Clemson University has begun construction on South Carolina’s first veterinary school, the $285 million Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine. The facility, expected to open in 2026, will address the growing demand for veterinary services in the state and offer a comprehensive curriculum to train veterinarians by 2030.
Frannie Wilson, assistant manager at Clemson’s Equine Center, shared her excitement, saying, “South Carolina doesn’t have a college of vet medicine, so it’s neat that we will be the first one in the state. [We’re] looking forward to the future [and] hoping it will bring more vets to the area.”
Named in honor of Senator Harvey S. Peeler, a long-time supporter of the project, the new college will consist of six buildings focused on collaboration, hands-on learning, and specialized veterinary training. The facility will help address South Carolina's veterinary shortage, with many counties reporting a lack of local veterinarians.
Senator Peeler explained his support, stating, “It’s not just about education, [but] about taking care of our animals, supporting our farmers, growing our economy, and filling the need for veterinarians in South Carolina.”
Clemson’s new facility is designed by a team of architects, including Flad Architects, LS3P, and Foil Wyatt Architects & Planners, with Turner Construction overseeing the project. The school will provide cutting-edge research and clinical teaching spaces, preparing students for careers in veterinary practice and specialty fields.
“We aim to create ready-to-serve veterinarians to serve communities around South Carolina,” said Steven Marks, the school’s founding director. With approval from the American Veterinary Medical Association, the first class will graduate in 2030.
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