Externship Locations Endorsed by NTS Alumni
Aquarium of the Pacific: Long Beach, CA
- Length: 3-6 weeks
- Timeline: Applications are due November 30 of the academic year prior to externship.
- Application Materials:
- Proof of enrollment in a college of veterinary medicine with a GPA of 3.0 or higher (official transcript required)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Letter of intent that details pertinent past experience and training in aquatic animal medicine, reason for pursuing aquatic animal training, future goals, and prioritized available time periods
- Letter of recommendation from a professor or veterinarian supporting the students’ academic professionalism and demonstrated interest in aquatic animal medicine
Marine Mammal Center: Sausalito, CA
- Length: 4 weeks
- Timeline: Apply approximately 18 months in advance of expected start date
- Application Materials:
- Letter of intent including 3 sets of preferred dates
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic and/or clinical performance
- A current CV or resume
Shedd Aquarium: Chicago, IL
- Length: typically 4 weeks
- Timeline: Applications are opened September 1 – November 1 for externships in June – May of the following year
- Application Materials:
- Proof of enrollment in a college of veterinary medicine with a GPA of 3.0 or higher (official transcript required)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Letter of intent that details pertinent past experience and training in aquatic animal medicine, reason for pursuing aquatic animal training, future goals, and prioritized available time periods
- Letter of recommendation from a professor or veterinarian supporting the students’ academic professionalism and demonstrated interest in aquatic animal medicine
Loggerhead Marine Life Center: Juno Beach, FL
- Length: 2-4 weeks
- Timeline: Externs are accepted year round and there is no deadline to apply but early application is encouraged.
- Application Materials:
- Application form
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Three professional references
- Unofficial transcripts from veterinary school
Institute for Marine Mammal Studies: Gulfport, MS
- Length: 2 weeks
- Timeline: Apply a minimum of 6 months prior to expected start date
- Application Materials:
- 2-3 sets of available dates
- Current veterinary school transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of current tetanus vaccination and TB test
MARVET Mississippi: Gulfport, MS
- Length: <2 weeks
- Timeline: Apply a minimum of 6 months prior to expected start date
- Application Materials:
- Letter of intent
- Current CV or resume
“MARVET Mississippi 2025 was an unforgettable experience that deepened my passion for aquatic and zoological medicine. From hands-on procedures with dolphins, rays, and sea turtles to expert-led lectures on a wide range of aquatic species, the program offered an incredible blend of clinical learning and networking. I’m truly grateful to the organizers and instructors who made this unique opportunity possible.” ~ Toni Kim, Class of 2027
Looking for more options?
View the externship listings on the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association (WAVMA) website.
Last updated Fall 2025