Study Abroad | College of Veterinary Medicine

UTCVM organizes a number of study abroad experiences for veterinary students. Planned programs include elective courses for academic credit, research experience, externships, and university exchange collaboratives.

Our Current Study Abroad Programs

Student hands-on experience at the Belize Zoo.

Zoo Medicine at the Belize Zoo

Study wildlife and zoological cases beyond what is offered through rotations in the UTCVM exotics clinic and zoological service at the Belize Zoo.

A student in Argentina with a local dog.

Mixed Animal Medicine in Rural Argentina

Practice hands-on skills with small and large animal species and face the challenges associated with practicing veterinary medicine for an underserved community in rural Argentina.

Student Taylor Demers in Galapagos working with a local dog.

Applied One Health in the Galapagos

Gain hands-on experience in domestic animal medicine, public health outreach, and One Health research at a veterinary clinic on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador.

Wildlife Rehab in South Africa

Work with native wildlife at a rehabilitation center and visit Kruger National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of each program varies but the Office for Outreach and Global Engagement tries to offset program costs through gifts from donors. The actual costs will be discussed with you when you are applying to participate in each study abroad class, but in general students will need to pay approximately $1500-$2000.

There are some scholarships available from our student groups, such as Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) and International Veterinary Student Association (IVSA). In some cases, students can apply for scholarships they are currently receiving to contribute to the cost of their study abroad. You can find more information about current scholarships and financial aid on the UT Knoxville programs abroad website.

Your academic advisor or program director can provide you with information about immunization requirements, insurance, and other precautions regarding your trip to ensure your safety. Students are encouraged to investigate any and all health risks associated with travel abroad and the areas they intend to travel by visiting the Centers for Disease Control website.

It is possible for you to receive elective credit for pre-clinical or clinical study abroad opportunities, but these must be approved prior to you enrolling. The Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Associate Dean for Outreach and Global Engagement will need to review a program prior to approving it for credit.