Aarhus University launches veterinary medicine program in Foulum, generating high demand for positions

Aarhus University has officially launched a new veterinary medicine program in Foulum, near Viborg, which has generated considerable demand for positions. This program, previously exclusive to the University of Copenhagen, is part of a broader initiative to expand educational opportunities outside the capital, initiated in March 2022.

Among the applicants, 716 sought admission, with 377 designating the program as their top choice. However, initially, only 32 students can be accommodated. One of the fortunate students is 21-year-old Sidsel Walz Jørgensen, who preferred Foulum over Copenhagen due to the city’s overwhelming size and her wish to have her dog and horse nearby. She has relocated to Tjele, just a few kilometers from the university.

The strong interest in the veterinary program surprised the head of the Department of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine at AU Viborg, Charlotte Lauridsen, who expressed delight over the number of applications. She believes that many prospective students are deterred from studying in Copenhagen and appreciate the university’s practical approach to teaching.

At AU Viborg, students engage closely with animals from day one, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Lauridsen noted that this educational model resonates well with younger learners.

In addition to veterinary studies, AU Viborg also launched programs in Animal Science and Plant and Food Science today, attracting 35 and 10 students, respectively. The university plans to accommodate up to 800-900 students in the future.