Program Overview

Intercalated BSc Comparative Pathology

The Intercalated BSc Comparative Pathology is a one-year program 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

The Research Project is a major part of the academic study during the intercalated year, accounting for 50% of the final mark. Projects are undertaken in centers of established excellence for veterinary research with project supervisors of international repute, offering a rare opportunity to experience the research environment and contribute to projects that are highly relevant to veterinary research.

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 materials.

Tuition Fees

• Home Tuition Fees: ｣9,790 (including Island Fees, Channel Islands & Isle of Man)
• International Fees: ｣27,510

Admissions

For more information on admissions, including how to apply and admission criteria, please refer to the admissions policy and procedures.

Support for Students

The RVC provides various forms of support for students, including housing advice, equality and diversity initiatives, and resources for students with disabilities.