Certificate Program Graduate Certificate in Fundamentals of Veterinary Diseases
Build a foundation in common diseases found in veterinary medicine. Gain knowledge in diagnostic imaging and its relevance in a disease process, immunology, infectious diseases, dental diseases, degenerative diseases, metabolic diseases, neoplastic diseases, and clinical pathology.
Following completion of the fundamentals of veterinary diseases graduate certificate, you will be able to:
- Identify and categorize common pathologies within veterinary medicine.
- Differentiate normal from abnormal imaging of dogs and cats.
- Explain the immunological processes associated with normal and common diseases presented.
- Explain and analyze differentials for common diseases and clinical signs in dogs and cats.
Required coursework (completed in three semesters, 14 total credits):
- VS 503 Principles of Radiology and Ultrasound (2 credits) – first semester
- VS 504 Infectious Pathogens and Parasites (3 credits) – first semester
- VS 506 Pathologic Basis of Disease (3 credits) – first semester
- VS 547 Common Diseases of Body Systems I (3 credits) – second semester
- VS 548 Common Diseases of Body Systems II (3 credits) – third semester
Clinical Sciences
The Department of Clinical Sciences offers high-quality education programs for professional veterinary medical students, graduate veterinarians, and the public through the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, a faculty and veterinary medical center of excellence. Faculty and staff are dedicated to advanced medicine, excellent teaching, compassionate care, and discoveries benefiting the health of pets and people.
Application Information and Deadlines
Admission requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree completed at an institution accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation; a bachelor’s degree in science is not necessary if the prerequisite courses are fulfilled
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; exceptions may be made for applicants in the 2.5-2.99 range (there are a few strategies to bolster an application when the undergraduate GPA is between 2.5-2.99; contact the student success coordinator for details)
- Official transcripts
- Prerequisite courses
- Summary of experience (detailed resume-style document)
- Two essays, maximum of 3,000 characters each; one personal experience essay, and one online learning experience essay
- $60 application fee (the application fee covers processing for all applications regardless of admissions outcome; the fee cannot be waived and is non-refundable)
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| April 1 | Application deadline (for Fall 2026 start date) |
Tuition and Financial Aid
Visit the Office of Financial Aid to apply for financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment, understand tuition, fees, and the billing process, establish residency, and find other financial aid resources.
Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins blends education and industry, hard work and outdoor recreation, tradition and progress. If you’re looking for a college experience with the perfect fusion of culture, opportunity and adventure, Fort Collins is where you’ll find it.
Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins provides extensive access to hundreds of miles of trails for biking and hiking, world-class fishing and rock climbing, and camping, all in an area with over 300 days of sun per year.