Academic and Professional Development 1 (30 credits)

• study skills for university
• communication skills
• veterinary legislation and professionalism
• veterinary ethics

This module will also prepare the student for practical placement and introduce them to the requirements of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) day one skills and competencies of a Registered Veterinary Nurse.

Applied animal health and welfare 1 (30 credits)

• introduction to animal behaviour
• animal welfare 
• animal accommodation 
• handling and restraint
• introduction to nursing techniques
• patient assessment - formulating care plans
• nutrition
• breeds and breeding
• pharmacy
• key principles of anatomy and physiology
• comparative anatomy of common exotics and bird

Applied animal health and welfare 2 (30 credits)

• Health and safety - working safely in veterinary practice
• infection control - hospital hygiene
• preparing and assisting with veterinary procedures
• aims and principles of first aid
• assessment and triage of the emergency patient
• nursing care of emergency patients
• key principles of anatomy and physiology
• comparative anatomy of common exotics and birds

Academic and Professional Development (15 credits)

This module is designed to continue building on the introductory module in year one and will be delivered alongside the modules in year two to continue to develop the students’ academic skills. Study strategies in academic writing, reflection and working together and presentation will be developed further.  Reflection on working in placement and application of previous experience to the theoretical modules will be encouraged. Students will have opportunities to continue building on their day one skills portfolio through attending the Royal Veterinary College hospitals.

Diagnostic Techniques (30 credits)

This module gives you an insight into all methods of diagnostic imaging and enables you to prepare a range of species assisting with various diagnostic procedures. In addition, it will cover the theory and practice in order to be able to process pathological samples for diagnostic purposes. The principles of parasitology, virology and bacteriology are also covered and clinical relevance explored. 

Understanding Disease (15 credits)

This module builds on the content covered in the first year and focuses on the pathophysiological processes involved in animal disease and malfunction. Applied clinical pharmacology is an essential part of the nursing care of a range of species. Recognition of side effects of drugs and acknowledgement of barriers to compliance are key aspects of veterinary nursing. An understanding of the absorption, effect on the body and excretion of the drugs used to treat a variety of conditions is essential.

Theatre Practice (15 credits)

The role of the veterinary nurse in running a surgical suite at the veterinary practice encompasses a range of activities from ensuring an aseptic environment to assisting with surgical interventions. This module also encompasses aspects of postoperative veterinary nursing care to ensure a smooth recovery from the surgical procedures for a range of species.

Veterinary Anaesthesia (15 credits)

Monitoring anaesthesia in veterinary patients is a key role for the veterinary nurse. Knowledge of the equipment to deliver anaesthesia as well as methods of monitoring anaesthesia is required. This module covers the principles of anaesthesia in a range of species; from the pre-anaesthetic assessment to maintaining anaesthesia and the recovery period. Methods of pain scoring and the physiology of pain will be explored. The effects of the anaesthetic and analgesic drugs on the physiology of the body will also be covered. 

Emergency and Critical Care (15 credits)

Building on the aspects of first aid discussed in year one, more intensive nursing and the emergency triage of body systems for a range of species are introduced. Fluid balance in the body is revisited with respect to the main electrolytes and their replacement in fluid therapy techniques. Transfusion medicine and blood typing are introduced. Intensive nursing care of the critical patient requires intensive monitoring and patient care techniques. 

Academic and Professional Development 3 (30 credits)

This module builds on the previous two Academic and Professional Development modules ensuring the graduate RVN has the academic and professional skills required for life-long learning.  The focus will be on critical appraisal and evaluation of evidence, independent learning and problem-solving skills.  Students will be expected to complete the RCVS day one skills and competencies, required placement hours and will be summatively assessed on a sample of these skills in a 16 station Objective Structured Clinical Examination.

The Professional Veterinary Nurse (15 credits)

This module consolidates the theory and practical experience gain during the course ensuring that the students are prepared to encompass the responsibilities of a Registered Veterinary Nurse. The framework of clinical governance will be explored identifying how this may improve veterinary practice. Reflection on professional identity and the future of the profession.  Working in a veterinary practice can be stressful and while this may initially increase productivity, the highly emotional nature of the job can lead to anxiety and compassion fatigue. Methods of coping with this aspect of the role will be explored and development of coping strategies encouraged. Registered Veterinary Nurses are often involved in practice management and so an introduction to running a business is incorporated. This module will be delivered alongside the placement activity in year 3 to enable students to apply their knowledge to practice situations.

EITHER:

CC in two A Level subjects including:

• Biology

OR:

CDD in three A Level subjects including:

• Biology at grade C

Two AS Levels at relevant grades would be accepted in place of one of the further A Level subjects. 

We also require a 'pass' in the science practical for each subject, where taking the English curriculum.

For further information on our policy on reformed UK qualifications, please click here.

We support the opportunity to take additional subjects at AS Level, but do not prescribe or prefer any particular subject choices or combinations. 

The non-prescribed A Level subjects should not overlap with Biology and cannot be General Studies.  

Northern Irish applicants:

A Level ‘Life and Health Sciences (Double Award)’

We welcome applications with A Level ‘Life and Health Sciences’ (double award only) instead of A Level Biology. However, Unit A2 5 is mandatory; Unit A2 6 or A2 8 is also required. The grade requirement is CC, or CD and a D in a different A Level that does not overlap in content.

See additional GCSE requirements below.

Welsh Baccalaureate

Applicants who have achieved the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate with grade C will be accepted with one A Level in:

• Biology at grade C

Alternatively:

Applicants who have achieved the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate with grade D will be accepted with two A Levels including:

• Biology at grade C
• A further A Level at grade D (excl. General Studies)

Two AS Levels at grade D would be accepted in place of the further A Level subject. 

We support the opportunity to take additional subjects at AS Level, but do not prescribe or prefer any particular subject choices or combinations.

See additional GCSE requirements.

Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers

Advanced Higher in Biology at grade C

In addition to:

EITHER

• A second Advanced Higher at grade D, and
• 2 Highers at grade C 

OR

• 4 Highers at grade C

All applicants must have at least five National 5* grade A-Cs including:

• English Language
• Biology, Chemistry or Physics
• Mathematics

* If you have bypassed one or more of these subjects at National 5, you will need this subject/grade at Higher level. 

Irish Leaving Certificate

H4 H4 H5, including H4 in Biology. 

If not achieved at H4 or H5 as part of the above, O4 required in:

• English
• Mathematics

All qualifications below are considered on top of existing Level 2 requirements (e.g. GCSEs, National 5s, O Levels, etc). If you are not sure you have equivalent qualifications, please contact us at admissions@rvc.ac.uk 

Access to HE Diploma (England and Wales)

It is expected that applicants undertaking the Access to HE Diploma will normally be returning to education after a period of at least three years absence. If have extenuating circumstances which mean you do not fulfil this please contact the Admissions team on admissions@rvc.ac.uk before you submit your application.

Pass a Science-based Diploma with a minimum of 15 Level 3 credits in Biology. Merit must be achieved in at least 6 of these Biology credits.

See the Access to Higher Education website to search for possible courses in your area. 

Birkbeck College's CertHE in Life Sciences for Subjects Allied to Medicine

Pass all modules within this qualification. Merit much be achieved in at least one Biology module.  

See the Birkbeck website for further details. This course is based in London. 

Level 3 Extended Diploma   

Applied Generals

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in 'Applied Science' or 'Applied Science (Biomedical Science)'

MMM overall (no specific unit requirements).

We will also consider the Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science/Applied Science (Biomedical Science) with a minimum overall grade of DD (Distinction, Distinction) depending on units taken.

Tech Levels

City & Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Animal Management (Science*)

MMM overall with Merits in:         

• Biological Systems of Animals        
• Theory Exam (1)        

Candidates also need to pass this elective module:         

• Exotic Animal Health and Husbandry  

*Please ensure that you are enrolled on the correct pathway - you must be on the Science pathway and taking the mandatory Science pathway modules listed in this document:
https://www.cityandguilds.com/-/media/productdocuments/land_based_services/animal_management/0172/0172_level_3/animal_management/centre-documents/0172-33-l3-adv-tech-ext-dip-in-animal-management-qhb-1080-v4-10-september2023-pdf.ashx

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Animal Management (1080)

MMM overall with Merits in:

• Animal Biology (120)        
• Animal Health and Diseases (60)       
• Practical Animal Husbandry (60)

Candidates also need to pass these elective modules:         

• Principles of Animal Nursing (60)        
• Exotic Animal Husbandry (60)

We will also consider the Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management with a minimum overall grade of DD (Distinction, Distinction) and the unit requirements listed above.

Level 3 Extended Diploma (unreformed syllabus)

Applied Science (2010 syllabus) QCF

MMM overall required.

We would expect applicants to be studying ample units covering the life sciences.

We will also consider the Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science with a minimum overall grade of DD (Distinction, Distinction).

Animal Management (2010 syllabus) QCF

MMM overall required, including Merits in all the following units:  

• Understand and Promote Animal Health
• Understand Animal Anatomy and Physiology
• Undertake Animal Handling and Safe Working

Candidates also need to pass elective units:  

• Understand the Principles and Undertake the Practice of Animal Nursing
• Understand the Principles and Carry Out the Practice of Exotic Animal Health and Husbandry

We will also consider the Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management with a minimum overall grade of DD (Distinction, Distinction) and the unit requirements listed above.

Cambridge Pre-U

EITHER:

P1, P2, P2 in three Principal Subjects including:  

• Biology

OR:

P1, P1 in two Principal Subjects including:  

• Biology

Applications are welcome from those who meet our science requirements and are taking a combination of A Levels and the Cambridge Pre-U. Offers will be made on an individual basis, depending on the combinations.  

T-Levels

We have considered the programme specifications and assessment materials for the T-level subjects currently available and these do not provide suitable preparation the degrees that we offer at the RVC. We are therefore currently unable to accept T-levels as entry qualifications to any of our courses.

As further T Level subjects are introduced the specifications will be reviewed and, if they are suitable for entry to the RVC, they will be added to the lists of acceptable qualifications.

Pass the IB Diploma with 443 in the Higher Level subjects, including:

• HL Biology at grade 4

See additional GCSE requirements below. 

Where candidates have not taken GCSEs or an equivalent qualification prior to the IB Diploma, they will need a minimum of grade 4 in:

• EITHER MYP Mathematics (standard or extended) OR SL Mathematics Analysis and approaches OR SL Mathematics Applications and interpretation.
• SL English A (or grade 6 in English B)*

*Candidates from outside the UK need to meet our standard English language requirements

Mathematical Studies cannot be accepted in lieu of Mathematics.

At least five GCSEs required at Grade 4 (C) or above including: 

• 4-3 in Combined Sciences/CD in Science (Double Award) OR 4/C in Science or Additional Science or one of Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
• English Language
• Mathematics

*Candidates from outside the UK need to meet our standard English language requirements

NOTE: If you do not have any qualifications higher than GCSE, you may wish to consider the work-based training route - see the RCVS website for details.

For further information on our policy on reformed UK qualifications, please click here.

Welsh applicants

Please note, GCSE Mathematics-Numeracy will not be accepted instead of a C in GCSE Mathematics but is welcomed alongside it, and as part of the Welsh Baccalaureate.

We welcome applications from international students. Where not listed, for advice on the acceptability of your qualifications please send details, referring to each of the required subjects (Biology, Maths and English), to admissions@rvc.ac.uk

Europe

Where an English grade is not specified, applicants will need to meet one of our accepted English Language qualifications. 

European Baccalaureate

Pass the Baccalaureate with 65% overall, with 7 in elective Biology, Maths and L1 English.

France

Pass the Baccalauréat 'S' stream with 11 overall and individual grades of 12 in Biology and 12 in Maths. [OIB Anglais: if 14 is achieved in English, no further English language qualification is required.]

Spain

Pass the Titulo de Bachiller with an overall grade of 6 and individual grades of 7 in Biology and 6 in Mathematics.

Asia

Hong Kong

Obtain the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) with grades 443 in Biology and two other elective subjects, plus grade 3 in Maths and grade 5 in English core subjects. 

Singapore

Obtain grades CDD at H2 level in three Singapore A Level subjects including Biology at grade C. In addition, O Level grade C is required in Maths and a single science. Grade B is required in English (first language). In place of O Level English, we can accept grade B in Secondary 4 IP Language Arts/English Language.