0611 Veterinary Studies
After graduating from veterinary studies you have many employment options,
including working in a suburban general practice, in the pastoral or farming
industry, or in animal production and disease control.
Until recently, only four metropolitan universities in Australia, based in
Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney, offered degrees in veterinary science.
But recognition of skill needs in the rural industries has led to the
accreditation of two more courses focused on rural areas and practice, based in
Townsville and Wagga Wagga.
This is where you can add something unique to your learning experience —
something you might not get anywhere else in the world. In one school, there is
a special focus on tropical and rural practice; another specialises in the areas
of farming and farm animals.
Even with the unique interests of some veterinary departments, you will
receive the same broad-based training at each university. This will prepare you
for all areas of veterinary practice. You will enjoy the emphasis on practical
work, including stints in clinical and sometimes farm settings.
Degree courses usually run over five or six years and can be difficult to
enter.
An alternative to a full bachelor degree is a certificate IV in veterinary
nursing. Veterinary nurses assist veterinary surgeons in the treatment and care
of animals.
If you have done your time as an undergraduate, a great way to further your
education is to explore one of the graduate courses available at Australian
universities. The broad range of master degrees, graduate certificate and
diplomas are available for those who have a veterinary science or a more general
science-related background.
Many overseas veterinarians have been lured by the quality of Australian
teaching and research, choosing to further their skills and knowledge in all
areas of practice or research.
An Australian veterinary science degree qualifies students for professional
registration in Australia, New Zealand and, in some cases, the American
Veterinary Medical Association and/or Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in
the UK. So, as an international student, you can look forward to starting or
continuing your career with the rich experience of your time overseas, as well
as a widely recognised qualification.
Whether you study at undergraduate or postgraduate level, you can be sure
that your employment prospects will be positive.
Use our Search function to find a list of Australian institutions offering
qualifications in this field.
More information: