Veterinary Medicine Programme at ATU Launched
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has officially launched its new Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVMS) programme at ATU's Letterkenny Campus, Co. Donegal.
The launch was officiated by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD.
ATU was announced in September 2024 as one of two new providers of Veterinary Medicine education in Ireland, a development aimed at addressing the growing demand for veterinary professionals, particularly in rural communities. The BVMS programme will offer students world-class training closer to home, strengthening veterinary services and supporting Ireland’s agricultural and food sectors.
Minister James Lawless TD delivered remarks at the event.
Speakers at the launch included:
- Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU
- Dr Joanne Gallagher, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health
- Professor Patrick Pollock, Head of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
The Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVMS) at ATU is designed to produce highly skilled, confident, and well-rounded veterinary graduates equipped to work effectively in Irish veterinary practice where they will play an essential role in safeguarding animal health, public health, and safeguarding Ireland’s food-producing economy.
The ATU BVMS programme stands out for its hands-on, student-centred approach. ATU immerses students early in real-world veterinary settings, working with healthy animals across a diverse range of species before progressing into complex disease diagnosis and management.
Our integrated spiral curriculum combines clinical skills training, communication, and professional development in every year of study. ATU’s strong emphasis on rural, remote, and resource-limited veterinary medicine – alongside global challenges like climate change, food security, and one health—prepares graduates to serve both local communities and international sectors. With embedded simulation training, cutting-edge facilities, and a commitment to innovation, ATU is developing practice-ready, forward-thinking veterinary professionals for the future.
BVMS programme features:
- A spiral systems-based curriculum with early clinical exposure.
- A fully immersive final clinical year in ATU’s own hospitals and partner practices.
- A strong focus on resilience, simulation-based training, and One Health Partnerships with leading veterinary practices, agri-food companies, and global institutions.
Focus & Distinctive Elements
- Strong emphasis on remote and rural veterinary medicine to meet Ireland’s workforce needs.
- One Health One Welfare and sustainability embedded across the curriculum.
- Simulation-rich training for clinical competence, resilience, and teamwork.
- Integration of veterinary business, leadership, and communication training.
