Please note: The Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine reserves the right to alter its curriculum to address evolving college goals and resources.
Credit Requirements for Classes of 2027-2029
Total credits first year - 51.5
Total credits second year - 55
Didactic credits third year - 34
Clinical credits third/fourth year - 84
Total for program completion - 224.5
Credit Requirements for Class of 2030
Total credits first year - 51
Total credits second year - 55
Didactic credits third year - 34
Clinical credits third/fourth year - 84
Total for program completion - 224
The College of Veterinary Medicine curriculum at Midwestern University is an in-person training experience and students are expected to be present and active participants during all four years of the program. Distance education is used sparingly throughout the curriculum and is intended to supplement, not displace, in-person learning experiences. Courses utilizing distance education are indicated by an * and require technology with internet connectivity and web browser capabilities. All distance education platforms are provided for current students through the University Portal and technology support is available through Information Technology Services. Current students should refer to course syllabi for additional information, including course instructional methodologies, schedules, assessments, and expectations.
First Year
Fall Quarter
Winter Quarter
Spring Quarter
Second Year
Fall Quarter
Winter Quarter
Spring Quarter
Third Year
Fall Quarter
Winter Quarter
Upon entering the clinical program, students must choose a clinical track, either small animal, small animal internship, general mixed animal, or mixed animal with a focus in either equine, farm animal, or zoo animal. Scheduling of all rotations is overseen by the Director of Clinical Education.
The clinical phase of the curriculum consists of five quarters that run continuously beginning in the spring quarter of the third year. During the clinical program, students must complete a total of 84 credits. This will include 48 credits of required/core rotations and 36 credits of elective rotations for small animal track options. Of these elective credits, 12 must be in small animal general practice. For general mixed animal track, this will include 60 credits of required/core rotations and 24 credits of elective rotations. For mixed animal track with a focus area, this will include 54 credits of required/core rotations, 6 credits of selectives in their focus area, and 24 credits of elective rotations. In general, blocks are two weeks in length. During certain times when clinic hours are limited, three-week blocks may be used. Students are awarded three credits for each block, regardless of length.
Breaks/Vacation
Students have two blocks available for vacation during the clinical program. One occurs over the winter quarter and the other will vary, but can only be taken during a 2-week block. Vacation time cannot be scheduled during required rotations. Time-off requests must follow the policies set forth in the current Clinical Year Guidebook.
Elective Clinical Courses (Rotations)
To be eligible for academic credit, an externship rotation must be planned with and approved by the Director of Clinical Education and the Clinical Education Team.