Veterinary specialists are graduates of veterinary schools who choose to continue studying one type of medicine, surgery or species after graduating from veterinary school.  They must complete 3 to 4 more years of additional training, usually in the form of an internship and residency program.  After they complete their advanced training, they must submit their credentials to the professional group that represents their specialty i.e. American College of Veterinary Surgery, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, etc. Once they meet their groups’ preliminary criteria, the specialists must pass a multi-day examination. After passing this exam they become a member of the group, called a diplomate, and are considered board certified in their specialty.  There are about 37 veterinary specialties recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association.