San Francisco students planning to become registered veterinary technicians can complete the Veterinary Technology Program at the San Leandro and Pleasant Hill locations of the Western Career College, which has provisional accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association. To attend a fully accredited program, students may commute to Foothill College in Los Altos Hills. Pre-veterinary students can access Pre-Medical advising services while studying Biology at the University of San Francisco. San Francisco State University gives undergraduates planning to apply to veterinary school a choice between degrees in Biology and Biochemistry. Veterinary medical students from San Francisco typically attend the University of California - Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, which features a Center for Companion Animal Health, a Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, and a Primate Research Center.
California’s Employment Development Department long-term projections for animal health occupations in San Francisco County from 2002 to 2012 predict 4.5% job growth for veterinarians, 3.8% job growth for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers, and 18.8% job growth for veterinary technologists and technicians.
Veterinary Schools, Programs & Courses
in San Francisco
Subjects listed are highlights of programs
and/or courses offered.
Why San Francisco is a Great Place to Study Veterinary
San Francisco features award-winning animal science centers, excellent life science education programs and a large urban pet population, making the city an inviting place for students and practitioners of veterinary science. The PRBO Conservation Science organization, with its new San Francisco Bay center, is dedicated to conserving birds and other wildlife. Veterinarians and vet techs at the Wildlife Care Center treat and release rescued animals. Scientists at the Marine Mammal Center conduct rescues and research, communicating their discoveries to educate the public. Looking for a fast-paced work environment? The medics employed by A.M.E.R.S. Animal Ambulance Company respond to disasters, provide critical care transports, and rush to save animals’ lives. For more traditional veterinary work, the San Francisco SPCA operates one of the finest animal hospitals in San Francisco, treating more than 25,000 animals each year
Other Resources for Veterinary Education and Careers in San Francisco