As an animal lover and aspiring veterinarian, it is important to understand the importance of choosing the right university to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine. Australia is known for its excellent veterinary programmes, and several universities stand out for their quality of education, research opportunities, and practical training.
Learn more about leading Australian veterinary science schools below, and to apply or have any further questions answered about studying in Australia, arrange a free consultation today.
Best Veterinary Medicine Universities in Australia
Australian universities are known for maintaining high academic standards, and veterinary degrees are accredited by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC). Below are the top veterinary schools in Australia (QS Subject Rankings 2024).
1. University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is one of the oldest universities in Australia, and the Sydney School of Veterinary Science ranks 26th in the world in terms of veterinary science. The school is known for its excellence in veterinary education, animal science, and research. It encourages students to learn about technological advancements in animal health and welfare and how they benefit the community. The school offers specialist courses, such as Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate courses with majors available in wildlife conservation, animal production, and animal health, disease, and welfare.
Veterinary medicine courses at the University of Sydney offer a combined master of coursework and master by research degree in practical advanced clinical training in various disciplines. After completing the degree, graduates can enhance their clinical skills or become veterinary specialists in equine medicine, livestock health and production, small animal surgery, veterinary epidemiology, and equine surgery.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Taronga Wildlife Conservation)
- International fees: AUD 53,500
- Entry requirements: Secondary or tertiary education qualification from a recognised university | Must have studied advanced mathematics and biology in higher education | Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0
2. The University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is a public research university, and the Melbourne Veterinary School is Australia’s leading veterinary school, ranking 29th in the QS Subject Ranking 2024. The Master of Veterinary Science (MVSc) is a graduate research degree that offers options in two study areas: agricultural and veterinary sciences and veterinary science. During the degree, you will acquire skills in searching and gaining specialist knowledge in your research area.
Vet medicine graduates can choose careers across various fields, such as veterinary medicine and agriculture, government and policies, veterinary diagnostic laboratories, and animal health and production.
- Suggested course: Master of Veterinary Science
- International fees: AUD 52,448
- Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree in honours in relevant discipline or equivalent | Must demonstrate English proficiency in any of the following English language skills test, like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE
3. University of Queensland
The University of Queensland’s School of Veterinary Science is known for its academic excellence in teaching and research across various veterinary disciplines. The vet medicine school ranks 34th in the world and offers two courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels: veterinary science and veterinary technology.
Major bodies worldwide accredit the programs: the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (Australia/New Zealand), the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (United Kingdom), and the American Veterinary Medical Association (North America). This allows graduates to work in different corners of the world. The vet medicine degrees comprise coursework and placement training, which provide students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to protect wildlife and animal health. Graduates can work as veterinary professionals in several areas, as urban and rural practitioners in Australia.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Hons)
- International fees: AUD 66,592
- Entry requirements: Secondary school education with English, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics as core subjects | IELTS academic overall score of 7 or TOEFL iBT minimum score of 100 or PTE overall academic score of 72
4. Murdoch University
The School of Veterinary Medicine was established in 1979 in Australia to promote and integrate animal health, welfare, and productivity. During the course, graduates will learn and receive training in wildlife, pet and conservation medicine. The Integrated Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine is a five-year course that offers science-based, hands-on practical training that includes veterinary teaching hospitals, clinics, and a working farm that prepares you for the highest standard work in the veterinary profession. Veterinary medicine graduates can work in different jobs and careers, like animal nutritionists, livestock department officers, and pharmacists.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
- International fees: AUD 22,320
- Entry requirements: Higher secondary education or equivalent with mathematics, physics, and chemistry as core subjects | English language proficiency tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL
5. University of Adelaide
The School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences of the University of Adelaide aims to provide excellence in animal and veterinary science through teaching, research, and clinical practice. The University of Adelaide offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various disciplines: animal behaviour, animal science, veterinary science, and veterinary technology. The most popular course is the Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience), which aims to offer hands-on experience from internationally recognised clinicians and researchers.
During the curriculum, you will learn how to handle and care for animals and begin to understand how they behave and react to different situations. You will also study the body's structure and function and the diversity of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. You will also learn how to analyse disease at the population level, engage with industry on placement, and perform husbandry practices. Graduates can enter the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine directly by registering as veterans or working in biosecurity or services to prevent disease and pollution.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Science)
- International fees: AUD 53,500
- Entry requirements: Australian Year 12 or equivalent with Biology, Mathematics, and Chemistry as compulsory subjects | IELTS overall score of 7 or TOEFL overall score of 94
Study Veterinary Medicine in Australia
If you want to study in Australia, why not arrange a free consultation with SI-Global today? Our educational consultants will discuss your study options with you.
