Each year, a special ceremony marks an important milestone in the education of every student at the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine: the White Coat Ceremony. The occasion celebrates Veterinary Nursing and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine students who are concluding the classroom segment of their schooling in order to begin assisting on the clinic floor. At the MSU Veterinary Medical Center, they will assist veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians in patient care until they graduate.

The transition is symbolized by the donning of the white coat. Each student is joined on stage by family, friends, partners, mentors, and teachers who help them put on their coat, just as they have supported them on their educational and career journey.

In 2026, more than 30 Veterinary Nursing students and more than 130 DVM students crossed the stage and will begin their clinical hours soon. The full ceremony is captured online here.