Donald G. Low/CVMA Clinical Veterinary Medical Academy Description
The Donald G. Low/CVMA Clinical Veterinary Medical Academy, co-sponsored by the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) and the UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital (VMTH), was established to foster ongoing collaboration between California private practitioners and the school.
The Don Low Academy offers practitioners unique opportunities to learn in the clinical setting of the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, as well as in other school programs, laboratories, and centers such as the Veterinary Medical Teaching and Research Center (VMTRC). Scholars also have opportunities to interact with faculty, residents, and students. The program is designed to address the professional development needs of California practitioners in ways that are not available through residencies or other programs.
The Academy emphasizes intellectual stimulation, discussion, and collaboration within a practitioner’s area of interest. For example, a Scholar may deepen their general knowledge of ophthalmology through clinical experiences, rounds, and patient care. The program is not intended to develop proficiency in specific procedural skills—such as cataract surgery, endoscopy, or ultrasound—which are better addressed through residency training or continuing education programs.
The Don Low Academy is a 20-day program that may be completed consecutively over one month or spread throughout the year. The program must be completed within the designated program cycle of August through July.
Candidates are placed in the services, centers, or laboratories they select during the application process—such as anesthesia, anatomic pathology, ophthalmology, or integrative medicine—based on available caseload and faculty resources. Participation by each unit is voluntary and is confirmed annually based on its capacity to accommodate an Academic Scholar. Available service areas are listed on the Academy’s website each year.
Applications are reviewed by a committee of CVMA representatives and VMTH faculty members. Academic Scholars are selected competitively based on the application criteria and available program capacity. Applicants must meet the Academy’s eligibility requirements, including active CVMA membership, California residency, and being at least five years post-graduation. When applicable, the SVVMA Charitable Foundation has partnered with UC Davis VMTH to guarantee a Scholar position for an eligible SVVMA member.
Endowment earnings fund the Don Low Academy, providing support to participating units equivalent to the rate paid by veterinary students. This funding helps offset additional costs and support educational programming. Scholars do not receive direct financial support and are not responsible for registration fees or tuition.
Upon completion of the program, Academic Scholars are awarded up to 100 Continuing Education (CE) credits.