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Veterinary Medicine with Montana State University
Washington State University has partnered with regional universities to prepare future veterinarians since 1974.

Montana State University + Washington State University

Montana State University and Washington State University Cooperative Program in Veterinary Medicine.

Earn your Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree through a unique partnership between Washington State University and Montana State University. Start your veterinary education in Bozeman, Montana, and complete your degree at one of the top veterinary schools in the Pacific Northwest.

1+3 DVM program overview

The WSU-MSU veterinary program offers a collaborative 1+3 pathway to a DVM degree for a cohort of up to 16 students:

  • Year 1 at Montana State University (MSU) in Bozeman, Montana
  • Years 2–4 at Washington State University (WSU) in Pullman, Washington
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree awarded by WSU

This program is ideal for students seeking a veterinary school experience in Montana with access to top-tier faculty, hands-on learning, and outdoor lifestyle opportunities.

Students apply through the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS)—the centralized application system for accredited veterinary schools in the U.S—by choosing Washington State University.


Student with cattle

Electives focused on herd health and population medicine were especially valuable during my didactic years. The mentorship I’ve received through WSU’s regional program — both at Montana State University and WSU — have opened many doors and given me meaningful opportunities in production animal medicine. My experiences in feedlot medicine and agricultural population problem-solving have been the most impactful so far, and I’m especially excited to continue building my skills in advanced beef cattle medicine this fall.

Bailey Bailey (‘26 DVM)

Student with dog

First-year curriculum at Montana State University

Taught by MSU’s experienced faculty, the first-year veterinary curriculum includes:

  • Veterinary anatomy & histology
  • Physiology & neurology
  • Immunology & nutrition
  • General pathology
  • Professionalism & veterinary ethics
  • Introduction to clinical skills & surgery
Fun fact Did you know Bozeman is one of the few places where you can study veterinary medicine and spot elk on your morning hike?

Two WSU Veterinary students (L) talk with a patient about their cat's health.

Why study veterinary medicine at Montana State University?

Located in Bozeman, Montana, Montana State University offers:

  • A vibrant campus with 17,000 students
  • Montana’s largest public research university
  • A commitment to service, stewardship, and collaboration
  • Access to millions of acres of wilderness for hiking, skiing, and outdoor exploration


Dig Deeper

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Find more detailed information about admissions criteria, resources, and application support on the DVM Admissions Hub site.