Entry level skills of new graduate small animal veterinarians: perceptions of students and expectations of veterinarians

© 2014 Sarah Louise HaldaneAim: This study examined the differences between veterinary students and qualified veterinarians with regards to their perceptions of the skills required for new graduates in practice. Methods: Surveys were distributed to students in each of the four year levels of the Veterinary Science degree at the University of Melbourne as well as to recent graduates and experienced veterinarians registered in Victoria, Australia. Six categories of skills were included in the survey: Knowledge base, medical and technical skills, surgical skills, verbal communication and interpersonal skills, written communication and business skills, and critical thinking and problem solving. Respondents were asked to rank the categories as to which were the most important for new graduate veterinarians and to then assign a level of importance to skills that were of basic, moderate or difficult level within each category. Results: Both groups considered communication, interpersonal and critical thinking skills as the most important competencies. Students perceived a difference in importance between basic and difficult skills but assigned a higher level of importance to most skills than did veterinarians. Relevance: The outcomes from this study can be used by university educators to evaluate curricular material and examine its relevancy with respect to the current needs of industry, particularly with regards to the development of generic skills. They will also provide guidance on how to better manage student expectations while at university so they are ready for practice