Northern Ireland has introduced its first veterinary nursing degrees at Ulster University, aiming to tackle the critical staff shortages in the veterinary sector. With the inaugural courses set to begin in September 2025 at the Coleraine campus, this initiative raises hopes of reducing the “brain drain” caused by aspiring veterinary professionals leaving the region for their education.
The region has long been the only part of the UK without a specialist veterinary school, a gap that has contributed to workforce challenges. These new degree programs—a full-time, four-year course in veterinary nursing and a part-time program in animal healthcare and practice—are expected to address this demand while providing local opportunities for aspiring professionals.
Tackling the “Brain Drain” in Veterinary Services
Dr. Esther Skelly-Smith from the North of Ireland Veterinary Association (NIVA) emphasized the significance of the new degrees:
“We’ve been calling for veterinary degrees here for a long time. Many students who leave Northern Ireland to study don’t return. These programs are a vital step toward retaining and creating our own talent.”
Dr. Adam Conn, a Ballymoney-based vet, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the growing need for veterinary nurses to support overburdened veterinary teams.
“More veterinary nurses mean less pressure on vets. Nurses can handle routine procedures like vaccinations, allowing vets to focus on complex cases. This is a growing sector, and there’s no shortage of job opportunities if we can train the people to fill them,” he explained.
Local Opportunities for Aspiring Veterinary Professionals
The degree programs at Ulster University are designed to meet the rising demand for skilled veterinary professionals. They include practical training in veterinary clinics across Northern Ireland, ensuring students gain hands-on experience.
The full-time course has already garnered strong interest, with applications open until January 2025. The part-time course, aimed at upskilling registered veterinary nurses, will accept applications until September 2025.
While Northern Ireland has previously offered diplomas through North West Regional College and the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), these are the region’s first degree-level qualifications in veterinary nursing.
A Step Toward Workforce Sustainability
Dr. Conn, who employs 11 vets and one veterinary nurse, shared his struggles with recruitment and underscored the importance of local education.
“Having to study outside Northern Ireland comes with challenges—rising rent, tuition costs, and being far from home. It discourages many aspiring vets and nurses. These new courses will make veterinary careers more accessible and help retain talent in the region,” he said.
The first 30 graduates from Ulster University’s programs are expected by 2029, marking a milestone in Northern Ireland’s journey toward addressing workforce shortages and enhancing veterinary services.
