Pre-Veterinary Master’s Program
Discover your alternate pathway to a career as a practicing veterinarian and animal health leader.
Inquire NowPre-Veterinary Master’s Program Overview
The Pre-Veterinary Master’s Program at St. Matthew’s University School of Veterinary Medicine (SMUSVM) is an eight-month program offered through Medical University of the Americas (MUA). Across the two semesters, students develop their scientific knowledge and study skills, earning a Master of Science (MSc) in Biomedical Science upon successful completion from MUA. Graduates become eligible for admission to SMUSVM’s DVM program.
Who Is the Pre-Veterinary Master’s Program For?
Whether you’re changing careers or building on an existing degree, the program offers a pathway for aspiring veterinarians who want to strengthen their academic preparation before pursuing a DVM.
The curriculum is designed for students with an undergraduate degree who need to complete additional foundational science coursework needed to succeed in the veterinary program. Over the duration of the program, students become familiar with core concepts and develop key study habits to prepare for the comprehensive Doctor of Veterinary (DVM) program.
Why Choose the Pre-Vet Master’s Program at SMUSVM?
Guaranteed Admittance
Students who successfully complete the Master’s program will be automatically admitted to the DVM program, avoiding the challenges, expenses and delays of applying to veterinary schools separately.
Save Time
Enter veterinary school 8 months after beginning the program, rather than 2+ years via other Master’s programs (1+ years in the program plus the usual “glide year” while applying).
Earn 2 Degrees in Under 5 Years
Obtain both a Master of Science (MSc) in Biomedical Science degree and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree (DVM) degree by completing the Master’s and DVM programs over 12 semesters.
Grow Your Network
Begin veterinary school with a built-in support system of study partners who have experienced the same learning environment as you.
Knowledgeable Faculty
100% of the Pre-Veterinary Master’s Program faculty hold a PhD, DVM or MD degree. They are dedicated to helping students develop and grow.
Individualized Support
St. Matthew’s University is committed to providing the academic, personal and long-term support that aspiring veterinarians need to achieve their goals.
Pre-Vet Master’s Program Curriculum
The curriculum focuses on strengthening students’ foundational knowledge in the sciences and developing the academic skills needed for veterinary studies. Through core subject areas, students build their understanding of key scientific concepts while developing effective study habits with guidance from experienced instructors.
Courses are delivered online, with January, May and September start dates. Students can study asynchronously to accommodate different time zones or choose a part-time schedule over a longer period.
SMUSVM Student Experience
At St. Matthew’s University, we foster a supportive learning environment where students receive the instruction, hands-on training and personal guidance they need to achieve academic and long-term career success.
Learn more about studying veterinary medicine on the beautiful Caribbean island of Grand Cayman:
Pre-Vet Master’s Degree Admissions Requirements
Review the admission requirements and prerequisites for the Pre-Vet Master’s Program at St. Matthew’s University School of Veterinary Medicine (SMUSVM) below. You’ll also find details of the supporting documents needed to complete your application and take the next step toward your veterinary education.
Prerequisites
| Bachelor Degree | Must be from an accredited institution. |
| General Chemistry | Completed coursework of ½ year or 1 semester is required. |
| General Biology | Applicants are encouraged to complete this course, but it is not a requirement. |
| English | Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in writing, reading and oral communication. |
Supporting Documents
- Official transcript(s) from each college, university and/or professional school attended.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement (max. 500 words).
English is the language of instruction at Saba University School of Medicine. If your first language is not English, you must submit proof of English proficiency, such as through TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). Other comparable English proficiency tests may also be accepted.
Pre-Vet Master’s Program Tuition and Fees
Effective for matriculants beginning on or after the September 2026 Semester.
| Pre-Vet Master’s: 2 Terms | USD |
|---|---|
| Tuition per Term: | $2,500 |
| Administrative Fee per Term: | $3,000 |
| Total Tuition and Administrative Fees: | $11,000 |
FAQs About the Pre-Veterinary Master’s Program
Yes. Applicants with a non-science bachelor’s degree can apply, provided they have completed at least one semester of General Chemistry. General Biology and additional science coursework are recommended but not required.
Yes. Students who successfully complete the Pre-Veterinary Master’s Program are guaranteed automatic admission to St. Matthew’s University School of Veterinary Medicine’s (SMUSVM) Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, without needing to apply separately to veterinary schools.
The Pre-Vet Master’s Program is designed to help aspiring veterinary students prepare for the rigors of our Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program. It will provide the instruction and support that students need to develop a solid foundation in pre-vet and science-based knowledge.
After students successfully complete the 8-month, 2-semester Master’s program, they are accepted into the 10-semester DVM program. The DVM program features seven semesters of Basic Sciences on our Grand Cayman campus, and three semesters of Clinical Medicine rotations at an affiliated veterinary school in the U.S., Canada or the U.K.
The pre-vet degree that works best for you depends on your level of education before entering the program. This Pre-Vet Master’s Program is designed for career changers with an undergraduate-level degree and some foundational science coursework. If this sounds like you, earning a Master’s in Biomedical Science can help you achieve your goals!
The pre-vet Master’s program that you choose should align with your long-term career practice goals. If you hope to enter our comprehensive DVM program and go on to become a practicing veterinarian, the Pre-Vet Master’s Program may be the right fit. It’s perfect for those with an undergraduate degree, but who lack the pre-vet and science-based courses required to enter the DVM program directly.
Have Questions? Speak to an advisor!
Book a time with an advisor, or call our hotline directly
Get in Touch for More Information
If you have any questions, fill out the form below and a representative will get back to you.