Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Veterinary Technology

Start date

February

Campus

Roseworthy

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BVETT

Study as

Full-time

Indicative fees

$53,900

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

SACE Stage 2 Mathematical Methods (or equivalent)

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115764M

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution with an overall Grade Point Average of 4.5 or higher.

Essential requirements

There is an inherent requirement to be vaccinated against Q Fever in order to study the Bachelor of Veterinary Technology. It is a condition that all students enrolled in this program must be vaccinated against Q Fever (unless initial skin test indicates pre-existing immunity). This must be completed as soon as possible and by no later than the end of Semester 1 in the first year.

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 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

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	75
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.85
China – Gaokao	65%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	17
India – CBSE and CISCE	75
India – State Board Examinations	85
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.78
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	20
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	2.78
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	8
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	9
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	8.00

Why Bachelor of Veterinary Technology?

Are you an inquisitive, passionate and empathetic animal lover? Keen to work closely with animals, their owners and the community to make a difference to their care?

Veterinary technologists and veterinary nurses play a vital role in delivering modern animal healthcare. They are the heart of our veterinary hospitals and clinics. As part of the veterinary care team, they educate owners and provide high-level nursing care to veterinary patients in areas such as surgery and medicine, anaesthesia, emergency and critical care, dentistry, exotics, wildlife and more.

Safeguard the health of animals. Save lives. Enter a field with strong job prospects and security. Work in a dynamic team environment and join a like-minded community of animal loving problem-solvers.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Veterinary Technology is a clinically focused degree and provides access to our world-class, $37 million veterinary health centre. You'll build high-level expertise in the nursing care of animals of all kinds – from cats, dogs and horses to farm animals, wildlife and exotic pets.

Gain hands-on animal and clinical experience through work placements providing you with opportunities to learn and experience the diversity of veterinary nursing and technology practice. Build an invaluable community of peers as you collaborate with animal and veterinary scientists, animal behaviourists and veterinarians.

Study the complete spectrum of animal health, including pathology, pain management, animal nutrition, dentistry and pharmacology. Gain knowledge and training in the use of veterinary anaesthetic, radiography and dental equipment. Explore animal diseases, including those threatening humans, and the concept of One Health.

You’ll graduate with extensive real-world experience, ready for fulfilling careers in general veterinary practice and specialist hospitals, animal breeding farms, zoos and animal shelters.

Key features

Learn to operate medical and diagnostic equipment and perform advanced clinical tasks.
Gain extensive hands-on experience through industry and clinical placements.
Work directly with animals, including cats, dogs, horses, farm animals, wildlife and exotic pets.
Access our world-class veterinary health centre and build skills in simulated environments like our veterinary clinical skills centre.
Learn from world-leading veterinary nursing and technology educators, clinical veterinary nursing staff and researchers.
Collaborate with other on-campus animal and veterinary scientists, animal behaviourists and veterinarians.

What you'll learn

Our Bachelor of Veterinary Technology is expert-led, hands-on and contemporary. During the three-year program you’ll learn how to enhance outcomes for veterinary patients from progressive educators. You’ll provide nursing care to different animals with varied health statuses and perform clinical tasks such as diagnostic imaging, laboratory testing and analyses, medication administration and fluid therapy delivery. 

You’ll study industry informed courses, including:

Animal handling and husbandry
Animal behaviour welfare ethics
Principles of veterinary nursing
Anatomy, physiology and pathology
Animal microbiology and virology
Pharmacology, pharmacy and therapeutics
Biosecurity, epidemiology and food safety
Managing animals in emergencies.

Learn from experienced veterinary nursing and technology academics and clinical veterinary nursing staff in our state-of-the-art teaching hospital where you can apply your learning and deploy your clinical skills whilst building confidence in your practice.

At the end of your first year, you’ll also complete an industry placement where you’ll see first-hand how the knowledge and skills of a veterinary technologist are used in clinical practice. This is followed by substantial clinical placements in the second and third year of the degree. In total, you will complete over 600 hours of industry placements.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

108 units for all Core courses, and
24 units for all Work integrated learning, and
12 units for Electives

Complete 108 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Animal Handling and Husbandry	Course code ANIM1000	Units 6
Course name Principles in Animal Behaviour, Welfare and Ethics	Course code ANIM1001	Units 6
Course name Foundations of Science for Veterinary Technologists	Course code VETS1000	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Mechanisms of Health	Course code VETS1001	Units 6
Course name Anatomy for Veterinary Technologists	Course code VETS1002	Units 6
Course name Physiology for Veterinary Technologists	Course code VETS1003	Units 6
Course name Evidence-based Veterinary Technology	Course code VETS1004	Units 6
Course name Principles of Veterinary Nursing	Course code VETS1005	Units 6
Course name Animal Microbiology, Virology and Immunology	Course code ANIM2004	Units 6
Course name Clinical Studies A	Course code VETS2006	Units 6
Course name Clinical Studies B	Course code VETS2007	Units 6
Course name Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Therapeutics	Course code VETS2008	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Workplace Skills	Course code VETS2009	Units 6
Course name Pathology for Veterinary Technologists	Course code VETS2010	Units 6
Course name Advanced Animal Husbandry for Veterinary Technologists	Course code VETS2011	Units 6
Course name Biosecurity, Epidemiology and Food Safety for Veterinary Technologists	Course code VETS2015	Units 6
Course name Managing Animals in Emergencies	Course code VETS3007	Units 6
Course name Transition to the Veterinary Technology Profession Part A	Course code VETS3008	Units 0
Course name Transition to the Veterinary Technology Profession Part B	Course code VETS3009	Units 6

Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Clinical Skills in Veterinary Technology	Course code VETS3006	Units 12
	Course name Clinical Practice in Veterinary Technology	Course code VETS3010	Units 12

Complete 12 units comprising:

12 units from Program electives

	Course code	Units
Course name Business Management for Applied Sciences	Course code AGRI3001	Units 6
Course name Genes and Inheritance	Course code ANIM2005	Units 6
Course name Wildlife Management	Course code ANIM2008	Units 6
Course name Livestock Production Science	Course code ANIM2009	Units 6
Course name Animal Nutrition and Metabolism	Course code ANIM3003	Units 6
Course name Intensive Animal Production Science	Course code ANIM3009	Units 6
Course name Laboratory Animal Science	Course code ANIM3010	Units 6
Course name Animals and the Law	Course code ANIM3011	Units 6
Course name eChallenge	Course code BUSI3027	Units 6
Course name Animal Nutrition and Metabolism 2 (Vet Bio)	Course code VETS2002	Units 6

Career outcomes

You’ll graduate from Adelaide University with industry skills ready for a dynamic career in high-level animal care roles. You could oversee anaesthesia services for specialist veterinary hospitals. You might work at a zoo and provide nursing care to exotic animals and wildlife. Perhaps you’ll work on an equine breeding farm and direct the nursing care of equine neonates.

Your career options as a veterinary technologist will be extensive and you could provide nursing care to veterinary patients in a variety of settings, including:

Specialist veterinary care areas such as oncology, medicine, surgery, emergency and critical care and anaesthesia
Small animal general practice clinics
Large and production animal veterinary hospitals
Exotic and wildlife specialist clinics
Community care and shelter medicine
Veterinary clinical pathology laboratories
Animal welfare organisations
Zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries
Animal breeding farms
Telemedicine and the veterinary insurance industry
Animal research facilities
Policy and management
Tertiary education.

Industry trends

With pet ownership on the rise and a heightened awareness of animal welfare in society, the demand for veterinary services has never been higher. Employment growth is projected to be strong for professionals working with animals (Australian Government Labour Market Insights, 2023). This means that once you graduate, you'll find plenty of job openings waiting for you.

There is also a steady stream of advanced new tools reimagining what’s possible in the clinical environment – data-driven apps, wearable devices, telemedicine. As a veterinary technologist, you can take advantage of these new technologies, ensuring they deliver maximum benefit to animals’ health and wellbeing.

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: