Top UK Universities For Veterinary Medicine – Ranking & League Table

Looking to Study Veterinary Medicine in the UK? Here’s our full guide on the top universities for Veterinary Medicine in the UK. We have curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognised qualifications for Veterinary Medicine. Our guide also includes the latest UK University Veterinary Medicine League Table for easy reference.

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UK University League Table for Veterinary Medicine (2025)

The University League Table for Veterinary Medicine below displays the top-ranking universities for studying Veterinary Medicine in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of universities you should look out for, based on UK and global rankings, as well as entry requirements.

veterinary medicine

What do you Study in Veterinary Medicine?

In veterinary medicine, the core area of study typically includes a wide range of subjects focused on animal health, anatomy, physiology, disease treatment and prevention, and clinical skills. The key components of a veterinary medicine degree usually cover:

  1. Basic Sciences: This includes anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, and microbiology, providing a foundational understanding of how animals’ bodies work.

  2. Clinical Sciences: This involves learning about various animal diseases, diagnostics, surgery, and medicine. This part of the curriculum focuses on applying scientific knowledge to real-life situations in veterinary practice.

  3. Animal Husbandry and Welfare: Understanding the care, breeding, and nutrition of domestic animals, as well as issues surrounding animal welfare and ethics.

  4. Pathology: Studying the nature of diseases, their causes, processes, and effects on the body.

  5. Public Health and Epidemiology: Focusing on the health of populations of animals and the prevention of diseases that can also affect humans.

  6. Clinical Practice: Hands-on experience through clinical rotations in various veterinary settings, such as small animal clinics, large animal practices, and specialty clinics.

  7. Soft Skills: Communication, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making skills are also emphasised, as they are crucial for successful veterinary practice.

Careers for Veterinary Medicine Graduates

What can you do with a degree in Veterinary Medicine? Many graduates find employment in roles such as:

  • Animal nutritionist
  • Animal technician
  • Environmental scientist
  • Veterinary dentist
  • Veterinary pharmaceutical representative
  • Veterinary surgeon
  • Zookeeper

Top Veterinary Medicine Schools In The UK

University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge, renowned as the top destination for veterinary medicine in the UK, boasts a stellar reputation for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its distinguished faculty comprises world-class experts in veterinary science, offering students unparalleled insights and mentorship. Secondly, Cambridge’s state-of-the-art research facilities and cutting-edge laboratories enable students to engage in groundbreaking research, fostering innovation and hands-on learning. Furthermore, the university’s long-standing tradition of academic excellence and rigorous curriculum ensures that graduates are exceptionally well-prepared for successful careers in veterinary medicine. Lastly, Cambridge’s picturesque setting provides a serene and inspiring environment, making it an all-around exceptional destination for those aspiring to excel in the field of veterinary medicine.

University of Edinburgh

Ranked third for veterinary medicine, the University of Edinburgh is an excellent choice for those interested in studying Veterinary Medicine. Edinburgh is one of the top universities in the UK and it is well-known for its programmes in Medicine. Edinburgh offers two programmes in Veterinary Medicine, one is a standard undergraduate course while the other is an accelerated programme for graduates.

Need advice about applying to a UK university? We are here to help. Book a free appointment with us now!

University of Glasgow

Glasgow is ranked 7th in the UK for Bachelor’s programmes in Veterinary Medicine, according to the 2025 league table for Veterinary Medicine. Most notably, the institution is one of nine Vet Schools in Europe to have achieved accredited status for its undergraduate programmes from the American Veterinary Medical Association. For more information, visit the University of Glasgow’s Veterinary Medicine course on their website here. To apply, read more about the application process via UCAS here.

Recommended Veterinary Medicine Schools In The UK

The University of Liverpool is an excellent choice for Veterinary Medicine, with twelve programmes for the subject. Liverpool’s Veterinary Medicine programmes include several foundation courses which allow students to apply with their GCSEs. Tuition fees for this course start from £ 39,250 per year.

Ranked in the eight place in the UK for Veterinary Medicine courses is the Royal Veterinary College, University of London, a London university group that specialises in teaching veterinary sciences. The Royal Veterinary College has 16 courses in Veterinary Medicine and Sciences, offering students a great flexibility of choices in programmes.

The University of Bristol is ranked 6th in the UK for Veterinary Medicine and it offers four programmes in Veterinary Medicine. Its programmes include accelerated study for graduates and gateway year which allows students that do not meet entry requirements to enrol. The five-year programme starts from £36,300 a year for international students.

How To Apply To Study Veterinary Medicine In The UK?

Step 1: Choose A University

The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:

  • Location
  • Employability/Graduate prospects
  • Fees
  • Entry requirements
  • University Ranking

Step 2: Preparations

Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.

Step 3: Submit UCAS Application

The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.

To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here

More About UCAS

The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your prefered UK universities.

UK Veterinary Medicine School Entry Requirements

Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Veterinary Medicine.

  1. English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.
  2. Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)
  3. Health checks.
  4. Entrance interviews.
  5. Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve by studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Veterinary Medicine, you will learn about the anatomy, health, and medical treatment of animals.

The top university for Veterinary Medicine in the UK is the University of Cambridge, according to 2025 rankings.

The common entry requirements for studying Veterinary Medicine in the UK include English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.

The tuition fees for Veterinary Medicine degrees in the UK range between £35,000 to £63,000 per annum for international students, depending on the university. The ranking and location of a university might also affect tuition fee costs.

The UCAS deadline for Veterinary Medicine programmes is 15 October in the year before admission.

Get Free UK Veterinary Medicine Course Application Assistance

If you would like a free consultation on any step of the application process, contact us today or come visit us at our office in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. Book an appointment with us now!

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