Nevada has launched a financial assistance program for state residents pursuing veterinary medicine at Utah State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The Nevada Office of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) opened applications for the 2025-26 Health Profession Education Program (HPEP) stipend. This program aims to reduce out-of-state tuition costs by offering stipends for up to 70 Nevada students through June 2034.
The initiative is backed by an $8 million investment from Nevada Senate Bill 342, which was passed during the 2023 Legislative Session. Nevada System of Higher Education Regent Pete Goicoechea, who sponsored the bill, expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support, saying, “I’m extremely grateful to my colleagues in the Legislature for recognizing the need to address Nevada’s shortage of veterinarians. As someone who’s spent my life as part of this state’s agricultural community, seeing SB 342 become a reality is particularly meaningful. This program not only helps students achieve their dream of becoming veterinarians, but it ensures that our communities and ranchers will benefit from quality veterinary care for years to come.”
Recipients of the stipend are expected to practice veterinary medicine within Nevada for one year per each year of support received. The program addresses the state's shortage of veterinarians for both large and small animals.
Fred Lokken, Nevada WICHE Executive Commissioner, noted the partnership with Utah State University fulfills WICHE’s mission. “By providing financial support, we’re making it possible for Nevada’s aspiring veterinarians to receive an outstanding education while directly addressing critical shortages here at home. It’s an investment that will strengthen our state’s communities and economy for decades.”
Dr. Dirk Vanderwall, Dean of the USU College of Veterinary Medicine, echoed this sentiment, stating, “This stipend program is a meaningful step toward helping more individuals enter the profession while also expanding access to veterinary care in communities that need it most.”
Eligible students are encouraged to apply quickly due to the limited number of available positions. Patty Porter, Director of the Nevada Office of WICHE, urged, “We’re excited to launch the stipend application process and encourage all eligible Nevada residents accepted for the fall 2025 USU College of Veterinary Medicine program to apply right away.”
Applications are open until the stipend positions are filled, and more information can be found on the Nevada WICHE website.