Today, the veterinary profession is considered to be the most in-demand industry, as employment of veterinarians is projected to increase by 19% over the next decade. Veterinary studies, prevents and treats diseases in animals. What matters most in deciding whether veterinary science is right for you is your attitude towards animals, because as a student you will need to interact with a wide variety of animals. A veterinary degree is very hands-on and varied, making it ideal for students who like to learn in different ways. Students have countless opportunities to encounter and interact with a variety of animals during their studies. Veterinary is a highly skilled and competitive profession. Along with a love of animals and a strong work ethic, veterinary applicants first need a solid college education with top marks in the natural sciences.

Veterinary courses can be studied at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The duration of programs can vary largely depending on the country you study in and the university you choose to attend. Undergraduate veterinary courses usually take 4 years to complete. Veterinary master’s qualifications can be completed in 1-2 years. The duration of doctoral programs tends to be around 3-5 years.

Structure of the Veterinary study programs

In terms of a chosen program, you'll begin with an understanding of the structure and function of healthy animals, before delving into the diseases that affect them, how to manage them and the surgical aspects of treating pet, farm or zoo animals. For example, you will study animal health science, animal disease, veterinary musculoskeletal system, neurobiology and animal behaviour, veterinary practice techniques, clinical management and more. You'll also acquire useful transferable skills such as good communication, problem-solving and decision-making. Graduates of such programs are able to develop and implement disease control and prevention programs for domestic animals, poultry, pets, zoo animals, fur animals, laboratory animals and wild animals. They are equipped to administer and advise in public health problems arising from intertransmission of diseases between humans and lower animals and are capable of performing animal disease regulatory duties for governmental agencies. Most veterinary science graduates work in general practice, but they can also get jobs with a range of government directorates and inspectorates, with the Armed Forces and in natural sciences research for private companies or at universities.

Where to study

Top countries to study veterinary are: United States, as the USA has been a leader in many fields of study and research worldwide. USA has the maximum universities in the top 50 universities for Veterinary Science worldwide; the UK, as it has the best Veterinary schools in the world; Australia, Canada and the Netherlands.