{"id":21627,"date":"2022-04-01T19:48:50","date_gmt":"2022-04-01T19:48:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/todaysveterinarybusiness.com\/?p=21627"},"modified":"2022-07-18T19:51:25","modified_gmt":"2022-07-18T19:51:25","slug":"midlevel-masters","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarybusiness.com\/midlevel-masters\/","title":{"rendered":"Midlevel Masters"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine is launching a master\u2019s program in veterinary clinical care<\/a>, drawing on the Veterinary Innovation Council\u2019s pioneering work in recognizing midlevel professionals as part of the solution to the shortage of veterinarians and the challenges with access to care. People from both sides have strong opinions about creating midlevel veterinary professionals, but unfortunately, many of the views are based on speculation and fears that don\u2019t reflect the straightforward goals and structure of the LMU program. This article attempts to clear things up.<\/p>\n

Q: When does the program start?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: August 2022.<\/p>\n

Q: Is the master of veterinary clinical care degree accredited?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Yes, by the regional accrediting body for Lincoln Memorial\u2019s other master\u2019s and doctoral programs. This is the third master\u2019s program offered by the College of Veterinary Medicine.<\/p>\n

Q: Is the curriculum online or in-person?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: It\u2019s online and taught in conjunction with LMU\u2019s doctor of veterinary medicine curriculum. Clinical training will occur at the student\u2019s veterinary practice or place of work in the animal health sector. (Click here<\/a> to see the curriculum.)<\/p>\n

Q: How many semesters does the degree require, and what is the total cost?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: The program covers three semesters, but students can proceed at their own pace, meaning they can study part time over more semesters. Completion of the degree requires at least 30 credits. The total tuition, assessed by the credit hour, will be $20,000 to $25,000. Completion of the degree requires at least 30 credits.<\/p>\n

Q: What are the academic prerequisites for admission?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: The first two cohorts admitted into the program must be credentialed veterinary technicians\/nurses with a bachelor\u2019s degree. They will have completed core biology and chemistry courses. In the future, non-CVTs can enroll without a bachelor\u2019s degree but must meet the core biology and chemistry course requirements.<\/p>\n

Q: Does the program lead to a new type of license?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: No. The process of changing state veterinary practice acts is long and difficult, and it invites opposition from human health care groups, such as was encountered by the Veterinary Nurse Initiative. The LMU curriculum will create a veterinary version of a physician assistant. Due diligence by the Veterinary Innovation Council and the College of Veterinary Medicine confirmed that practices and industry would employ the midlevel professionals at an appropriate level.<\/p>\n

Q: What type of work or jobs are envisioned for master in veterinary clinical care (MVCC) graduates?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Practices and industry experts predict two career paths involving promotions:<\/p>\n