To train as a specialist takes, on average, 4-5 years after finishing vet school. Candidates typically need to have completed 1-2 years of internships prior to starting a residency program. Residencies are performed under supervision of 1-2 (or more) qualified specialists, usually in a multi-disciplinary specialty hospital or university teaching hospital.

Residencies are very competitive and candidates may have to travel overseas to complete their training – especially in smaller countries like NZ. New Zealand currently offers specialty training in internal medicine, surgery and radiology. Residency programs are heavily regulated and need to be approved an international body such as the Australasian College of Veterinary Scientists, or American or European Colleges, and candidates must pass rigorous examinations to achieve specialty recognition.

If you are interested in this process, it is highly recommend you contact a specialist in your area of interest for further information