New veterinary schools to double number of college places in highly sought-after course

Veterinary medicine is one of the most sought-after college courses, usually attracting CAO entry points upwards of 600 points. File picture

Two new veterinary schools planned to open next September are expected to double the number of available college places in Ireland for the in-demand subject. 

The two new schools, set to be established at South East Technological University (SETU) and Atlantic Technological University (ATU), will create 80 additional student places at full roll-out. 

Both institutions say they are committed to welcoming their first intake of 40 students in September 2026, with year one modules to be delivered in classroom-based settings ahead of the completion of new facilities.

Ireland previously had just one vet school, at University College Dublin, offering roughly 80 places annually to students through the CAO.

Each year, it is one of the most sought-after college courses, usually attracting CAO entry points upwards of 600 points. 

A significant number of Irish students also go on to pursue their studies abroad, with the majority based in Eastern Europe. 

Higher education minister James Lawless and agriculture minister Martin Heydon have formally approved the capital programme supporting the initiative. Design teams will now be appointed, and building designs up to planning stage will be developed.  

The two new schools will create the 80 additional student places annually from 2026, opening up exciting new opportunities for students across the country to pursue careers in veterinary medicine, Mr Lawless said. 

The Higher Education Authority launched a process in 2022 to build capacity in the higher education system in courses like dentistry, pharmacy, medicine, nursing, and veterinary medicine. 

President of ATU Dr Orla Flynn, said: "The investment will allow ATU to build the facilities and expertise required to deliver high-quality veterinary education and research, while also supporting Ireland’s agri-food sector and wider society. We look forward to progressing the design and planning stage and to welcoming our first students in 2026.”

President of SETU Professor Veronica Campbell said: “For the first time, a professional veterinary medicine programme will be available in the South East, positioning SETU to play a pivotal role in retaining regional talent, addressing critical workforce shortages and ensuring a strong pipeline of skilled professionals to serve Ireland’s agriculture, equine and companion animal sectors."