Veterinary Preceptorship

Overview

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (CZA), located in Columbus, Ohio, offers a unique training opportunity for 3rd and 4th-year veterinary students.

**Note:** This program fills quickly, so interested students are encouraged to apply as early as possible, ideally during their first or second year.

The application deadline for the 2028-2029 academic year is January 1, 2027. Candidates will be notified of their application status by March 1, 2027. 

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all hiring decisions.

Selected candidates will collaborate with CZA veterinarians (all board-certified diplomates of the American College of Zoological Medicine) and support staff in all aspects of medical care and management of a diverse zoo and aquarium collection. The CZA’s animal health center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including CT imaging, and we work with various DVM and MD specialists to assist with surgical and other procedures. The CZA also has an active ACZM residency program, providing veterinary preceptors with opportunities to participate in case and journal rounds, as well as pathology reviews in collaboration with The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Responsibilities

Students gain firsthand clinical experience with medicine, surgery, husbandry, nutrition, quarantine, pathology and more.  Students will assist the veterinary staff in case management, development and implementation of anesthetic protocols, and preparation and participation in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures, and in post-mortem examination.  Students will also attend weekly rounds/case discussions.

Hours: Minimum of 40 hours/week for 4 to 8 weeks.

Qualifications

• This program is for 3rd and 4th year veterinary students enrolled in an AVMA-COE accredited program. NOTE: This program fills rapidly and interested students are encouraged to apply as early as possible, ideally during the first or second year.
• Knowledge of exotic animals and their medicine.
• Ability to communicate well, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to be onsite Monday-Friday 7am-4pm.
• Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures, including but not limited to required safety and biosecurity protocols.
• Proof of negative tuberculosis screening prior to placement.
• Ability to adhere to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s drug-free workplace policy.
• Ability to successfully complete a criminal history background check.