BVMSci (Hons) — 2025 entry Veterinary Medicine and Science
Our Veterinary Medicine and Science course will equip you with skills to excel in a competitive field, exploring animal health in our exceptional facilities, including one of Europe's most sophisticated pathology centres.
Study a hands-on curriculum, designed in collaboration with our partnership of veterinary practices and scientific research institutes, and learn to meet the diverse needs of companion, production, equine, laboratory animals, and exotic and wildlife species.
Access our multimillion-pound facilities, including our Veterinary Clinical Skills Centre and Veterinary Pathology Centre, to practise anaesthesia, catheterisation, dissection and more.
Spend your final year completing clinical intramural rotations (IMR) to develop an awareness of working as a veterinary professional in a clinical environment, under the supervision of qualified professionals.
Learn from academics who are registered veterinary practitioners and researchers, in addition to a multidisciplinary team of veterinary specialists from our partner organisations.
Get the academic requirements needed to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) to work as a veterinary surgeon once you’ve graduated.
On this course, you’ll learn about different body systems, covering all common companion, equine and production animal species, in addition to wildlife and exotic species.
In your first year, you’ll study topics that are fundamental to veterinary medicine, including anatomy, animal husbandry, cells and genes, physiology and the concept of professionalism. This will provide you with a solid foundation upon which to build the rest of your degree. During your second year, you’ll learn about epidemiology, infectious diseases and pathology, using clinical case studies and a ‘One Health’ approach. You will also gain more advanced skills in handling and restraint, including clinical examination of the common domestic species.
In your third year, you’ll delve deeper into clinical medicine and surgery, diagnostic techniques, pharmacology, scientific methods and evidence-based veterinary medicine. You’ll also get the opportunity to engage in research, including critically evaluating protocols, data and literature.
During your fourth year, your modules are species-based and you’ll revisit anaesthesia, surgery and patient care on visits to the neuter clinic and some of our partners. You’ll learn about sustainability, equality, diversity and inclusion in veterinary practice, in a One Health context, as well as zoological medicine. You’ll also take part in hands-on practical workshops. Each week you’ll focus on a different topic, including critical care and triage medicine, dentistry, how to administer medications and neutering. You’ll work in small groups under the supervision of veterinarians.
In your fifth year, you’ll complete clinical intramural rotations in our extensive network of veterinary practices to further your knowledge, competences, attributes and skills.
Professional recognition
BVMSci (Hons) - European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE) Accredited by the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE).
BVMSci (Hons) - Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) for the purpose of eligibility for registration as a veterinary surgeon with that body.
BVMSci (Hons) - Australian Veterinary Boards Council Inc. (AVBC) On successful completion of this course, you’re recognised for automatic registration by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC)
BVMSci (Hons) - South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) On successful completion of this course, you’re recognised for automatic registration by the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)
BVMSci (Hons) - Singaporean Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) On successful completion of this course, you¿re recognised for automatic registration by the Singaporean Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS)
Skills development
Throughout your studies, you’ll receive training in the core sciences, and you’ll develop your professional and business skills. These skills include:
The academic year is divided into two semesters of 15 weeks each. Each semester consists of a period of teaching, revision/directed learning and assessment.
The structure of our programmes follow clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the programme specifications which include further details such as the learning outcomes.
Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Modules are subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.
The University operates a credit framework for all taught programmes based on a 15-credit tariff.
This module will present core knowledge and skills in the husbandry and handling of dogs, cats, sheep, cattle and horses. Students will gain insight into why we keep animals and the use or purpose of these animal species and the UK and global industries. They will acquire basic theoretical and practical knowledge of the safe handling and restraint of core animal species, whilst considering biosecurity measures. Students will develop a basic knowledge of normal animal behaviour, ethics, welfare and nutrition and a detailed knowledge of animal husbandry focusing on processes, outcomes and audits. The course will include practicals on animal handling, including personal protection equipment and husbandry audits.
In this module, students will be introduced to a range of topics, also known as non-technical graduate attributes and informed by the “RCVS Day One competences”, which are essential to employability and a successful veterinary career. The learning and authentic assessment on this module are structured to promote resilience and global/ cultural competence and topics covered include: lifelong learning, working effectively in teams, assessing evidence from the literature, self-care and stress management, communication skills, professionalism, professional ethics and acting on feedback. Teaching and learning is through online, supported self-learning, active learning lectures and workshops, directed study practical sessions in groups, self-directed activities and reflective exercises, and is geared towards promoting resourcefulness and digital capabilities and embracing diversity and inclusivity. Learning within this module will be applied and further developed in subsequent modules within the veterinary training programme.
Understanding the molecular aspects of living cells is of vital importance for many other aspects of the veterinary curriculum. This module will combine lecture-based learning with scientific laboratory practical sessions. Initial laboratory skills will be acquired and techniques carried out will be relevant across various disciplines, especially physiology and histology and pathology. The basic concepts of biochemistry and physiology will be introduced. Understanding these concepts and their application acts as a foundation for the rest of the course, contextualizing various pathologies and providing an understanding of how to approach and treat them, enabling veterinary surgeons to practice effectively in the service of animal health and welfare.
This module will present the student with the structure and function of the integument and the alimentary systems in the various veterinary species. Cases will underpin the presentation of this material to provide context and integration between the disciplines of anatomy, histology, physiology and embryology. Students will use dissection and laboratory sessions to develop their technical competencies. The PBL cases will be used to underpin the anatomy and physiology and to enhance team learning and the development of independent learning skills.
This module will present the student with the structure and function of the cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal systems in the various veterinary species. Cases will underpin the presentation of this material to provide context and integration between the disciplines of anatomy, histology, and physiology. Students will use dissection and laboratory sessions to develop their technical competencies. The problem-based cases will be used to underpin anatomy and physiology, and to enhance team learning and the development of independent learning skills.
This module will present the student with the structure and function of the haemopoietic and neurological systems in the various veterinary species. Cases will underpin the presentation of this material to provide context and integration between the disciplines of anatomy, histology, physiology and embryology. Students will use dissection and laboratory sessions to develop their technical competencies. Practicals will be used to underpin the anatomy and physiology and to enhance team learning and the development of independent learning skills.
The urological system plays a key role in excretion and homeostasis. This module aims to introduce the structure and function of the urological and reproductive systems and how they vary across the veterinary species. This module will combine lecture-based learning and practical sessions. Students will understand how a healthy reproductive system allows an animal to express normal behaviour.
This module will present the structure and function of the sense organs and the endocrine systems in various veterinary species. Cases will underpin the presentation of this material to provide context and integration between the disciplines of anatomy, histology, physiology and embryology. Students will use dissection and laboratory sessions to develop their technical competencies.
This module introduces the student to the pathology of the integument and alimentary tract, including the infectious disease agents that affect them. Students will learn to recognise the changes to the skin and the alimentary tract seen during disease or invasion by viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungal agents. These diseases will be presented in context of One Health and underpinned with clinical case examples introducing clinical pathology results from the various veterinary species.
This module introduces the student to clinical pathology of body systems and to the pathology of the haematopoietic and lymphoid systems. The student will familiarise with the clinical pathology tests used to evaluate animal health; these will include haematology, biochemistry related to the function of different body systems and cytology of organs, fluids and neoplasia . The response of the haematopoietic and lymphoid systems to invasion by viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungal agents will be discussed. All diseases will be presented in context of One Health and underpinned with clinical case examples.
In this module, students will assimilate and build upon concepts that they have encountered in previous modules including epidemiology, economics and veterinary public health. The topics are inter-related as they are concerned with how veterinary professionals can influence wider society, beyond individual animal owners. The module also considers the responsibilities that society places upon the profession and upon animal keepers, which provide a context for making decisions in the course of veterinary practice. Important animal-human interactions occur in an ever-changing socio-cultural society, which veterinary professionals need to consider in order to tackle One Health issues. The topics studied here provide the foundation for the study of population medicine and the application of veterinary knowledge to One Health issues and food safety.
This module introduces the students to general mechanisms of pathology including gross and microscopic changes associated with infectious and non-infectious causes in various species. This will be presented in context with clinical correlates and One Health. Moreover, the students are introduced to the general principles of infectious disease and its pathology as well as the immune system and the host response to pathogen infection. The cellular and tissue changes induced by infection with viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi and prions will be introduced to the students. These topics will be presented in the context of One Health and underpinned with clinical case examples introducing clinical pathology results from the various veterinary species.
This module introduces the student to the pathology of the cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal systems, including the infectious disease agents that affect these systems. Students will learn about the changes to the cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal systems seen with disease or invasion by viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungal agents. These diseases will be presented in context of One Health and underpinned with clinical case examples from the various veterinary species.
This module introduces the student to the pathology of the urinary and reproductive systems, including the infectious disease agents that affect them. The changes to the urinary and reproductive systems seen with disease or invasion by viruses, microbes, parasites and fungal agents will be introduced. These diseases will be presented in context of One Health and underpinned with clinical case examples introducing clinical pathology results from the various veterinary species.
This module introduces the student to the pathology of the endocrine and neurological systems and organs of special sense, including the infectious disease agents that affect these systems. These diseases will be presented in context of One Health and underpinned with clinical case examples.
This module will build upon the Animals in Society 1 (AS1) module taught in Year One of the BVMSci programme. Students will gain more advanced skills in handling and restraint including clinical examination of the core species (cattle, sheep, horse, dog and cat), whilst considering biosecurity measures. This module will present core husbandry knowledge and handling skills in pigs, poultry, camelids, goats, fish, exotic and wildlife species and small mammals including rabbits and rodents. The use or purpose of these animal species and the UK and global industries will be covered. Students will continue to develop knowledge of animal husbandry focusing on processes, outcomes and audits undertaken during their extra-mural studies (EMS). The course will include practicals on animal handling, incorporating personal protection equipment and biosecurity.
This module will prepare students to topic pertinent to veterinary practice such as of pharmacology, anaesthesiology, surgery and imaging. This module also presents the clinical conditions of the cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, integumentary and alimentary systems across the species, the means of their diagnosis and their therapy both with medical and surgical interventions. By presenting conditions across the species, the commonality of disease process and similarities of therapies are illustrated. The species specific therapies will also be highlighted.
This module will prepare students for the use of evidence based veterinary medicine. Veterinary science requires a detailed understanding of the research methods used to derive new knowledge. The translation of science into clinical practice and the application of the best current information to optimise patient care requires an understanding of scientific methodology and the processes required to practice evidence-based veterinary medicine. This module is linked closely to Veterinary Research 2: Critical appraisal, data interpretation and study design in Semester 2 and the practice of evidence-based veterinary medicine in the third, fourth- and fifth-year modules. The module builds upon the knowledge gained in Animals in Society 2: Concepts in Epidemiology and Public Health.
This module will prepare students for topics pertinent to professional practice and career planning such as communication, patient safety, practice management and law, and is thus a critical module for employability. It also introduces students to clinical conditions of the urinary, reproductive, haemopoietic, neurological and endocrine systems as well as conditions of the organs of special senses across all veterinary species, the means of their diagnosis and their therapy both with medical and surgical interventions. By presenting conditions across the species, the commonality of disease process and similarities of therapies are illustrated. The species specific therapies will also be explored.
This module provides an opportunity for students to participate in a project and develop and apply research methods that are applicable for supporting life-long learning in the veterinary profession.
Most pathogens of domestic animals and humans originate in wildlife populations. Students will gain an understanding of the transmission of disease across the interface between wildlife, domestic animals and humans and how this is applied to prevention and control measures. The module considers how wildlife and biodiversity contribute to human health and wellbeing, while human activities contribute to disease emergence from wildlife populations to livestock and people. Disease in wildlife can also cause extinction of species impacting biodiversity. In clinical practice, Veterinarians are presented with opportunities to intervene in wildlife health and disease in various contexts and these actions are associated with ethical, economic and logistical challenges. Vets are often working at the interface of wildlife and livestock populations and play a key role in surveillance and identification of new diseases.
This module consists of multiple broad concepts relevant to clinical practice, providing students with a tool kit to understand and contribute to changes in the scientific world and society. Concepts included are; one health, sustainability, antimicrobial resistance, zoonoses, notifiable diseases, emerging infectious diseases and sustainability. Other one health considerations in research such as epidemiology, translational medicine and lab animal medicine will be explored. This module will also discuss the role of international, collaborative surveillance of animal health, globalisation and biosecurity in the prevention of infection and disease. This module will additionally focus on a transdisciplinary approach to health, including exploring the role of government and non-governmental bodies in policy influence and implementation. There will be opportunities to engage with each other and lecturers about inclusivity, diversity, cultural and global competence and relate these considerations to the veterinary profession. This module also aims to exemplify the role that the resilient veterinary surgeon has in the community and the role of human factors in ensuring animal, human and planetary health are considered in clinical decision making. This module aims to prepare students for clinical practice and equip them with knowledge base and tool kit to manage one health and sustainability challenges in diverse contexts.
This module covers the knowledge required for day one competencies in anaesthesia, surgery and patient care in domestic animals and other species. This module will allow the student to actively participate in all aspects of a routine spay or neuter case to further develop the skills and attributes required when performing surgical procedures in clinical practice.
This module will comprise of three clinical practice units, companion animal, equine and production practice. The content combines the previous student's knowledge of body systems, with husbandry and management of the animal into the context of holistic veterinary clinical medicine at the various stages of the life cycle. The emphasis will be on maintaining animal health, welfare, productivity and performance through a proactive approach, working in partnership with animal managers/owners.
This module consists of 7 x 4 week intra-mural rotation blocks and a Transition into the Profession unit of attendance, which is delivered during the introduction and return weeks. The module rotations provide students with opportunities to further develop day one knowledge, competences, attributes and skills through their integration and application in a workplace-based placement providing an authentic, safe and supervised learning environment, facilitating the transition from student to confident, competent and compassionate veterinarians. Opportunities are provided in a network of clinical practices or facilities which include: Small animal practice Equine practice Production animal practice Referral practice (2 weeks) Emergency and Critical Care (2 weeks) Veterinary public health and veterinary pathology A choice of an additional core rotation elective in Equine, Production Animal or Small Animal practice. Within these practice settings students will be given opportunities to develop and demonstrate the knowledge, professional skills and attributes, practical skills and clinical competences expected of newly-qualified veterinary surgeons. This will be achieved by facilitation of targeted experiences and engagements during the placements, aligned to the following six domains of clinical practice; Veterinary knowledge Technical skills Clinical Reasoning Communication skills Patient Care Professionalism and professional skills
You’ll be taught by lecturers and academics who are registered veterinary practitioners and researchers. Our teaching staff includes internationally registered veterinary specialists.
You’ll also be taught by a multidisciplinary team of veterinary professionals and specialists from our partner practices and organisations.
Day-to-day learning
Your teaching will be delivered through a combination of:
We use a variety of methods to assess you, including:
Coursework
Oral assessment
Essays
Written examinations
Presentations
In-semester tests
Portfolio
Practical assessment (including: Objective Structured Clinical Examinations, Entrustable Professional Activities).
Exit awards
Throughout your five-year studies, you’ll accumulate 600 credits through a range of modules. If you choose to exit the course before the end of the five years, you can still be awarded a qualification, dependent on how many credits you’ve earned:
120 credits - Certificate of Higher Education
240 credits - Diploma of Higher Education
300 credits - Bachelors Degree (Ordinary)
360 credits - Bachelors Degree (Honours).
General course information
Contact hours
Contact hours can vary across our modules. Full details of the contact hours for each module are available from the University of Surrey's module catalogue. See the modules section for more information.
Timetable
New students will receive their personalised timetable in Welcome Week. In later semesters, two weeks before the start of semester.
Scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week (Monday – Friday), with part-time classes normally scheduled on one or two days. Wednesday afternoons tend to be for sports and cultural activities.
Manor Park is home to the School of Veterinary Medicine, plus Surrey Sports Park and Manor Park halls of residence.
We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University.
This course is accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), which means that on successful completion of your studies, you'll have the academic requirements needed to register to work as a veterinary surgeon. Once registered, you can practise throughout the UK, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.
Once you’ve graduated, you can also apply to practise outside of the UK and you’ll be recognised for automatic registration by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC), the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) and the Singaporean Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS).
100 per cent of graduates from our School of Veterinary Medicine go on to employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2024, HESA). With a degree in Veterinary Medicine and Science you could take a role in:
Veterinary clinical practice
Pathology
Conservation medicine
Research science
The pharmaceutical industry
Food safety
Veterinary public health and policy.
Some students also use this course to apply for further study, including postgraduate research.
You’ll benefit from hands-on learning in our multimillion-pound veterinary clinical skills facilities. These spaces are fitted with the latest teaching equipment, including electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors and simulators, that you’ll use to practise procedures and skills such as surgical procedures, anaesthesia, intravenous and urinary catheterisation, life support and resuscitation, suture placement, venepuncture and more.
You’ll also have practical classes at our Veterinary Pathology Centre, home to our microscopy suites, pathology laboratories, post-mortem examination room and viewing gallery. Here, you’ll learn about the comparative anatomy of different species by watching dissections as they take place, with the opportunity to conduct your own. You’ll perform a necropsy and you’ll examine gross and microscopic pathological specimens to identify common pathological findings.
Your time in our facilities will allow you to practise your communication and clinical skills, essential in a veterinary career and valued by a wide range of employers.
Learn more about the qualifications we typically accept to study this course at Surrey.
Work experience
A requirement for veterinary work experience is NO longer required at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey. As part of the shortlisting process there will be an online questionnaire.
You should have a clear understanding and insight into the profession, demonstrating the personal skills and qualities relevant to the course. Personal statements may also be reviewed during the admissions process. Wherever possible, and if offered a place, candidates are encouraged to gain some animal related work experience prior to undertaking the course. This is not essential but can ensure understanding of the varied nature and potential challenges of becoming a veterinary medicine professional.
BVMSci (Hons):
AAA
Required subjects: Biology and Chemistry.
A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking are not accepted. Applicants taking the Science Practical Endorsement are required to pass.
GCSE or equivalent: Five subjects at grade 7 (A) including Chemistry and Biology (or Double Science). English Language and Mathematics at grade 5 (B).
BVMSci (Hons):
D*DD. Additionally A-level Chemistry at grade A
Required subject: science or animal-related subject.
GCSE or equivalent: Five subjects at grade 7 (A) including Chemistry and Biology (or Double Science). English Language and Mathematics at grade 5 (B).
BVMSci (Hons):
35
Required subjects: Biology and Chemistry HL6/SL7.
GCSE or equivalent: English A HL4/SL4 or English B HL5/SL6 and Mathematics (either course) HL4/SL4.
BVMSci (Hons):
85%
Required subjects: Biology 8.5 and Chemistry 8.5.
GCSE or equivalent: Five subjects at grade 7 (A) including Chemistry and Biology (or Double Science). English Language and Mathematics at grade 5 (B).
BVMSci (Hons):
QAA-recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits at Distinction.
Required subjects: 15 credits in Biology and 15 credits in Chemistry.
GCSE or equivalent: Five subjects at grade 7 (A) including Chemistry and Biology (or Double Science). English Language and Mathematics at grade 5 (B).
BVMSci (Hons):
AAAAB
Required subjects: Biology at grade A and Chemistry at grade A.
GCSE or equivalent: Five subjects at grade 7 (A) including Chemistry and Biology (or Double Science). English Language and Mathematics at grade 5 (B).
BVMSci (Hons):
AAA from a combination of the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and two A-levels.
Required subjects: A-level Biology and A-level Chemistry
A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking are not accepted. Applicants taking the Science Practical Endorsement are required to pass.
GCSE or equivalent: Five subjects at grade 7 (A) including Chemistry and Biology (or Double Science). English Language and Mathematics at grade 5 (B).
If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.
International Foundation Year
If you are an international student and you don’t meet the entry requirements for this degree, we offer the International Foundation Year at the Surrey International Study Centre. Upon successful completion, you can progress to this degree course.
All applications for entry to a Veterinary Medicine programme in a UK Veterinary School must be submitted to UCAS by Tuesday 15 October 2024 for a September 2025 start (this includes Overseas applicants). Applications received from UCAS are initially considered on the basis of academic achievement, personal and academic references, and achieved/predicted grades. Applicants who pass the preliminary shortlisting, or are still pending review, will be emailed details of our online questionnaire.
Stage 2: Online questionnaire
Applicants with an outstanding decision/live application will be emailed the questionnaire on Tuesday 22 October 2024 with a deadline of return by 12pm (Midday, UK time, GMT) on Tuesday 29 October 2024.
Stage 3: Multiple mini interviews
Once short-listed for interview, you will be sent an invitation to a multiple mini interview, which will take place online. Interviews will take place between November 2024 and January 2025 and will last no longer than an hour. They are conducted as 7 pre-recorded questions which you will record your answers to, as if in a face-to-face interview. Each question lasts 4 minutes. You will have a time frame of 4 days in which to sit your interview, choosing a time which is convenient to you, but once started, the interview must be completed in one sitting.
Stage 4: Offer holder event
All applicants who are made an offer to study Veterinary Medicine and Science by the University of Surrey will be offered the opportunity to attend an Offer Holder event. During the day you will be able to view the University and School facilities, meet current students and teaching staff together and interact with some of our highly professional and innovative collaborative partners.
All applications for entry to a Veterinary Medicine programme in a UK Veterinary School have to be submitted to UCAS by 15 October 2024 for a September 2025 start (this includes overseas applicants). We are unable to consider any applications submitted after the deadline.
We are able to consider applications from final year bachelors degree students, or applicants who hold a bachelors degree in a Bioscience related field, with an expected or attained 2:1 Honours degree. On application, we will review your transcripts for Biology and Chemistry content, typically requiring a minimum of 40 credits within each subject area. In many instances, achievement at degree level supersedes achievement at school.
Declaration of criminal convictions
This is a regulated course that requires declaration of criminal convictions at the application stage, please visit our criminal convictions web page for more information.
Fitness to practise
As this course leads to registration with a professional body, you’re required to abide by a professional code of conduct. When you accept an offer of a place at the University of Surrey, you are agreeing to comply with this code of conduct. Allegations of failing to do so will trigger an internal investigation in line with our regulations for fitness to practise.
Withdrawals
This programme is subject to the code of practice for temporary and permanent withdrawals. Students requiring a withdrawal from the programme should observe the guidelines in this document, following which they may be given the relevant intermediate exit award to which their accrued credits entitle them.
Deferred entry
The course does not accept applications for deferred entry.
Recognition of prior learning
We recognise that many students enter their higher education course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of professional, vocational and community contexts.
If this applies to you, the recognition of prior learning (RPL) process may allow you to join a course without the formal entry requirements or enter your course at a point appropriate to your previous learning and experience.
Explore UKCISA’s website for more information if you are unsure whether you are a UK or overseas student. View the list of fees for all undergraduate courses.
The annual tuition fees for courses starting in September 2025
Students with Tuition Fee Loan: the Student Loans Company pay fees in line with their schedule.
Students without a Tuition Fee Loan: pay their fees either in full at the beginning of the programme or in two instalments as follows:
50% payable 10 days after the invoice date (expected to be early October of each academic year)
50% in January of the same academic year.
The exact date(s) will be on invoices. Students on part-time programmes where fees are paid on a modular basis, cannot pay fees by instalment.
Sponsored students: must provide us with valid sponsorship information that covers the period of study.
Professional training placement fees
If you are studying on a programme which contains a Professional Training placement year there will be a reduced fee for the academic year in which you undertake your placement. This is normally confirmed 12 to 18 months in advance, or once Government policy is determined.
Additional costs
Books/stationery/admin: £45 to £180 – you are also strongly advised to register as a member of the British Veterinary Association. This provides insurance cover for placement activity and associated work experience. Membership is free for first-year students and around £46 per annum in following years.
Safety equipment and/or uniform: You must purchase compulsory personal protection equipment (PPE) prior to starting on the programme to be worn in all animal handling/husbandry classes and whilst on placement. The costs are approximately £290 for Year 1, to include approximately £100 of self-sourced uniform and equipment. However, prices are subject to change depending on supplier availability. Additional, optional items are available to students to purchase at their own discretion and throughout the programme. Students are also responsible for the costs associated with maintaining/washing their uniform. Students will receive all information regarding PPE and self-sourced items in plenty of time to order and receive before the start of term.
Total minimum cost: £500 approximately (excluding placement expenses).
EMS placement expenses: You are required to undertake extramural studies (EMS). These placements are arranged by students who are responsible for all associated costs (i.e., travel, accommodation, equipment) and should occur outside of usual semester time. Costs will vary depending on where you decide to undertake your EMS placements.
IMR placement expenses: In Year 5, you will undertake a series of clinical intramural rotations (IMR), which take place at various locations throughout the UK. You will be required to return to the University for activities and examinations throughout the year so will be encouraged to maintain accommodation within a reasonable commutable distance of Guildford. Some IMR placements occur within a reasonable commutable distance of Guildford, and students are eligible to claim some travel expenses, at an agreed rate and in accordance with the policies in place at the time. If you are allocated to a placement deemed “non-commutable” from Guildford, the University will pay a contribution to dual accommodation costs.
Clinical placements
Extramural studies (EMS)
You’ll complete 30 weeks of extramural placements throughout your five-year studies. These are broken down into:
10 weeks of pre-clinical placements (animal husbandry extramural studies (AHEMS))
20 weeks of clinical placements.
EMS is a compulsory and essential part of your training, providing you with practical experience to reinforce your learning. It’s also a requirement of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) for all UK vet schools.
EMS will take place outside of university semesters, typically at Christmas, Easter and in the summer.
Some placements do offer accommodation, but you’ll typically pay for travel, housing and food. However, there are several bursaries and sources of financial aid available that you can apply for throughout the course (with the assistance of your personal tutor, if required) to help support you.
Intramural rotations (IMR)
In your final year of study, you’ll complete seven, four-week intramural placements away from the University, to experience general practice. Throughout your IMR, you’ll develop an awareness of working as a veterinary professional in a clinical environment, building up your knowledge and skills, to facilitate your transition into a confident and competent veterinary graduate.
"I worked at Fitzpatrick Referrals, home of The Supervet, and assisted with spinal surgery on a miniature dachshund suffering from intravertebral disc disease."
Will Collins Veterinary Medicine and Science BVMSci (Hons) Student profile
Applications for 2025-entry are now closed. Applications for 2026-entry will open in Sept 2025.
We provide these terms and conditions in two stages:
First when we make an offer.
Second when students accept their offer and register to study with us (registration terms and conditions will vary depending on your course and academic year).
This online prospectus has been published in advance of the academic year to which it applies.
Whilst we have done everything possible to ensure this information is accurate, some changes may happen between publishing and the start of the course.
It is important to check this website for any updates before you apply for a course with us. Read our full disclaimer.
