Animal veterinary biosciences

Why study Animal veterinary biosciences?

Study the science of animal structure, metabolism, reproduction, genetics and behaviour in order to assess and evaluate real world problems. Students specialise in animal ecology, health, breeding or biotechnology, to understand how to improve the management, health and welfare of domestic and wild animals.  Develop skills in teamwork and written and oral presentation; and gain hands-on training at our outstanding facilities: a dedicated Animal House, an on-campus farm and the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for work in veterinary and animal research laboratories, agricultural and environmental industries, parks services, animal care and welfare, animal health and nutrition, university and commercial animal houses, biotechnology, chemical companies, zoos, veterinary products and government (including primary industry, sustainability and environment, agriculture, fisheries and quarantine). 

Courses

Local students

Animal veterinary biosciences courses
Offer yearCourse titleCampus(es)DurationSemester starts
2012 Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences continued…

Course description
This broad biology-based course aims to equip students in animal husbandry, and help them gain an appreciation of the interactions between humans and animals. This course offers hands-on studies of both domestic and wild animals, with a great range of science specialisations - covering animal diversity, animal nutrition, animal health, genetics, and the study of animals and humanity. The curriculum incorporates project-based teaching, allowing students to work on a research project or undertake work experience during third year. There are excellent job prospects for graduates within the veterinary science industry, as students will acquire knowledge within: animal diversity, animal nutrition, animal health, genetics and the study of animals and mankind. Graduates could find themselves within the agricultural and animal health industries, animal nutrition industry, animal breeding and the biotechnology industries. La Trobe is developing some of the best agricultural science teaching and research facilities in the world, through the development of AgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, a A$288 million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, is currently under construction. Once completed, this Centre will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe University's science students.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any).
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reason for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.
Selection
ATAR 70.15 (2012) Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 80 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Physics, or Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points. Performance in prerequisite studies is also considered.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology.
Full course details
Animal and Veterinary Biosciences Melbourne
2013 Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences continued…

Course description
This broad biology-based course offers aims to equip students for further study in veterinary sciences, or employment in animal research, animal nutrition, care and welfare, or the animal health, food, agricultural or biotechnology industries. It offers hands-on studies of both domestic and wild animals, with a great range of science specialisations. The curriculum incorporates project-based teaching, allowing students to work on a research project or undertake work experience during third year. Students can access the faculty's industry experience and student support programs. Work has commenced on the $288-million Centre for AgriBioscience and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe's science students.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any).
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reason for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.
Selection
ATAR 70.15 (2012) Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 80 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Physics, or Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points. Performance in prerequisite studies is also considered.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology.
Full course details
Animal and Veterinary Biosciences Melbourne
2012 Bachelor of Biological Sciences Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Biological Sciences continued…

Course description
Whether students want to help protect native forests and grasslands, discover new medicinal cures or sustainable agricultural practices, or map the genome of endangered species, students will need a thorough knowledge of biological science to succeed. In addition, students will need skills that will enable them to find a job and develop their career  being able to demonstrate communication, critical thinking, decision making, problem-solving and teamwork capabilities. In 2012, this course offers a unique opportunity to combine both, with the implementation of a new work-ready specialisation for Biological Science students, which includes subjects specifically designed to provide additional skills to help kick-start your career. You can also choose to complete recognised volunteer programs as part of their degree, giving them an edge with employers seeking work-ready staff. As a biological science student at La Trobe you will have the opportunity to attend a full range of practical classes to support lectures, and participate in a range of field trips throughout your the course. Students can study biological phenomena in the Wildlife Sanctuary on-site at La Trobes Melbourne campus and have the option of field trips to locations across Victoria  as well as exchange opportunities around the world. La Trobe Universitys science students will find new career opportunities and education benefits from the development ofAgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, a $288 million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as education and research opportunities for La Trobe science students. The degree is flexible, allowing students to take a general overview, dipping into many areas of biology, or to specialise in particular areas such as biotechnology, molecular biology, conservation ecology, genetics, microbiology, botany or zoology. Please note students enrolling at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus for the last two years of the course.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any). NSW HSC: English
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Applicants through UAC may need to complete the La Trobe Alternative Category form, available at: www.latrobe.edu.au/studadmin/aw/downloads/Altentry.pdf
Selection
ATARs (2012) Melbourne: 51.45 Albury-Wodonga: 61.80 Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 65 or above will receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs will be considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ENTER/ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, or Physics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points. Re-ranking is also based on performance in prerequisite studies. Consideration is given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation, travel - may also apply.
Additional information
Students performing well in the Bachelor of Biological Sciences (normally achieving an average of 80% or more in a year) are eligible to transfer to the Bachelor of Biological Sciences (Advanced Science).
How to apply
Melbourne: VTAC Albury-Wodonga: VTAC/UAC (interstate applicants)
Full course details
Biological Sciences Melbourne
Biological Sciences Albury-Wodonga

Want to know more?

Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.

Fees and scholarships

Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.

There are also a wide range of scholarships available for local students. 

International students

Animal veterinary biosciences international courses
Offer yearCourse title (CRICOS)Campus(es)DurationSemester startsAnnual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2012 Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences (060348G) Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 (February) $23 360

Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences continued…

Year
2012
Course description
This broad biology-based course aims to equip students in animal husbandry, and help them gain an appreciation of the interactions between humans and animals. This course offers hands-on studies of both domestic and wild animals, with a great range of science specialisations - covering animal diversity, animal nutrition, animal health, genetics, and the study of animals and humanity. The curriculum incorporates project-based teaching, allowing students to work on a research project or undertake work experience during third year. There are excellent job prospects for graduates within the veterinary science industry, as students will acquire knowledge within: animal diversity, animal nutrition, animal health, genetics and the study of animals and mankind. Graduates could find themselves within the agricultural and animal health industries, animal nutrition industry, animal breeding and the biotechnology industries. La Trobe is developing some of the best agricultural science teaching and research facilities in the world, through the development of AgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, a A$288 million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, is currently under construction. Once completed, this Centre will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe University's science students.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 70 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 70.35 International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 7 HKDSE - 8,4 Sri Lankan A Levels - BBC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 4A 2B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 73 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.7 Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 70 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.8 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.3 GAOKAO - see: the website If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
VCE Units 3 and 4: English (any).
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
Professional recognition
Graduates of this course are eligible for membership of the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology.
Course details
Animal and Veterinary Biosciences Melbourne
2012 Bachelor of Biological Sciences (006171K) Albury-Wodonga
Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 and 2 (February and July) $23 360

Bachelor of Biological Sciences continued…

Year
2012
Course description
Whether students want to help protect native forests and grasslands, discover new medicinal cures or sustainable agricultural practices, or map the genome of endangered species, students will need a thorough knowledge of biological science to succeed. In addition, students will need skills that will enable them to find a job and develop their career  being able to demonstrate communication, critical thinking, decision making, problem-solving and teamwork capabilities. In 2012, this course offers a unique opportunity to combine both, with the implementation of a new work-ready specialisation for Biological Science students, which includes subjects specifically designed to provide additional skills to help kick-start your career. You can also choose to complete recognised volunteer programs as part of their degree, giving them an edge with employers seeking work-ready staff. As a biological science student at La Trobe you will have the opportunity to attend a full range of practical classes to support lectures, and participate in a range of field trips throughout your the course. Students can study biological phenomena in the Wildlife Sanctuary on-site at La Trobes Melbourne campus and have the option of field trips to locations across Victoria  as well as exchange opportunities around the world. La Trobe Universitys science students will find new career opportunities and education benefits from the development ofAgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, a $288 million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as education and research opportunities for La Trobe science students. The degree is flexible, allowing students to take a general overview, dipping into many areas of biology, or to specialise in particular areas such as biotechnology, molecular biology, conservation ecology, genetics, microbiology, botany or zoology. Please note students enrolling at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus for the last two years of the course.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 50 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 51.20, 61.75 (AW) International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 6 HKDSE - 8,2 Sri Lankan A Levels - CCD STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 2A 4B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 65 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.3 Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.5 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.0 GAOKAO - see: the website If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
VCE Units 3 and 4: English (any).
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation, travel - may also apply.
Additional information
Semester 2 (July) entry is only available to students with Advanced Standing (credit) for previous studies. Students at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus after successful completion of their first year.
Course details
Biological Sciences Melbourne
Biological Sciences Albury-Wodonga

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Animal veterinary biosciences placements

Third-year students have the chance to undertake work experience or a research project.

The industry cadetship program also allows you to gain paid workplace experience between semesters, giving you the chance to build on your skills and build your career. See cadetship program.

Overseas study opportunities

Gain valuable overseas experience by studying with one of our global exchange partners. We have partnerships with over 100 universities in more than 30 countries in Asia, Europe, and North and South America. See education abroad.

Student and graduate profiles

Find out about the experiences of one of our students.

I started in the B.Science and then transferred into the second year of the course I'd hoped for.

Mr Ben Kearton,

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers. You can view all the staff from the Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering or focus on staff in Animal veterinary biosciences.

Animal veterinary biosciences events

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