Clemson Opens Applications for Inaugural Class at New College of Veterinary Medicine
October 15, 2025
Clemson University has officially opened the application window for its first class of veterinary students at the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, marking a historic milestone for the university and the state of South Carolina.
On October 8, 2025, the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education issued the College a Letter of Reasonable Assurance — a critical step in the accreditation process. With this approval, Clemson can begin accepting applications for the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, which will welcome its inaugural class in Fall 2026. Applications will be accepted over the next five weeks, with a deadline of November 17, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST.
“Today is a very exciting day for Clemson University and the state of South Carolina,” said University President Jim Clements. “The Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine’s application window is now open, and we are one step closer to welcoming our very first Doctor of Veterinary Medicine students to campus in Fall 2026. I am grateful for the tremendous support of our elected officials, faculty and staff, community partners and our Clemson Family, who have all been instrumental in helping us arrive at this major milestone. Together, we are moving Clemson Fiercely Forward, and we are making a difference in the lives of people and animals across the great state of South Carolina and beyond.”
The new veterinary college was created to address the shortage of veterinarians in South Carolina, particularly in rural and agricultural communities. As the state’s land-grant institution, Clemson is uniquely positioned to offer students a comprehensive education that blends rigorous classroom learning with hands-on farm and clinical experience.
“Opening applications for our first class is an extraordinary step forward for the University and for South Carolina,” said Founding Dean Steven Marks. “Our mission is to prepare world-class veterinarians who will advance animal health, support agriculture and strengthen communities in our state and beyond. The students will be prepared to enter the workforce on day one after graduation or pursue their education further to become specialized.”
Students in the inaugural class will benefit from Clemson’s land-grant mission and the strategic plan, Clemson Elevate, which focuses on delivering the top student experience, doubling research by 2035, and transforming lives across the state and beyond. Clinical partners throughout South Carolina will provide vital experiential learning opportunities during students’ fourth year.
“It has been an incredible journey building a college from the ground up,” Marks added. “This team has pulled together and worked tirelessly to make it to this milestone. Of course, I’m grateful to the lawmakers and industry professionals who have supported us along the way. What an amazing experience, and we are just getting started.”
More information on admissions requirements, the application process, and key deadlines is available on the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine website.
Note: The accreditation process for the college is ongoing. Per the AVMA, “This recognition allows the college to pursue its plan for the veterinary program, and to admit students.”
