Animal veterinary biosciences
Why study Animal veterinary biosciences?
Study animal health and welfare, ecology, behaviour, genetics and biotechnology.
This course aims to equip you with knowledge and skills in animal issues and an appreciation of the interactions between animals and humans. You'll complete hands-on studies of both domestic and wild animals and work on a research project or undertake work experience during third year.
Gain hands-on training at our outstanding facilities: a dedicated Animal House, an on-campus farm and the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary.
Career opportunities
You can apply for graduate entry into veterinary science courses or pursue postgraduate studies in animal health and nutrition, zoology or biotechnology-related research.
Our students have found work in theDepartment of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR), the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) and animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA.
Courses
Local students
NB: The ATARs published here are Clearly In ATAR Rank as a quick guide, based on the most recent intake, and can change from year to year. Additional information on the 2017 intake is now available at the ATAR Wizard.
2018
Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences
- Duration :
- 3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
- Campus/ATAR*:
- Melbourne 63
- Albury-Wodonga 63.1
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- This degree offers you a strong scientific foundation to work with both domesticated and captive wild animals. Your studies will go beyond animal health to include ecology, genetics, biotechnology and animal physiology.
You'll complete hands-on studies in animal and agricultural science, microbiology, zoology and metabolic biochemistry. This knowledge provides the basis for further research in the field and is a pathway to postgraduate study in veterinary science.
You'll have access to our wildlife sanctuary, made up of 30 hectares of bushland and home to protected fauna. This fully operating sanctuary offers workshops and seminars on topics such as wetlands ecology and the propagation of indigenous plants.
First year will equip you with science foundations in biology and chemistry. Second year will see you tackle more animal-related subjects such as animal physiology, nutrition and molecular biology.
In third year, you'll continue to deepen your knowledge on animal health, and work on real-life case studies where you'll act as advisers to industry reps on their animal or agricultural business.
Between semesters you may take on paid work experience with any of our industry partners, including government agencies, research houses and start-up ventures. Many students are able to find employment with these companies after graduation.
If you choose to complete your first year at Albury-Wodonga, you'll transfer to Melbourne for the rest of your degree. - Career opportunities
- Our graduates have gone on to work with Agriculture Australia, the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service and animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA.
- Professional recognition
- Graduates of the Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences may apply for membership with Ag Institute Australia. Membership may be subject to additional or ongoing requirements beyond completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
- Prerequisite
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available. - Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
- Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal Statement online for other information to be considered during the selection process e.g. details on work experience or reasons for applying.
- Subject bonus
- A study score of 25 in Maths: Mathematical Methods (CAS), Maths: Specialist Mathematics or any Science equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
- 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
Apply through VTAC or UAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.
If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.
To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045.- See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Biological Sciences
- Duration :
- 3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
- Campus/ATAR*:
- Albury-Wodonga N/A
- Melbourne 55.2
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- This degree prepares you to help find the solutions to big issues like protecting native forests, managing endangered species, discovering new medical cures or securing food for the future.
In the first year of this degree, you'll explore the basics of animal, plant and microbial biology through the lenses of cell biology, genetics, evolution, biodiversity and ecology. In second and third year, you can specialise through a choice of disciplines including botany, microbiology, zoology, biochemistry or genetics.
You'll get plenty of hands-on experience in our labs or on field trips to diverse habitats across Victoria. You'll be exposed to cutting edge biological research via world-class research institutes (the La Trobe Institute of Molecular Science and Centre for AgriBiosciences) and you'll have access to the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary on our Melbourne Campus.
During your field excursions you'll learn techniques to survey animal and plant biodiversity. During lab classes you'll gain the skills to conduct scientific experiments and develop and present your own work.
Along with practical and theoretical classes, we'll help you prepare for the workplace through opportunities for paid work experience. - Career opportunities
- Our graduates have found work in zoos and other nature parks and aquariums, local and state government organisations (research, management and education roles), and research institutes. You can also go on to postgraduate studies in biological research, medicine or veterinary science.
- Prerequisite
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available. - Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
- Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal Statement online for other information to be considered during the selection process e.g. details on work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may also be asked to complete the STAT Multiple Choice.
- Subject bonus
- A study score of 20 in Health and Human Development, IT Applications, Software Development, any Mathematics, Physical Education or any Science equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
- 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 fieldtrips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
- Additional information
- Year 1 of biochemistry, botany, ecology, genetics, microbiology, molecular biology and zoology can be undertaken at Albury-Wodonga and then students transfer to the Melbourne campus to complete years 2 and 3.
- How to apply
- Apply through VTAC or UAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.
If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.
To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045. - See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing
- Duration :
- 3 years
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 (March)
- Campus/ATAR*:
- Other n/a
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- The Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing will be offered by La Trobe University and be delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic at the Epping Campus. The Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing is the first para-professional veterinary nursing qualification of this level available in Australia. It is designed to produce highly skilled clinicians with exceptional levels of practical skill, knowledge and in-depth understanding gained through a stimulating exploration of the academic underpinnings of the field. A semester-long industry placement in second year provides the opportunity to apply the theory and practices learned on campus in a range of areas of interest. This placement, along with ongoing comprehensive practical clinical experience will ensure that graduates are 'Future ready' and highly employable.
In third year, students can opt to undertake paid work in veterinary practices (outside of classes). Throughout their course, students undertake WIL placements in various industry settings hospitals, animal shelters, farms. Students are fully supervised by experienced veterinary team members while at external placements.
- Career opportunities
- Graduate employment opportunities will be available in the private and public sectors, including Veterinary clinics and hospitals as nurses and/or practice managers, or roles in large organisations that specialise in veterinary pharmaceutical or nutrition.
- Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
- YEAR 12:
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL: Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Biology, Chemistry or any Mathematics.
NON YEAR 12:
Successful completion of a Diploma course in Veterinary Nursing or a related area, OR at least 2 years of related industry experience.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
All applicants are required to submit a Personal Statement in which they detail their reasons for studying Veterinary Nursing, previous related experience and previous qualifications. All applicants must also book an interview (late applications for interview bookings may be taken). - Additional information
- This course will be delivered in partnership with Melbourne Polytechnic (Epping Campus). Unless attending an off-site placement, students will attend the Epping campus of Melbourne Polytechnic for the duration of their course.
- How to apply
- Apply through VTAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.
If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.
To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045. - See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
ATAR Wizard
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 is also a wide range of scholarships available for local students.
International students
2018
Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences (060348G)
- Duration :
- 3 years
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
- Annual Tuition Fee (A$) :
- 33 200
- Campus
- Melbourne
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- This degree offers you a strong scientific foundation to work with both domesticated and captive wild animals. Your studies will go beyond animal health to include ecology, genetics, biotechnology and animal physiology.
You'll complete hands-on studies in animal and agricultural science, microbiology, zoology and metabolic biochemistry. This knowledge provides the basis for further research in the field and is a pathway to postgraduate study in veterinary science.
You'll have access to our wildlife sanctuary, made up of 30 hectares of bushland and home to protected fauna. This fully operating sanctuary offers workshops and seminars on topics such as wetlands ecology and the propagation of indigenous plants.
First year will equip you with science foundations in biology and chemistry. Second year will see you tackle more animal-related subjects such as animal physiology, nutrition and molecular biology.
In third year, you'll continue to deepen your knowledge on animal health, and work on real-life case studies where you'll act as advisers to industry reps on their animal or agricultural business.
Between semesters you may take on paid work experience with any of our industry partners, including government agencies, research houses and start-up ventures. Many students are able to find employment with these companies after graduation.
If you choose to complete your first year at Albury-Wodonga, you'll transfer to Melbourne for the rest of your degree. - English Language Requirements
- IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;
TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;
TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;
Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;
English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.
Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;
or approved international equivalent. - Subject prerequisite
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English.
- Additional costs
- Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property.
- Professional recognition
- Graduates of the Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences may apply for membership with Ag Institute Australia. Membership may be subject to additional or ongoing requirements beyond completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
- Career opportunities
- Graduates can find employment in veterinary and animal research, agricultural and environmental industries, animal nutrition, care and welfare, biotechnology, and the animal health industry. Potential employers include animal welfare agencies, university and commercial animal houses, park services, and veterinary, feed, chemical and biotechnology companies. Further study opportunities are available in undergraduate, or postgraduate research and coursework degrees.
- How to apply
- Apply now or ask us a question if you need more help. You can also call us on +61 3 9627 4805.
Please apply through VTAC if youre completing your VCE or International Baccalaureate (IB) in Victoria, or apply through UAC if youre completing your HSC or IB in New South Wales. - See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Biological Sciences (006171K)
- Duration :
- 3 years
- Semester starts :
- Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
- Annual Tuition Fee (A$) :
- 34 600
- Campus
- Melbourne
- Year
- 2018
- About this course
- This degree prepares you to help find the solutions to big issues like protecting native forests, managing endangered species, discovering new medical cures or securing food for the future.
In the first year of this degree, you'll explore the basics of animal, plant and microbial biology through the lenses of cell biology, genetics, evolution, biodiversity and ecology. In second and third year, you can specialise through a choice of disciplines including botany, microbiology, zoology, biochemistry or genetics.
You'll get plenty of hands-on experience in our labs or on field trips to diverse habitats across Victoria. You'll be exposed to cutting edge biological research via world-class research institutes (the La Trobe Institute of Molecular Science and Centre for AgriBiosciences) and you'll have access to the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary on our Melbourne Campus.
During your field excursions you'll learn techniques to survey animal and plant biodiversity. During lab classes you'll gain the skills to conduct scientific experiments and develop and present your own work.
Along with practical and theoretical classes, we'll help you prepare for the workplace through opportunities for paid work experience. - English Language Requirements
- IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;
TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;
TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;
Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;
English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.
Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;
or approved international equivalent. - Subject prerequisite
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
- 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 fieldtrips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
- Additional information
- Mid-year entry is only available to students with advanced standing for the subject Chemistry Foundations.
- How to apply
- Apply now or ask us a question if you need more help. You can also call us on +61 3 9627 4805.
- See Student Handbook for more details
- The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.
The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
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.
Related study options
Kieren Carmichael,
Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Biosciences"I chose my course so that when I graduate I can work in a variety of fields."
Your study experience
Alternative pathways
We offer several pathways into some of our most popular courses – view your options for pathway entry into Animal and Veterinary Biosciences.
La Trobe offers you many pathway options to your preferred course: via another La Trobe course or campus, another university, TAFE, a single subject or mature-age enrolment. See undergraduate pathways, mature-age enrolment or information for international students for general information about these options.
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
As a La Trobe student, you can broaden your horizons by studying overseas with one of our global exchange partners. We have partnerships with more than 100 universities in over 30 countries throughout Asia, Europe and North and South America.
About the academic staff
You'll get to meet a large number of staff during your studies, from tutors through to lecturers and supervisors. View all staff in the College of Science, Health and Engineering.