The Bachelor of Veterinary Biology / Bachelor of Veterinary Science (CRICOS 068968D) is a six-year dual qualification offered by Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales. This comprehensive program combines foundational veterinary biology with clinical veterinary science, preparing graduates for registration as veterinarians in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00005F), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. CSU is a government-owned university known for its strong agricultural and veterinary programs, with state-of-the-art facilities including a veterinary teaching hospital. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, duration, work-integrated learning, and the student visa process—all sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource helping international students navigate Australian study options; we do not charge referral fees or provide immigration advice.
Bachelor of Veterinary Biology / Bachelor of Veterinary Science (CRICOS course code 068968D) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by Charles Sturt University (CSU) over 6 years. This dual qualification award two degrees upon completion, giving graduates a strong foundation in both the biological sciences underlying animal health and the clinical skills required for veterinary practice. The field of education is 061101 - Veterinary Science, categorized under Health. According to the CRICOS register, the program includes a mandatory work component of 54 weeks (2,160 hours) of professional placement, ensuring students gain real-world experience. Charles Sturt University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. All listed institutions on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced directly from the official register.
As a veterinary science program, this course covers the scientific principles of animal biology, health, and disease. Students learn anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and clinical diagnostics, with a strong emphasis on practical skills. The dual qualification structure means you first complete the Bachelor of Veterinary Biology, which provides the scientific foundation, then progress to the Bachelor of Veterinary Science, which focuses on clinical training. Graduates are prepared for roles in private veterinary practice, public health, research, and government agencies. While specific subjects are determined by Charles Sturt University, typical learning outcomes include the ability to diagnose animal diseases, perform surgeries, advise on animal nutrition and welfare, and manage veterinary practices. The program also develops communication, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making skills essential for veterinary professionals.
The course duration is 6 years (312 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English at CSU's Wagga Wagga campus. Being a dual qualification, students receive two degrees: Bachelor of Veterinary Biology and Bachelor of Veterinary Science, which together meet the educational requirements for veterinary registration in Australia. The program is designed for on-campus study, with significant practical components in laboratories and clinical settings. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The dual award structure is efficient—rather than completing two separate degrees in eight or more years, students gain both in six years with integrated curriculum.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$432,480, with non-tuition fees of A$2,208, totaling A$434,688. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. Always check Charles Sturt University's website for current fees, as they may change. The tuition covers all academic costs, while non-tuition fees may include student services, amenities, and resources. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. As a guide, international students in Wagga Wagga should budget approximately A$300–A$400 per week for accommodation, A$80–A$120 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for transport. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. All institutions listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and fees are indicative only.
Typical English language requirements for this course are IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0. Equivalent scores from other tests (TOEFL, PTE) are also accepted. Academically, international students should have completed senior secondary schooling equivalent to an Australian Year 12, with strong results in science subjects (biology, chemistry, mathematics). Some applicants may need to complete a foundation studies program if they do not meet direct entry requirements—refer to Charles Sturt University for accredited pathway options. Each CRICOS-registered provider sets its own admission standards; HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only. For precise requirements, contact CSU's international admissions office. The Department of Home Affairs also requires evidence of financial capacity and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, which is assessed during the visa application.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 54 weeks at 40 hours per week, totaling approximately 2,160 hours. This professional placement is embedded in the curriculum to provide hands-on clinical experience. Students undertake rotations in veterinary hospitals, clinics, and rural practices, applying their knowledge under supervision. The work-integrated learning (WIL) component is designed to develop clinical competence and meet accreditation standards. It may include placements in CSU's on-campus Veterinary Teaching Hospital or external affiliated practices. International students must ensure their visa allows for such work; the Student Visa (Subclass 500) permits work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but this placement is part of the course requirements, not additional employment. All CRICOS-registered courses must meet ESOS Act quality standards, including work placements.
This course is delivered at Charles Sturt University's Wagga Wagga campus in New South Wales. Wagga Wagga is a regional city located about 450 km southwest of Sydney, with a population of around 70,000. It is a major centre for agriculture and veterinary studies, with a vibrant student community. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and trains to Sydney and Melbourne. Living costs in Wagga Wagga are generally lower than in major cities: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$250–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, and a monthly public transport pass A$80. There are several other CRICOS-registered providers in the city, including TAFE NSW, but CSU is the only university offering veterinary science. Choosing a regional location can offer a more affordable lifestyle and strong industry connections.
When considering veterinary study in Wagga Wagga, think about your lifestyle preferences and career goals. The city offers a close-knit community, lower cost of living, and direct exposure to agricultural and animal industries. CSU's Wagga campus has modern facilities including a veterinary hospital, clinical skills labs, and farm animal resources. However, regional living means fewer entertainment and cultural options compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The climate is temperate with hot summers and cool winters. If you thrive in a hands-on, rural environment and want to build strong industry networks, Wagga Wagga is an excellent choice. All CRICOS-registered courses must adhere to ESOS Act protections, ensuring international students receive quality education and support. HeadStart Academy recommends visiting the campus virtually or in person to gauge fit.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend classes, achieve satisfactory course progress, and comply with work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). You must also hold adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs assesses applications against the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, so you must demonstrate that you intend to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is also required—you need to show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for official guidance. ESOS Act protections guarantee your tuition fees and course quality.
Applying to study Bachelor of Veterinary Biology / Bachelor of Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt University involves three straightforward steps:
Ready to start your journey? Follow the three-step application process above to apply for this program at Charles Sturt University.
Bachelor of Veterinary Biology / Bachelor of Veterinary Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Sturt University (CSU). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.