A new degree is on offer at James Cook University from 2027, providing an alternative pathway for students who want to become veterinarians.
The Bachelor of Science (Animal and Veterinary Bioscience) is a three-year full-time major at the JCU Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus in Douglas.
JCU Veterinary Sciences Head Professor John Cavalieri said the course was aimed at students who have a commitment to the profession but just miss the ATAR or GPA needed for direct entry.
"Selecting future veterinarians is about more than a single academic score," Professor Cavalieri said.
"This pathway gives JCU another opportunity to identify students who may be very well suited to veterinary science by seeing how they perform in the university environment."
Successful students will study the same subjects as Bachelor of Vet Science cohort in the first two years.
Those who perform well could then transfer into the BVSc, subject to available places.
"One of the great advantages of this is that students are not simply waiting and hoping for another opportunity to apply," Professor Cavalieri said.
"They're studying subjects directly relevant to veterinary and animal science, while demonstrating what they're capable of achieving.
"Importantly, this is also a valuable degree in its own right.
"Students who complete the Animal and Veterinary Bioscience major will develop a strong understanding of science, animal structure and function, infectious and parasitic diseases, nutrition and animal industries.
"This provides a strong foundation for a range of careers and further study involving animals and animal science."
JCU Dean of the College of Science and Engineering Professor Ron White said there was also a benefit for the University and northern Queensland.
"For JCU, this is about strengthening access to veterinary education in our region," Professor White said.
"The university gives its students a world-class education with a focus on practical skills and industry placements.
"There is a well-documented shortage of veterinarians in northern Queensland with many positions in the region remaining vacant for long periods, so no lack of opportunity for our graduates.
"We want to create opportunities for capable students to study animal and veterinary science in North Queensland and where appropriate, provide another pathway towards becoming a veterinarian.
"Ultimately, we want students entering veterinary science who have demonstrated that they can succeed and who have the potential to make a strong contribution to the profession and the communities it serves.
"The first two years also give students the opportunity to find out whether veterinary science really is the right career for them.
"They can experience university level veterinary science, understand its expectations and make a much more informed decision about where they want their career to take them."
Further information can be found here.
