Source: Arkansas Advocate
Arkansas will establish its first two Veterinary schools at Lyon College and Arkansas State University (ASU), set to open in 2026 pending accreditation. These initiatives address the state’s shortage of veterinarians, particularly in rural areas, where 10 counties lack a single vet. Lyon College will offer a three-year, year-round program, while ASU will follow a traditional four-year model. Both schools will use a distributive clinical training approach, partnering with clinics statewide instead of operating teaching hospitals.
Tuition at Lyon will be $27,500 per trimester, and ASU will charge $34,000 annually for in-state students. Both schools are securing scholarships to reduce financial burdens. Arkansas aims to retain graduates, addressing a national veterinarian shortage projected to reach 18% by 2030. The programs align with the growing demand for Veterinary care fueled by pet ownership trends and agricultural needs, particularly in the poultry sector. Leaders anticipate the schools will modernize Veterinary education and benefit the state.
Read the full story HERE: https://arkansasadvocate.com/2025/01/01/two-colleges-preparing-to-bring-veterinary-medicine-education-to-arkansas/