Course overview
This course has been designed for able students who do not have the required science qualifications (but have high academic achievement in non-science or vocational subjects or extensive experience) for direct entry into year one of the five-year veterinary programme. In the preliminary year, the basic science subjects of animal biology, chemistry and animal care and behaviour are taught in integrated modules that illustrate how these key areas interlink. You will learn key chemical concepts, and the knowledge required of animal biology. You will also develop animal handling skills, an understanding of relevant industries and an appreciation of the role of animals in society. During the year you will enhance your animal handling and husbandry skills by undertaking placements. On successful completion of the Preliminary Year you will join the first year of the five-year BVM BVS with integrated BVMedSci course.
Year one
In the preliminary year, the basic science subjects of animal biology, chemistry and animal care and behaviour are taught in integrated modules that illustrate how these key areas interlink. You will learn key chemical concepts, and the knowledge required of animal biology. You will also develop animal handling skills, an understanding of relevant industries and an appreciation of the role of animals in society. During the year you will enhance your animal handling and husbandry skills by undertaking placements.
Entry requirements
A levels: AAB, including any subjects at A2 and AS (to include, at most, only one of biology and chemistry and excluding general studies and critical thinking), only one of maths and further maths considered; biology and chemistry cannot both be taken at AS level; minimum of five grade As at GCSE, minimum of grade B in chemistry (or double science), maths and English language
English language requirements
IELTS 7.5 (no less than 7.0 in any element)
TOEFL iBT 109 (no less than 25 in any element)
GCSE/O level English language – minimum grade B
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English – minimum grade B
Fluency and competence in English are essential for these courses and will also be assessed first-hand at interview
Alternative qualifications
Access courses: we will consider applicants who have undertaken access courses on an individual basis.
Degree: at least 2:1 in a non animal-, biology- or chemistry-related subject with supporting GCSE and A level qualifications as detailed above.
Irish Leaving Certificate: six subjects at Higher Level, five grade As (to include, at most, only one of biology and chemistry); minimum of five grade As at Irish Junior Certificate to include all sciences, minimum of grade B in chemistry, maths and English.
Scottish Advanced Highers: grades AAB (to include, at most, only one of biology and chemistry); minimum of five grade ones in Scottish Standards, minimum of grade two in chemistry, maths and English.
Vocational qualifications
DDD at BTEC National Diploma (subjects considered on an individual basis), with supporting GCSE qualifications as above.
Distinction at Higher National Diploma/ Higher National Certificate (subjects considered on an individual basis) with supporting level two and three qualifications as above.
Other qualifications
For advice on academic profiles not covered, please contact us directly. International qualifications will be considered on an individual basis but will need to be equivalent to our A2 level and GCSE requirements.
Flexible admissions policy
We consider applicants’ circumstances and broader achievements as part of the assessment process, but do not vary the offer from the grades advertised as a result of these.
Notes for applicants
Students with disabilities - the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 requires that veterinary surgeons are able to give at least basic and emergency treatment to all common domestic species. Students with any disability should contact this School for advice before applying.
Criminal Records Bureau - we use the disclosure service of the Criminal Records Bureau to assess the suitability of applicants. We undertake not to discriminate unfairly against conviction or other information revealed.
Careers
On successful completion of the Preliminary Year you will join the first year of the five-year BVMBVS with integrated BMedSci course (D100)
Professional recognition
This course is recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE).
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2010/11 full-time graduates of the School of Veterinary medicine and Science was £25,356.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2010/11.
Careers Support and Advice
Studying for a degree at The University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take. Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.
Have a look at our Careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.