A new chapter in veterinary studies

BC: How is everything shaping up for the first intake of students in September?

MKB: Everything is coming together as planned for our first intake on our new MVB in veterinary medicine. There’s been a huge amount of work behind the scenes to make sure everything is in place from expert lecturers to clinical training partnerships. We look forward to welcoming 40 students this September. The students can expect a really strong experience from day one.
Between South East Technological University (SETU) and Atlantic Technological University (ATU), we’ll see a meaningful increase in the number of veterinary places in Ireland this year, which is very welcome. That said, demand is still quite high across the country, so while it’s a big step forward, it probably won’t fully meet the need just yet. As the programme beds in and grows, there’s definitely scope to increase numbers over time in a way that’s sustainable and maintains quality.

BC: Will there be an emphasis on recruiting more large animal vets?

MKB: There’s a clear need for additional large-animal and mixed-practice vets, and the programme development team have been conscious of this during curriculum development and preparing for students arriving in September. The Department of Veterinary Medicine at SETU is focused on providing practical, hands-on learning across all species, while encouraging students to consider careers in rural and farm settings.

BC: Has there been much collaboration with the School of Veterinary Medicine in University College Dublin to get the new schools off the ground?

MKB: There’s been good engagement across the sector, including veterinary academic institutions, veterinary practitioners and the veterinary industry more broadly. That kind of collaboration is important to make sure standards are aligned with best practice and that we’re taking a joined-up approach nationally.

BC: The new veterinary school at SETU is partly aimed at addressing a national shortage of vets. How significant is this shortage for Irish farmers, particularly in relation to large animal care?

MKB: The shortage is significant, especially in rural areas where access to and retention of large-animal vets can be limited. Some farmers are facing delays in routine care and emergencies, which may impact animal welfare and increase stress on both farmers and existing veterinary staff.

BC: There is a strong link between veterinary services and farm productivity. How will increasing the number of trained vets directly benefit farm efficiency and animal performance?

MKB: Better access to vets means more support around things like herd-health planning, disease prevention, and fertility management. All of that contributes to healthier animals and more efficient, productive farms.

BC: What role will this expansion play in maintaining Ireland’s reputation for high-quality agricultural produce, especially for export markets?

MKB: The quality of Irish agricultural and food products is known internationally and the standard of veterinary care in Ireland is a big part of Ireland’s reputation. By educating and strengthening the workforce, we’re helping to maintain those high standards, which is crucial for export markets and consumer confidence. Food safety and public health are central components of SETU’s veterinary medicine programme, developed in collaboration with Dawn Meats.

BC: Will these additional schools improve Ireland’s export reputation, do you think?

MKB: Over time, yes. Having more highly trained vets supports the entire agri-food system, and that feeds into Ireland’s credibility as a producer of high-quality, safe food.

BC: How important is it that new veterinary schools are located outside Dublin, and what difference will this make for farmers in regions like the south east?

MKB: It is important from a national and regional perspective. Students who train in regional areas are often more likely to stay and work there, so it helps address local shortages. It also strengthens the connection between the university and the farming community in that region.

BC: The partnership with Teagasc and facilities at Kildalton College will provide essential hands-on experience. How important is this and what exactly will be provided there?

MKB: The partnership with Teagasc Kildalton College builds on almost 50 years of collaboration between both organisations. Students will benefit from the existing facilities at Teagasc Kildalton and new specialist teaching facilities, including anatomy spaces, to support advanced training in veterinary medicine. This new facility is currently at the detailed design stage. This will allow our students to receive practical experience working with animals in a farm setting with everything from handling and husbandry to herd health. That kind of exposure is invaluable.

BC: The programme emphasises a ‘One Health’ approach. What will students learn about the real on-farm benefits of this?

MKB: Students will get a strong understanding of how animal health, human health, and the environment are all connected. Elements of One Health have been integrated into all modules across the five years of the programme. On a practical level, that means better disease control, more responsible use of medicines, and more sustainable farming practices.

BC: The initiative highlights stronger collaboration between education, industry, and agriculture. How can farmers and agri-businesses engage with institutions like SETU to maximise the benefits of this development?

MKB: There are lots of ways to get involved, through student placements, working with researchers, or taking part in knowledge transfer initiatives. The more farmers and businesses engage, the more relevant and impactful the programme will be.