Overview

Animals depend on skilled people who understand how their bodies work, how they behave and what threatens their health. The Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience) at Adelaide University builds that scientific foundation through the study of animal anatomy, physiology and behaviour in healthy animals, alongside the organisms that cause disease. Hands-on animal work begins in the first semester, and students use purpose-built veterinary teaching and research facilities to develop job-ready techniques. Practical placements in real industry settings, including farms and production facilities, give experience with groups of animals such as cattle, sheep and horses. Teaching is led by respected animal researchers, and the program forms the first stage of a pathway towards registration as a veterinarian, with direct progression available into the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. The course suits animal-loving students who want a rigorous, practical grounding in veterinary science, and it develops both scientific understanding and professional skills.

What You’ll Learn

Foundational biology and chemistry with an animal focus

Animal handling and husbandry

Animal behaviour, welfare and ethics

Veterinary anatomy and physiology

Animal biochemistry, nutrition and metabolism

Genes and inheritance

Veterinary immunology and infectious diseases

Veterinary parasitology

Veterinary epidemiology and evidence-based medicine

Data skills for scientists

Professional skills in veterinary bioscience

Extra Mural Studies placements in farm and production settings

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, graduates will understand how healthy animals function, from molecules, genes and cells through to body systems and whole-animal behaviour. They will be able to explain how pathogens and parasites cause disease, how the immune system responds and how disease spreads through animal populations. Students develop the ability to interpret evidence critically, handle data and apply epidemiological thinking to animal health questions. Practical training builds confident animal handling and husbandry skills, supported by placement experience in working agricultural environments. Awareness of animal welfare and ethics guides how they approach care and decision-making, while professional skills courses prepare them for the responsibilities of the veterinary field. Graduates finish with a broad scientific base and the practical competence to progress into further veterinary study or related animal science roles. The program is accredited by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.