Australian Veterinary Schools in Australia

James Cook University Veterinary School in Australia

Program Overview - Bachelor of Veterinary Science

University and Faculty:	James Cook University (JCU) Faculty of Medicine, Health and Molecular Sciences
Program:	Bachelor of Veterinary Science
University Location:	Townsville, Queensland, Australia
City Population:	130,000
Student Population:	14,000
Campus Location:	Townsville campus
Program Duration:	Five years
Semester Intake:	February each year
Next Intake:	February 2013
Est. Annual Tuition:	$44,000 AUD (2013 fee)
Est. Total Tuition:	$220,000 AUD (estimated over five years based on 2013 fees; fees subject to increase)

Veterinarians play a major role in the healthcare of pets, livestock, zoo animals, and sporting and laboratory animals. Some veterinarians work in livestock production and in research, broadening the scope of fundamental theoretical and applied knowledge. Others use their skills to protect humans against diseases carried by animals and conduct clinical research into human and animal health problems.

James Cook University's School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences has offered the Bachelor of Veterinary Science program since 2006. Students will acquire the knowledge and skills to diagnose, treat and prevent disease in a wide range of animals including companion animals, farm animals, aquatic species and native fauna. In addition, students will acquire a thorough knowledge of animal production systems, particularly tropical animal husbandry and aquaculture.

The final year of the program is devoted to clinical and professional training and is delivered in a series of clinical rotations through veterinary hospitals, practices, laboratories and government agencies in Mackay, Townsville, Cairns, Charters Towers and Malanda. Graduates will be eligible for registration as a veterinarian in Queensland.

Unique Features of the Program

An important part of the JCU Veterinary Science curriculum is the exposure of students to a range of practical livestock production and veterinary practice experiences.

The extramural practical work program exposes students to a broad variety of agriculture and animal production enterprises; enhances understanding of veterinary practice, animal health and welfare and disease control; integrates with and supports the academic program; and helps to prepare students for a range of employment opportunities available within the veterinary profession.

In the first four years of the program, students complete three separate compulsory extramural practical work and veterinary clinical experience placements, including extramural work placements in approved veterinary practices, government agencies and an abattoir.

JCU's veterinary science program offers state-of-the-art teaching facilities in a new veterinary emergency and referral clinic on the Townsville campus and a specialist large animal treatment facility on the tablelands, which provide clinical experience and training for final-year students.

Professional Certification/Accreditation Information

JCU's Veterinary School has applied for accreditation by the Australasian Veterinary Board's Council. Graduates will be eligible for professional registration with all veterinary boards in Australia and New Zealand, enabling them to enter veterinary practice in Australia.

Scholarships

Every student who applies (and accepts) via OzTREKK and commences his/her studies at an OzTREKK Australian university will receive a $500 scholarship from OzTREKK. Click here for more information about the OzTREKK Scholarship!

Admissions Criteria/Entry Requirements for Canadians

Applicants must have a secondary school diploma and have fulfilled Grade 12 prerequisites of English, Math and Chemistry (Biological Science is highly recommended) for admission into this program. Generally, a B average is required for admission for those who have completed an undergraduate degree, or a 92% in your top six Grade 12 subjects for applicants who have completed only a high school diploma. Please note that the MCAT is not required for entry.

The JCU Veterinary Science program is five years in length. Regardless of whether an applicant has completed only high school studies, some post-secondary subjects, or a undergraduate degree, the entry pathway is the same for all applicants.

Total Number of Places in the Program: 72

Number of Places Available for International Students: 5

Application Deadline for the 2013 Intake: The deadline will likely be Sept. 30, 2012

OzTREKK Admissions Officer: Nicole Buchanan