The RVC has launched the first ever joint Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) degree, in partnership with Aberystwyth University, following the official opening of Wales’ first School of Veterinary Science on Friday 28 February.
The five-year degree, which welcomes the first cohort of students in September 2021, will see students spend two years at Aberystwyth University followed by three years’ study at the RVC’s Hawkshead Campus in Hertfordshire.
Professor Stuart Reid, Principal of the RVC said:
“We are delighted to be partnering with our colleagues Aberystwyth in providing an offering that will benefit students at both institutions. The RVC’s commitment to the profession in all its manifestations and particularly the rural environment will be bolstered by this important collaboration.”
Professor Elizabeth Treasure, Vice-Chancellor of Aberystwyth University said:
“Today marks an important and exciting new chapter in the history of Aberystwyth University and Wales. Agriculture and its related industries play such an important part in the Welsh economy and it is incumbent on us as universities to provide the people and the skills that will contribute to ensuring they thrive for years to come. The new School of Veterinary Science adds a vitally important new piece to the jigsaw, one that will build resilience in the rural economy through education and research at a time of great potential change and challenges.
“Our students will enjoy the best of two worlds at universities that offer academic excellence and an enviable reputation for student experience, and I thank everyone who has contributed to finally realising the vision of a school of veterinary science for Wales.”
The Aberystwyth School of Veterinary Science will from part of the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences and will benefit from the new Veterinary Education Centre which is being developed on the Penglais campus.
The launch of the school is taking place at Aberystwyth University on Friday 28 February, and will be attended by Professor Christianne Glossop, Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales and Professor Stuart Reid, Principal of the RVC.