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.
Veterinarian M/F - Corte 2B
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Corte
Veterinarian job - Corte 2B We are recruiting a veterinarian M/F to join a veterinary clinic located in Corte, Haute-Corse, France, as part of a salaried contract or a self-employed collaboration with the prospect of a partnership Structure DNA This clinic, located on the northern outskirts of Corte, offers a pleasant practice environment in the heart of a mountainous region. The premises are functional and include two consultation rooms, an analysis laboratory, a hospitalization room, a care and radiology area and a surgery room. The current team is made up of two veterinary surgeons and two veterinary auxiliaries, guaranteeing a friendly working atmosphere and real support when taking up a new position. The clientele is essentially canine, and the flow is marked by a seasonal dimension specific to the island's rural areas Description and tasks You will join an existing team and gradually take over from a partner who is retiring in July 2026. The position is due to start at the beginning of 2026, with the possibility of starting part-time before July 2026 to ensure a smooth and complete handover taking charge of hospitalizations and participating in on-call duty and emergencies according to an established rota You will have access to an operating theatre and modern imaging equipment including gas anaesthesia, respirator, HD ultrasound and digital radiology, as well as a complete laboratory The clinic offers support in setting up and contacts for housing assistance Compensation For this position, you will be remunerated as a salaried employee or as part of a team on the basis of a fixed daily rate (convention collective) plus 20%, with the possibility of moving into an association Benefits - Salaried status or self-employed with the prospect of a partnership Full-time or part-time employment possible - Remuneration on the basis of a collective bargaining agreement daily rate plus 20%, with the possibility of moving into a partnership - Full technical platform operating theatre gas anaesthesia HD ultrasound digital radiology and laboratory - Functional, welcoming premises located on the northern outskirts of Corte, easily accessible for business trips - Team of two veterinarians and two ASVs in place to provide handover and support - Warm working atmosphere and responsive clientele with seasonal dynamism - Housing assistance via contacts and organization of shifts Profile required State-qualified veterinarian registered with the Ordre des Vétérinaires, motivated by a canine activity, committed to quality of care and wishing to be part of an association project Contact us on 07 45 23 91 01 or by e-mail at [email protected] Reference 11200 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service, and a totally free service with which 99% of our candidates are satisfied
Canine veterinarian - La Chapelle-Saint-Luc 10
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
la Chapelle-Saint-Luc
Job Canine Veterinarian M/F - La Chapelle-Saint-Luc 10 We are recruiting a veterinarian M/F to join a veterinary clinic located in La Chapelle-Saint-Luc, in the Aube department, as part of a full-time or part-time permanent contract. Description and duties You will be working in a recognized canine facility with a rich and diversified activity. You will be involved in the management of complex cases, with the possibility of in-house referrals in surgery, imaging, ophthalmology, internal medicine and behavior. You will enjoy a high degree of autonomy in the conduct of your consultations, with a full technical platform enabling comprehensive case management. - Carrying out general medical consultations - Participate in surgical care, including visceral, orthopedic and neurological surgery, depending on your skills - Management and follow-up of referred cases - Working closely with other veterinarians and ASVs to ensure optimal care - Participation in on-call duty, organized on a rhythm of 1 per week and 1 weekend every month and a half, with extensive screening and a possible second on-call DNA of the structure You'll work in spacious 300 m² premises with 4 consultation rooms, two fully-equipped surgical suites, a full on-site analysis laboratory, and the latest imaging equipment (abdomino-cardiac ultrasound, digital X-ray, endoscopy). The facility has been awarded the Catfriendly Silver label, and welcomes a loyal clientele that is both family-oriented and specialized, and open to complementary examinations. The team is made up of 7 veterinarians, several of whom hold CES or CEAV diplomas, and 10 experienced ASVs, committed to a dynamic of collaboration, knowledge sharing and good humor on a daily basis. Compensation For this position, you will benefit from a salary based on the collective bargaining agreement, plus luncheon vouchers and a premium health insurance plan covered 100% by the company. Benefits - Salaried status (CDI) or self-employed, depending on your preference, full-time or part-time - Collective agreement salary + luncheon vouchers + premium health insurance - Full technical platform: ultrasound, endoscopy, digital radiography, analysis lab, operating theatres - Spacious, well-equipped premises, Catfriendly Silver label - Experienced multidisciplinary team, qualified and committed ASVs - Caring, dynamic working atmosphere, regular events - Flexible working hours and planning arrangements - Possibility of temporary accommodation in La Chapelle-Saint-Luc - Access to internal, external and graduate training (Graduate Academy for recent graduates) Profile sought State-qualified veterinarian, registered with the Ordre national des vétérinaires. Beginners accepted, personalized support offered. Contact us on 07 45 23 91 01 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference : 11017 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Benefit from a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service, and a totally free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Veterinarian M/F - Sainte-Marie-aux-Chênes 57
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Sainte-Marie-aux-Chênes
Employment Veterinarian M/F - Sainte-Marie-aux-Chênes 57 We are recruiting a veterinarian M/F to join a general veterinary clinic in Sainte-Marie-aux-Chênes, Moselle, on a permanent contract. Description and duties As a canine veterinarian, you will join a dynamic and committed team, within a structure that is 95% canine and 5% NAC. Your duties will include - General and specialized consultations - Performing routine surgical procedures in an operating room equipped with gas anesthesia - Management of dental care via a dedicated IM3 unit - Participation in on-call duty in collaboration with two other clinics in the area (approximately 2 evenings per month and 6 weekends per year) - Use of a complete technical platform including radiology, ultrasound (abdominal and cardiac) and IDEXX laboratory Depending on your profile, you will be supported in your new position, notably through internal or external training courses, and will benefit from active support from your colleagues and ASVs on a daily basis. DNA of the structure You'll be working in a modern, bright and well-appointed 400 m² clinic, with 4 consultation rooms, separate areas for dogs, cats and contagious diseases, as well as relaxation and catering areas for staff. Based 20 minutes from Metz and within easy reach of Luxembourg, Belgium and Germany, the facility is easily accessible and has private parking. The atmosphere is collaborative, caring and focused on sharing skills. Each practitioner has the opportunity to adapt his or her schedule and benefit from an environment that favors professional-personal balance. Compensation For this position, you will receive a salary based on the collective agreement plus 15%, with on-call duty paid at 240% of the agreement. Benefits - Full-time or part-time salaried status, according to your preferences - Attractive remuneration package, with housing available during the trial period - Full technical platform: high-performance ultrasound scanner, IM3 dental unit, IDEXX, etc - Spacious, bright premises designed for human and animal comfort - A close-knit, multidisciplinary team, with a schedule drawn up in advance - Premium health insurance with 100% cover and luncheon vouchers - Free private parking, easily accessible from Metz and surrounding areas - Access to in-house and diploma training, as well as the Graduate Academy program Profile sought Qualified veterinary surgeon, registered or eligible for registration with the Ordre des Vétérinaires in France. Contact us on 07 45 23 91 01 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference : 11036 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Benefit from a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service, and a totally free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
See all available offers for this category