Comparison between dermatology coursework and veterinary student experience in Indonesian and US veterinary programs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Dermatology
• Comparative Curriculum Analysis

Background:

• Dermatological conditions are prevalent in veterinary medicine globally.
• Access to specialized dermatology expertise and comprehensive curricula is inconsistent worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare dermatology curricula in American and Indonesian veterinary schools.
• To assess veterinary students' self-perceived readiness and confidence in handling dermatological cases.

Main Methods:

• Distribution of two online questionnaires to veterinary faculty and students in the US and Indonesia.
• Faculty questionnaire assessed dermatology coursework details.
• Student questionnaire gathered opinions on educational preparedness and confidence.

Main Results:

• A majority of US veterinary schools (63.7%) have dedicated dermatology faculty, unlike Indonesian schools.
• Mandatory dermatology coursework was reported by 55% of US schools but 0% of Indonesian schools.
• While most US schools offered dermatology rotations, none were mandatory for graduation; Indonesian schools offered no rotations. Students in both countries reported high confidence in managing dermatological cases.

Conclusions:

• This study provides a contemporary overview of veterinary dermatology education in the US and Indonesia.
• Findings highlight disparities in curriculum structure and availability between the two countries.
• Student confidence levels in managing dermatological cases warrant further investigation in relation to educational background.