Bachelor of Veterinary Science: Faculty of Veterinary Science : The University of Melbourne

Bachelor of Veterinary Science

Overview

Veterinary Science is concerned with the scientific basis of animal production, health and disease. It requires the acquisition and application of scientific knowledge in several disciplines and uses technical skills towards the solution of animal production, health, management and welfare problems.

Objectives

The Bachelor of Veterinary Science course is designed to educate you to the best international standards, and to prepare you for careers in professional work, research and public service.

Duration

The course is five years of full-time study - the pre-veterinary year or one year of Science, plus four years of veterinary science.

Course outline

The Bachelor of Veterinary Science program consists of two distinct parts: the pre-veterinary year (one year of science at University or equivalent) and then four years of studies in The Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc). The first two years of the BVSc course are spent at the Preclinical Sciences Centre in Parkville, and the final two years are spent at the Veterinary Clinical Centre at Werribee.

The Melbourne Model - As from 2011 Veterinary Science will be offered as a graduate program. Entry to the graduate program will require prior completion of an undergraduate degree - the Bachelor of Science will provide the pathway to the new graduate entry Veterinary Science degree. We are still in the process of finalising this new generation degree, more information will be available shortly.

Please note that until 2011 we still continue to require the prerequisite subjects of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (alternative levels available).

The BVSc is a set course for pass and honours. All subjects in each year must be passed before a student can proceed to the next year. The BVSc degree is required for registration to practise as a veterinary surgeon in Australia. Part-time study is not available.

Lectures and practical work are required in almost all subjects. Laboratory experiments, demonstrations, clinical work and vacation work on farms and with veterinarians reinforce the theoretical content of lectures. Students work under supervision in the Veterinary Clinic and Hospital at Werribee in conditions similar to those they will encounter after graduating.

Some practical work involving the use of animals in teaching is an essential part of the course. The course also requires the undertaking of professional practical work between academic years and between terms. Assessment includes formal written, practical and oral examinations, and assignments.

Practical experience

The course requires a lot of practical "hands-on" work with animals, their organs, tissues, parasites and disease agents. About fifty percent (50%) of formal coursework in first year is spent in practical classes. In final year, seventy-five percent (75%) of time is spent working with animals and their owners.