Colorado State University Launched Veterinary Care Program
The state's new Master of Science degree aims to train specialized assistants to address local veterinary shortages.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Veterinary Medicine
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Colorado State University has officially launched its Master of Science in Veterinary Clinical Care program, enrolling an initial cohort of 14 students. The initiative follows the approval of Proposition 129 and seeks to expand access to animal care.
Why it matters
This program aims to address ongoing veterinary workforce shortages by introducing a new professional role, Veterinary Professional Associates, to support clinic operations. The effort intends to improve family access to pet care across Colorado.
The program consists of 65 credit hours spread over five semesters. While the first cohort of 14 students has begun their training, the final professional scope for these graduates is still being determined by state regulators.
The players
Colorado State University
A public research university recognized for its extensive veterinary medicine school and clinical training programs.
Colorado Board of Veterinary Medicine
The state agency responsible for licensing professionals and establishing regulatory standards for animal care.
The details
Students complete three semesters of online coursework before beginning in-person laboratory and clinical training. The curriculum covers specialized procedures including anesthesia, dentistry, and surgery, all performed under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. This hybrid model prepares students to assist in high-demand clinical areas where staff support is currently limited.
Timeline
November 2024: Voters approved Proposition 129.
Fall 2026: CSU launched the Master of Science program.
October 8, 2026: The Board of Veterinary Medicine will hold a permanent rulemaking hearing.
Spring 2028: The first cohort is expected to graduate.
The Home Front
This program follows the legal framework established by Colorado Proposition 129 to address gaps in animal healthcare access. It marks a significant shift in state-level veterinary workforce policy by creating a new category of specialized support staff.
Pet owners should keep an eye on upcoming regulatory changes that may affect who provides care at their local clinics. You can monitor the progress of these professional standards via state resources to understand how they might impact future veterinary visits.
The takeaway
The creation of this master's program represents a state-level effort to stabilize veterinary staffing through specialized clinical training. Pet owners should watch for the board's decision on October 8, 2026, as it will finalize the operational scope of these new associates.
What happens next
The Colorado Board of Veterinary Medicine will hold a permanent rulemaking hearing on October 8, 2026, which will further define the clinical authority of the new Veterinary Professional Associate role.
Further reading
Find more updates on regional pet health standards in Veterinary Medicine.
More information
Review the Colorado veterinary board rulemaking information for updates on the new professional standards.
Live Poll
Should mid-level veterinary professionals be allowed to perform routine surgical procedures on animals?
