Best universities in Australia that offer veterinary science: If you’re thinking about studying veterinary science in Australia, you’ve come to the right article. This article will answer your questions and help guide you in the right direction.
You might be wondering: Which is the best university for veterinary science in Australia? or Is Australia a good place to study veterinary science? With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of at 6 best universities in Australia that offer Veterinary Science to help make your decision easier. As someone passionate about animals and looking to become a veterinarian, it’s important to pick the right university to get the best education, hands-on experience, and research opportunities. Australia is known for having some top-notch veterinary programs, and we’re here to help you find the one that’s best for you.
Before I introduce the list of the best universities in Australia that offer veterinary science, let me start by explaining what veterinary science is all about.
What Is Veterinary Science About?
Veterinary science is the field that focuses on the health and care of animals. It’s like human medicine but for animals. Vets (short for veterinarians) study how to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses in a wide range of animals, from pets like dogs and cats to farm animals like cows, chickens, and horses, and even wildlife.
In veterinary science, you learn about animal anatomy, biology, and different diseases that can affect animals. Vets also perform surgeries, give vaccinations, and help with reproduction, such as assisting in births. In some cases, they work with public health officials to prevent diseases that can spread from animals to humans, known as zoonotic diseases.
Besides treating sick animals, vets also focus on preventive care, helping owners keep their animals healthy through regular check-ups, proper diet, and exercise.
Top 6 Best Universities In Australia That Offer Veterinary Science
Below is a list of best universities in Australia that offer veterinary science based on my research:
1. University of Sydney
The University of Sydney, one of Australia’s oldest universities, is highly regarded in veterinary science. In fact, its Sydney School of Veterinary Science is ranked 26th worldwide. This school is recognized for its strong focus on veterinary education, animal science, and research. It encourages students to explore how technology can improve animal health and welfare, benefiting both animals and the broader community.
The school offers a variety of courses. You can pursue a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Advanced Studies, with options to specialize in areas like wildlife conservation, animal production, and animal health, disease, and welfare.
For those interested in advanced studies, the university offers a combined master’s degree program. This includes coursework and research, providing hands-on training in advanced clinical fields. Graduates can focus on areas like equine medicine, livestock health, small animal surgery, veterinary epidemiology, and equine surgery. This program helps students either improve their clinical skills or become veterinary specialists.
2. Charles Sturt University
The 2nd best university in Australia that offer veterinary science is Charles Sturt University and it’s a great option for those interested in veterinary medicine. It offers an excellent Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program designed to give students both clinical and research skills, preparing them to practice as veterinarians anywhere in the world.
This is a four-year, full-time program, and it’s known for its focus on research. However, it’s important to note that the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine course at Charles Sturt is not available to international students.
3. University of Melbourne (UoM)
The University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences was established in 1886, making it one of the oldest in Australia. The veterinary school focuses on producing well-rounded vets who are skilled in handling both small and large animals. It offers hands-on experience through its teaching hospital and farms.
4. University of Queensland (UQ)
The University of Queensland’s School of Veterinary Science was founded in 1936. It is located at the Gatton campus and is known for its strong research in veterinary science. Students at UQ get practical experience with a variety of animals, including farm animals and pets, and the school is well regarded for its commitment to animal welfare. UQ is the 4th on our list of best universities in Australia that offer veterinary science.
5. Murdoch University
Murdoch University’s School of Veterinary Medicine opened in 1974. It is located in Perth and is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, including a veterinary hospital that allows students to gain experience with real-life cases. The school also has a strong focus on wildlife and exotic animal care, alongside the usual pet and farm animal care.
6. University of Adelaide
The University of Adelaide offers a Bachelor of Veterinary Bioscience, which is one of the top veterinary programs in Australia. This degree is internationally recognized and is considered one of the shortest veterinary courses in the country, lasting just three years for full-time students.
Ranked among the world’s best veterinary schools, the University of Adelaide is in the top 60 for Veterinary Science according to the QS World University Rankings. One of the key advantages of this program is the small class sizes, allowing for more personalized learning and direct attention from instructors, which helps students understand the material more easily.
Through this program, students will gain a deep understanding of animal anatomy, physiology, and the characteristics of healthy animals. They will also learn about the pathogenic organisms that can affect animals.
For international students, the Bachelor of Veterinary Bioscience also serves as a pathway to the Doctor of Veterinary Science program, provided they meet the graduation requirements. This is the last school on our list of best universities in Australia that offer veterinary science.
How To Get Into Vet School Australia?
To get into vet school in Australia, here’s what you need to do:
- Complete High School: Make sure you finish high school, focusing on science subjects like biology, chemistry, and sometimes physics. These will help you meet entry requirements.
- Meet Entry Requirements: Most vet schools require a good ATAR score (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank). You may also need to pass an interview or submit a personal statement.
- Apply for a Bachelor’s Degree: Some universities offer direct veterinary programs, but many require you to first complete a relevant bachelor’s degree, like Animal Science or Biology.
- Veterinary Program: Once you have your bachelor’s, apply for a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, which usually takes 4 years.
- Gain Experience: Before applying, it helps to have experience working with animals, either through volunteering or internships.
- Complete the Program: After finishing your DVM, you’ll be qualified as a vet. Then, you just need to register with the relevant state or territory veterinary board to start practicing.
Frequently Asked Questions On Vetinary Science In Australia
Can international students study veterinary in Australia?
Yes, international students can study veterinary science in Australia. Many universities offer veterinary programs open to students from abroad.
How much does it cost to study veterinary science in Australia?
On average, the annual tuition fees for international students range from AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000. This varies by university and program.
How many years is a veterinary course in Australia?
A veterinary course typically takes 5 to 6 years to complete, including both undergraduate and postgraduate study.
What vet degree is called in Australia?
It is commonly called a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), depending on the university.
What are the requirements for vet courses in Australia?
Requirements generally include:
- Completion of high school or equivalent with a strong background in science subjects (biology, chemistry).
- English language proficiency (like IELTS or TOEFL).
- Some universities may require specific entrance exams or prior related experience in animal care.
Also Read: Top 6 Best Medical Schools In The UK For International Students
Final Thought
Australia is a good place pursue your dream in veterinary medicine. By choosing the right school, you’ve accomplished at 50% of your career.
Now that you’ve seen our top 6 Best universities in Australia that offer veterinary science, the next step is to choose a school and find out more informations on the school official website.