Veterinarians
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.
Median pay: $130,100/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +9.6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — much faster than average.
About 3,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Treat sick or injured animals by prescribing medication, setting bones, dressing wounds, or performing surgery.
• Inoculate animals against various diseases, such as rabies or distemper.
• Examine animals to detect and determine the nature of diseases or injuries.
• Collect body tissue, feces, blood, urine, or other body fluids for examination and analysis.
• Operate diagnostic equipment, such as radiographic or ultrasound equipment, and interpret the resulting images.
• Educate the public about diseases that can be spread from animals to humans.
• Counsel clients about the deaths of their pets or about euthanasia decisions for their pets.
• Advise animal owners regarding sanitary measures, feeding, general care, medical conditions, or treatment options.
What's the median pay for Veterinarians?
The median pay for Veterinarians is $130,100 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Veterinarians?
Employment for Veterinarians is projected to change +9.6% from 2024 to 2034 - much faster than average.
What education is typically required for Veterinarians?
Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Veterinarians?
About 3,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.