DVM Curriculum
The degree, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from UC Davis, is awarded by the School upon successful completion of all curricular course work and clinical training. The DVM program is built on 104 weeks of didactic coursework and 54 weeks of clinical experiences.
DVM CURRICULUM
The curriculum has been designed for the adult learner and fosters the development of critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills within a comprehensive foundation of biomedical and clinical experiential learning.
The curriculum is under the purview of the faculty of the School of Veterinary Medicine. The curriculum is reviewed and refined on an annual basis to ensure that graduates meet appropriate academic and professional standards.
The curriculum provides all students with a comparative approach integrating normal and abnormal anatomy and physiology centered on body systems rather than disciplines. Recognizing that students learn in different ways, it utilizes a variety of methodologies such as problems, cases, lectures, small groups discussions and laboratories. It is learner-centered allowing students to take ownership of their education and designed such that students are allotted time to work in small groups researching information and solving problems. Starting in the first weeks of school, students learn foundational skills of animal handling and restraint, physical examination in core species and blood collection and injection sites. One day every three weeks in years 1 and 2, students are partnered with year 4 students in the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, where they learn to be veterinarians by applying their knowledge and skills.
Technology is supported and valued throughout the curriculum. All students will use a laptop computer or tablet to allow delivery of on-line content and on-line assessment of student knowledge and understanding. Learning modules and “how-to” videos provide students with important learning resources as well as allowing students to develop life-long learning skills.
Additional opportunities include the STAR program, which provides a supportive environment for students to explore and experience research in an established laboratory, international summer externships where students study and travel abroad, and summer clinics with opportunities to hone knowledge and competencies working with specialty veterinarians in the VMTH.