Most veterinarians come to their careers because they love animals—but they may not have the skill set to build a solid business if they pursue a private practice. That’s where UC Davis can help through a new business certificate program designed by experts from its School of Veterinary Medicine and Graduate School of Management (GSM).

The Foundations of Veterinary Business program will provide a cost-effective and time efficient opportunity to develop a solid business foundation and practical skills required to manage and lead successful veterinary practices. The program is designed for DVMs working in the profession as associates, practice owners, or leaders of large corporate practices. Hospital administrators and veterinary students with a strong interest in future practice ownership will also benefit from this program. 

The 2019 summer program, launching on May 31, includes on-line learning modules developed by the GSM in conjunction with three mandatory on-site Saturday meetings on June 29, July 20, and August 10.

“We’ve designed this program to allow working professionals to learn at their own pace while maintaining their work schedule,” said Dr. Jim Clark.  “Participants will also benefit from interactive learning and networking opportunities with a cohort of colleagues who are current or future leaders in the profession.”  

Instructors include business experts from the GSM faculty and experienced practice owners and consultants from the veterinary field, including Jim Clark, DVM, MBA; Andy Clark, DVM, MBA; Jim DeLano, DVM; Robin Brogdon, MA; Whitney Hischier, MBA; and Jeff Sanford, MBA.

Topics include managerial accounting, finance, marketing, strategy, human resources, operations and much more.  Students will work in teams to analyze veterinary businesses and present at the final meeting. 

This course is designed to introduce key business concepts and how these concepts are applied in the successful veterinary practice.  Participants will learn how to interpret financial reports and make calculations to assess performance and guide decision making.  They will also learn how to be more effective leaders and create a thriving practice using effective marketing. There are no course pre-requisites and prior knowledge is not essential. There are very few mathematical equations used in this course and only a basic understanding of algebra is required. 

“We are excited to offer this new certificate program that is uniquely designed to address critical skills every veterinarian needs to productively advance their practice,” said SVM Dean Michael Lairmore.

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will receive a certificate from the UC Davis Graduate School of Management to complement their veterinary degree. Following completion of the program, participants have continued access to the materials for future reference. 

Registration deadline is May 3rd. The fee for this unique program is $4,000, and includes access to the on-line learning modules, three catered in-person meetings, materials and resources, and education fees. Enrollment is limited. For more information, please contact the GSM’s Executive Education office at execeducation@gsm.ucdavis.edu or 530-752-6840.

More program info here.