For international student Chantal Ng Xier Yie, choosing Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch University was an obvious choice.

"I have always loved working with animals, and I have a strong sense of justice.

"Murdoch University offers a good DVM program and is closest from my home country, Malaysia."

Our five-year combined BSc and DVM degree enables you to study a Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Biology) and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in just five years of full-time study. As the DVM is a master’s level degree, you’ll have the opportunity to not only gain clinical and practical skills, but also to complete a small research project of your choice.

Plus, we're the only city-based university in Australia with not only a fully operational on-campus farm, but also an on-campus Animal Hospital, which includes a general veterinary practice, emergency centre and equine centre.

That means when you choose to study at Murdoch University, you could be attending a lecture one lesson, and on our farm examining some of our horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and alpacas the next.

As part of your study, you’ll complete training in surgery, medicine, diagnostic imaging, anaesthesia and other disciplines, as well as attend field visits with experienced clinical academics to treat livestock and horses.

"I like the opportunities, resources and the facilities that Murdoch University offers. It means we get to learn a lot through hands on practical classes."

Arriving in Perth

Moving overseas is a thrilling yet daunting step for all international students, and Chantal was no exception.

"I love experiencing all sorts of adventures and embracing life in general.

"Perth has a lot to offer! With many hidden gems, from different suburbs with their own special perks, including morning markets, to road trips away from Perth, everything is very different whether you're going north, down south or over east."

Just a three-hour drive south from Perth, Margaret River is the perfect weekend destination for international students. With world-class wineries, stunning beaches, and pristine forests, it's no surprise the region was Lonely Planet’s number one destination in the Asia Pacific.

Our student support services also helped Chantal settle into her new home. Our team are available to provide everything you may need as a new or current international student to help make your studies a success, including information about your course, visa requirements, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), enrolment, and our wide range of support services available to all students.

"Murdoch University has been a great help in the transition process with the international student orientation and related activities.

"The staff, whether locally or internationally born, are always very friendly and patient to everyone."

When asked about her favourite moment at Murdoch University, Chantal struggled to pick just one.

"My favourite moments include all the times I get to sit in Bush Court, around Club Murdoch or the vet pergola during the good days, or browsing around during Market Daze."

Occurring every Thursday at our South Street campus, Market Daze features a wide range market stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to clothing and accessories, jewellery, collectables, candles, cacti, stationary and more.

"Surprisingly, the best part about studying at Murdoch Uni is the opportunities I get here. From volunteering in various events organised by the vet school, Student Guild and various associations to leading two associations - I'm the president for Murdoch Malaysian Association and Murdoch Association for Companion Exotics. I've made tons of friends from networking within and outside the uni."

Life beyond Murdoch

Due to our veterinary course being the first in Australia (and the second in the southern hemisphere) to become accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS),  graduates are qualified to register immediately and practice as a veterinarian in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Singapore, Malaysia, North America and more, meaning Chantal's options for the future are wide open.

When it comes to pursing a job after her studies, Chantal is still considering what career path she'd like to take.

"Murdoch University and the vet school in general have shown me paths I don’t want to follow, but I see this as a good thing. Just like options of elimination. Saying that, I do have thoughts of what I might want to do in the future with the other things that I experienced in and outside Murdoch Uni, but I’m not so sure yet.

"I want to use my study to strive for a change or difference as a Malaysian. I guess I’m still discovering myself and to obtain that opportunity to do something great!"

When it comes to recommending Murdoch Uni to fellow international students, Chantal is confident in her endorsement.

"For sure! I've been to other universities in Perth and Murdoch Uni gives the most friendly and welcoming vibe. I also really like the proportion of local to international people here.

"I’d say live your life to the happiest while you’re here and embrace everything that’s around you!"