What degree must individuals earn to legally practice as a veterinarian in the United States?
Answer
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD)
To practice veterinary medicine legally in the United States, a professional must attain a specific advanced degree, which is either the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or the Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD). This rigorous education typically follows about four years of undergraduate study and encompasses four years of intensive professional training focusing on various aspects of animal health, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology across multiple species. Earning this degree is the foundational step required before proceeding to licensing examinations necessary for practice.

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