The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science at the University of Peradeniya is the sole institute in Sri Lanka offering an undergraduate degree program in veterinary medicine leading to the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) degree. The faculty comprises five academic departments, namely the Departments of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Pathobiology, Veterinary Public Health and Pharmacology, Farm Animal Production and Health, and Veterinary Clinical Sciences, along with several affiliated units. The teaching program is supported by the two Veterinary Teaching Hospitals (Companion and Zoo Animal and Farm Animal) and the Veterinary Teaching Farm. Additionally, the faculty serves as a center for advanced research in veterinary science and related fields.
The faculty's high standard of teaching and research is attributed to its well-equipped laboratories, highly qualified teachers, and well-trained support staff. The vision of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science is to be a national center of learning and research in veterinary medicine and animal production, producing veterinary graduates of the highest standard. The mission is to impart sound knowledge of veterinary medicine and animal production techniques to students, thereby promoting the well-being of both humans and animals.
The history of veterinary education in Sri Lanka dates back to 1947 with the establishment of the Department of Veterinary Science affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine, Colombo. In 1954, this department relocated to Peradeniya and was incorporated into the Faculty of Agriculture. In 1973, the Department of Veterinary Science was upgraded to the status of a School of Veterinary Science, becoming a partner of the Faculty of Medical, Dental, and Veterinary Science at Peradeniya University. The veterinary school attained full faculty status in 1980, with four academic departments, and was named the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science.
The faculty has expanded over the last two decades, resulting in five academic departments, an outcome-based curriculum, and enhanced facilities. Currently enrolling 100 students per annum, the five-year academic program leading to the Bachelor of Veterinary Science provides opportunities to enter the veterinary profession, which is in high demand nationally and internationally. Students not only benefit from full residential and recreational facilities but also experience one of the most beautiful and pleasant environments on campus.
The students could interact with peers from eight other faculties, creating a lifelong experience. Many faculty members are engaged in high-quality basic and applied research funded by national and international organizations. The well-equipped laboratories support both undergraduate and postgraduate study programs, with over 30 students currently pursuing MPhil/PhD degrees. The faculty maintains academic and research collaborations with developed countries, including the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. The latest collaboration is with the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign, USA.