Several international surveys have highlighted the significant transformation in the veterinary profession in recent years. This shift is driven largely by changes in applicant motivations and the increasing number of female students entering veterinary education. Research conducted by the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest has also explored who aspires to become a veterinarian in Hungary.

According to a 2023 questionnaire-based survey on the motivations of first-year veterinary students, the main driving forces remain a love for animals, a commitment to animal healthcare, and a desire to contribute to society. Over 90% of respondents had dreamed of becoming veterinarians since childhood, and nearly 70% cited a personal experience (such as a pet’s illness) as a decisive factor in their career choice.

During the high school career decision phase, the most influential factors were job market opportunities, the practice-oriented nature of the education, and the vibrant student life. While family and friends’ opinions and the institution’s reputation also played a role, they were somewhat less significant.

As sources of information, Felvi.hu and univet.hu were the most commonly used, but university publications and personal experiences were also important. However, students said the most helpful insights came from friends already studying at the university. Those who attended the university’s open days or the Educatio Expo reported high levels of satisfaction with the information they received. Unsurprisingly, email and social media were the most popular methods of communication among students.

The physical and mental demands—similar to those experienced in medical schools—did not deter applicants; many are consciously preparing for the challenges of the veterinary profession. The number of first-year students continues to grow, thanks to the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest’s ongoing efforts to expand its teaching capacity and develop its academic programs.

The shift in gender ratios within the veterinary field is also a noteworthy development. In the 1970s, most veterinary students were men; today, around 75% are women. This trend is observed worldwide, not only in veterinary education but also in higher education more broadly. In Hungary, however, the noticeable rise in the number of female students became particularly apparent after the political changes of the early 1990s. At the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, the student gender balance reversed in the early 2000s: in 2004, more women than men graduated for the first time. Between 2011 and 2016, only 23% of veterinary graduates were male on average, although this proportion has since slightly increased.

It is important to emphasise that this shift in gender ratios is the result of global, complex social and economic factors. Career decisions are influenced by income expectations, the desire for work-life balance, and the perceived prestige of the profession.

The growing presence of women has brought positive changes in several areas, such as client relations and professional communication. At the same time, the shift has raised questions among respondents—for example, how students of different physical builds handle physically demanding procedures, or how women will balance family life and career. However, as in other professions, these concerns are not borne out in practice. Research has found no differences in professional commitment or performance between male and female students. Thus, the feminisation of the field should be seen as a structural change rather than a qualitative one.

The University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest remains committed to providing a high-quality, inclusive, and supportive educational environment for all students and continues to strive to ensure that each of them can meet the diverse demands of the profession.

The picture emerging from the research is one of a developing, adaptable, and dedicated student community—one that lays a strong foundation for the future of veterinary medicine and strengthens the long-term sustainability and excellence of animal healthcare in Hungary.