Veterinary Science PhD Program | SGU Animal Health Research Degree
Source: https://www.sgu.edu/school-of-veterinary-medicine/veterinary-science-phd
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:16
Veterinary Science PhD Program | SGU Animal Health Research Degree
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School of Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary Science PhD
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Doctor of
Veterinary Medicine
4-Year DVM Program
5-Year DVM Track
6-Year DVM Track
7-Year DVM Track
BSc/DVM Dual Degree
Dual DVM/MPH Program
Dual DVM/MSc Program
Dual DVM/MBA Program
Veterinary Science PhD
Program Overview
Program
In-depth academic preparation for a research veterinarian career.
Locations
Years 1-3
: Grenada, West Indies
Year 4
: Clinical training at 1 of 30+ affiliated universities in US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the Netherlands
Entry Terms
January or August
Next Start Date:
January 2026
View All SGU
Veterinary Programs
Advance your veterinarian education in both basic and clinical problems within animal medicine research. SGU’s PhD program builds on your postgraduate veterinary clinical training or DVM degree with in-depth research in pertinent topics, such as veterinary pathology and the intersection of animal and human health.
Our PhD program provides you the rigorous training to prepare you for work in leading research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or government entities.
Focus Study Area and Thesis
During the veterinary PhD program, you will choose an academic focus area that you want to master in terms of both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Choose from among nine specialty areas for your PhD:
PhD in Anatomical Pathology
PhD in Anatomy
PhD in Bacteriology
PhD in Clinical Pathology
PhD in Marine Medicine
PhD in Parasitology
PhD in Pharmacology
PhD in Virology
PhD in Wildlife Conservation Medicine
The PhD program culminates in the production of a thesis in which you will demonstrate your advanced knowledge in an original and important contribution to your chosen area of veterinary science.
Admission Requirements
To pursue a Veterinary PhD degree, you must have completed an MBA, MPH, MSc, MPhil, or MA (or equivalent) and wish to pursue in-depth research. It is also open to those having a DVM degree, as well as to selected St. George’s veterinary students considering SGU’s DVM/PhD dual-degree program.
To apply to the PhD program, you must provide a:
1,500-word research proposal for a project that is directly related to SGU faculty members’ areas of expertise.
Detailed, three-year research plan.
Description of how your previous studies and experience support your proposal.
Funding identification report that identifies possible funding sources for the project and for your research.
The PhD admissions committee will review your proposal and academic credentials to determine admission to the program.
Veterinary PhD Degree Admission
A Program for the Next Generation of Leading Research Veterinarians.
To pursue a Veterinary PhD degree, you must have completed an MBA, MPH, MSc, MPhil, or MA (or equivalent) and wish to pursue in-depth research. It is also open to those having a DVM degree, as well as to selected St. George’s veterinary students considering SGU’s DVM/PhD dual-degree program.
To apply to the PhD program, you must provide a:
1,500-word research proposal for a project that is directly related to SGU faculty members’ areas of expertise.
Detailed, three-year research plan.
Description of how your previous studies and experience support your proposal.
Funding identification report that identifies possible funding sources for the project and for your research.
The PhD admissions committee will review your proposal and academic credentials to determine admission to the program.
Academic Outcomes
Students from across the world come to St. George’s University for a rewarding education with global impact.
84.3%
pass rate on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) over the last five years
) From 2023 onward, SGUSVM calculates pass rates using the International Council on Veterinary Assessment’s (ICVA) annual report to reflect its biannual graduation schedule (January and June). Pass rates for earlier years are reported directly by ICVA and do not account for this schedule.
30+
affiliated universities in seven countries offer hands-on clinical training
)
https://www.sgu.edu/school-of-veterinary-medicine/affiliated-universities/
87%
SGU’s School of Veterinary Medicine graduation rate is 87% for all students who began in 2019.
) Completed the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program to date.
Curriculum
Qualified postgraduate students and DVM graduates will spend between three and five years to complete veterinary postgraduate courses as a full-time candidate. Part-time candidates will spend between four and seven years to complete the program.
Course Catalog
Academic Calendar
Concentrations
Requirements
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree offered through the School of Veterinary Medicine require a total of 60 credits or more. Successful candidates will focus their research and coursework in one of the following concentrations:
PhD in Anatomical Pathology
PhD in Anatomy
PhD in Bacteriology
PhD in Clinical Pathology
PhD in Marine Medicine
PhD in Parasitology
PhD in Pharmacology
PhD in Virology
PhD in Wildlife Conservation Medicine
The PhD program requires the production and defense of a doctoral thesis. Research and coursework are directed by the candidate’s supervisory committee. All completed theses, upon the recommendation of the chair of the supervisory committee, are submitted to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and forwarded to an external examiner. A final oral presentation and defense of the thesis must be successfully completed prior to being awarded the degree.
Hear from SGU Grads
“I often tell people that attending SGU SVM is indescribable, you are surrounded by a group of people from all over the world that end up becoming family, all while working together to achieve the same goal. Then you add fantastic faculty and staff who care about their students so much—attending SGU and living in Grenada is so special.”
Aaron Spacher, DVM ’19
Rochester, New York
“The transition from being a veterinary student to veterinary professional is challenging for everyone, but the experience of attending SGU and living in Grenada really prepared future professionals like me on how to adapt to change. I think the life experience of living in Grenada was equally as important as the course material learned in veterinary school.”
Andrew Kushnir, DVM ’19
Fort Lauderdale, FL
“Attending SGU was a truly transformative experience that gave me much more than just a veterinary education. I gained invaluable life lessons, formed lifelong friendships, and received a diverse and comprehensive education that has helped me excel in my career. “
Whitney McCoy, DVM ’23
Dallas, TX
“SGU does an amazing job at providing its students with unique opportunities you will not find elsewhere. From starting us with early hands-on experience working with local domestic animals large and small, to providing opportunities for us to work with amazing creatures including sea turtles and bats, they really know how to give their students a creative learning environment. ”
John Macri, DVM ’21
San Francisco, CA
“During my time at SGU, I had the opportunity to engage in exceptional hands-on learning, receive constant support from both faculty and peers, and build meaningful friendships. My journey there was truly transformative, shaping me both personally and professionally, and helping me become the veterinarian I am today. “
John Nugra, DVM ’24
New York
“I learned so much at SGU. From a professional perspective, I feel that SGU prepared me to hit the ground running. I had the knowledge and skills to be able to effectively practice veterinary medicine from day one after graduation. All the professors were so supportive, including after graduation.”
Erin O’Shaughnessy, DVM ’20
Canada
Investing In Your Future
SGU offers scholarships and other financial aid options to bring your dream within reach.
Tuition & Fees
A veterinary degree sets the stage for your career as a veterinarian.
Learn More
Financial Aid
Financial aid options to help make your education affordable.
Learn More
Scholarships
SGU celebrates excellence and invests in your journey to success.
Learn More
Purpose-Built for Academic Excellence and Wellness
Our 42-acre campus in Grenada is built for academic success and personal well-being with modern classrooms, dedicated study space, a full fitness center, and many of the comforts of home.
Take a Virtual Tour
Schedule Your Campus Visit
Get in Touch
Sharing your information gives you direct access to a dedicated enrollment counselor and tailored materials based on your specific interests.
Contact admissions with your specific questions
Thank you for your interest in St. George’s University. We look forward to speaking with you and answering any questions you may have. Please fill out the form for the school of your choice, and a current student or St. George’s University representative will follow up with you.
1 (800) 899-6337
vetadmission@sgu.edu
Chat with a counselor
Apply
Request Info
Events
Apply
Request Info
Search our site
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
School of Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary Science PhD
Request Information
Apply
Explore This Section
Program Overview
Outcomes
Curriculum
Financial Aid
Virtual Tour
Request Info
View All Programs
Doctor of
Veterinary Medicine
4-Year DVM Program
5-Year DVM Track
6-Year DVM Track
7-Year DVM Track
BSc/DVM Dual Degree
Dual DVM/MPH Program
Dual DVM/MSc Program
Dual DVM/MBA Program
Veterinary Science PhD
Program Overview
Program
In-depth academic preparation for a research veterinarian career.
Locations
Years 1-3
: Grenada, West Indies
Year 4
: Clinical training at 1 of 30+ affiliated universities in US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the Netherlands
Entry Terms
January or August
Next Start Date:
January 2026
View All SGU
Veterinary Programs
Advance your veterinarian education in both basic and clinical problems within animal medicine research. SGU’s PhD program builds on your postgraduate veterinary clinical training or DVM degree with in-depth research in pertinent topics, such as veterinary pathology and the intersection of animal and human health.
Our PhD program provides you the rigorous training to prepare you for work in leading research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or government entities.
Focus Study Area and Thesis
During the veterinary PhD program, you will choose an academic focus area that you want to master in terms of both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Choose from among nine specialty areas for your PhD:
PhD in Anatomical Pathology
PhD in Anatomy
PhD in Bacteriology
PhD in Clinical Pathology
PhD in Marine Medicine
PhD in Parasitology
PhD in Pharmacology
PhD in Virology
PhD in Wildlife Conservation Medicine
The PhD program culminates in the production of a thesis in which you will demonstrate your advanced knowledge in an original and important contribution to your chosen area of veterinary science.
Admission Requirements
To pursue a Veterinary PhD degree, you must have completed an MBA, MPH, MSc, MPhil, or MA (or equivalent) and wish to pursue in-depth research. It is also open to those having a DVM degree, as well as to selected St. George’s veterinary students considering SGU’s DVM/PhD dual-degree program.
To apply to the PhD program, you must provide a:
1,500-word research proposal for a project that is directly related to SGU faculty members’ areas of expertise.
Detailed, three-year research plan.
Description of how your previous studies and experience support your proposal.
Funding identification report that identifies possible funding sources for the project and for your research.
The PhD admissions committee will review your proposal and academic credentials to determine admission to the program.
Veterinary PhD Degree Admission
A Program for the Next Generation of Leading Research Veterinarians.
To pursue a Veterinary PhD degree, you must have completed an MBA, MPH, MSc, MPhil, or MA (or equivalent) and wish to pursue in-depth research. It is also open to those having a DVM degree, as well as to selected St. George’s veterinary students considering SGU’s DVM/PhD dual-degree program.
To apply to the PhD program, you must provide a:
1,500-word research proposal for a project that is directly related to SGU faculty members’ areas of expertise.
Detailed, three-year research plan.
Description of how your previous studies and experience support your proposal.
Funding identification report that identifies possible funding sources for the project and for your research.
The PhD admissions committee will review your proposal and academic credentials to determine admission to the program.
Academic Outcomes
Students from across the world come to St. George’s University for a rewarding education with global impact.
84.3%
pass rate on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) over the last five years
) From 2023 onward, SGUSVM calculates pass rates using the International Council on Veterinary Assessment’s (ICVA) annual report to reflect its biannual graduation schedule (January and June). Pass rates for earlier years are reported directly by ICVA and do not account for this schedule.
30+
affiliated universities in seven countries offer hands-on clinical training
)
https://www.sgu.edu/school-of-veterinary-medicine/affiliated-universities/
87%
SGU’s School of Veterinary Medicine graduation rate is 87% for all students who began in 2019.
) Completed the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program to date.
Curriculum
Qualified postgraduate students and DVM graduates will spend between three and five years to complete veterinary postgraduate courses as a full-time candidate. Part-time candidates will spend between four and seven years to complete the program.
Course Catalog
Academic Calendar
Concentrations
Requirements
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree offered through the School of Veterinary Medicine require a total of 60 credits or more. Successful candidates will focus their research and coursework in one of the following concentrations:
PhD in Anatomical Pathology
PhD in Anatomy
PhD in Bacteriology
PhD in Clinical Pathology
PhD in Marine Medicine
PhD in Parasitology
PhD in Pharmacology
PhD in Virology
PhD in Wildlife Conservation Medicine
The PhD program requires the production and defense of a doctoral thesis. Research and coursework are directed by the candidate’s supervisory committee. All completed theses, upon the recommendation of the chair of the supervisory committee, are submitted to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and forwarded to an external examiner. A final oral presentation and defense of the thesis must be successfully completed prior to being awarded the degree.
Hear from SGU Grads
“I often tell people that attending SGU SVM is indescribable, you are surrounded by a group of people from all over the world that end up becoming family, all while working together to achieve the same goal. Then you add fantastic faculty and staff who care about their students so much—attending SGU and living in Grenada is so special.”
Aaron Spacher, DVM ’19
Rochester, New York
“The transition from being a veterinary student to veterinary professional is challenging for everyone, but the experience of attending SGU and living in Grenada really prepared future professionals like me on how to adapt to change. I think the life experience of living in Grenada was equally as important as the course material learned in veterinary school.”
Andrew Kushnir, DVM ’19
Fort Lauderdale, FL
“Attending SGU was a truly transformative experience that gave me much more than just a veterinary education. I gained invaluable life lessons, formed lifelong friendships, and received a diverse and comprehensive education that has helped me excel in my career. “
Whitney McCoy, DVM ’23
Dallas, TX
“SGU does an amazing job at providing its students with unique opportunities you will not find elsewhere. From starting us with early hands-on experience working with local domestic animals large and small, to providing opportunities for us to work with amazing creatures including sea turtles and bats, they really know how to give their students a creative learning environment. ”
John Macri, DVM ’21
San Francisco, CA
“During my time at SGU, I had the opportunity to engage in exceptional hands-on learning, receive constant support from both faculty and peers, and build meaningful friendships. My journey there was truly transformative, shaping me both personally and professionally, and helping me become the veterinarian I am today. “
John Nugra, DVM ’24
New York
“I learned so much at SGU. From a professional perspective, I feel that SGU prepared me to hit the ground running. I had the knowledge and skills to be able to effectively practice veterinary medicine from day one after graduation. All the professors were so supportive, including after graduation.”
Erin O’Shaughnessy, DVM ’20
Canada
Investing In Your Future
SGU offers scholarships and other financial aid options to bring your dream within reach.
Tuition & Fees
A veterinary degree sets the stage for your career as a veterinarian.
Learn More
Financial Aid
Financial aid options to help make your education affordable.
Learn More
Scholarships
SGU celebrates excellence and invests in your journey to success.
Learn More
Purpose-Built for Academic Excellence and Wellness
Our 42-acre campus in Grenada is built for academic success and personal well-being with modern classrooms, dedicated study space, a full fitness center, and many of the comforts of home.
Take a Virtual Tour
Schedule Your Campus Visit
Get in Touch
Sharing your information gives you direct access to a dedicated enrollment counselor and tailored materials based on your specific interests.
Contact admissions with your specific questions
Thank you for your interest in St. George’s University. We look forward to speaking with you and answering any questions you may have. Please fill out the form for the school of your choice, and a current student or St. George’s University representative will follow up with you.
1 (800) 899-6337
vetadmission@sgu.edu
Chat with a counselor
Apply
Request Info
Events
Apply
Request Info
Search our site