In addition to veterinary medicine, it will now also be possible to study animal science, and plant and food science at AU Viborg. All the degree programmes will be based at Aarhus University's campus at the Foulum Research Centre. This is welcome news for Finn Borchsenius, vice-dean for education at the Faculty of Technical Sciences:

"It’s great that the final approval has come through. We’re already in the process of developing the new degree programmes for AU Viborg. All that’s left to do is be pleased that our work has borne fruit and to continue to make everything ready to welcome students to AU Viborg in 2024," says Finn Borchsenius.

Focus on the role of plants and animals in the green transition

The new degree programmes in animal science, and plant and food science focus on how animals and plants can be incorporated into the green transition. Jørgen E. Olesen, head of the Department of Agroecology, is pleased that the plant and food science programme has finally been approved by the Ministry.

"I’m delighted that we’ve received this approval, and that we can continue to plan both the programmes. The programmes are exactly what we need to support the green transition in the future to benefit all of society," says Jørgen E. Olesen.

In addition to the above programmes, AU Viborg will also be training veterinary students from 2024. Charlotte Lauridsen, head of the Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, points out that future students on the programme in animal science at AU Viborg will be a crucial part of the work force within the area.

“There’s great demand for animal science graduates. So I hope that our new degree programme will attract many new students interested in animal nutrition, health and welfare. And I hope that they’ll be part of changing how we produce animal food products as part of the green transition," says Charlotte Lauridsen.

A part of AU’s green campus

The vision is for AU Viborg to become a focal point for education and research; a focal point that paves the way for the green transition of sustainable food products of the future, climate-friendly production methods and bio-based energy solutions.

Work is also being done to ensure that the campus at AU Viborg is a modern green campus with optimum conditions for future students. Renovation of the existing buildings at AU Viborg has therefore been at the  centre of campus development, explains the vice-dean for education.

"When we look at the buildings, it's important that we focus on creating the best possible framework for a good study environment and good facilities for students. We’re also looking at solutions that can help AU Viborg become a green campus with as low carbon emissions as possible. We’ve already taken the first tentative steps, and we’re constantly working to find new, innovative projects and solutions," says Finn Borchsenius.

Read more about the degree programmes at AU Viborg:

 https://tech.au.dk/uddannelse/au-viborg/veterinaermedicin

https://tech.au.dk/uddannelse/au-viborg/dyrevidenskab

https://tech.au.dk/uddannelse/au-viborg/plante-og-foedevarevidenskab