Pursuing a career in veterinary medicine is a noble calling and an opportunity to profoundly impact the health and welfare of domestic and wild animals. The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh is a symbol of excellence in this field, offering a five-year Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVM&S) programme that equips students with the knowledge and skills to become exceptional veterinarians.
Entry requirements
For international students, the entry requirements are as follows:
- SQA Highers: AAAAB by the end of S5 and BB at Advanced Higher.
- A Levels: AAA.
- IB: 38 points with 666 at HL.
- A-levels: Chemistry and Biology at A. Critical thinking is not accepted for this degree. GCSE: English at C or 4.
International tuition fees
The tuition fee for international students in the BVM&S programme is £35,200.
Apply today
Learn more about studying a veterinary medicine course at the University of Edinburgh below. To begin your application to study in the UK, contact SI-UK today.
Why Study Veterinary Medicine at the University of Edinburgh?
1. In-depth course curriculum
The BVM&S programme at the Royal (Dick) School is designed to prepare students for a multifaceted career in veterinary medicine. Graduates are eligible for registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), allowing them to practice veterinary medicine in the United Kingdom and abroad.
- Led by experienced faculty
The veterinary medicine programme at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies benefits from the expertise of a distinguished faculty:
- Professor Lisa Boden is the Head of the School and a renowned veterinary public health and population medicine specialist. She holds a Personal Chair of Population Medicine and Veterinary Public Health Policy and is the Co-Director of EPIC, the Scottish Government’s Centre for Expertise in Animal Disease Outbreaks.
Other notable faculty members include:
- Professor Liz Baggs, Deputy Director of the Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems and Chair of Food and Environmental Security.
- Mr. Padraig Kelly is the equine hospital's senior equine surgeon and director.
- Holly McAree is a general practice veterinarian clinician, and there are many more accomplished experts.
The Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVM&S) programme at the University of Edinburgh offers a comprehensive and in-depth curriculum that spans five years. This programme equips students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in veterinary medicine. Here's an overview of the course curriculum:
Year 1:
- The Animal Body 1 & 2
- Professional & Clinical Skills
- Animal Life & Food Safety 1
Year 2:
- The Animal Body 3 & 4
- Professional & Clinical Skills 2
- Animal Life & Food Safety 2
- Student research component (foundation skills)
Year 3:
- Professional & Clinical Skills 3
- Clinical Foundation Course
- Veterinary Pathology
- Integrated Clinical Course: Cat and Dog
Year 4:
- Integrated Clinical Courses in Farm Animal, Equine, and Exotics
- Veterinary Public Health
- Professional & Clinical Skills 4
Year 5:
- Final year rotations (selected and core)
- Student research component
Throughout the programme, students are exposed to various subjects, including anatomy, clinical skills, pathology, and public health, providing a well-rounded education in veterinary medicine.
- Placements and Internship Opportunities
The University of Edinburgh strongly emphasises practical experience. Students can participate in clinical placements and internships, gaining hands-on experience in various veterinary settings. These experiences are invaluable for building practical skills and preparing for a career in veterinary medicine.
- Assessment Methods
Assessment in this programme involves a combination of exams, coursework, practical work, and clinical evaluations. This multifaceted approach ensures that students are well-versed in theoretical knowledge and can apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
- Accreditation
The University of Edinburgh's BVM&S degree is accredited by prestigious organisations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), and the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE). This recognition underscores the programme's high standards and quality.
2. Ranking and reputation
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh boasts a remarkable legacy, having been at the forefront of veterinary education for two centuries. Founded in 1823, it has maintained its reputation for excellence in veterinary teaching and research.
In terms of subject-specific recognition, the School's Veterinary Science programme excels:
- The Guardian University Guide 2024 ranks it the 2nd best in the UK for Veterinary Science
- On the global stage, the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 places it in 9th position for veterinary science
The University of Edinburgh, of which the School is a part, is equally renowned:
- In the Guardian University Guide 2024, the university secured the 24th position in the UK
- In the QS World University Rankings 2024, it stands at a notable 22nd place globally
Furthermore, the University's commitment to sustainability is commendable. In the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2023, it ranked 4th globally and 1st in the UK.
3. Variety of scholarships
Veterinary medicine students at the University of Edinburgh can access various scholarships, bursaries, and prizes to support their academic endeavours.
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies UK Graduate/International Scholarship: This scholarship is open to UK Graduate and International students. Each scholarship is valued at £5,000 annually, applicable throughout the programme, contingent on satisfactory progress.
- Richard Taylor Memorial Travel Scholarship: Established in memory of Richard Taylor, this £500 travel scholarship is awarded annually to fourth-year students.
- Alistair P.B. McLaren Bursary: This bursary, awarded at the end of the third year of the BVMS course, assists students in purchasing textbooks and instruments.
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies also acknowledges outstanding achievements with several prizes and awards:
- James T Baxter Memorial Prize: Presented to the final-year BVMS student displaying the greatest aptitude in practical aspects of veterinary medicine, as assessed during the degree examination and the final year of study.
- William Dick Prize: Awarded annually to the most distinguished bachelor of veterinary medicine and surgery recipient of the year.
- Norman Dobson Prize: Presented at the end of the third year of the BVMS course to the best student in combined Pathology courses in the second and third years.
- Gemmel Prize: Awarded to the top first-year student with the highest overall average in the first year professional examinations.
- Willie Gregor Prize: This prize recognises an outstanding contribution to the Athletic Club and is presented to a final-year student.
- Charles Jones Prize: Offered annually to the best final-year student in Sheep Medicine.
- Lodsdon Prize: Acknowledges the most distinguished intercalated students of the year.
- Lothian Prize: Awarded to the best student in the fifth year of the course's final professional examination.
- McCaughey Prize: This prize is given to the most deserving student in the final year of the BVMS degree programme for the purchase of books or instruments.
- Stewart MacDougall Prize: Awarded to the student with the highest overall exam average at the end of the second year of the BVMS degree course.
- Walter Buchanan Milburn Prize: This prize is presented to the student who demonstrates excellence in the animal management component of the second professional examination.
- Moredun Foundation Book Prize: This prize acknowledges the student who performs best during practical work with the Large Animal Practice Teaching Unit.
- William Nairn Prize: Awarded to the best fourth-year student on the BVMS course.
- William Mawlum Ogilvy Medal and Prize: This award was given to the student demonstrating excellence in Animal Husbandry, Second Year BVMS.
- The Hector Paterson Prize for the Best Student in Rabbit Medicine: This prize is awarded to the fourth-year student who displays excellence in rabbit medicine and care.
4. Great facilities
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh boasts cutting-edge infrastructure that enhances the educational experience for students. These facilities include:
- Hospital for Small Animals: Established in 1999, this state-of-the-art facility provides top-tier care and clinical training for small animals.
- Equine Hospital: Upgraded and completed in 2003, the Equine Hospital offers a modern and comprehensive environment for equine medicine and surgery.
- Riddell Swann Veterinary Cancer Centre: Opened in 2009, it is dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of veterinary cancer.
- The Roslin Institute: World-famous for cloning Dolly the sheep, it merged with the Royal School of Veterinary Studies in 2008, relocating to a new, purpose-built research facility in 2011.
With over £100 million invested in the campus in the last five years, the School features world-class facilities, teaching staff, and research that consistently ranks among the top in the UK.
- Accommodation
The University of Edinburgh understands the diverse needs of its students and offers a range of accommodation options. Here's a selection of these choices, along with their locations and starting prices for single rooms:
- Baird House: This is located at Pollock Halls. It's about a 20-minute walk from George Square and 35 minutes from King's Buildings. Prices start at £8,311 per year.
- Blackwood Crescent/Causewayside: It is approximately 10 minutes from George Square and 25 minutes from King's Buildings. Prices start at £4,942 per year.
- Brae House: Just a short walk from The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and Arthur’s Seat, prices start at £6,784 per year.
- Buccleuch Place/Buccleuch Place Lane: Located beside the central university campus and main library, twin-room prices start at £5,215 per year.
- Chancellors Court: This is part of the Pollock Halls complex. It's about 20 minutes from George Square and 35 minutes from King's Buildings. Twin rooms start at £5,919 per year.
- Darroch Court is next to Holyrood Park in Edinburgh and the University of Edinburgh Centre for Sport and Exercise. Prices for single rooms start at £5,812 per year.
- Library
Edinburgh's library resources are extensive, housing 1.8 million printed volumes and providing access to millions of electronic resources, including journal articles, e-books, and e-journals. These resources are available on and off campus, ensuring accessibility. With a network of 10 campus libraries specialising in different subjects, students can access study spaces, computing facilities, and expert staff. The Main Library in George Square, one of the world's largest academic libraries, offers 2,300 study spaces with 24/7 access. At the same time, technology integration allows students to use available computers, bring personal devices, or borrow laptops, enhancing the learning experience.
Study Veterinary Medicine at Edinburgh
If you have any questions or wish to begin your application, contact SI-UK today for a free consultation in the future.
FAQ
Is financial aid or scholarships available for Indian veterinary medicine students at Edinburgh?
Financial aid and scholarships for Indian students studying veterinary medicine at the University of Edinburgh. You can explore various scholarship options to support your education.
Are there opportunities for practical experience or internships during the programme?
Yes, during the programme, you'll have opportunities for practical experience and internships, essential for learning and gaining real-world veterinary skills.
Can I work part-time as an international student while studying veterinary medicine in the UK?
As an international student studying veterinary medicine in the UK, you may be allowed to work part-time, but restrictions exist. Check the specific visa regulations and guidelines to understand your work options.
Is the veterinary medicine programme from the University of Edinburgh accredited internationally?
Yes, the veterinary medicine programme at the University of Edinburgh is accredited internationally. It meets the standards for veterinary practice in the UK and other countries, making it globally recognised.
Is there a specific Indian student association or community on campus?
The University of Edinburgh has various student associations and communities, including EUIS- Edinburgh University Indian Society. You can explore these groups to connect with fellow students from India and find a supportive community on campus.
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