OVC Ranks 6th Worldwide in New Global Ranking

The Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph continues to demonstrate its national and global leadership in veterinary science, according to rankings released by QS Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) on March 12, 2025. OVC has been ranked sixth in the world for veterinary science, rising from eighth place in 2024. OVC ranks fourth in North America and has maintained its position as the top veterinary school in Canada.   

"Being recognized as the sixth best veterinary college in the world by QS, and maintaining our position as Canada's top institution, is a testament to the exceptional dedication and talent of our faculty, staff and students,” says OVC dean, Dr. Jeffrey Wichtel.  

“At OVC, we are committed to advancing animal health, while enhancing the well-being of veterinarians and the clients and communities they serve. Our work in translational health research and One Health is making a positive impact on humans and our planet. These rankings reflect our ongoing pursuit of excellence and our role as leaders in veterinary science."  

QS is considered one of the most influential international authorities on university rankings. The QS Subject Rankings consider five criteria in developing their assessment, including academic reputation, employer reputation, citations per paper, international research networks and H-index, a measure of research impact and productivity.  

As one of Canada’s top research-intensive universities, the University of Guelph helps to address some of the world’s most pressing problems. At OVC, veterinarians and scientists work every day to improve the health of animals, people and our planet through study in a range of disciplines, from antimicrobial resistance and public health to cancer and mental health. OVC’s success is supported by productive partnerships with governments, United Nations agencies, other leading human health institutions and the private sector.  

OVC researchers translate their research into practical and accessible innovations, ensuring impact. For example, OVC continues to expand and innovate with its Bench to Bedside Insitute focused on translational health research.  

To address workforce gaps that result in poor access to veterinary care in Ontario, OVC is expanding its Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) class size, with a specific focus on Northern Ontario, through the new Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program – a partnership between Lakehead University and the University of Guelph. To accommodate the increased class size, OVC has embarked on a major capital campaign to build a state-of-the-art Medical and Surgical Learning Centre to enhance training for the next generation of veterinarians.  

“The future is looking bright for OVC, and we are committed to continuing the pursuit of excellence at our college to improve life,” says Wichtel. 

To learn more about institutional rankings, visit the official QS 2025 Subject Rankings website.