Online courses may better veterinary students' chances to win scholarships

Online courses may better veterinary students' chances to win scholarships

An online degree in biology may help students wishing to pursue careers in veterinary medicine benefit from such opportunities as the new scholarship program that is offered by the American Veterinary Medical Foundation and Pfizer Animal Health.

The two companies have announced they will partner to provide $2,500 scholarships to more than 225 veterinary students in programs nationwide.

Awards will be distributed annually through 2012 to give out an estimated $2 million to students working toward careers as veterinarians.

The scholarships are intended to increase enrollment in food animal medicine and rural practice programs, as these fields are currently experiencing shortages. The program will also ensure that approximately 30 percent of awardees come from diverse backgrounds based on age, gender, physical disability and ethnicity.

Dr. Larry R. Corry, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, said the program also aims to ensure "a strong foundation to veterinarians by assisting them in graduation with less debt, provide more opportunities to practice in rural areas and enrich the diversity of the profession as a whole."

Those wishing to increase their eligibility for such financial aid options may consider enrolling in online masters programs to enhance their qualifications.