The academic content and curriculum of the veterinary undergraduate program aims to provide students with a comprehensive education in animal health, diseases and welfare. The program covers a five-year study period and progresses gradually from the early years to the final years. The curriculum is divided into three main categories: basic sciences, clinical sciences and professional practice.
In the first years, students are taught basic sciences. In this period, courses such as biochemistry, histology, embryology, physiology and anatomy are at the forefront. These courses provide students with the basic knowledge needed to understand the structure and functions of the animal body. For example, the anatomy course examines the organ systems of animals in detail and the physiology course focuses on how these systems work. Histology and embryology courses cover cell and tissue structure and developmental processes.
Clinical sciences come into play in the second phase of the program. At this stage, courses such as pathology, microbiology, parasitology, pharmacology and toxicology are taught. Pathology courses examine the causes, development and consequences of diseases. Microbiology and parasitology courses teach the effects of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites on animal health. In pharmacology and toxicology courses, the effects of drugs on the animal body and poisoning situations are discussed.
In the later years of the program, professional practices and clinical sciences gain weight. Courses such as internal diseases, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, veterinary public health are given in this period. In the internal diseases course, internal organ diseases and treatment methods seen in various animal species are taught. In the surgery course, surgical techniques and applications are emphasized. In obstetrics and gynecology course, reproductive systems and birth processes of animals are discussed. Veterinary public health course covers zoonotic diseases and food safety.
Laboratory studies and clinical internships are an important part of the curriculum for students to put their theoretical knowledge into practice. These internships, which are carried out in animal hospitals affiliated to the veterinary faculties of universities, offer students the opportunity to work on real cases. In this process, students learn diagnostic and treatment methods in practice and perform surgical interventions. In addition, various diagnostic methods and testing techniques are taught practically in laboratory courses.
In the final year, students participate in clinical rotations and gain experience in various specialties by working in different clinics for a certain period of time. During this period, students are offered internships in different areas such as small and large animal clinics, wildlife clinics, food hygiene and technology. During these rotations, students have the opportunity to develop their professional skills by working under the supervision of veterinarians.
In addition, students are also taught topics such as ethics, communication and professional responsibilities during the program. These courses enable students to understand professional ethics and develop skills to communicate effectively with patients. This comprehensive curriculum aims to ensure that prospective veterinarians graduate as well-equipped and competent professionals.