Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Veterinarians are medical professionals who protect the health and well-being of both animals and people. They diagnose and control animal diseases, treat sick and injured animals, prevent the transmission of animal diseases to people, and advise owners on proper care of pets and livestock.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 19.7% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 3,000
Direct AI exposure: 3% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 43% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $130K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $74K per year | $101K per year | $130K per year | $166K per year | $216K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $79K above the national average. | ||||
Veterinarians work in private clinics and animal hospitals. They may also work in laboratories, animal shelters, zoos, or wildlife parks. Some veterinarians choose to travel to farms or work in food safety and inspection.
Veterinarians play a crucial role in the health care of animals. Whether they're providing clinical care to pets or managing the health of livestock and working animals, their work ensures the health and well-being of animals and, by extension, the humans who rely on them. The field is both challenging and diverse, encompassing a wide range of activities from health checks and vaccinations to complex surgical procedures.
The role demands a strong foundation in science, especially biology and anatomy, and requires skills in problem-solving and decision-making. Veterinarians must be compassionate yet able to make tough decisions, especially when it comes to end-of-life care. They also need good communication skills to effectively interact with animal owners, staff, and colleagues.
The field of veterinary medicine is constantly evolving with advancements in technology and medicine. This requires veterinarians to be lifelong learners, staying updated with the latest in animal healthcare. They must also be adaptable, as they may work in various environments and with different species.
Becoming a veterinarian typically requires completing a 4-year undergraduate program followed by a 4-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) program. Licensure is also required to practice in the field.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
