SUNY Canton will transfer vet tech grads into Ross University veterinary program

A new agreement will allow four-year SUNY Canton Veterinary Technology students to transfer into a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree program at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts.

The formal articulation agreement allows students who have successfully completed their bachelor of science degree at SUNY Canton, while maintaining a specified GPA and other criteria, to be admitted into Ross University's program in the West Indies. Students can graduate with their advanced degree in as little as 3.25 years.

This is the first dedicated degree path for our students who wish to pursue a DVM degree," said Dr. Mary O. Loomis, a professor and program director of the Veterinary Technology program. "We've had significant interest from students who want to become veterinarians and see SUNY Canton as the first step in their journey. The arrangement is also available to recent graduates of the four-year program."

Ross University has reserved spots for up to 12 students a year, or three per trimester, according to the agreement. Loomis said there is already a contingent of SUNY Canton students who have begun their doctoral education at Ross before the formal agreement, with another three current students interested in applying.

Both institutions share a mutual goal of ensuring excellence in veterinary medical education and both are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association, said the announcement of the agreement from SUNY Canton.

"The rigorous coursework at SUNY Canton will be excellent preparation for doctoral studies," said Dr. D. Anthony Beane, a professor and veterinarian at SUNY Canton. "We look forward to giving more SUNY Canton graduates the opportunity to gain entrance into veterinary school."

The college's four-year Veterinary Science Technology program builds off of the Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Science Technology program. It is unique to the area, and one of approximately 20 four-year programs in the nation that provides students with the education and skills necessary to obtain licensure and seek employment as a veterinary technician. The program offers instruction and hands-on experience in small laboratory settings.

The two- and four-year programs run in tandem with the four-year Bachelor of Business Administration in Veterinary Services Management program, which allows individuals who are already licensed veterinary technicians to attain a specialized four-year degree. SUNY Canton has six articulations with other veterinary technology programs for this degree. There are about 200 students enrolled in all veterinary-focused programs at the college.