Top Universities to Study Veterinary Medicine in the UK

Overview

Graduates of veterinary medicine programs in the United Kingdom acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to assist with animal surgical treatment and care. Veterinary medicine shares many similarities with traditional medicine programs, with significant overlap in modules and topics. Typically, these courses span five years, and upon graduation, students can register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and begin their careers.

Top 10 UK Universities for Veterinary Medicine

1. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge’s Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital offers state-of-the-art facilities, including a five-theatre small animal surgical suite, intensive care units, and an equine surgical suite. Students benefit from hands-on experience with small animals, farm animals, and horses on-site.

• Courses: VetMB Veterinary Medicine, Biological Science (Veterinary Medicine), PhD in Veterinary Medicine
• Eligibility: A*AA at A-Level, IB: 41-42 points; PhD requires a good II.i Honours degree
• Fees: £28,483 – £67,194

2. University of Edinburgh

The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh ranks among the top veterinary schools in the UK. The program includes Extra-Mural Studies (EMS) placements to enhance animal handling and clinical skills.

• Courses: VetMB Veterinary Medicine, Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare (MSc), PhD in Clinical Veterinary Sciences
• Eligibility: AAA at A-Level, IB: 38 points; PhD requires a 2:1 Honours degree
• Fees: £24,700 – £37,500

3. University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool Institute of Veterinary Science offers extensive hands-on experience through two on-site working farms, two referral hospitals, and three first-opinion practices.

• Courses: Veterinary Science (BVSc), Veterinary Business Management (PGCert(VBM)), PhD in Infection and Global Health
• Eligibility: AAA at A-Level, IB: 38 points; PhD requires a 2:1 Honours degree
• Fees: £1,650 – £42,700

4. University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow Veterinary School is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and ranked first in the UK for veterinary science.

• Courses: Veterinary Science (BVSc), MSc Advanced Practice in Veterinary Nursing, PhD in Veterinary Nursing
• Eligibility: AAAAB at Higher, BB Advanced Higher; PhD requires a 2:1 Honours degree
• Fees: £14,300 – £35,175

5. University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham’s School of Veterinary Science consistently ranks high in the National Student Survey (NSS) and excels in research power.

• Courses: Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVMBVS with BVMedSci), MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy, PhD in Veterinary Medicine and Science
• Eligibility: IB score of 34; PhD requires a 2:1 Honours degree
• Fees: £17,200 – £41,000

6. University of Bristol

The University of Bristol’s Veterinary School offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs, supported by research that influences national veterinary practice.

• Courses: BVSc Veterinary Science, MSc Global Wildlife Health and Conservation, Doctorate in Veterinary Sciences
• Eligibility: IB score of 34; PhD requires an upper second-class degree
• Fees: £26,000 – £39,200

7. Royal Veterinary College (RVC)

The Royal Veterinary College is the only UK veterinary school accredited by both the AVMA and the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE).

• Courses: Veterinary Medicine (Bachelor’s), MSc Veterinary Epidemiology
• Eligibility: A-Level grades A in Biology and Chemistry
• Fees: £30,830 – £44,610

8. University of Surrey

The University of Surrey’s School of Veterinary Medicine features state-of-the-art facilities, including a Veterinary Clinical Skills Center and a Veterinary Pathology Center.

• Courses: BVMSci (Hons) Science and Veterinary Medicine, Teachable Animal General Practice PGCert, PhD in Veterinary Medicine and Science
• Eligibility: IB score of 35; PhD requires an upper second-class degree
• Fees: £5,600 – £35,000

9. Harper and Keele Veterinary School

Harper and Keele Veterinary School offers a rigorous veterinary medical degree with extensive contact hours, especially during clinical rotations in years four and five.

• Courses: Veterinary Surgery and Medicine (BVetMS)
• Eligibility: IB: 36 points; including six points in Chemistry or Biology
• Fees: £36,000

10. University of Central Lancashire

The BVMS degree at the University of Central Lancashire prepares students for a variety of veterinary roles, starting clinical assignments in the first year.

• Courses: BVMS Veterinary Surgery & Medicine, Veterinary Physiotherapy and Clinical Rehabilitation MSc/PGDip
• Eligibility: AAB at A-Level; MSc requires a master’s degree with honors in a related field
• Fees: £19,000 – £37,000

Scholarships for Veterinary Medicine in the UK

• Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies UK Graduate/International Scholarship: £5,000 annually.
• RVC Foreign Scholarships for BVetMed: Full fee waiver for a remarkable international student based on admissions performance.

Study Veterinary Medicine in the UK

Interested in pursuing veterinary medicine in the UK? Schedule a free consultation with LINGO today to get expert advice on the application process.

FAQs

1. What is the duration of study for veterinary medicine?

   • Typically, an undergraduate degree takes five to six years.

2. Can a veterinarian practice medicine?

   • Yes, veterinarians can practice after earning their degree in veterinary science.

3. Which is the best veterinary school in the UK?

   • The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh is highly regarded.

4. Is veterinary college expensive?

   • Yes, the average cost is about £32,000 annually.

5. Is a strong math background required to become a vet?

   • Yes, math is crucial for correct drug dosage and diagnostic testing.