How to become a veterinarian
Diagnose and treat the health and well-being of all animals.
Pathways to this career
- Complete an undergraduate degree in veterinary science.
- Progress your knowledge and career by completing a postgraduate degree in veterinary science.
- Register with the Veterinary Surgeons Board or Veterinary Practitioners Registration Board of the state(s) you wish to practice in once completing your studies and graduating.
- Qualified Veterinarians must re-register on an annual basis with these boards in order to practice.
What does a veterinarian do?
Veterinarians work with animals. They diagnose animals and work to treat and prevent their diseases. They also patch up animals after injuries and offer advice for preventative care to animals owners.Duties and tasks
- Advise on preventing the occurrence and spread of diseases among animals.
- Give advice to animal owners on care and treatment and answering questions as needed.
- Inspect animals to determine the cause of disease or injury.
- Perform autopsies on deceased animals.
- Perform surgery or other medical procedures on animals.
- Prescribe medications for animals diseases and administering these medications as needed.
- Set animals broken bones or otherwise attending to injuries.
Professional bodies
- Australian Veterinary Association
- Veterinary Board of Tasmania
- Veterinary Board of the Northern Territory
- Veterinary Practitioners Board of New South Wales
- Veterinary Surgeons Board (QLD)
- Veterinary Surgeons Board of South Australia
- Veterinary Surgeons Board of WA
Related jobs
Discover related courses
Undergraduate RMI-SCB301
Related degrees
Undergraduate MAQ-BIOX2350
Related degrees
Undergraduate LTU-AGR1AAS
Undergraduate MAQ-BIOX3510
Related degrees
Step up your career with these resources
10 fascinating uni subjects that are open to everyone in 2025
Want to understand the psychology behind Trumpism? Push for better climate action? Or improve your cultural sensitivity in healthcare? These online subjects—and more!—are now accepting 2025 enrolments.
5 small business courses for self-starters
Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.
How to negotiate a higher salary
Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.
Is a career in project management right for you?
Do you get a kick out of thinking big and getting things done? You could make a great project manager.
Together, we've got this
Your dedicated advisor will help you enrol, plan your studies and find confidence in the knowledge that you belong at university. They’ve helped thousands before you. Now it’s your turn.