterinary medicine. While these two fields have some overlap, there are important distinctions. This article will explain the key differences between veterinary science and veterinary medicine, from education and training to job duties and career outlook.

Educational Requirements

The first major difference between veterinary science and veterinary medicine lies in the educational paths required for each field,

To become a veterinarian (veterinary medicine), you must complete a 4-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) program at an accredited veterinary college Admission is highly competitive, typically requiring excellent grades in undergraduate science courses as well as extensive animal experience

In contrast, veterinary scientists do not need to attend veterinary school, but can complete a bachelor’s degree in animal science, zoology, biology, or a related scientific field. Some jobs or advanced research positions may require a master’s degree or PhD in veterinary science or a closely associated specialty.

Roles and Responsibilities

The day-to-day job duties also differ significantly between these two animal-focused careers

Veterinarians are hands-on medical doctors for animals. Their primary role is examining, diagnosing, and treating ill or injured pets, livestock, zoo animals, and wildlife. Veterinarians are licensed professionals who can prescribe medications. They offer preventive care such as vaccinations and dental cleanings, perform surgeries, and euthanize terminally ill animals. Besides clinical practice, vets may work in research, education, industry, or public health.

Meanwhile, veterinary scientists conduct research on animal health, diseases, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, growth, and more. They run lab tests and clinical trials, analyze data, publish scientific papers, and inform veterinary best practices. Some veterinary scientists have little to no direct contact with animals, working solely in a laboratory setting. However, others collaborate closely with vets and animal caretakers on ranches, in zoos, or in the field studying wildlife.

Work Settings

Due to these different roles, veterinarians and veterinary scientists find employment in some overlapping, but mostly distinct work environments.

Most veterinarians work in private clinical practices. They may treat small companion animals, horses, livestock, exotic pets, or a combination. Some vets work at animal hospitals, shelters, zoos, aquariums, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or in urban/rural areas tending to large farm animals. Government vets inspect livestock, oversee food safety, and serve public health.

Veterinary scientists are more likely to work in laboratories, academic research settings, pharmaceutical/biotech companies, or government agencies like the USDA or CDC. They may collaborate with vets in clinical trials or translational research. A few veterinary scientists work as consultants or technical advisors for pet food brands, zoos, and animal conservation organizations.

Career Outlook and Pay

Both veterinary medicine and veterinary science offer bright job prospects and competitive salaries. However, on average, licensed veterinarians earn higher wages than veterinary scientists.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% increase in veterinary jobs between 2020 and 2030, much faster growth than the national average for all occupations. Excellent job security and salaries draw many new graduates to this field.

The typical vet earns around $99,000 a year, although those working with large, farm, or exotic animals may earn significantly more. Veterinarians graduate with steep student debt from their 4-year programs, but most find the return on investment worthwhile.

Veterinary scientists earn a median annual wage of $69,000. Those with a PhD or in senior research or corporate roles may earn upwards of $100,000 per year. Research salaries are lower overall than clinical practice, but veterinary scientists avoid the high tuition debt.

Key Differences Summary

• Education – Veterinarians must complete a 4-year doctoral program while veterinary scientists can start working after a bachelor’s degree.

• Roles – Veterinarians directly care for animal patients while veterinary scientists conduct research.

• Work settings – Vets tend to work in clinics, hospitals, and zoos while veterinary scientists work in labs, universities, and corporations.

• Pay – Veterinarians earn a higher median wage, but also accrue more student debt.

Which Career Path is Right For You?

If you’re still torn between these two rewarding careers working with animals, consider your own skills, values, and professional goals.

Do you prefer performing hands-on medical care or designing experiments and analyzing data? Are you comfortable shouldering the costs and pressures of veterinary school? Would you thrive in a laboratory or office more than a clinic?

Clinical veterinary medicine offers constant interaction with animals in need. It’s ideal for those who want to directly save lives and bond with pets. Meanwhile, research veterinary science lets you indirectly improve animal welfare through your discoveries. It may better suit analytical, inquisitive minds who enjoy publishing papers.

Whichever path you choose, you’ll make a meaningful difference and find endless ways to satisfy your passion for animals. Listen to your heart and you can build an enriching career as either a veterinarian or veterinary scientist.