Careers/Practice Building

The Business of Veterinary Medicine

It’s safe to say that most veterinarians don’t pursue their career paths because they want to handle the responsibilities and duties associated with running a practice; most veterinarians are veterinarians because they enjoy science and love caring for animals. Reality is, however, there are a number of business-related skills required to operate a successful veterinary practice and excel in most other career paths in the field of veterinary medicine. To help MSU CVM graduates not only be prepared to handle the business side of their careers, but to excel in them, MSU CVM offers CVM 5692—Veterinary Medicine: The Art of Practice and Business Management. This two-week, elective course for third- and fourth-year DVM students is designed specifically to teach new graduates to be comfortable handling subjects outside of the academics and science of veterinary medicine.

Multiple studies conducted by the American Veterinary Medical Association and Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges have illustrated the need for non-technical skills to be taught in vet school, as future employers of newly graduated veterinarians expect them to have these skills. This course is one component of an overall effort to ensure MSU CVM graduates enter the profession as ‘day-one-ready’ practitioners. Additional research has also shown that graduates with a higher business acumen have higher starting salaries, are more satisfied with their jobs and have better control over their long-term debt.

Topics addressed in the course cover everything from employment economics, communications and profitable pricing to inventory control, contract negotiation and conflict management. Class assignments include preparing a budget, creating a resume and cover letter and evaluating a job contract. These are just a few of the many skills graduates need to have command of outside of the realm of actual patient care, and our goal through this course is to help MSU CVM graduates have the skills they need to successfully navigate the transition from training to be a veterinarian to actually practicing as a veterinarian.

The course features speakers with diverse backgrounds from several different companies and organizations, providing a variety of approaches and perspectives for students. According to Mark Opperman with Veterinary Management Consultation, Inc., who presents a lecture addressing veterinary business management and client perception of value to the class each year, a number of veterinary colleges offer a business course; however, MSU CVM’s class is very comprehensive and practical. Dr. Eric Linn, who works for Nutramax Laboratories, and is another of the class’s regular presenters, said the class is a vital part of ensuring successful entry into ‘the real world.’ The segment he presents covers alternative career paths in veterinary medicine, which is an important consideration, not only because there are a wealth of opportunities in the field outside of traditional practice, but also because very few people stay in the exact same job for their entire career. It’s important for graduates to know what their options are so they can pursue the type role that is the best fit.

The College would not be able to offer this caliber course without the support of sponsors such as Nutramax Laboratories, Purina, Zoetis, CareCredit, AVMA and numerous others and is very grateful for their assistance helping defer the expense of providing it.

Annual Career Expo Connects Grads and Employers

MSU CVM hosts a career expo annually to provide MSU CVM Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and veterinary medical technology students the opportunity to connect with potential employers from across the country. 

The CVM Career Expo has grown by leaps and bounds since its inception. Last year, there were 60 employers represented, and over 300 DVM and VMT students participated. Representatives from various types of practice settings across the United States have been on site to recruit students for internships and externships as well as full-time position after graduation. 

Feedback from employers and vendors participating in the event indicates they find it a worthwhile experience, with an employer commenting, "The students were earnest, genuine and engaged. They asked questions and went to all the vendors. I was impressed!" 

Please direct general Expo questions to: Ms. Robin Graves - r.graves@msstate.edu; 662-325-8603 or 662-325-1351. 

In addition to the opportunities presented to MSU CVM students, participating practices and organizations were invited to attend a presentation on the expectations of today's VMT and DVM graduated while enjoying a complimentary lunch. As part of the day's activities, employers and vendors were given the option to tour the Animal Health Center as well. 

If you’re an MSU CVM student actively searching for a job, a veterinarian in private practice looking to expand your staff, or if you’re working with an organization seeking new veterinary graduates, mark your calendar and plan to attend!

Student Salary, Educational Debt Load, and Employment Data

Starting Mean Salary for MSU CVM Graduates by Practice Type

Mean DVM Educational Debt (for those with debt)

Acceptance Prior to Graduation

Employment within One Year of Graduation