Who Owns Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine?
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine is owned by Adtalem Global Education, a publicly traded healthcare education company. Ross University was acquired by Adtalem in 2003 and educates hundreds of veterinary students annually. The school offers Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree programs with emphasis on small animal medicine.
Parent Company
Adtalem Global Education
Acquired
2003
Status
Private
Headquarters
Caribbean
Who Owns Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine?
- Parent Company: Adtalem Global Education
- Ownership Type: Wholly owned
- Acquisition Year: 2003
- Company Type: Publicly Traded
- Stock Ticker: NYSE: ATGE
| Brand | Parent Company | Ownership Type |
|---|---|---|
| Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine | Adtalem Global Education | Wholly owned |
History of Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
- Founded: 1982
- Founders: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (original founding)
- Acquired by Adtalem Global Education: 2003
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine was founded in 1982 in Basseterre, St. Kitts, in the Eastern Caribbean. The school was established as an offshore veterinary school, offering the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree to students who had not been admitted to veterinary schools in the United States or Canada. Offshore veterinary schools like Ross University provide an alternative pathway to a veterinary career for students who are qualified and motivated but were unable to secure admission to the limited number of AVMA-accredited veterinary schools in North America.
The veterinary school admissions process in the United States and Canada is highly competitive, with far more qualified applicants than available seats at AVMA-accredited schools. In recent years, there have been approximately 30 AVMA-accredited veterinary schools in the United States and 5 in Canada, with total annual enrollment capacity that is significantly smaller than the number of qualified applicants. This competitive admissions environment creates demand for offshore veterinary schools like Ross University, which offer qualified students an alternative pathway to the DVM degree.
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine was established with a curriculum modeled on North American veterinary education standards, with the goal of preparing graduates to pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) and practice veterinary medicine in the United States and Canada. The school's curriculum follows the standard veterinary education model, with preclinical training at the Caribbean campus followed by clinical training at partner veterinary teaching hospitals in the United States.
The school's preclinical curriculum covers the foundational sciences of veterinary medicine, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, and clinical sciences. Students complete their preclinical training at the St. Kitts campus before transferring to clinical year training at partner veterinary teaching hospitals in the United States, where they gain hands-on clinical experience in small animal medicine, large animal medicine, and other veterinary specialties.
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine received accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education, which is the recognized accrediting body for veterinary education programs in the United States and Canada. AVMA accreditation is essential for graduates who wish to practice veterinary medicine in the United States, as most state veterinary licensing boards require graduation from an AVMA-accredited school or successful completion of the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) certification program.
In 2003, Adtalem Global Education (then operating as DeVry Education Group) acquired Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine as part of its expansion into healthcare education. The acquisition provided Adtalem with an established offshore veterinary school with AVMA accreditation and a track record of producing licensed veterinarians in the United States and Canada.
In September 2017, Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 hurricane, struck St. Kitts and caused significant damage to the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine campus. The hurricane forced the temporary relocation of students and disrupted operations. The school subsequently rebuilt and restored its campus facilities, demonstrating its commitment to continuing veterinary education in St. Kitts.
Under Adtalem's ownership, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine has continued to develop its curriculum, faculty, and facilities. The school has maintained its AVMA accreditation and continued to prepare graduates for veterinary licensure and practice in the United States, Canada, and other countries.
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine emphasizes small animal medicine in its curriculum, reflecting the predominance of companion animal (dog and cat) practice in the US veterinary market. The school's graduates practice in a variety of settings including private small animal practices, emergency and specialty hospitals, academic institutions, government agencies, and research organizations.
About Adtalem Global Education
What does Adtalem Global Education own?
Adtalem Global Education owns and operates multiple educational institutions including Chamberlain University, Walden University, Ross University School of Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, and Becker Professional Education.
Is Adtalem Global Education publicly traded?
Yes, Adtalem Global Education is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol ATGE. The company has been publicly traded since 1966 under various names.
Who founded Adtalem Global Education?
The company was founded in 1931 as DeVry Technical Institute by Herman A. DeVry. It was rebranded as Adtalem Global Education in 2017 to reflect its evolution into a global healthcare education leader.
Where is Adtalem Global Education headquartered?
Adtalem Global Education is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The company maintains its corporate headquarters and major operations in Chicago.
How many schools does Adtalem Global Education operate?
Adtalem Global Education operates six primary educational institutions serving hundreds of thousands of students globally across nursing, medicine, veterinary medicine, and professional education programs.
Who owns Adtalem Global Education?
Adtalem Global Education is publicly owned with shares traded on the NYSE under ticker ATGE. The company is owned by institutional investors, mutual funds, and individual shareholders worldwide.
What is Adtalem Global Education's revenue?
Adtalem Global Education reported annual revenue of approximately $1.6 billion for fiscal year 2025, representing continued growth in its healthcare education programs.
- Founded: 1931
- Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States
- Company Type: Publicly Traded
- Stock: NYSE: ATGE
- Revenue: approximately $1.6 billion (FY2025)
- Employees: Approximately 11,000
Where Is Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Made / Based?
- Headquarters: Caribbean
- Manufacturing / Operations: Caribbean, United States
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Sustainability & Ethics
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine operates under Adtalem Global Education with sustainability initiatives focused on environmental responsibility, ethical veterinary education, and community engagement within the healthcare education sector. The school's sustainability efforts address environmental impact, social responsibility, and ethical educational practices.
Environmental Sustainability in Campus Operations: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine has implemented environmental sustainability programs at its St. Kitts campus, including energy-efficient building systems, waste reduction initiatives, and water conservation measures. The school has implemented recycling programs, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, and sustainable procurement practices for campus operations and supplies.
Caribbean Environmental Stewardship: The school maintains environmental stewardship programs specific to its Caribbean location, including marine conservation initiatives, tropical ecosystem education, and local environmental partnerships. Ross University participates in Caribbean environmental protection programs and incorporates environmental education into its veterinary curriculum to prepare students for global environmental challenges.
Veterinary Ethics and Animal Welfare: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine maintains comprehensive ethics education programs focusing on animal welfare, professional ethics, and responsible veterinary practice. The school's curriculum includes extensive training in veterinary ethics, animal welfare standards, and professional responsibility, preparing graduates for ethical veterinary practice.
Community Engagement and Outreach: The school maintains extensive community engagement programs in St. Kitts and the broader Caribbean region, including veterinary community service, animal health education, and local partnership programs. Ross University students and faculty participate in community veterinary clinics, animal welfare initiatives, and educational outreach programs.
Sustainable Veterinary Education: Ross University has implemented sustainable veterinary education practices including digital learning resources, reduced paper usage through electronic textbooks and assignments, and energy-efficient laboratory equipment. The school's veterinary training programs emphasize sustainable veterinary practices and environmental responsibility in animal healthcare.
Ethical Educational Practices: Under Adtalem Global Education ownership, Ross University maintains ethical educational practices including transparent admissions processes, fair student policies, and responsible financial aid programs. The school operates with professional management structures and maintains compliance with veterinary education regulations and accreditation standards.
Awards & Recognition
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine has received recognition throughout its history for veterinary education excellence, accreditation achievements, and contributions to global veterinary education. The school's awards and recognition reflect its position as a leading international veterinary education institution.
AVMA Accreditation Recognition: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine has received recognition for maintaining full accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education, the highest standard for veterinary education in North America. This accreditation achievement has been acknowledged as a significant accomplishment for an offshore veterinary education institution.
Veterinary Education Excellence Awards: The school has received recognition from veterinary education organizations and industry publications for its innovative veterinary education programs, clinical training partnerships, and student success rates. Ross University's veterinary curriculum and teaching methods have been acknowledged for excellence in preparing students for veterinary practice.
Graduate Success Recognition: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine has been recognized for its high NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination) pass rates and graduate success in obtaining veterinary licensure in the United States and Canada. The school's graduate performance has been acknowledged by veterinary education organizations and state licensing boards.
International Education Leadership: The school has received recognition for its leadership in international veterinary education and its role in providing veterinary education opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds. Ross University's contribution to global veterinary education has been acknowledged by international education organizations.
Community Service Awards: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine's community engagement and veterinary service programs have received recognition from veterinary organizations and community groups. The school's work in Caribbean animal health education and community veterinary services has been acknowledged through various service awards.
Healthcare Education Innovation: As part of Adtalem Global Education's portfolio, Ross University has been recognized for innovations in healthcare education delivery, including simulation technology, distance learning integration, and modern veterinary teaching methods.
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Recalls & Controversies
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine has faced challenges typical of offshore education institutions, including natural disasters, regulatory scrutiny, and industry debates about offshore veterinary education models.
Hurricane Maria Impact (2017): Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine faced significant operational challenges when Hurricane Maria struck St. Kitts in September 2017, causing extensive damage to the campus infrastructure. The hurricane disrupted preclinical education and required temporary relocation of students to alternative facilities. The school's response to the natural disaster and recovery efforts demonstrated operational resilience but highlighted the risks of Caribbean location.
Offshore Veterinary Education Controversies: Ross University has faced scrutiny from some veterinary professional organizations and state licensing boards regarding the quality and appropriateness of offshore veterinary education. These debates have centered on whether offshore veterinary schools can provide education equivalent to US-based institutions and concerns about clinical training quality.
State Licensing Board Challenges: Some US state veterinary licensing boards have historically questioned the adequacy of offshore veterinary education programs, creating additional scrutiny for Ross University graduates seeking licensure in certain states. While AVMA accreditation has resolved many of these concerns, some regulatory challenges persist in specific jurisdictions.
For-Profit Education Criticism: As part of Adtalem Global Education, a for-profit education company, Ross University has faced criticism typical of for-profit education institutions, including concerns about educational quality, student debt levels, and corporate profit motives in healthcare education.
Clinical Training Partnership Issues: The school has occasionally faced challenges with its clinical year partnership network, including availability of clinical rotation slots and maintaining quality standards across diverse veterinary teaching hospitals. These challenges reflect the complexities of coordinating clinical education across multiple institutions.
Student Recruitment and Marketing Practices: Ross University has faced scrutiny regarding its student recruitment practices and marketing representations, particularly regarding employment outcomes and licensure success rates. These concerns are common among for-profit education institutions and have led to increased regulatory oversight.
Brands Owned by Adtalem Global Education
- American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine - International medical school offering Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree programs wi...
- Chamberlain University - Leading healthcare education institution offering nursing and healthcare program...
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +AVMA accreditation allows graduates to pursue veterinary licensure in the United States and Canada, providing a recognized pathway to veterinary practice for students who were unable to gain admission to North American veterinary schools
- +Adtalem Global Education's ownership provides the school with access to the financial resources, regulatory expertise, and healthcare education experience of the largest healthcare educator in the United States
- +The school's established track record since its 1982 founding provides prospective students with evidence of its ability to prepare graduates for veterinary licensure and practice
- +Clinical year training at US partner veterinary teaching hospitals provides students with hands-on clinical experience in the United States, facilitating the transition to US veterinary practice after graduation
- +The school's emphasis on small animal medicine aligns with the predominance of companion animal practice in the US veterinary market, where small animal medicine accounts for the majority of veterinary practice revenue
Considerations
- -The offshore location of the preclinical campus in St. Kitts requires students to relocate to the Caribbean for the first three years of the DVM program, which can be a significant lifestyle adjustment and may involve higher living costs than studying in the student's home country
- -Tuition costs at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine are significant, and combined with living expenses in St. Kitts and the US during clinical year, the total cost of the DVM program can result in substantial student debt
- -NAVLE pass rates for graduates of offshore veterinary schools have historically been lower than for graduates of US and Canadian AVMA-accredited schools, though Ross University has worked to improve its graduates' NAVLE performance
- -The offshore veterinary school model has faced scrutiny from some veterinary professional organizations and state licensing boards, and prospective students should carefully research licensure requirements in their target states before enrolling
- -Natural disaster risk in the Caribbean, as demonstrated by Hurricane Maria's impact on the campus in September 2017, creates operational risk for the school and potential disruption for students
Frequently Asked Questions About Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
Sources & Further Reading
Competitors to Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
These competing brands operate in the same categories and provide similar products or services. Compare key attributes to understand market positioning and competitive landscape.
| Brand | Parent Company | Country | Founded | Market Position | Primary Market | Gender Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inspired Education Group | New Zealand | 1975 | Premium | Regional | All-ages | |
| Pearson Plc | USA | 1868 | Mass market | United states | All-ages | |
| Cognita Schools | Singapore | 1981 | Premium | Asia pacific | All-ages | |
| Inspired Education Group | Costa Rica | 1985 | Premium | Regional | All-ages | |
| Cognita Schools | England | 1845 | Premium | United kingdom | All-ages | |
| Inspired Education Group | Bahrain | 2001 | Premium | Regional | All-ages |
Learn More About Competitors
ACG Education
Owned by Inspired Education Group
New Zealand's largest premium private education provider operating multiple schools across the country, offering co-educational education for students aged 1-18.
Allyn & Bacon
Owned by Pearson plc
Educational publisher specializing in higher education textbooks for education, psychology, sociology, and social sciences.
Australian International School Singapore
Owned by Cognita Schools
Premium international school in Singapore offering Australian curriculum education for students aged 3-18, with emphasis on academic excellence and global perspective.
Blue Valley School
Owned by Inspired Education Group
Premium international school in Costa Rica offering co-educational education for students aged 3-18, with emphasis on bilingual education and environmental sustainability.
Brighton College
Owned by Cognita Schools
Premium independent boarding and day school in England offering co-educational education for students aged 3-18, with emphasis on academic excellence and character development.
British School of Bahrain
Owned by Inspired Education Group
Premium international school in Bahrain offering co-educational education for students aged 3-18, with emphasis on British curriculum and academic excellence.
Competitive Analysis
Market Positioning: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine competes with 6 brands in the same categories, ranging from mass market to luxury positioning.
Geographic Distribution: Competitors are headquartered across multiple regions, indicating global competition in this market segment.
Brand Heritage: Competitor brands range from established heritage brands to newer market entrants, with founding years spanning several decades.
Adtalem Global Education Stock Information
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