Doctor of Veterinary Science (DVSc) in Clinical Pathology
Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph
A three-year (9 semester) training position in Clinical Pathology is available beginning in May or September 2026 in the Department of Pathobiology at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph.
The DVSc program is designed for individuals seeking advanced training in Clinical Pathology combined with research experience, which leads to eligibility for the certifying examination by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists.
About the Program
The program is directed by four board-certified Clinical Pathologists and is closely integrated with graduate programs in anatomic and comparative pathology, microbiology and immunology, and with the diagnostic services provided by the Animal Health Laboratory to the province of Ontario and beyond. The Clinical Pathology Laboratory serves the Health Sciences Centre at the Ontario Veterinary College, researchers and general practitioners.
Specimens submitted originate from small, large, and non-domestic animals. Ancillary diagnostic modalities, such as flow cytometry, immunochemistry, and advanced hemostatic and molecular testing are routinely employed.
Program Details and Requirements
The DVSc degree comprises of formal coursework, a research project, qualifying examination and thesis. A stipend of $45,000 CAD per year is awarded, dependent on satisfactory annual progress. A comprehensive medical, dental and ophthalmic insurance package is available. The student must pay semesterly tuition for the entirety of their program. The University of Guelph has an International Doctoral Tuition Scholarship for non-Canadian full-time doctoral (DVSc) students with a minimum B admission average (Guelph equivalent, as assessed by the University of Guelph) to cover most of the difference between the tuition rates for domestic students and the tuition rates for international students.
Application
Applications will be accepted until Nov. 14, 2025, or until suitable candidates are identified. Applicants then have 10 business days to upload all required application documents. Therefore, all documents must be received by December 1, 2025 at 11:59 PM (EST).
Applicants must have a DVM or equivalent veterinary medical degree, a strong academic record, a demonstrable commitment to pathology, and be eligible to obtain an educational or general license with the College of Veterinarians of Ontario (CVO). Successful completion of the NAVLE or equivalent is typically required. For applicants whose DVM degree (or equivalent veterinary medical degree) is from a non-AVMA-accredited school, an entrance exam to assess core knowledge of veterinary pathology is required.
Applications should be completed via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre website.
Application Submission and Contact Information
Applicants must submit a statement of career goals, a curriculum vitae, and three letters of reference. Application inquiries should be directed to the Department of Pathobiology Graduate Administrative Support (e-mail ovc.pathgrad@uoguelph.ca).
Specific questions about the Clinical Pathology program may be directed to Dr. Darren Wood (woodr@uoguelph.ca) or Dr. Janet Beeler-Marfisi (jbeelerm@uoguelph.ca), Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph.
Additional information is available via the U of G Academic Calendar.
At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. We invite and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those from groups that are traditionally underrepresented, and who will contribute to further diversification of our academic discipline and Institution.