Topic:

Introduction

Veterinary is a popular career option in Australia. Studying a Veterinary Science program will allow students to learn about different animal species, including companion animals and wildlife. Australia is famous for caring for its native fauna, and most families have one or more pets. Therefore, there are many work opportunities in this field. 

Working as a veterinarian will bring you an average salary of AU$67,525 per year. According to the website Indeed, this is considered a decent salary in Australia, and the amount can go up to AU$138,907 per year. 

Thus, for students who are passionate about animals and would like to pursue a career based on their care, studying Veterinary Science might be a good option. 

Why study Veterinary Science in Australia?

  1. High-Ranking Universities

According to QS and TIMES, there are currently seven universities in Australia that are ranked in the Top 100 in the world. Many of these universities provided courses in the field of Veterinary Science and are capable of offering students the best teaching resources and learning environments. For example, the University of Sydney is ranked 16th in the world as one of the best Veterinary schools. 

  1. Internationally-recognised Qualifications

Another advantage of studying Veterinary Science in Australia is that the qualification you gain may be recognised globally. For instance, the University of Queensland has been accredited not only by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC), but also by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA COE). 

  1. Multiple Start Dates

For students who are stressed about submitting their applications to universities, there are usually 2-3 intakes offered every year, which gives students more flexibility when they are preparing for their university applications. This will allow students to submit their applications when they feel ready without having to worry about the time pressure of an application closing date.   

  1. Post-Study Work Visa

After completing one or more eligible degrees with a minimum 2 years of study in Australia, students will be given the chance to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa in the Post-study Work Stream. This visa allows students to gain work experience in Australia and to prepare themselves for their future migration options.  

Career outcomes after graduation

  • Veterinary Technician 
  • Laboratory Technician 
  • Production Processing Technician 
  • Veterinary Pathologist 
  • Quality Assurance Officer 
  • Biosecurity Officer 
  • Veterinary Clinical Nutrition Technician 
  • Veterinary Pharmaceutical Representative 
  • Clinical Academic 

Course Options

  • Bachelor of Veterinary Technology 
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Science 
  • Bachelor of Science (Veterinary) 
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine 
  • Master of Veterinary Science 
  • Master of Tropical Veterinary Science 
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine 

Entry Requirements

  • For the Bachelor’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or a Diploma course and attained IELTS 6.5-7.0 
  • For the Master’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed a Bachelor’s degree and attained IELTS 6.5. Additionally, students are required to have a relevant Bachelor’s degree. 

What courses might you study for your Veterinary Science degree in Australia?

  • Applied Animal Biology 
  • Applied Animal Physiology 
  • Professional Studies for Veterinary Technology
  • Surgical Principles and Practices 

Professional Accreditation

Most of the veterinary programs offered by universities in Australia are accredited by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC).  

To practise as a veterinarian in Australia, applicants are required to complete 6–7 years of study, comprised of a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s/Doctoral degree in the field of Veterinary Science which are both accredited by the AVBC. Upon graduating, students need to register with the veterinarian board of the state(s) in which they wish to practise. 

Expected salary as a Veterinary Science in Australia

The medium base annual salary for a graduate Veterinary Technologist is AU$59,707. 

The medium base annual salary for a veterinarian is AU$67,525. 

(Statistics from PayScale Australia) 

School Recommendations

Bachelor’s Level 

  • University of Sydney – Bachelor of Science (Veterinary) 
  • University of Sydney – Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine 
  • University of Adelaide (Adelaide) – Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience) 
  • University of Adelaide (Adelaide) – Bachelor of Science (Veterinary/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine 
  • University of Queensland – Bachelor of Veterinary Technology 
  • University of Queensland – Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) 

Master’s Level (Relevant Background Required) 

  • James Cook University – Master of Tropical Veterinary Science (1.5 years) 

Skills Assessment

The Skills Assessment will be assessed by Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC) for the occupation “Veterinarian” (ANZSCO Code 234711).  

The applicant can apply for a Skills Assessment with AVBC if they: 

  • hold full registration (without conditions) with an Australian Veterinary Registration Board 
  • meet AVBC’s English Language Standards (minimum score of 7 in each of the four components) 

Interested in studying Veterinary Science in Australia?

Contact SOL Edu today for free counselling, and a free application process!