Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Degree

The University of Edinburgh's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies offers a world-class education and an internationally accredited qualification in a multi-cultural and thriving environment. The Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery degree is equivalent to a DVM and is accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE), Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC), and South African Veterinary Council (SAVC).

Why Choose Edinburgh?

By studying at the University of Edinburgh, students achieve a high graduate employment rate of 93%+, with consistently ranked top Vet Schools in the UK and internationally. The university has invested over ｣300m in state-of-the-art purpose-built campus facilities, located on a campus with one of the highest concentrations of animal science expertise in Europe.

Entry Requirements and How to Apply

The admissions process assesses academic and non-academic suitability, with selected candidates invited to attend an interview. Offers are made based on performance at the interview. The specific deadline date for applications can vary slightly by year, but up-to-date deadlines are published on the How to Apply page.

• Entry requirements for the four-year Graduate Entry Programme include:
  • Academic requirements
  • Non-academic requirements
• How to apply:
  • Submit an application through VMCAS or UCAS
  • Attend an interview (if selected)

Programme Structure

The degree programme consists of two phases: the Foundation Phase and the Clinical Phase.

Foundation Phase

The Foundation Phase is an extended first year that starts in early August. Students learn about the normal functions of the animal body, from cell level to the whole organism. Practical classes, animal handling, clinical, and professional skills are taught.

• Courses in the Foundation Phase include:
  • Introduction to veterinary medicine
  • Animal biology and physiology
  • Veterinary anatomy
• Extra-Mural Studies (EMS) are a key component, with 10 weeks of Animal Husbandry placements required during the Foundation Phase.

Clinical Phase

The Clinical Phase builds on the Foundation Phase, with students learning about disease and treatment. Species-specific courses are introduced, along with a focus on pathology, pharmacology, and veterinary public health.

• Courses in the Clinical Phase include:
  • Veterinary pathology
  • Veterinary pharmacology
  • Veterinary public health
• Students are required to complete 20 weeks of clinical EMS placements during the Clinical Phase.

Extra-Mural Studies

EMS is mandated by UK law and overseen by the RCVS. The aim of EMS is to enable students to gain practical experience in as many aspects of veterinary work as possible.

• Objectives of EMS:
  • Understand practice and economics of animal management systems
  • Understand practice economics and practice management
  • Develop communication skills for all aspects of veterinary work
• Students choose their own placements to best align with their unique learning needs and interests.

Fees and Finances

All candidates for the four-year programme are considered on a full fee basis only. For more information on tuition fees, funding, and living costs, please refer to the Fees and Finances page.

Student Support

The School provides strong student support services, including:

• Student Advisers: each year group has a dedicated Student Adviser
• Professional Mentors: every student is assigned a Professional Mentor
• Student Support Manager: a dedicated manager available for support issues
• VetPALs: a peer-assisted learning model providing student-to-student support

Easter Bush Campus

The Easter Bush Campus is a purpose-built home for veterinary teaching, research, and practice. The campus is located six miles south of the city centre and is easily accessible by bus, with ample free car parking facilities.

• Campus features:
  • State-of-the-art facilities
  • Electric car charging points
  • Hedgehog tunnels
  • Recycling initiatives
  • Apiary for bees
  • Allotments
  • Shower facilities for bike commuters
  • Bike safety checks
  • Solar farm in development

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery degree have a high employment rate, with opportunities in various fields, including:

• Clinical practice
• Research
• Industry
• Government
• Academia

Conclusion

The University of Edinburgh's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies offers a world-class education and an internationally accredited qualification in a multi-cultural and thriving environment. With a strong focus on student support, state-of-the-art facilities, and a wide range of career prospects, the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery degree is an excellent choice for those pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.