Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience)

Start date

February

Campus

Adelaide City, Roseworthy

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BSCVB

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$56,500

Prerequisite

Any one of SACE Stage 2 Biology or Chemistry or Mathematical Methods (or equivalent).

Assumed knowledge

High proficiency in written and spoken English.

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 7.0 IELTS Reading 7.0 IELTS Listening 7.0 IELTS Speaking 7.0 IELTS Writing 7.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115754B

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

Entry is competitive. Eligible applicants will be ranked on: combined Questionnaire and Acuity Insights assessment (Casper) results (50%) and academic score results (50%).

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission.

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) with an adjusted ATAR equivalent selection rank of 90.00 or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate diploma (or higher AQF level qualification) with an overall Grade Point Average of 5.0 or above from a recognised higher education institution.

Essential requirements:

Applicants must

Complete a prescribed questionnaire about their life experiences and their knowledge and interest in veterinary science; AND
Complete the Acuity Insights assessment (Casper); AND
Read, understand and believe you will meet the Inherent Requirements; AND
Read, understand and agree to the Vaccination Guidelines.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 7.0
IELTS Reading 7.0
IELTS Listening 7.0
IELTS Speaking 7.0
IELTS Writing 7.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	90
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.97
China – Gaokao	80%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	21
India – CBSE and CISCE	90
India – State Board Examinations	98
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	A-
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	3.33
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	11
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	3.33
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	12
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	12
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	8.70

Why Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience)?

Are you interested in a professional career in animal health? Are you a compassionate animal lover, ready to learn about evidence based veterinary medicine?

It’s time to embark on your journey in veterinary bioscience. The Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Science) leads towards a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. By studying both of these programs, you can become a veterinarian and dedicate your life to the wellbeing of animals. Be the scientist, surgeon, carer and champion for our furry, hooved, scaly and feathery friends. Own your own practice or travel to farms, living your dream career treating the animals in your care.

Overview

Learn about the world of animals and train in the ways you can care for them. Explore the anatomy, physiology and behaviour of healthy animals while also identifying the pathogenic organisms that attack them. Your studies will give you an insight into animal handling and husbandry and you’ll have opportunities to experience real industry settings including farms and production facilities.

This practical degree offers a significant amount of hands-on animal work, starting from your first semester. You’ll have access to purpose-built veterinary teaching and research facilities to help you learn job ready skills and techniques.

This degree is the first part of Adelaide University’s six year veterinary science program and graduates can gain direct entry into the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Upon completing both degrees, you’ll be eligible to register as a veterinarian.

Key features

Explore the anatomy and behaviour of animals and learn animal handling and husbandry.
Study in a purpose-built veterinary teaching hospital.
Participate in placements where you’ll gain experience with a broad range of animals.
Learn from world leaders in animal research.
Be part of a close-knit animal loving community on campus.
Upon graduation from this degree, you can gain direct entry to the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, leading to registration as a veterinarian.

What you'll learn

During your first year of study, you’ll cover foundational courses including biology, chemistry and physics, with a focus on animal knowledge. You’ll also explore topics such as animal handling and husbandry, along with animal behaviour, welfare and ethics.

In following years, you’ll delve deeper into veterinary anatomy and physiology as well as animal nutrition, biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, parasitology and epidemiology. At the same time, you’ll build your professional skills with practical placements.

Your work-based training will include Animal Husbandry Extra Mural Studies, a 12-week program that includes a placement at locations such as farms or intensive production facilities. During this time, you’ll gain experience with groups of animals such as cattle, sheep and horses.

Upon graduation from the Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience), you can gain direct entry to the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine to continue your studies. Successfully completing these degrees will lead to registration as a veterinarian.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

138 units from Core courses, and
6 units from Work integrated learning

Complete exactly 138 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Animal Handling and Husbandry I	Course code ANIM1000	Units 6
Course name Principles of Animal Behaviour, Welfare & Ethics I	Course code ANIM1001	Units 6
Course name Biology IA: Molecules, Genes and Cells	Course code BIOL1003	Units 6
Course name Biology IB: Organisms	Course code BIOL1004	Units 6
Course name Statistical Practice I	Course code STAT1003	Units 6
Course name Chemistry IA	Course code CHEM1001	Units 6
Course name Chemistry IB	Course code CHEM1003	Units 6
Course name Genes and Inheritance II	Course code ANIM2005	Units 6
Course name Professional Skills in Veterinary Bioscience II	Course code VETS2001	Units 6
Course name Animal Nutrition & Metabolism II (Vet Bio)	Course code VETS2002	Units 6
Course name Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology II Part 1	Course code VETS2003	Units 0
Course name Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology II Part 2	Course code VETS2004	Units 24
Course name Animal and Plant Biochemistry (Vet-Bio) II	Course code VETS2005	Units 6
Course name Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology III Part 1	Course code VETS3000	Units 0
Course name Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology III Part 2	Course code VETS3001	Units 18
Course name Veterinary Immunology and Infectious Diseases III	Course code VETS3002	Units 12
Course name Veterinary Parasitology	Course code VETS3004	Units 6
Course name Veterinary Epidemiology & Evidence-Based Medicine III	Course code VETS3005	Units 6
Course name Physics for the Life & Earth Sciences I (Vet Bio)	Course code PHYS1004	Units 6
Course name Physical Aspects of Nature I (Vet Bioscience)	Course code PHYS1005	Units 6

Complete exactly 6 units from the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Professional Skills in Veterinary Bioscience	Course code VETS3003	Units 6

Career outcomes

As well as careers as a companion animal, equine, production animal or wildlife veterinarian, the integrated veterinary bioscience and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program could lead to roles in research in any animal species, including equine, zoo animal or wildlife. You could also work in biosecurity, managing programs to prevent disease.

Industry trends

As the relationship between animals and humans continues to intersect, the need for veterinary professionals will continue to be strong. Whether in their natural habitat or in captivity, animals require our protection, and There’s never been a more important time to work towards creating healthy species and environments. Employment growth is projected to be strong for professionals working with animals (Australian Government Labour Market Insights, 2023).

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: