Lethbridge Polytechnic will soon be home to veterinarians-in-training. The post-secondary institution recently opened applications for its new pre-veterinary medicine diploma, launching this fall. “There’s a well-documented shortage of vets in Alberta … so to provide a science diploma that will go into advanced professionals’ studies for veterinary medicine but also provide a pathway for animals science in agriculture is a huge leap for us,” said Kevin Smith, dean of centre for business, arts and sciences at Lethbridge Polytechnic. Over the two-year program, students will enroll in specialized courses in animal genetics, biochemistry, anatomy, physiology and nutrition. Students who meet the 10-course requirement can then transfer to the University of Calgary’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program through an agreement with the university. “By combining foundational learning and clear transfer opportunities, we are preparing students who are passionate about science and animal health for success in professional programs and high-demand careers in the field,” Smith said. U of C offered the diploma course after it received provincial funding to boost program seats from 50 to 100. Robert McCorkell, associate dean of admissions and community engagement at U of C, says the new program will offer students a more direct line to becoming practicing vets. “Other programs offer similar courses, but they don’t always meet our requirements so sometimes students find themselves having to pick up a course here and there. They don’t always have the full suite that they need to apply, but that won’t be the case here,” McCorkell said. “They can be confident they will have the courses they need and then they can apply to the program.” Through the diploma course, students will get hands-on experience working with animals and in livestock production facilities. They’ll also learn from discussions with local veterinarians. Students can also continue directly with the polytechnic’s bachelor of agriculture sciences post-diploma degree or enter the workforce in roles such as laboratory assistant, animal research and livestock technician. “There’s already been extreme interest in the program before it was launched,” Smith said.
