As we explained in our veterinary profession fact sheet, to become a veterinarian, you need to complete a long course of studies combining theory, practice and, in some cases, specialization. It's a job that's as demanding as it is exciting, and reflects the importance of the responsibilities entrusted to it. In this fact sheet, we'll find out what it takes to become a veterinarian.
Why become a vet: a fascinating profession
The role and missions of the veterinarian
Veterinarians are health professionals with a wide range of missions. They diagnose and treat animal diseases, perform surgery, administer preventive care such as vaccinations, and advise owners on the well-being of their pets. In rural areas, they work alongside farmers to maintain herd health and comply with health standards. Veterinarians also play a crucial role in the prevention of zoonoses, diseases transmissible from animals to humans, and in food safety.
Necessary qualities and skills
To become a veterinarian, you need a solid scientific background in animal biology and anatomy, as well as skills in diagnosis, surgery and emergency management. At the same time, human qualities such as empathy, patience and pedagogy are essential for establishing a relationship of trust with animal owners and managing emotionally difficult situations. All these qualities make it easier to apply for the best veterinary jobs.
Steps in the veterinary curriculum
Preliminary studies: the baccalauréat and preparatory classes
The path begins with a scientific baccalauréat (or equivalent), which enables entry to a specific preparatory class, called Classe Préparatoire Biologie, Chimie, Physique et Sciences de la Terre (BCPST). This rigorous two-year preparatory course prepares students for the entrance exam to veterinary schools.
Entrance to veterinary schools: competitive examination and selection
After the preparatory class, candidates sit a highly selective national competitive entrance examination to enter one of France's four national veterinary schools (Maisons-Alfort, Lyon, Toulouse or Nantes). Please note that there are parallel entry routes reserved for holders of certain university degrees in biology or medicine.
The years of study in detail
The veterinarycurriculum lasts five years. These years can be divided into three main parts dedicated to the different aspects of the profession.
1ʳᵉ and 2ᵉ years: scientific foundations and introduction to veterinary medicine
During these two so-called "pre-clinical" years, veterinary students focus on mastering basic sciences such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology and biochemistry. They also begin to tackle the basics of veterinary medicine, including pharmacology and early diagnostic concepts.
3ᵉ year: deepening clinical knowledge
The third year marks a transition to clinical subjects. Students learn to make diagnoses, perform more in-depth examinations and use diagnostic tools such as medical imaging. This year is also an opportunity to work on practical cases to prepare for professional responsibilities.
4ᵉ and 5ᵉ years: practical placements and choice of specialization
The final two years of a veterinarian's academic curriculum are strongly practice-oriented. Students complete internships in clinics, on farms or in laboratories, depending on their interests. In the fifth year, they specialize in a particular field, such as companion animals, livestock or public health.
Specializations and further training
The different veterinary specialties
After graduation, young veterinarians can specialize in specific fields, such as surgery, dermatology or exotic animal medicine. These specializations require additional training, which may be recognized at European or even international level.
Of course, as with most professions in the health sector, a veterinarian's training doesn't end with his or her diploma. They will need to follow ongoing training courses throughout their career to keep abreast of scientific advances and new technologies.
Career opportunities after graduation
Veterinary surgeons in private practice
Most veterinarians work in private clinics, caring for pets. These structures, often located in urban areas, offer a stable, well-equipped professional environment, accompanied by stable remuneration.
To find out more, see our veterinary salary sheet.
Veterinarian in rural areas or for production animals
In rural areas, veterinarians specialize in livestock. They support farmers in herd health management, animal reproduction and epidemic prevention, playing a key role in food safety.
Other careers: research, teaching, industry
In addition to clinical practice, many vets choose alternative careers, such as research, teaching or the pharmaceutical industry. These fields offer varied opportunities and the chance to contribute to major advances in animal health.
In short, becoming a veterinarian requires a substantial investment in terms of years of study and personal work. That's why it's a career reserved for those with a passion for animals and medicine. However, this rigorous training opens the doors to an exciting and varied discipline, at the service of animals, breeders and public health.
This offer may be of interest to you
Jober can accompany you on your next professional adventure. Take a look at our special offer.
Canine Veterinarian (M/F) - Sevran, 93
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Sevran
A veterinary practice in Sevran, Seine-Saint-Denis, is seeking a new canine veterinarian (M/F) with a view to taking over the clinic. Terms and Conditions - Permanent contract or independent practice - Part-time - Four days a week - Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, plus a choice between Tuesday and Thursday - Every other Saturday morning - Weekdays: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (lunch break from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.) - Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - No on-call duty or standby shifts The Practice You’ll be joining a veterinary clinic located in a quiet, residential neighborhood of Sevran, with excellent access via the RER B line, allowing you to reach Paris in 30 minutes. The 150-square-meter facility includes two examination rooms, a waiting room, a break room, a surgical suite, a dog kennel, and a cat shelter, and features a parking lot. The team consists of three veterinarians and three veterinary technicians working in a friendly, family-like atmosphere. Additionally, the clinic’s loyal clientele—which has been with us for several decades—has fostered a relationship of trust and appreciation for the team. Compensation - Collective bargaining agreement with a bonus of up to 20% - Performance bonus Benefits - Performance bonus - Meal vouchers - Regular training and opportunities for advancement to management positions - Structured schedule with consultations every 20 minutes to ensure high-quality care - Functional 150 m² facilities - Parking available and direct access to the RER - Stable team and collaborative work environment Equipment - IDEXX laboratory offering biochemistry, complete blood count, and electrolyte panel - Sonosite ultrasound machine with cardiac probe - Digital radiology with a flat-panel detector - Therapeutic laser - Inhalation anesthesia That Little Extra Sevran offers quick access to Paris while providing nearby green spaces, notably the Parc de la Poudrerie, perfect for walks after work or on weekends. Qualifications A veterinarian with a degree from France or the European Union, currently registered or eligible for registration with the Order. Contact us at: 07.44.71.65.08 or by email at [email protected] Job Posting ID: 13085 Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our website and the Jober Group mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts dedicated to your needs, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with. Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, the leader in placing healthcare professionals in France, provides you with free support until you start your new role: - Connecting you with our partner medical schools - Assistance with registration with the French Medical Board - A dedicated consultant to support you
Canine Veterinarian (M/F) - Rittershoffen 67
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Rittershoffen
As part of its business expansion, a veterinary clinic in Rittershoffen, in the Bas-Rhin department, is seeking a canine veterinarian (M/F) for a permanent position. Requirements - Permanent contract - Full-time - 35 hours per week - Monday through Friday The Clinic You will join a friendly dog clinic located in Rittershoffen, part of a group of six clinics. The team consists of three veterinarians and seven veterinary technicians and fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. Additionally, appointments are scheduled in 30-minute slots to ensure high-quality care and optimal working conditions. Compensation - Salary above the collective bargaining agreement Benefits - Premium health insurance - Meal vouchers - Training and professional development opportunities - Fully equipped technical facilities - Supportive team and friendly atmosphere That Extra Something Rittershoffen is located in northern Alsace, near Haguenau and the German border, offering a quiet, green living environment that’s easily accessible via major highways, as well as cross-border cultural and culinary opportunities. Qualifications A veterinarian with a degree from France or the European Union, who is registered or eligible for registration with the Order. Contact us at: 07 44 71 65 08 or by email at [email protected]. Job Posting Reference: 13084 Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, the leader in the integration of healthcare professionals in France, provides free support until you begin your practice: - Connecting you with our partner professors - Assistance with registration with the Medical Board - A dedicated consultant to support you Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our Jober Group website and mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts ready to assist you, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Canine Veterinarian (M/F) - Gaillard 74
Employee
2000 - 4000 per month
Gaillard
As part of its business expansion, a veterinary clinic in Gaillard, Haute-Savoie, is seeking a new canine veterinarian (M/F) for a one-year fixed-term contract. Job Details - One-year fixed-term contract (with the possibility of a six-month extension) - Mondays and Tuesdays - Work hours based on an annual workload of 100 to 150 days - Six to seven full weeks spread out over the year The Practice You will join a clinic exclusively dedicated to companion animals, located in downtown Gaillard. Its patient population consists mainly of cats and dogs, with a few small animals, and its practice is primarily medical in nature, with high demand for diagnostic tests and a moderate volume of surgical procedures. In addition, the team includes two experienced and trained veterinary technicians, which enhances patient care and the quality of treatment. Compensation - As per the collective bargaining agreement + 20% Benefits - Full range of diagnostic equipment - Two experienced Level 5 veterinary technicians - No on-call duty or standby shifts - Large parking lot with easy parking - Excellent public transportation access from Annemasse and Geneva - Membership in the Alpivet purchasing group, with training opportunities - Option for furnished housing (45 m²) located 200 meters from the clinic: a furnished one-bedroom apartment (45 m²) with a monthly rent of 800 € Facilities - 2 examination rooms - 1 operating room - 1 radiology room - On-site laboratory - Digital X-ray - Ultrasound machine capable of performing cardiac ultrasounds That Extra Special Touch Gaillard enjoys an attractive cross-border location, right next to Geneva and Lake Geneva. Outdoor enthusiasts will easily enjoy the trails on Mount Salève and water sports around the lake. International accessibility is a major advantage, with the airport just a short distance away. Qualifications A veterinarian licensed in France or the European Union, currently registered or eligible for registration with the Order. Contact us at: 07 44 71 65 08 or by email at [email protected] Job posting reference: 12755 Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, the leader in the integration of healthcare professionals in France, provides free support until you begin your practice: - Connecting you with our partner professors - Assistance with registration with the Medical Board - A dedicated consultant to support you Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our website and the Jober Group mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts ready to assist you, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
See all available offers for this category