Veterinary Pathology

Veterinary Pathology at Iowa State University offers a comprehensive and rigorous graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in diagnostic, research, and academic settings. This program emphasizes the study of disease mechanisms in animals, integrating clinical pathology, anatomic pathology, and laboratory techniques to provide a thorough understanding of disease diagnosis and investigation. Students enrolled in this program will engage in extensive training that combines coursework, research projects, and practical laboratory experiences under the supervision of experienced faculty members. The curriculum focuses on developing diagnostic skills, understanding disease processes at cellular and tissue levels, and applying this knowledge to improve animal health and welfare. The program also provides opportunities for specialization in areas such as infectious diseases, toxicologic pathology, and neoplastic diseases, aligning with current trends and advancements in veterinary medicine and biomedical research. Graduates of the Veterinary Pathology program at Iowa State University are well-equipped to pursue careers in academic research, industry, government agencies, or diagnostic laboratories, contributing significantly to the fields of veterinary medicine, comparative pathology, and biomedical sciences. The university's state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative environment foster an ideal setting for innovative research and professional growth. Students benefit from mentorship and collaboration with faculty who are recognized experts in their respective fields. Overall, the Veterinary Pathology program aims to cultivate highly skilled professionals dedicated to advancing animal health, understanding disease processes, and contributing to scientific discovery through rigorous education and research excellence.

General Information on the MS Degree in Veterinary Pathology

• Foreign language requirement determined by student's program of study (POS) committee.
• Graduate English Examination required by the Graduate College.
• MS thesis requires 30 graduate credits.
• MS nonthesis requires 40 graduate credits (10 credits from outside department).
• MS nonthesis requires a minimum of 3 credits of Creative Component Research (VPTH 599).
• PhD requires 72 graduate credits (12 credits from outside major field).

Course Requirements for the M.S. thesis or nonthesis

MS Thesis

• Surgical Pathology Lab (550) 1 Cr
• Pathology Case Seminar (604) 2 Cr
• Vet Clinical Pathology
• Pathology Case Seminar (604) 2 Cr
• Clinical Pathology Lab (549) 2 Cr
• Veterinary Toxicology
• Principles of Toxicology (TOX 501) 3 Cr
• Veterinary Parasitology
• Diagnostic Parasitology Lab (548) 2 Cr
• Veterinary Parasitology (576) 4 Cr

MS Non-Thesis

• Surgical Pathology Lab (550) 1 Cr
• Creative Component Research (599) 3 Cr
• Pathology Case Seminar (604) 3 Cr
• Veterinary Parasitology
• Diagnostic Parasitology Lab (548) 5 Cr
• Veterinary Parasitology (576)*** 4 Cr
• Creative Component Research (599) 3 Cr
• Pathogenesis of Persistent Infections (660) 2 Cr

*Requirements for VPTH 570 and VPTH 571 may be waived by the department chairperson for students with residency training or ACVP certification; test-out is also available on request.
**Credits are additional to those listed under general requirements.
***Not available for graduate credit to students who are dually enrolled in DVM and graduate programs.

• Iowa State requires a degree it considers comparable to a US bachelor’s or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university prior to beginning graduate studies. (For foreign institutions, that would be recognition by the Ministry of Education.) 
• Our graduate application form is only available online. The $100 application fee for international students is nonrefundable. If you prefer not to pay the application fee by credit card, you may complete and print the online application, and attach your personal check. All checks should be in US dollars and made payable to Iowa State University.
• Grade Point Average (GPA)
• Statement of Purpose
• Online Recommendations
• Internet Based TOEFL (iBT) 79, Paper-Based TOEFL (PBT) 550
• IELTS 6.5
• Graduate Records Examination (GRE)
• Financial Statement

The Veterinary Pathology program at Iowa State University of Science and Technology offers a comprehensive and competitive financing structure designed to support graduate students throughout their educational journey. Funding opportunities include assistantships, fellowships, grants, and tuition waivers, which are aimed at attracting highly qualified applicants and promoting research excellence. Teaching and research assistantships are typically available, providing students with stipends in addition to tuition remission. These assistantships often require students to assist faculty with coursework, laboratory work, or research projects, thereby gaining valuable professional experience. Fellowships and competitive awards are also accessible for outstanding students demonstrating academic excellence and research potential, offering additional financial support without work obligations. The university’s financial aid office provides detailed guidance regarding application procedures, eligibility criteria, and deadlines, ensuring prospective students can explore all available funding avenues. International students are encouraged to apply for various scholarships and assistantship opportunities, though additional eligibility criteria may apply. The program emphasizes a supportive financial environment that allows students to focus on their studies and research without undue financial burden. Tuition fees are reviewed annually, and students are advised to stay informed of any changes. Students are also encouraged to pursue external funding sources such as private foundations and professional organizations related to veterinary medicine and pathology. Overall, the financing options at Iowa State University are structured to ensure that students enrolled in the Veterinary Pathology program can access necessary financial resources to complete their graduate degrees successfully, fostering a strong academic and research community dedicated to advancing veterinary science.

The Veterinary Pathology program at Iowa State University is a comprehensive graduate-level curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in veterinary medicine, research, and academia. The program emphasizes the study of disease processes in animals, including the morphological, pathological, and biochemical changes associated with various diseases. Students gain a deep understanding of disease mechanisms, diagnostics, and the application of pathology in clinical and research settings.

The curriculum typically includes coursework in diagnostic pathology, comparative pathology, and laboratory techniques, alongside training in histology, cytology, and microbiology. Advanced laboratory skills are emphasized, often including hands-on experience with tissue microscopy, specimen handling, and diagnostic procedures. Students also have opportunities to participate in research projects that contribute to the understanding of animal diseases, which may include infectious diseases, neoplastic conditions, metabolic disorders, and other pathological conditions affecting domestic and wild animals.

The program may involve coursework and training in veterinary laboratory diagnostics, which are crucial for accurate disease identification and control. Faculty members are experts in various fields of veterinary pathology, providing mentorship and supervision throughout the program. The program aims to produce graduates equipped to serve as diagnostic pathologists in veterinary practices, research institutions, government agencies, and pharmaceutical companies.

Graduates of the Veterinary Pathology program often pursue careers as diagnostic pathologists in veterinary laboratories, academic researchers, or specialists in pathology within the veterinary medical community. The program typically collaborates with affiliated veterinary colleges and research facilities, providing students with access to cutting-edge resources and a network of professionals in the field.

While specific details such as program duration, admission requirements, and specific concentrations may vary, the program's goal remains to develop highly skilled veterinary pathologists capable of advancing animal health and contributing to scientific knowledge through research and diagnostic expertise. Opportunities for internships, externships, or collaborative research projects are integral parts of the curriculum, giving students practical experience in real-world diagnostic and research environments.

Overall, the Veterinary Pathology program at Iowa State University is designed to foster a rigorous academic environment, emphasizing scientific inquiry, practical skills, and professional development, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in veterinary pathology and related fields.