Curriculum in Wildlife Medicine Program

All veterinary students at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University learn about wildlife medicine through the core courses in the first, second and third years: Comparative Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Zoological Medicine and Zoological Medicine. In addition to formal coursework, students can participate in selectives, elective courses, seminars and student organizations dedicated to wildlife and conservation biology. Students also have numerous opportunities to become involved in environmental research that includes laboratory and field work, as well as policy issues.

Cummings School veterinary students spend a fourth-year clinical rotation at Tufts Wildlife Clinic, a period that provides a strong foundation for their future professional contributions. Working with native wildlife and zoological species in a hands-on manner helps students gain important skills in handling, restraint, medicine and surgery. Through their practical experience at the clinic and their classroom education in environmental studies and comparative medicine, Cummings School veterinary students achieve a substantial understanding of the complex issues affecting individual wildlife populations, and ecological systems.

The Wildlife and Conservation Medicine Signature Opportunity builds upon the expertise and strengths provided by the Tufts Wildlife Medicine Program and the Tufts Center for Conservation Medicine to provide a rich learning environment for students who are concerned with wildlife health and preservation, habitat and species diversity, conservation biology, ecological issues and natural resources.

The Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, the administrative home of Tufts Wildlife Clinic, reinforces this spirit through its course offerings and seminar activities. Working in the environmental sciences, students are reminded of the critical connection among animals, natural resources, and humans.