B.S. in Biology Pre-Veterinary
Prepare for veterinary school through rigorous biology coursework, animal science, and hands-on laboratory experience that builds a strong foundation for animal health careers.
Turn your passion for animal health
into a professional pathway
The Biology: Pre-Veterinary B.S. program at West Liberty University provides a strong scientific foundation for students pursuing veterinary school and related animal health careers. Through hands-on laboratory experiences, faculty mentorship, and specialized coursework in animal biology, students develop the knowledge and preparation needed for competitive professional programs.
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
- Total Credits: Minimum 120 credit hours
- Outcome: Preparation for veterinary school and animal health professions
- Format: On-campus, full-time undergraduate program
Program
Overview
Veterinarians play a vital role in animal health, public health, food safety, and scientific research. The Pre-Veterinary Biology program combines comprehensive training in biological sciences with specialized study of animal systems, physiology, genetics, microbiology, and ecology, helping students meet common veterinary school prerequisites while developing a competitive academic profile.
Who This
Program Is For
Future Veterinarians
Students who aspire to attend veterinary school and provide medical care for companion animals, livestock, equine patients, or exotic species.
Animal Science Enthusiasts
Students passionate about animal biology, physiology, behavior, and the science behind animal health and wellness.
Wildlife and Conservation Advocates
Students interested in wildlife medicine, conservation biology, zoological medicine, or ecosystem health.
Biomedical and Research-Focused Students
Students who enjoy laboratory science and want to contribute to biomedical, veterinary, or agricultural research.
Pre-Professional Health Science Students
Students seeking a rigorous science degree that prepares them for competitive graduate and professional programs.
What
You’ll Learn
Students develop a comprehensive understanding of biological systems, animal physiology, genetics, microbiology, ecology, and chemistry while building analytical, laboratory, and scientific reasoning skills essential for veterinary and animal health professions.
Animal Biology & Physiology
- Understand vertebrate anatomy and physiology
- Study reproductive and comparative animal physiology
- Examine animal health, nutrition, and biological systems
Laboratory & Scientific Research
- Conduct biological and microbiological laboratory procedures
- Apply statistical analysis and experimental design methods
- Collect, analyze, and interpret scientific data
Veterinary School Foundation Sciences
- Build expertise in genetics, cell and molecular biology
- Develop strong chemistry and biochemistry foundations
- Understand disease processes, parasitology, and microbiology
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum balances foundational sciences, advanced biological coursework, specialized animal-focused studies, laboratory instruction, and elective opportunities that align with veterinary school expectations and student career interests.
Program Structure
Biology Core
- Biological Principles
- Zoology
- Cell & Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Ecology
- Microbiology
- Biology Capstone
Chemistry Foundation
- General Chemistry I & II
- Organic Chemistry I & II
- Biochemistry coursework options
Physical Sciences & Mathematics
- Physics I & II
- Pre-Calculus
Animal-Focused Studies
- Parasitology
- Reproductive Physiology
- Vertebrate Zoology electives
- Anatomy and Physiology options
Advanced Biology Electives
- Animal Nutrition
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
- Conservation Biology
- Internship opportunities and more
Required Prerequisites Include:
- BIO 124 Biological Principles
- BIO 125 Biological Principles Lab
- CHEM 110/111 General Chemistry I and Lab
- CHEM 112/113 General Chemistry II and Lab
- MATH 145 Pre-Calculus
- Additional biology, chemistry, and physics coursework as outlined in the curriculum
Admission Requirements
Students must maintain a minimum 2.5 overall GPA and 2.5 major GPA and earn at least a grade of C in each course in the program.
Career &
Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for veterinary school, animal health professions, research opportunities, agricultural sciences, and advanced education in the biological sciences. The program provides the scientific foundation needed for both traditional veterinary pathways and emerging careers involving animal welfare, public health, and biomedical research.
- Veterinarian (following veterinary school)
- Veterinary Technician Supervisor or Practice Manager (with additional credentials)
- Animal Health Research Assistant
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist
- Zoological or Aquarium Education Professional
- Biomedical Laboratory Research Assistant
- Agricultural or Livestock Health Specialist
- Public Health or Food Safety Professional
The program combines rigorous academic preparation with hands-on scientific learning, helping graduates become competitive applicants for veterinary schools and other advanced professional opportunities.
Admission
Requirements
The Biology: Pre-Veterinary program is designed for students pursuing academically rigorous professional pathways. Admission and progression standards help ensure students are prepared for advanced science coursework and future veterinary school application requirements.
Requirements:
- Admission to West Liberty University
- Declaration of Biology: Pre-Veterinary major
- Minimum 2.5 overall GPA
- Minimum 2.5 GPA within the major
- Earn a grade of C or better in all required program courses
- Completion of required prerequisite coursework as outlined in the curriculum
Cost, Aid
& Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Steps to
Enrollment
- Apply to West Liberty University
- Declare the Biology: Pre-Veterinary (B.S.) major
- Meet with an academic advisor to develop your pre-veterinary academic plan and review veterinary school requirements
Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.