Professional Program of Study
For professional curriculum in veterinary medicine leading to the degree doctor of veterinary medicine, see Veterinary Medicine
A good foundation in anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology of animals is necessary to understand the mechanisms of animal disease processes and their treatment. Study of mammalian anatomy and physiology prepares students with a background in the structural and functional activities of cells, tissues, organs, and body systems relevant to veterinary medicine.
An understanding of drug action is essential for rational drug therapy. The general pharmacology courses provide students with a background in basic pharmacology to include pharmacodynamics, toxicology, and the clinical application of drugs. Special emphasis is placed on chemical agents and therapeutic practices specific to veterinary medicine.
Graduate Programs
The department offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees with a major in Biomedical Sciences and specializations in Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, and Cell Biology. Up to 10 credits of dual-listed veterinary courses may be applied for major graduate credit.
The objective of the department is to prepare graduate students for successful careers in biomedical research and professional service. The department is part of interdepartmental programs in neuroscience, toxicology, and molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. The combined Ph.D./DVM program is an option offered by the department.
Departmental research facilities allow for training in experimental anatomy, pharmacology, and physiology. Graduate studies are supervised by faculty members recognized in their areas of expertise. Current areas of research include: Alzheimer’s disease, aquatic animal health, calcium and mineral homeostasis, diabetes mellitus, glia-neuron signaling, neurophysiology of pain, neurotoxicology, physiology and pharmacology of nematode ion-channels, Parkinson’s disease, pharmacology of schistosomiasis, pharmacology of salmonellosis, physiology and pharmacology of thalamic neurons, physiology of the retina, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and study of neural stem cells.