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BSc Bioveterinary Sciences
with a Certificate in
Work-based Learning & Research		 UCAS Code: D301
Institution Code: RVET R84

How is the Programme Assessed?

The College uses a wide variety of up-to-date assessment methods.  Some of them are highly innovative, and have been pioneered in the veterinary context by the RVC itself.  We regularly review and enhance our assessment methods, to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of a rapidly changing discipline.

Assessment not only verifies that students have attained the necessary knowledge and skills (both practical and intellectual) required by a bioveterinary science graduate, but also provides feedback to students and supports effective learning.  Assessments are rigorous but fair, and are tailored to the distinct requirements of bioveterinary science.

The assessment methods that count towards the BSc Bioveterinary Sciences with Certificate in Work Based Learning and Research (D301) are:

Written Papers:

  • Multiple choice questions (MCQs) and short answer questions, testing factual knowledge
  • Questions testing skills of problem-solving and data analysis/interpretation
  • Essay questions, testing understanding, analysis, synthesis and critical thinking

In-course assessments: these take a wide variety of forms, including laboratory reports and assessment of problem-based learning.

Projects:

  • A Library Project in Year 1, and an associated presentation
  • A 5000-word report on a project performed in Year 2, and an associated presentation
  • A 5000-word report on a project performed during the Placement Year
  • A 12-week laboratory project in Year 4, assessed through a project report of up to 10,000 words and an oral presentation

To be awarded the Certificate in Work-based Learning and Research at the conclusion of their placement in Year 3, students must spend a minimum of 30 weeks full-time on a placement in any workplace relevant to the life-sciences (except the RVC), performing a minimum of 8 weeks research; and must also successfully complete a Reflective Oral Presentation.

Assessments in Year Four vary, depending upon the modules taken.   In addition to the assessment methods listed above, written papers for optional modules include open book examinations and short answer questions.  In-course assessments for Year 4 modules include a range of formats that are relevant to the training of a future research scientist, including:

  • production of grant proposals
  • technology evaluations
  • laboratory reports
  • critical paper reviews
  • literature projects
  • essays
  • presentations

The optional Year 4 module in Practical Investigative Biology includes a Practical Skills assessment which involves the assessment of key skills such as performing appropriate calculations, selecting and making suitable diagnostic gels, and analysing the results of restriction enzyme digests.

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