In 2006, the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges predicted a shortage of 15,000 US veterinarians within 20 years. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, applications to veterinary colleges have increased about 7% in recent years and 19% in 2020-21.
Rowan will be one of only two universities in the United States to offer Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Doctor of Medicine, and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degrees.
Rowan will establish undergraduate, graduate, graduate, and internship / residency programs at his veterinary school. In addition, an Associate of Science degree in Veterinary Technology through to a Bachelor of Science degree in the Veterinary Technology Pathway program is offered in partnership with Rowan College of South Jersey-Gloucester.
Rowan’s Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Matthew Edson became the founding dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine on June 1.
“We are creating a preferred destination for students who share a passion for animal health and who pursue careers in veterinary studies at all college levels,” said Ali A. Houshmand, president of Rowan University. “Our curriculum will focus on developing working professionals to address the shortage of animal health service providers in New Jersey and across the United States.”