FAQ - MVS Degree Program

Q: What kind of careers does the MVS degree prepare students for?
A: The MVS program prepares students for work in livestock production management, farming, ranching, corporate production, research and development, information technology, education, veterinary medicine, government, quality control regulation, and practice management.

Q: I have a degree in a non-science field. Can I still apply?
A: Yes. The degree requirements are at minimum a Bachelor's degree in any field, science or non-science related.

Q: I have an Associate's degree. Can I still apply?
A: No. You must have at minimum a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent).

Q: Do you offer any scholarships or financial aid?
A: The MVS degree is a self-supporting program and we have limited scholarships available. 

Q: Who can my letters of recommendations come from?
A: Your letters of recommendations should come from professional contacts. If you are struggling to source three professional letters of recommendation, contact us. 

Q: How much time should I plan to commit to the program?
A: Students should anticipate spending 9-10 hours/week outside of class lectures learning the content of each course.

Q: Will this program prepare me to be a veterinarian?
A: No. While the program focuses on veterinary issues, it is not a DVM program and does not grant a veterinary license. Students looking for veterinary school preparation can also consider our certificate program in Veterinary Science 

Q: I am an international applicant. Do I need to take the TOEFL?
A: Maybe. Please see the English Proficiency Requirement For Admission page on the Graduate College's website for more information and exemptions. The following information is taken directly from the Graduate College's website:

Applicants who meet one of the following criteria are exempt from submitting an approved English proficiency score and from taking the English as a Second Language Placement Test (EPT) prior to enrolling at Illinois:

  • Completion of at least two years of post-secondary full-time study, as defined by the home institution, in an approved country where English is the primary language and at an institution where English is the primary medium of instruction, within five years of the proposed term of initial enrollment.

  • Completion of at least two years of professional work experience in an approved country where English is the primary language within five years of the proposed term of initial enrollment.

  • Completion of a post-secondary degree in an approved country where English is the primary language and at an institution where English is the primary language of instruction, within five years of the proposed term of initial enrollment.