Why is this course for me? With so much competition for entry to Veterinary Medicine from school leavers, many candidates with the necessary aptitude and attitude required to develop productive, professional careers in this area are unable to secure a place. By increasing the number of places available to graduates with appropriate prior learning, and by providing a tailor-made programme over four years for graduate entrants, we have increased student diversity and provided enhanced opportunities for entry. To apply for this four-year programme you must have completed a degree in biological, biomedical or animal sciences before entry into the programme. This graduate entry programme is designed to educate future veterinarians to the best international standards in veterinary medicine and to prepare them for careers in professional work, research and public service. Clinical rotations take place primarily in the UCD Veterinary Hospital in Belfield, which receives a range of pet species, farm animals and horses. What will I study? The programme is organised over four years. In first year, students will build on their knowledge of the basic biological sciences. You’ll take modules which demonstrate how this knowledge is applied in the practice of veterinary medicine, and gain a firm grounding in animal welfare, behaviour and handling. A key objective will be to ensure that you have the required knowledge, skills and competencies to progress to second year. Between second and fourth year you’ll take combined modules with students taking the DN300 degree in Veterinary Medicine.

Career & Graduate Study Opportunities You can work in mixed, small animal, farm animal or equine practice. You may also obtain further specialist clinical qualifications. Beyond clinical practice, veterinarians play an important role in the protection of public health, in research into diseases of animals and man, and in other areas such as conservation and wildlife protection. While most graduates work in clinical practice, increasing numbers pursue research in public service or private sector research. This reflects the important role of the veterinarian in animal health control and consumer protection. At present there is almost complete employment for veterinary graduates.