Introduction to the Waardong First Nations Veterinary Medicine and Science Path

The Waardong First Nations Veterinary Medicine and Science Path is a special entry and enabling program designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who wish to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and other animal and biological science-based courses at Murdoch University. This program provides academic, social, and cultural support to students enrolled in Veterinary Medicine and participating science courses.

Overview of the Program

Waardong offers a unique approach to learning, allowing students to undertake their first year over two years if needed, with the option to take Orientation Chemistry units over two semesters for those without a background in chemistry. Additional enabling units are conducted alongside core and elective units for the main course, providing scaffolded supplementary support through academics and tutors.

Entry Requirements

Entry to Waardong is restricted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and requires enrolment in an undergraduate course, specifically veterinary medicine or related animal and biological science degrees. There are three avenues for entry:

• Candidates who apply through TISC or directly to Murdoch University and are accepted into both the main course and Waardong.
• Candidates who attend a one-week residential testing and selection process and are subsequently recommended for entry into both the main course and Waardong.
• Candidates who undertake K-Track and then are accepted into a main course and Waardong.

English Requirements

To study at Murdoch, students must meet a minimum standard in English, which can be demonstrated by completing Year 11 and 12 in Australia at any level for domestic students, or through English proficiency tests, university preparation courses, English language courses, previous tertiary study, or vocational education for international students.

Fees and Scholarships

Instead of paying an overall course fee, students pay for individual units enrolled in. The total course cost varies depending on the units chosen. Following a successful application, students receive a Letter of Offer containing specific course and fee information. Murdoch University offers various scholarships to reduce financial costs, including the International Welcome Scholarship, which provides eligible students with between $8,000 and $11,000, depending on the course studied.

How to Apply

To apply, students must indicate whether they are domestic or international and intend to study at a Western Australian campus. A document checklist is provided, which includes downloading and completing the Waardong Application Form and a Letter of Expression outlining why they wish to become a veterinarian, their experience working with animals, and their family's feelings about their career choice.

Structure of the Program

The program's structure is designed to support students throughout their studies, with a focus on academic, social, and cultural support. Students can progress through the program at their own pace, with the option to undertake additional enabling units to support their learning.

Study Areas

The Waardong program focuses on Veterinary Science, providing students with a comprehensive education in animal health and biology.

Admission Criteria

Admission to the Waardong program requires students to meet specific criteria, including:

• University study: Successful completion of at least two years full-time or equivalent in a recognized English-speaking country.
• Overseas Year 12: Please refer to the information under the country of study for minimum academic and English requirements.
• Western Australian Universities Foundation Program (WAUFP): CPS 78 or higher, and 75% in English Language and Australian Cultural Studies (ELACS).
• Minimum Selection Rank (WA/ACT/NSW/NT/SA/TAS/VIC): 94, and a scaled mark of 50 or higher in one of the following (or interstate equivalent): English ATAR, Literature ATAR, English as an Additional Dialect (EALD) ATAR.
• Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE): Overall Position (OP) of 2 or lower, and Sound Achievement (4) or better in a Queensland Studies Authority approved subject of one of the following: English, English Extension (Literature), English for ESL Learners.
• Extenuating circumstances: Extenuating circumstances will not be granted for direct entry into the Veterinary Science program. If you have extenuating circumstances, please apply for a pathway course in Animal Health or Animal Science.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: Total score of 36 or higher, and Higher level (HL): 7 or better.
• GCE A Levels: Aggregate of 14 points from a maximum of the best three A-level subjects, or a combination of A-level and AS-level subjects, with at least two A-level subjects included in the calculation. A-level grades (A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1) and AS-level grades (A=2.5, B=2, C=1.5, D=1, E=0.5).

Scholarships Available

Murdoch University offers a range of scholarships to support students, including:

• International Welcome Scholarship: Eligible students can receive between $8,000 and $11,000, depending on the course studied.
• Australia Awards Scholarship program: The Australian Government offers scholarships to students from developing countries.

Conclusion

The Waardong First Nations Veterinary Medicine and Science Path at Murdoch University is a unique program designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine and related fields. With its comprehensive approach to academic, social, and cultural support, this program provides students with the tools they need to succeed in their studies and beyond.

Murdoch University

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Overview:

Murdoch University is a public university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is known for its focus on practical learning, research, and engagement with the community. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Murdoch University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

The university offers a variety of academic support services, such as tutoring, workshops, and online resources.

Career Services:

The Careers and Employability team assists students with career planning, job searching, and internship opportunities.

Student Support:

The university provides support services for students with disabilities, mental health concerns, and other personal challenges.

Library:

The Murdoch University Library offers a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.

Health and Wellbeing:

The university has a range of health and wellbeing services, including a chiropractic clinic, counselling services, and a psychology clinic.

Sport and Recreation:

Murdoch University offers a variety of sporting and recreational activities, including fitness classes, team sports, and outdoor recreation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Murdoch University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:

A beautiful and spacious campus:

The university's campus is located in a picturesque setting, with plenty of green spaces and modern facilities.

A strong sense of community:

The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of student clubs and societies.

Opportunities for engagement:

Murdoch University encourages students to get involved in research, community service, and other extracurricular activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Flexible study options:

Murdoch University offers a variety of flexible study options, including online learning, part-time study, and blended learning.

Personalised courses:

The university offers a range of personalised courses that cater to individual student needs and interests.

Career Learning Spine:

Murdoch University's Career Learning Spine helps students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers.

World-class facilities:

The university has a range of world-class facilities, including a veterinary hospital, a media arts centre, and a state-of-the-art engineering lab.

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Academic Programs:

Murdoch University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs in areas such as business, law, science, engineering, and the arts.

Postgraduate programs:

Murdoch University offers a range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and other research degrees.

Research:

The university is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on areas such as food security, health futures, and sustainable development.

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