Bachelor of Science in Biology
Pre-Veterinary
The Pre-Veterinary program prepares students for admission to veterinary school and animal-focused careers. Students build a strong foundation in biology and chemistry while gaining hands-on experience working with animals and exploring veterinary science.
Dig Deeper Into the program
Explore the coursework, hands-on experiences, and personalized advising that prepare you for veterinary school and a wide range of careers working with animals.
Degrees Offered
- Bachelors
Start Terms
- Fall or Spring
Program Format
- On-campus
- Select classes available online to provide added flexibility for students
Credit Hours & Timeline
- Total credits required: 120
- Typical completion time: 4 years
Prepare for veterinary school with a strong foundation in science and hands-on experience. The Pre-Veterinary curriculum builds the knowledge and skills needed for animal health and care.
- Strong foundation for careers in veterinary medicine or related fields
- Coursework in biology, chemistry and animal science fundamentals
- Hands-on lab and research experiences
- Preparation for veterinary school admission requirements
- Opportunities for animal-related experience and observation
Applicants for admission are evaluated based on the following criteria to gain full admission.
- High school record of cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. An applicant for a degree program must have graduated or will have graduated with 16 high school units from an accredited high school. The college preparatory program is strongly recommended to high school students. Ordinarily this program includes four years of English and two years of social studies, science, and mathematics.
- College/university record of cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, if applicable.
Applicants who do not meet the following criteria and show potential for success may be reviewed for an alternate admissions pathway.
Students who have successfully completed the General Education Development Test (GED) and have not accumulated at least 12 collegiate level semester hours credit at a regionally accredited institution with a 2.5 GPA or better will follow the Alternate Admissions Pathway.
Applications open July 1 for the upcoming academic year. CSM follows a rolling admission process, reviewing applications as they are received. We encourage students to apply early for priority consideration for scholarships, housing, and financial aid.
The Mercy Core is CSM’s general education curriculum and the foundation of every degree. Rooted in the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy, it integrates ethics, reflection, and action to prepare women to lead with purpose and advance justice in their communities.
Tuition & Aid
Investing in your education is a big decision, and you do not have to navigate it alone. Every admitted full-time undergraduate student is guaranteed a merit scholarship, and CSM offers additional aid and personalized guidance to make your degree attainable. Our team will walk you through your options so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Your Roadmap to Admission
From application to enrollment, we guide you through each step with clarity and personal support so you can focus on what matters most and take the next step toward your future.
Why Choose CSM?
Focused Veterinary School Preparation
Coursework aligns with prerequisites for veterinary programs.
Hands-On Animal Experience
Opportunities to work with animals through internships and real-world settings.
Personalized Pre-Professional Advising
Faculty guide students through coursework, applications, and career planning.
Supportive Learning Environment
Small class sizes help students build confidence and strong academic performance.
Pre-Vet Career Opportunities
- Veterinary School (DVM pathway)
- Veterinary Technician or Assistant
- Animal Care or Shelter Management
- Wildlife or Conservation Support Roles
- Animal Research or Laboratory Technician
Pre-Vet By The Numbers
Year 1
Early Preparation
Begin building your experience in animal science from your first semester.
100+ Hours
Animal Care Experience
Build meaningful experience required for veterinary school applications.
1:1 Advising
Dedicated Pre-Vet Advisor
Receive one-on-one support for course planning and applications.
Accreditation
The Assurance of Accreditation
The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society. College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
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Wherever you’re starting from, we’ll help you build a future with confidence.