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Veterinary Physiology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Explore the intricate workings of animal biological systems through a rigorous academic lens focused on functional dynamics and their clinical implications. This program equips students with advanced knowledge in how physiological processes influence health, disease, and therapeutic outcomes across diverse species.

  • Mammalian and non-mammalian physiology: Investigate the structural and functional adaptations of physiological systems in both mammals and non-mammalian vertebrates, highlighting evolutionary and species-specific differences.
  • Laboratory physiology: Develop hands-on expertise in experimental techniques used to measure and analyze physiological parameters in controlled research settings.
  • Physiological responses to the environment: Examine how external factors such as temperature, altitude, and stress impact physiological regulation and organismal resilience.
  • Endocrinology: Study the role of hormones in regulating bodily functions, including growth, reproduction, and homeostasis, across animal species.
  • Animal biotechnology: Explore modern applications of genetic and cellular technologies in enhancing animal health, productivity, and disease resistance.
  • Mechanisms of hormone action: Delve into molecular pathways through which hormones exert their effects at cellular and systemic levels.
  • Organ systems physiology: Analyze the integrated function of major systems—including cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and renal—within living organisms.
  • Metabolism: Understand the biochemical processes governing energy production, nutrient utilization, and metabolic regulation in health and disease.
  • Pathophysiology: Examine the functional changes that occur during disease states, focusing on how disruptions in normal physiology lead to clinical manifestations.

Veterinary Physiology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)

1
Total Graduates (2023-2024)
1
Universities & Colleges
3
Career Pathways

Veterinary Physiology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook

The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Veterinary Physiology degrees, including Veterinarians, Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary and Animal Scientists. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 312,820 professionals.


National Average Salaries

Occupation Median Salary Salary Range Total Employment Hourly Rate
Veterinarians 29-1131 $125,510 $70,350 - $212,890 80,630 $60.34
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1071 $105,620 $51,760 - $239,200 229,720 N/A
Animal Scientists 19-1011 $79,120 $48,440 - $235,750 2,470 $38.04

Veterinary Physiology Salary Map by State

Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $71,190 in Alaska to $157,515 in District of Columbia—a 121% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Arkansas, and California. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 312,820 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.

Average Salary Range:

Top Universities for Veterinary Physiology by Graduate Enrollment

Below are the top 1 institutions offering Veterinary Physiology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Veterinary Physiology is found at Kansas State University (K‑State) (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 1 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.

College Name Award Levels Graduates Location Control Website
Kansas State University (K‑State)
Doctorate (Research)
1 Manhattan, Kansas Public k-state.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about Veterinary Physiology programs

How much can I earn with a Veterinary Physiology degree?

Salaries for Veterinary Physiology graduates vary by role and location. Veterinarians earn a median of $125,510 annually, while Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary earn around $105,620. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $157,515 compared to $71,190 in Alaska. Approximately 312,820 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.

Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.

Which universities have the largest Veterinary Physiology programs?

Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Veterinary Physiology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Kansas State University (K‑State) (1 graduates).

Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.

What career paths are available with a Veterinary Physiology degree?

This degree prepares you for roles such as Veterinarians, Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary, and Animal Scientists. Related occupations employ approximately 312,820 professionals nationwide.

Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.

Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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