

The Veterinary Parasitology Master of Studies program at Cornell University offers a scientifically detailed and clinically relevant learning environment for students who want to investigate how parasites affect animal health, disease transmission, and veterinary care. The curriculum integrates parasitology, molecular diagnostics, epidemiology, host–parasite interactions, and veterinary pathology, enabling learners to explore both microscopic and macroscopic parasites that impact companion animals, livestock, wildlife, and public health. With a strong emphasis on parasite biology, students develop the scientific reasoning and diagnostic skills necessary to understand parasite lifecycles, pathogenic mechanisms, and environmental influences on infection dynamics. This comprehensive structure allows learners to analyze parasitic diseases through biological, ecological, and veterinary lenses.
Delivered in a blended format that combines on campus laboratory work with online academic study, the program provides flexibility while maintaining academic rigor. Students engage in hands on diagnostic training, molecular techniques, microscopy, and case based analysis guided by faculty whose expertise spans zoonotic diseases, vector biology, veterinary epidemiology, and parasite control strategies. Through applied research and practical evaluation, learners strengthen their ability to conduct disease assessment, interpret diagnostic results, and support clinical decision making. This integration of field relevant knowledge and laboratory experience prepares graduates to contribute confidently to veterinary parasitology, animal health programs, and infectious disease research.
Semester 1
• Foundations of Veterinary Parasitology
• Parasite Identification and Diagnostic Techniques
• Host–Parasite Interactions and Immunity
• Elective in Zoonotic Diseases, Epidemiology, or Veterinary Pathology
Semester 2
• Parasite Control and Disease Management
• Applied Parasitology Research or Case Analysis Project
• Data Analysis for Veterinary and Biological Systems
• Elective in Vector Biology, Public Health, or Wildlife Parasitology
Graduates of this program pursue roles across veterinary medicine, animal health research, and public health, frequently joining diagnostic laboratories, animal health agencies, veterinary research institutions, and livestock and wildlife health programs. Their strong skills in parasite detection, biological evaluation, and disease interpretation enable them to contribute to diagnostic testing, outbreak monitoring, treatment planning, and research on parasitic diseases affecting both animals and humans. With interdisciplinary scientific preparation, they support veterinary clinics, research facilities, government health agencies, and organizations working to improve parasite management and animal well being.
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to specialize in animal health and parasitic disease science, offering opportunities to develop advanced diagnostic insight and strong scientific capability supported by Cornell’s distinguished veterinary faculty. Through blended learning, hands on laboratory work, and research guided coursework, learners gain the tools to analyze parasitic infections, support clinical decision making, and contribute to disease management strategies in veterinary and public health contexts. Its focused one year format ensures efficient, rigorous preparation and equips graduates for impactful roles in veterinary parasitology, diagnostic sciences, and animal health research.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States