Kansas State University’s Master of Agribusiness (MAB) distance degree program is now offering an MAB tailored to individuals working in the animal health industry. The Master of Agribusiness combines an M.B.A. and an M.S. in agricultural economics with a focus on professionals working in the animal health and agribusiness industries. Applications are now being accepted [...]

The University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine is celebrating a new $58.5 million research facility, dedicated to making discoveries in basic science as well as human, animal and environmental health. The new building will house part of the veterinary school’s $63.7 million research wing, which is the largest in the nation among veterinary [...]

Ratio of income to debt for new vets ‘ominous’

A report by the NY Times has revealed stark increases in student debt in the last decade, with median borrowing of $63 000 per year according to the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges.

This figure has not been met by increasing wages. Starting salaries have in fact fallen by 13% to an average of $45,575, with a lower total population of pets and rising medical costs resulting in too many vets and not enough jobs.

Unfortunately there are no simple solutions: vet schools need to make it obvious that new vets will face higher debt.

Vets agree that the current situation is simply unsustainable, thousands of students paying for more expensive training to do worse paid jobs just simply doesn’t add up.

For the full story visit the NY Times.

The Online Veterinary Anatomy Museum (OVAM) launched on November 20

OVAM offers free access to detailed, annotated diagrams, specimens and radiographic images. Podcasts and dissection videos will follow soon.

Throughout development OVAM made use of veterinary student curators to help build and shape the site. The benefits of a free digital museum for students are obvious, and as the museum grows it’ll become an integral, community driven learning aid.

Take a digital stroll through OVAM today!

BVA voices concerns over long term effect of new vet school

The BVA has responded with caution and concern to the news of the University of Surrey’s veterinary school announcement, which will open from 2014.

The BVA claims too many veterinary schools will lead to more veterinary graduates than there are positions, leading to highly trained, debt-addled vet students unable to find employment.

Peter Jones, BVA president, commented:
“The end result could be an oversupply of highly qualified veterinary surgeons. New graduates are already reporting difficulties in finding their first jobs with some saying that it takes 6 to 9 months.”

Autumn launch for first veterinary nursing Masters course

The UK’s first clinical Masters course in veterinary nursing will be launched this autumn at Harper Adams University College – and prospective students are invited to apply now.

The Masters course has been designed for veterinary nurses in full or part-time work, whether in teaching or in practice. It will be delivered via a blend of day visits to Harper Adams – with seminars, guest speakers and practical workshops where relevant – and supported distance learning.

Dr Martin, course manager, adds: “The clinical element of the course is designed to deliver enhanced Veterinary Nursing skills, such as rehabilitation nursing, oncology, pain management, client support, behaviour problem management, which would be an asset to any companion animal veterinary practice.”

For more information visit Harper Adams

The Kennel Club launch awards to support research into dog health

The awards will be launched at Crufts NEC Birmingham on 11 March. There will be 3 main categories: The Lifetime Achievement Award, The International Prize in Canine Health Award and The Student Inspiration Award. Each award carries a significant amount of funding.

Funding has kindly been provided by the Vernon and Shirley Hill Family Foundation.

The awards will be judged by vets and scientists. It’s hoped the new awards will encourage breakthroughs in science and research that benefit dogs and dog breeding worldwide.

Learn more at Crufts.

What do you expect of veterinary graduates on Day One

The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies wants to gauge exactly what is expected of veterinary graduates on their first day in practice, especially in regard to their proficiency with anaesthesia. The survey will be an important lead on changing education for students and ensuring high standards across the profession.

If you’ve not taken part in the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies’ survey yet, you can do so here.

Vetstream is pleased to introduce three new student bloggers

We’d like to introduce you to Alison Price, Joe Barrington and Daisy McInnerney who will be writing about their experiences at vet school.

If you’d like to join them, submit a guest blog or if you simply want to know more, please e-mail jonathan@vetstream.com.

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