Why Bioveterinary Science is the Career We Should Care About

Bioveterinary Science in Malaysia: More Than Just Vet School

If you’ve always loved animals, care about the environment, and want a meaningful career that actually makes a difference then bioveterinary science in Malaysia might just be your calling.

Offered at select institutions like IMU University, this growing field mixes animal care, medical science, and public health to help humans and animals live better, together.


So... What Exactly Is Bioveterinary Science?

Bioveterinary science goes beyond just treating pets. It explores how animal health connects with food safety, disease prevention, and ecosystem sustainability.

You’ll learn about:

  • Anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pathology
  • How to care for and handle animals safely
  • Welfare for both pets and livestock
  • Zoonotic diseases (the ones that jump from animals to humans)

"We need to know how to care for them properly, even livestock deserve to exist with as little suffering as possible," says Prof Dr Malaika Watanabe, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine at IMU.


Career Paths That Actually Matter

With fewer than 3,000 vets in Malaysia and a national demand for double that, there’s a serious need for trained animal health professionals.

Career options include:

  • Veterinarian (with further qualification)
  • Veterinary assistant
  • Livestock or farm management
  • Animal welfare and NGO work
  • Wildlife conservation
  • Animal science research

Whether you're helping a dog recover or managing food security through livestock care, your work directly affects both human and animal wellbeing.


Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

The pet industry is booming. Meat production is skyrocketing. Diseases can spread across species. Everything is connected.

In Malaysia:

  • Over 50% of Malaysians are pet owners
  • The pet care industry grew 25% in 2022
  • Public health and environmental wellness are tied to animal care

"When you deworm your pet, you're not just protecting them, you're protecting children who play in the same park," says Prof Watanabe. It’s all part of a larger circle of care.


It’s Not All Fluff and Cuddles

From working in poultry farms to handling large livestock, bioveterinary students get hands-on, real-world experience and it’s not always pretty.

"It can be tough. You won’t just be playing with puppies all day," Prof Watanabe admits. "But if you have real compassion for animals, this path will sustain you."


Final Word: A Career With Impact

Whether you dream of being the next Jane Goodall or just want to build a meaningful, future-proof career, bioveterinary science in Malaysia offers a way to care for animals while protecting human lives and the planet.