UW School of Veterinary Medicine launches revised curriculum
This fall, the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM) will embark on a bold new chapter with the introduction of its revised Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) curriculum, “OnWard.” Designed to be more clinically relevant, student-centered, and skills-focused, the new curriculum aims to ensure graduates are practice-ready on day one.
See original story here: https://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/onward-in-veterinary-medical-education/
The updated curriculum is the result of a comprehensive, faculty-led initiative informed by data, research, and input from veterinary professionals, teaching specialists, and SVM educators. While foundational content remains intact, the approach to teaching, learning, and assessment has been completely transformed.
A new, integrated approach to veterinary education
The “OnWard” curriculum shifts to a systems-based structure that seamlessly integrates basic science with clinical concepts. Students will benefit from more opportunities for self-directed learning and hands-on problem-solving from the outset.
The name “OnWard” — submitted by student Deborah Liu (DVMx’26) — was selected through a vote involving nearly 200 students, faculty, and staff. The name honors UW’s iconic “On, Wisconsin” motto while symbolizing progress and forward-thinking education.
A phased, student-driven learning journey
The curriculum is structured into four academic phases:
Phase one combines subjects such as anatomy and physiology, emphasizing interactive and application-based learning over traditional lectures.
Phase two centers on animal disease and dysfunction, preparing students to understand disease processes across species.
Phase three focuses on complex, multisystemic, and co-morbid diseases, challenging students to apply cumulative knowledge to real-world case scenarios.
Phase four consists of full-time clinical rotations, including an expanded eight weeks for primary care medicine and surgery experiences.
Throughout all phases, students will take on greater responsibility for their learning, experiencing reduced lecture time and increased opportunities for independent study, problem-solving, and case-based learning.
Developing professional skills is a central pillar of OnWard. Students will gain training in communication, teamwork, leadership, ethics, wellbeing, and financial literacy through a combination of online modules and in-person activities.
Supporting a new way of teaching and learning
To prepare faculty for this shift, the SVM curriculum and educational support team will offer extensive resources and real-time support. These include assistance with instructional materials and assessments, coaching in advanced teaching techniques, and guidance on best practices.
Many faculty members had already begun transitioning to flipped or blended learning models in recent years. The SVM’s early adoption of flipped classrooms during the 2020 pivot to online learning provided crucial insights that now inform the OnWard curriculum.
Newly expanded facilities, advanced clinical equipment, and state-of-the-art instructional spaces will further enhance this innovative educational experience.
