Veterinary schools in California
California has 2 AVMA-accredited veterinary colleges: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in Davis; Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine in Pomona. The AVMA lists 39 accredited colleges in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, checked November 5, 2026.
Veterinary colleges in California
| College | Location | Degree | AVMA status |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine | Davis, California | DVM | Accredited |
| Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine | Pomona, California | DVM | Accredited with minor deficiencies |
All U.S. veterinary colleges
See the full list of 39 accredited colleges in the U.S. and Puerto Rico and how admission works in veterinary schools in the U.S.
Looking for vet tech school instead?
Vet tech programs take about two years and lead to the VTNE, not a DVM: vet tech schools in California and online vet tech programs.
After graduation
Veterinarians in California earned a median of $163,920 a year in May 2025 (BLS): veterinarian salary in California.
Open veterinarian jobs in California.
FAQ
Is there a vet school in California?
California has 2 AVMA-accredited veterinary colleges: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in Davis; Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine in Pomona. The AVMA lists 39 accredited colleges in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, checked November 5, 2026.
How long is vet school?
Four years for the DVM or VMD, after college prerequisites. Graduates then pass the NAVLE and apply for a state license.
Where do California residents go to vet school?
Any accredited college that admits non-residents, usually through the VMCAS application.
Sources
- AVMA: Accredited veterinary colleges
- AVMA COE: Accreditation actions, September 2026 (published October 27, 2026)
- AVMA COE: Accreditation actions, June 2026
- WICHE: PSEP application information by state
- AAVMC: VMCAS 2027 Applicant Guide
- ICVA: NAVLE
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