Arkansas State Launches New College of Veterinary Medicine

The new program aims to address the state's shortage of veterinarians and support its agricultural economy.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:54am

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a veterinary stethoscope repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the new veterinary college's focus on providing essential medical care for Arkansas' agricultural industry.The new College of Veterinary Medicine at Arkansas State University aims to address the state's shortage of veterinarians and support its vital agricultural economy.Fayetteville Today

Arkansas State University is opening a new College of Veterinary Medicine this fall, becoming the first veterinary school in the state. The college aims to educate a new generation of veterinarians, with a focus on serving rural and underserved areas of Arkansas. The program has already received over 1,200 applications for its inaugural class of 120 students.

Why it matters

Agriculture is the cornerstone of Arkansas' economy, but the state has long faced a shortage of veterinarians, especially in rural areas. The new College of Veterinary Medicine at Arkansas State will create a pipeline of veterinary talent trained specifically to serve the state's agricultural needs.

The details

The College of Veterinary Medicine at Arkansas State University will welcome its first class of 120 students in August. The college plans to grow to approximately 480 students at full capacity, establishing a sustainable source of veterinary professionals for Arkansas. The curriculum is designed to encourage graduates to return to Arkansas communities, particularly rural and underserved areas, and the college has partnered with organizations across the state to provide hands-on training opportunities.

  • Arkansas State University received approval to accept applications for the new veterinary college in 2026.
  • The college will welcome its inaugural class of 120 students in August 2026.

The players

Dr. Heidi Banse

The founding dean of the Arkansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, recruited from a national search.

Dr. Len Frey

The leader who guided the college through accreditation and into operation.

Arkansas State University

A public university founded in 1909 with a mission grounded in agriculture and regional service, now launching the state's first College of Veterinary Medicine.

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What they’re saying

“Arkansas State educates Arkansas. With the launch of the College of Veterinary Medicine, we are doing so in a way that will serve this state for generations to come.”

— Calvin White Jr., Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, Arkansas State University

What’s next

The college will welcome its first class of 120 students in August 2026 and plans to grow to approximately 480 students at full capacity.

The takeaway

The new College of Veterinary Medicine at Arkansas State University will create a sustainable pipeline of veterinary talent to serve the state's agricultural needs, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and strengthen Arkansas State's role as a research institution supporting the state's largest industry.