Surveying Students and Alumni for Veterinary Curricular Renewal in a Portuguese Institution

The veterinary profession is rapidly evolving, requiring curricular renewal to address emerging challenges and enhance graduate preparedness. A survey was conducted among students and alumni of the School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Porto (<i>n</i> = 279), Portugal, to evaluate the need for an updated veterinary curriculum. Respondents conveyed a strong preference for companion animal medicine, likely influenced by sociocultural factors and media representation. To address current and future demands, it was recommended to re-evaluate curricular structures (e.g., course duration and electives), incorporate non-technical skills, and enhance practical education. Additional reforms should be supported by feedback mechanisms and stakeholder consultations. Alumni expressed dissatisfaction with the job market, which should be addressed through continuous education and specialization and greater intervention of the Portuguese Veterinary Board. In summary, areas for improvement and increased stakeholder involvement were identified as opportunities for veterinary curricular renewal.

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Publication Details

Journal
Animals
Published
2025-03-29
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15070986
Citations
1
Primary Topic
Veterinary Practice and Education Studies
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
3.12
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article

Surveying Students and Alumni for Veterinary Curricular Renewal in a Portuguese Institution

Joana C. Prata, Paulo Martins da Costa, Paula G. Ferreira
1 citations
Animals
Veterinary Practice and Education Studies
3.12
article

Surveying Students and Alumni for Veterinary Curricular Renewal in a Portuguese Institution

Joana C. Prata, Paulo Martins da Costa, Paula G. Ferreira
article en
1 citations

Abstract

The veterinary profession is rapidly evolving, requiring curricular renewal to address emerging challenges and enhance graduate preparedness. A survey was conducted among students and alumni of the School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Porto (<i>n</i> = 279), Portugal, to evaluate the need for an updated veterinary curriculum. Respondents conveyed a strong preference for companion animal medicine, likely influenced by sociocultural factors and media representation. To address current and future demands, it was recommended to re-evaluate curricular structures (e.g., course duration and electives), incorporate non-technical skills, and enhance practical education. Additional reforms should be supported by feedback mechanisms and stakeholder consultations. Alumni expressed dissatisfaction with the job market, which should be addressed through continuous education and specialization and greater intervention of the Portuguese Veterinary Board. In summary, areas for improvement and increased stakeholder involvement were identified as opportunities for veterinary curricular renewal.

AnimalsVol. 15(7)
Universidade do Porto (PT), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (PT), Unidade em Ciências Biomoleculares Aplicadas
Openalex Percentile: Top 12%
Veterinary Practice and Education Studies
3.12
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