STARKVILLE, Miss.—Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is announcing a new partnership with Loop Abroad to expand global learning opportunities for undergraduate students pursuing careers in veterinary medicine and related fields at U.S. universities.
This collaboration establishes the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine Summer Veterinary Internships, credit-bearing international programs designed to provide immersive, hands-on veterinary experiences abroad for undergraduate students enrolled at any U.S. university. Beginning in summer 2026, students can enroll in two distinctive courses: Companion Animal and Elephant Veterinary Medicine in Thailand and Food Animal, Marine, and Wildlife Medicine in Belize. The application deadline for summer 2026 enrollment in the program is Feb. 10.
Founded in 1974, Mississippi State’s College of Veterinary Medicine has built a national and international reputation for excellence in teaching, research and service. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge research programs, CVM ensures students receive hands-on training from day one. Veterinary students at Mississippi State perform an average of 90 surgeries before graduation, reflecting the college’s commitment to experiential learning where passion for animals meets a legacy of excellence. Faculty, staff and students are actively engaged around the world, addressing challenges across all aspects of One Health—an integrated approach that recognizes the interconnected health of people, animals and the environment and promotes collaboration across disciplines to achieve better health outcomes for all.
Loop Abroad, founded in 2009, is one of the largest pre-veterinary study abroad organizations in the U.S. and is consistently recognized as a top-rated study abroad provider by GoAbroad.com. The organization maintains partnerships in more than 12 countries and provides funding to projects worldwide that support wildlife conservation, research, animal welfare and One Health initiatives.
“Through this partnership, students will gain exposure to different veterinary practices, species and cultural contexts while earning academic credit through Mississippi State University,” said Dr. Nicholas Frank, CVM dean. “The programs are designed to complement our undergraduate, professional and graduate degree programs while emphasizing ethical, sustainable engagement with global communities.”
The Mississippi State University International Institute Office of Study Abroad will serve as a central hub for this partnership, supporting program coordination and student participation. The office plays a key role in MSU’s expanding international activities, mobilizing faculty, staff and students to engage globally and positively influence the lives of Mississippians and communities around the world.
MSU Executive Director of the International Institute Dan Reynolds noted, “This partnership reflects Mississippi State’s land-grant mission and its commitment to preparing students for impactful careers in a global society.”