Program Overview

Introduction to Veterinary Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has been delivering exceptional training in veterinary medicine for over 234 years. The college offers an outstanding learning environment, and graduates are ready to make a real difference in the veterinary profession.

The Course Structure

Each Veterinary Medicine course is structured slightly differently depending on the pathway. The Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (BVetMed) programme offers world-leading scientific and clinical training in veterinary medicine. This exciting course builds on the college's extensive veterinary history and takes a fresh approach in bringing together technological change, clinical and scientific progress, and stimulating teaching and learning methods.

Course Description

The BVetMed programme provides a thorough understanding of the science underpinning veterinary practice and research, and develops fundamental problem-solving, communication, and team-working skills. Students gain practical experience in the college's busy hospitals and collaborative practices. The programme helps students acquire an understanding of the basic biological principles of normal body function and disease, and the ability to distinguish the pathological from the normal, to prevent disease and safely manage the processes of animal production.

Course Structure and Duration

The BVetMed programme is a five-year course. In the first two years, students are primarily based at the Camden Campus, studying basic veterinary sciences and acquiring introductory skills in handling and examining horses, farm animals, and companion animals. In the third, fourth, and fifth years, students are mainly based at the Hawkshead Campus, where they acquire knowledge and practical skills in clinical science necessary for participation in clinical practice.

Graduate Accelerated BVet Medicine

The Graduate Accelerated BVet Medicine programme is a four-year course designed for graduates or final-year students of biological sciences degrees. The programme enables students to supplement their existing skills, adding to the preclinical science information covered by a previous biological science degree. Students complete an introductory graduate transition year, where they study the principles of animal form and function, infections and responses, and animal husbandry. On completion of the transition year, students are fast-tracked onto the BVetMed course at the start of the third year.

Accreditation and Career Opportunities

A Veterinary Medicine degree from the RVC enables graduates to practice all over the world, as the college holds accreditations from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) in the UK, the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE) in the EU, and the Council on Education of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in the USA and Canada. RCVS accreditation ensures RVC veterinary graduates are licensed to work in Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Blended Learning Approach

The RVC utilises a blended learning approach to improve accessibility, allow space for question-asking, effective revision, and independent thinking. This approach enables students to learn through a combination of traditional teaching methods and online resources.

Animal Husbandry Experience

All BVetMed students must complete a minimum of 10 weeks of Animal Husbandry Experience (AHEMS) to progress to the third year of the course. For students on the standard five-year route, this experience must be completed during their time on the course. For those applying to the Accelerated BVetMed, previous animal husbandry experience may be submitted for approval before starting the course.

Student Feedback and Satisfaction

The RVC values student feedback and is constantly working to ensure that students have the best possible experience. In 2023, 94% of RVC students declared themselves satisfied with the quality of their course, the highest level amongst all UK universities.

Important Dates and Events

The college provides an interactive timeline to help students understand the deadlines between receiving an offer and the beginning of their studies. Offer Holder Days are events organised for those who have received an offer to study at the RVC, enabling them to explore the college, speak with current students and academics, and decide whether the RVC is the right fit for them.