PolyU’s Faculty of Health and Social Sciences (FHSS) and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) of the University of London are introducing the first-ever Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Veterinary Nursing programme to Hong Kong, which will admit the first intake of students in September 2010.

In this issue, Dr Danny Gohel, Associate Dean of FHSS and Co-Programme Leader, talks about the characteristics of the Programme and shares his views about the demand of trained practitioners in the field.

Q: What is so special about the Programme?

Gohel: The Programme will be taught by experienced teachers from RVC—the largest, oldest, and only independent veterinary school in the UK, and PolyU. The subjects covered will enable students to have a sound grounding in theories, clinical skills and practices essential to veterinary nursing.

Q: Why do you think there will be a demand for veterinary nurses in Hong Kong?

Gohel: According to a survey we have done, currently there are around 1,000 veterinary assistants in Hong Kong and the demand for these professionals is expected to reach 2,500 by 2014 taking into account clinic expansion in private and public sectors. So we introduce the Programme to address the shortage of professional manpower in the field.

In addition, our experience shows that Hong Kong people have a demand for it. Last year, we introduced a one-year foundation course in veterinary nursing. The two stand-alone subjects, Small Animal Husbandry, and Pet Health and Preventative Care, were oversubscribed and received extremely positive reviews from students, among them were pet owners and people working in veterinary-related sectors.

Q: What are your expectations for the Programme?

Gohel: There is still a lack of public awareness and recognition of the vital role veterinary nurses play in animal care and welfare in Hong Kong. We hope that the Programme will help improve the situation and enhance the concept of professional veterinary nursing, which in other countries is a registered profession. Simply, the veterinary nurses will provide the essential clinical support to the veterinary doctors but at the same time provide the essential bridge to communicate with clients and manage the clinic.

Q: What kinds of training will students have?

Gohel: Students will have opportunities to receive training at veterinary clinics and hospitals, as well as farms, in London. There will also be internship opportunities in the HK Jockey Club, the Ocean Park, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in HK.

Q: What are students’ job prospects after graduation?

Gohel: Graduates can enjoy a wide range of career options, they can become a head nurse, practice manager, or nursing educator in different areas of veterinary work. They can also work in the fields of specialist nursing, or animal welfare and rehabilitation.

Depending on the subjects taken, students who wish to expand their career options could also apply to transfer credits for admission into RVC’s courses in London. Details >>