The College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University is not just an educational institution; it is an economic engine for the state and the region. According to the National Strategic Planning and Analysis Research Center (NSPARC), MSU generates nearly $4 billion in yearly economic impact, and nearly $2 billion of that is generated by the Division of Agriculture, Forestry, and Veterinary Medicine, which includes the CVM.

A Hospital System Reaching Across the State:

The Animal Health Center, the CVM’s on-site teaching hospital, handled nearly 15,000 cases in 2024, including about 11,000 small animal patients and 4,000 farm animal patients. In addition, the college’s ambulatory service went on more than 900 visits, seeing almost 21,000 animals. These services provided critical care to Mississippi pet owners and agricultural professionals. In addition, the Animal Referral and Emergency Center, located in the Jackson area, saw nearly 10,000 patients in 2024 alone.

2024 AHC and AERC Caseloads

• Mississippi Veterinary and Diagnostic Laboratory (MVRDL): 72,212 tests performed
• Poultry Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (PRDL): 307,600 tests performed
• Aquatic Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (ARDL): 547 case submissions

Advancing Aquatic and Poultry Health

The state’s laboratory system, operated by MSU CVM, includes the Mississippi Veterinary Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, Poultry Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, and Aquatic Research and Diagnostic Laboratory. Given Mississippi’s leadership in aquaculture and poultry production, CVM research plays a critical role in sustaining two of the state’s most valuable industries. From investigating new vaccines for fish diseases to developing new diagnostic tests for poultry operations, diagnosticians and researchers help safeguard industries that employ thousands and generate billions in revenue. These labs play a vital role in protecting the state’s $8.5 billion agricultural industry (Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce). Combined, they performed nearly 350,000 tests in 2024.

2024 Laboratory System Caseload:

• Mississippi Veterinary Research and Diagnostic Laboratory: 72,212 tests performed
• Poultry Research and Diagnostic Laboratory: 307,600 tests performed

• Aquatic Research and Diagnostic Laboratory: 547 case submissions

Research that Promotes and Advances Agriculture

CVM researchers are national leaders in antimicrobial stewardship, disease surveillance, and livestock management. In partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture, they are advancing research that safeguards the state and nation’s food supply while creating new tools and methods to support producers. Current projects include developing vaccines, improving nutrition strategies, and designing precision agriculture technologies that help farmers make data-driven decisions. These innovations enhance animal welfare, strengthen herd health, boost farm productivity, and increase profitability for Mississippi’s agricultural community.