Veterinarians
O*NET 29-1131.00 · SOC 29-1131
Veterinarian is a strong career choice. Median pay is $130k a year with +9.4% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 3,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Low.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Examine, diagnose, and treat animal patients
- →Perform surgeries and medical procedures
- →Prescribe medications and treatments
- →Advise pet owners on animal health and nutrition
- →Maintain detailed medical records
Education & How to Get In
Veterinarian roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Veterinarian involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Veterinarian?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Veterinarian Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Veterinarians is projected to grow 9.4% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·32% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Veterinarian make?
The median Veterinarian earns $130k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Veterinarian jobs?
Our model puts Veterinarian at 24 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is low risk, AI-resistant. The main drivers: 32% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Veterinarian a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 9.4% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 3,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Veterinarian?
Veterinarian roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Veterinarian?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Veterinarian career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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