Accelerated BS/DVM Pathway Program (APP)

A 3+4 collaboration between Rowan University’s College of Science & Mathematics and Shreiber School of Veterinary Medicine

In keeping with Rowan University’s strategic pillars of access, affordability, quality, and economic engine, the Shreiber School of Veterinary Medicine, in collaboration with the College of Science and Mathematics, is proud to offer an Accelerated Pathway (3+4) Program for an early admission accelerated BS/DVM degree. This selective program provides eligible students the opportunity to enter an accelerated course of study allowing them to complete a Bachelor of Science degree at the College of Science and Mathematics and earn early admission to the Shreiber School of Veterinary Medicine.

Students admitted to this program will spend three years as undergraduate students enrolled in a BS in Biological Sciences with a Pre-Vet Concentration. In their fourth year, students who have completed the program requirements will enter a reserved seat in the first year of the DVM program. At the conclusion of year 4, students will have satisfied the requirements of the BS degree. Those who successfully complete the next three years of the DVM program (years 5, 6, and 7) will be awarded the DVM degree. Each year, between six and ten (6-10) incoming undergraduate students at the College of Science and Mathematics will be admitted to the program.

The APP is supported by the Rowan University Office of Pre-Health Programs, which offers one-on-one student advising on coursework and preparation for the veterinary school application process.

Criteria for Eligibility

To be eligible to apply to this program, students must:

• Have a minimum high school GPA of 3.5
• Be a New Jersey resident

 Program Description

• Students selected for the 3+4 program will complete three years of undergraduate coursework and program benchmarks, including gaining applicable experience to prepare them for the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program.
• During the third undergraduate year, students who have met the 3+4 program requirements will be invited for an interview with the SSVM Admissions Committee. Requirements include maintaining a 3.7 cumulative GPA and 3.5 science GPA, meeting regularly with the designated 3+4 Program Advisor, and gaining diverse veterinary experience.
• A seat will be reserved in the DVM program for those admitted to the 3+4 program. Upon successful completion of all program requirements and a second and final interview, the applicant would enter the DVM program in the fall after their third year of their undergraduate program.
• Upon completion of their first year of the DVM program, remaining credits for their Bachelor’s degree would be fulfilled and the Bachelor’s degree would be conferred.

Application Requirements

NOTE: The application process for the 2024-2025 academic year is currently being updated and some requirements listed below are subject to change.

To complete the application process students will be required to submit:

• A resume that includes evidence of service-learning or employment in animal-related or veterinary
  experiences – examples include, but are not limited to, animal care in clinics, retail, shelters,
  kennels, barns, sanctuaries, aquariums, agricultural experiences, and research – Note: personal pet ownership is not applicable.
• Evaluations by two references who can speak to the student’s animal-related or veterinary
  experiences.
• Answers to questions about the student’s motivation to become a veterinarian, and what makes them a good candidate for SSVM.
  
  Successful applicants will be invited to interview with the Admissions Committee at SSVM.

*The DVM program is in the process of obtaining accreditation by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education.  Accreditation is necessary prior to admission of DVM students. We anticipate a launch of the DVM program in fall 2025, pending accreditation approval. Ultimate admission to the DVM program is contingent on the school’s successful completion of the accreditation process.

Undergraduate Program Semester Requirements

• Meet each semester with their CSM academic program advisor and their SSVM advisor to ensure semester/program requirements are being met.
• Join the Pre-Vet Club and attend at least 75% of regular club meetings and participate in service-learning opportunities. Leadership positions are strongly encouraged.
• Demonstrate exposure to non-veterinary opportunities across the performing and creative arts, culture, or other aesthetic experiences; written reflection required.
• Participate in at least one (1) additional club or service-learning organization (campus or non-
  campus); written reflection required.
• Report semester grades within 30 days of final grade receipt to CSM academic program advisor; students receiving any grade below a B- are required to meet in-person.
• Maintain a 3.7 cumulative GPA and 3.5 science GPA.

Undergraduate Program Yearly Requirements: 

• A total of 40 hours or more in experiential learning relevant to veterinary medicine across two (2) distinct areas each year. One (1) experience must be working alongside a veterinarian in a clinical setting.
• A total of 30 hours of volunteering and service learning within a self-selected organization.

Requirements for entry into DVM program:

• Maintain a cumulative 3.7 GPA or higher and a 3.5 GPA for science and math courses.
• All science prerequisites must be completed at Rowan University.
• Complete a minimum of 120 hours in veterinary related experiences across four (4) distinct areas of veterinary medicine (small animal clinical practice, equine clinical practice, food-animal clinical practice, mixed clinical practice, shelter medicine, public health, research) prior to entry into the DVM program.
• Complete portfolio documenting all program requirements (semester and yearly) and advisor meetings.
• Submit three (3) letters of recommendation. One letter must be from a veterinarian, one must be from a faculty member, and the third may be from any non-relative.
• Satisfactory interview with SSVM admissions committee.