Are you an international student aspiring to become a veterinarian in Australia? The Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (CRICOS course code 108256A) is an integrated Masters Degree (Extended) offered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) (CRICOS 00125J). This 5-year program combines undergraduate science foundations with professional veterinary training, preparing you for registration as a veterinarian in Australia. Delivered at Murdoch's main campus in Perth, Western Australia, the course includes a substantial work component of 26 weeks (988 hours) of clinical placements. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. In this page, you'll find everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, work-integrated learning, and how to apply for your student visa.
Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (CRICOS course code 108256A) is a Masters Degree (Extended) delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 5 years. This combined program allows you to earn both a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, streamlining your path to becoming a veterinarian. The course is classified under the field of Veterinary Science (061101) within Health. Murdoch University is a public government university established in 1973, known for its strong focus on veterinary and animal sciences. The course is designed to meet the accreditation requirements of the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC) and other international veterinary councils. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00125J), Murdoch University can enrol international students under the ESOS Act protections. This means your education is quality-assured, and you have access to tuition fee protection and student support services.
The Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch University combines foundational science subjects with intensive veterinary clinical training. In the early years, you will study animal biology, physiology, biochemistry, and animal management. Later years focus on veterinary anatomy, pharmacology, pathology, diagnostics, and clinical medicine. The program includes hands-on experience with a variety of animal species, including companion animals, livestock, horses, and wildlife. You'll also learn about public health, epidemiology, and veterinary professional practice. The course integrates theory with practical placements, ensuring you graduate with the skills needed for veterinary practice. Note: This description is a general guide; Murdoch University provides the exact curriculum and learning outcomes.
According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Veterinary Medicine has a duration of 5 years, equivalent to 260 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program is delivered on-campus at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, Western Australia. There are no off-campus or online delivery modes for this course. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire 5-year program is A$410,400, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, lab fees, and student services) are estimated at A$1,825, bringing the total to A$412,225. These fees are set by Murdoch University and are subject to change. You should always confirm current fees on Murdoch's official website (www.murdoch.edu.au). Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. For international students in Perth, indicative weekly costs are: rent A$300–500, groceries A$80–150, public transport A$40–60 (with student concessions). Budget for at least A$21,041 per year in living expenses as per the Department of Home Affairs.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Masters Degree (Extended) level, Murdoch University usually expects IELTS overall 7.0 (with no band below 7.0) or equivalent. Prior qualifications: you need successful completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, with strong performance in science subjects (biology, chemistry). Some applicants may enter via a relevant bachelor's degree. Foundation or pathway options may be available through Murdoch's pathway programs or colleges — check the provider's website. International students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and demonstrate financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting Murdoch University's admissions page for precise requirements.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 26 weeks, totalling approximately 988 hours (based on 38 hours per week). This work-integrated learning involves clinical placements, internships, and practical training in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and other veterinary settings. The work component is designed to give you hands-on experience under supervision, developing clinical skills in diagnostics, surgery, animal handling, and client communication. It may also include placements in rural, regional, or specialist practices. Successful completion of the work component is required for graduation and for eligibility for professional registration.
The Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Veterinary Medicine is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia. Perth is the capital city of WA, with a population of about 2 million. It has a vibrant international student community (over 50,000 students) and is home to several CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney and Melbourne, with average rent around A$350–500 per week for a one-bedroom unit. The Murdoch campus is well-served by public transport (bus and train) and is about 12 km from the Perth CBD. The campus features modern veterinary clinics and facilities, including the Animal Hospital and the Centre for Animal Health and Wellbeing.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time onshore. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Murdoch University, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and health insurance (OSHC) for the duration of the visa. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You can bring eligible family members on dependent visas. Always check the latest visa requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent. The ESOS Act ensures you receive quality education and tuition protection.
Western Australia offers a unique lifestyle with a strong economy, beautiful beaches, and a multicultural society. Perth is a safe, friendly city with excellent study environments. For veterinary students, WA provides diverse clinical experiences, from urban practices to rural and remote settings. The state has a growing demand for veterinarians, particularly in livestock and wildlife. Consider your preference for climate (Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters), proximity to natural attractions, and cost of living. WA has over 10 CRICOS-registered providers offering veterinary-related courses, but Murdoch is the only university offering a full veterinary degree. If you value hands-on learning and a balanced lifestyle, WA could be the right choice.
Ready to start your veterinary career in Australia? Explore this course on Murdoch University's website or contact their international admissions team for more details.
Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Veterinary Medicine is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). 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.