Program Overview

Intercalated BSc Comparative Pathology

The Intercalated BSc Comparative Pathology is a one-year programme taught at the Hawkshead Campus with research projects undertaken at either the Hawkshead or Camden Campus, depending on the project.

Key Information

• UCAS Code: DB16
• Institution Code: RVET R84
• Study Mode: One Year Full Time
• UK Tuition Fees: ｣9,790 (2026 fees)
• EU and International Tuition Fees: ｣27,510
• Course Location: Camden, Hawkshead
• Application Deadline: 7 May 2026

Course Outline

Overview

An intercalated year allows veterinary students to gain an additional degree, focusing on a specific area relevant to their veterinary studies. Most students intercalate after their second or third year, studying a BSc course either at the RVC or another university. The additional year of study provides a more rounded education, additional scientific context, and valuable experience in carrying out in-depth, original research.

Modules

• Principles of Pathology (30 credits): Appreciating the principles of pathology is pivotal to enhancing comprehension of the complexity of animal diseases, enabling development of targeted medical and surgical therapies and progression of veterinary and biomedical research.
• Applications of Pathology (30 credits): The aim of this module is to enable students to put theory into practice. By engaging with veterinary pathologists and other experts in the field, students gain theoretical and practical knowledge that helps cement their understanding of the basic principles of pathology.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching methods usually consist of a mix of seminar presentations, small group learning (including directed learning), practical sessions, and tutorials. In a typical week, students have up to 28 contact hours of teaching, with all classes having a maximum of 20 students.

Entry Requirements

Veterinary Medicine and Medicine undergraduates from any UK or EU Veterinary/Medical school are eligible to apply. Applicants must pass the year they are currently undertaking, and historical performance will be considered as part of the assessment.

Research Projects

Students undertake a novel research project during which they work full-time within a research laboratory from January through to May. They have a choice of different projects from a broad range of specializations, including pathology, microbiology, parasitology, virology, reproduction, genetics, physiology, cell & molecular biology, and locomotion.

Publications from Research Projects

Several research projects have formed the basis of publications either as conference abstracts or full articles in peer-reviewed journals. Details of these publications can be found in the relevant section of the course information.

Tuition Fees

• Home Tuition Fees: ｣9,790
• International Fees: ｣27,510 Tuition fee amounts are subject to increase each academic year.

Admissions

For more information on admissions, please refer to the admissions policy and procedures document.

Support for Students

The Royal Veterinary College provides various support services for students, including housing advice, widening participation initiatives, and equality and diversity support.