Top Universities in South Africa for Studying Veterinary Science
Veterinary science is a dynamic and essential field that combines a passion for animal welfare with cutting-edge scientific knowledge. In South Africa, the demand for skilled veterinarians is rising, driven by a growing pet population, livestock industry, and wildlife conservation efforts. As of 2023, South Africa has approximately 4,500 registered veterinarians serving a population of 62 million people and millions of animals, according to the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC).
Why Study Veterinary Science in South Africa?
South Africa offers a unique veterinary landscape, from treating domestic pets to managing livestock diseases and conserving iconic wildlife like rhinos and elephants. The SAVC reports a veterinarian-to-animal ratio of roughly 1:50,000 production animals, highlighting a shortage and career opportunities. Veterinary graduates enjoy a 90% employment rate within six months (University of Pretoria, 2023), with salaries ranging from R30,000 to R60,000 monthly for entry-level roles, climbing to R80,000+ for specialists. This article ranks universities based on program quality, accreditation, research output, and global standing.
Top Universities for Veterinary Science in South Africa
1. University of Pretoria (UP)
- Location: Onderstepoort, Pretoria
- Program: Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) – 6 years
- Global Ranking: #43 (QS Veterinary Science 2019), Top 51–70 (QS 2023)
- Annual Fees: ~R65,000 (2025 estimate)
- Acceptance Rate: ~15% (highly competitive)
The University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Veterinary Science is South Africa’s only institution offering a full BVSc degree, making it the gold standard for veterinary education. Established in 1920, it’s internationally accredited by the SAVC, Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), and Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC). In 2023, UP graduated 120 BVSc students, with a 95% SAVC registration exam pass rate. The Onderstepoort campus features a world-class Veterinary Academic Hospital, handling 40,000 cases annually, from companion animals to exotic species.
Research Output: Over 201,000 citations across 9,540 papers (EduRank, 2024).
Unique Features: Offers a 4.5-year core curriculum plus 1.5 years of work-integrated training. Ranked #1 in SA for veterinary research (Research.com, 2021).
Why It’s the Best: Unrivaled facilities, global accreditation, and exclusive BVSc status.
2. Stellenbosch University (SU)
- Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
- Program: BSc in Animal Sciences (3 years, pre-vet pathway)
- Global Ranking: #283 (QS 2025), unranked specifically for vet science
- Annual Fees: ~R55,000
- Acceptance Rate: ~25%
While Stellenbosch doesn’t offer a BVSc, its BSc in Animal Sciences is a top-tier stepping stone for veterinary studies, focusing on nutrition, physiology, and livestock management. In 2023, SU enrolled 300 students in this program, with 20% pursuing postgraduate veterinary paths, often at UP or abroad. The Department of Animal Sciences collaborates with Tygerberg’s medical facilities for interdisciplinary exposure.
Research Output: Contributes to SU’s 700,000 citations (EduRank, 2024).
Unique Features: Specializations in aquaculture and ruminant nutrition.
Why It’s the Best: Strong foundational science and rural application focus.
3. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- Location: Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal
- Program: BSc in Animal and Poultry Science (3 years, pre-vet pathway)
- Global Ranking: #587 (QS 2025)
- Annual Fees: ~R50,000
- Acceptance Rate: ~30%
UKZN’s School of Agricultural, Earth, and Environmental Sciences offers a BSc in Animal and Poultry Science, preparing students for veterinary or animal health careers. In 2023, 250 students enrolled, with 15% advancing to veterinary-related fields. The program excels in poultry production and animal genetics, leveraging KZN’s agricultural hub status.
Research Output: Part of UKZN’s 500,000 citations (EduRank, 2024).
Unique Features: Emphasis on subtropical animal health, aligning with regional needs.
Why It’s the Best: Affordable, practical, and regionally relevant training.
4. North-West University (NWU)
- Location: Potchefstroom, North West
- Program: BSc in Animal Health (3 years, para-veterinary pathway)
- Global Ranking: #501–510 (QS 2025)
- Annual Fees: ~R52,000
- Acceptance Rate: ~35%
NWU’s BSc in Animal Health trains para-veterinary professionals, supporting vets in diagnostics and disease control. In 2023, 200 students enrolled, with 80% entering animal health roles or pursuing further studies. The program is accredited by the SAVC and focuses on livestock and wildlife health.
Research Output: Contributes to NWU’s veterinary-related research, though less specialized than UP.
Unique Features: Strong ties to SA’s beef and game industries.
Why It’s the Best: Practical para-veterinary focus with high employability.
5. University of the Free State (UFS)
- Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
- Program: BSc in Animal Science (3 years, pre-vet pathway)
- Global Ranking: #801–850 (QS 2025)
- Annual Fees: ~R48,000
- Acceptance Rate: ~40%
UFS offers a BSc in Animal Science within its Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, graduating 150 students in 2023. It’s a feeder program for veterinary studies, emphasizing production animal management and physiology. The university’s rural setting enhances hands-on learning.
Research Output: Part of UFS’s broader agricultural research scope.
Unique Features: Focus on sustainable farming and animal welfare.
Why It’s the Best: Cost-effective and regionally impactful.
Key Statistics & Trends (2025)
Total Vet Students: ~1,500 enrolled annually across SA (SAVC estimate).
BVSc Output: UP produces 100–120 vets yearly, ~80% of SA’s total.
Gender Breakdown: 60% female, 40% male in vet programs (SAVC, 2023).
Research Citations: SA universities collectively hold 201,000+ vet-related citations (EduRank, 2024).
Demand: 30% shortage of vets in rural areas (SAVC, 2023).
Admission Requirements
NSC Results: Minimum 60–70% in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
APS Score: 32–38 (BVSc at UP requires 35+).
Competition: In 2023, 258,000 NSC candidates competed for ~200 vet-related spots.
Additional: UP requires SAVC pre-registration and a selection interview.
Career Prospects
Roles: Veterinarian, animal health technician, researcher, wildlife consultant.
Earnings: R360,000–R720,000/year (entry-level); R1M+ (specialists).
Growth: Vet demand up 5% annually, driven by pet ownership (66% of SA households, 2023 survey).
Beyond the Degree: Postgraduate Options
UP’s MMedVet: 3-year specialist training (e.g., surgery, pathology). 360 credits, ~R90,000 total.
PhD Programs: Available at UP, SU, and UKZN, with 50–60 students enrolled annually.
Specializations: One Health, wildlife medicine, and epidemiology.
Challenges & Tips
Challenge: Limited BVSc access (only UP offers it).
Tip: Start with a BSc at SU, UKZN, NWU, or UFS, then transition to UP or international programs.
Challenge: High entry barriers (UP accepts 150–200 from 1,000+ applicants).
Tip: Volunteer at vet clinics to boost your application.
Conclusion: Your Veterinary Journey Starts Here
For the best veterinary science education in South Africa, the University of Pretoria reigns supreme with its BVSc monopoly and global prestige. However, Stellenbosch, UKZN, NWU, and UFS offer stellar alternatives for foundational or para-veterinary training. Whether you aim to treat pets, protect livestock, or save wildlife, these universities provide the skills and opportunities to succeed. With a 6-year BVSc or a 3-year BSc as your starting point, South Africa’s vet schools are your gateway to a rewarding career. Research your top choice today and take the first step toward becoming a veterinary leader!
