University Profile
Royal Veterinary College
Royal Veterinary College, London
Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
About Royal Veterinary College
The Royal Veterinary College, founded in 1791, is the UK's oldest and largest veterinary school, with an unparalleled history of excellence in veterinary education and research. The institution maintains world-leading status in veterinary medicine, consistently ranked among the top veterinary schools globally, with comprehensive facilities including teaching hospitals, research laboratories, and outdoor facilities for equine studies. The RVC's extensive history in advancing veterinary science is matched by contemporary research ambitions, with particular strengths in infectious disease, animal welfare, and comparative medicine that contribute to global health and animal science.
The college maintains distinctive character as a specialized institution with singular focus on veterinary excellence, creating an environment where all academic and professional activities center on understanding and caring for animals. The RVC's location with campuses in London and Hertfordshire provides access to diverse clinical cases and research opportunities, from urban companion animals to large agricultural animals. The institution attracts the UK's most ambitious and dedicated veterinary students, creating a community defined by shared passion for animal science and welfare excellence.
Key Highlights
- 1World #1 ranked veterinary school with unparalleled global reputation
- 2Oldest veterinary institution in the UK, pioneering veterinary science for over 230 years
- 3Comprehensive teaching hospitals and research facilities
- 4Research excellence in infectious disease, animal welfare, and comparative medicine
- 5Specialized focus on veterinary education creating dedicated academic community
- 6Strong postgraduate and professional development programs
Campus & Student Life
The RVC's specialized community centers on shared commitment to veterinary excellence, creating distinctive culture where student activities, professional development, and social engagement all connect to animal care. Clinical placements and practical experiences are integrated throughout the curriculum, providing hands-on learning alongside classroom study. Student societies focus on veterinary specialties, animal welfare causes, and professional networking, while the college maintains strong connections to veterinary professional organizations.
For North American Students
Min. GPA (indicative)
Not specified
SAT/ACT Accepted
Not typically required
Application Route
Via UCAS
English Requirement
Check university website
American and Canadian students seeking veterinary education are highly attracted to the RVC's world-leading reputation and comprehensive facilities. International veterinary students benefit from exposure to UK veterinary practice and research, while the college's global professional networks provide opportunities for international career development. Clinical placements and research internships expose NA students to different approaches to animal care and disease management, enriching their professional perspectives and competitive positioning for careers.
Research Strengths
Notable Alumni
Prof. James Murray
Leading veterinary pathologist and researcher; major contributor to infectious disease understanding
Dr. Susanne Hothersall
Veterinary behaviorist and animal welfare expert
Prof. Barbara Worth
Pioneering female veterinarian and researcher in equine medicine
Dr. Mark Hodgson
Veterinary entrepreneur and founder of innovative animal health companies
Prof. Debbie Guest
Leading researcher in comparative orthopedic surgery and regenerative medicine
Key Facts
- Founded
- 1791
- Total Students
- 2,000+
- International Students
- 35%
- Tuition (Int'l UG)
- £38,000 – £44,000/yr
- Campus Setting
- Urban
📍 About London
The RVC's dual campus locations provide distinctive advantages, with London facilities offering access to urban companion animal medicine and research institutions, while the Hertfordshire campus provides 600 acres for equine studies and large animal medicine. The Hertfordshire location offers peaceful countryside setting conducive to study and animal handling, while London campus enables access to major research institutions, professional networks, and cultural amenities. Excellent transport connections enable easy movement between campuses and access to other UK regions, while proximity to major international airports facilitates veterinary student networking and professional exchange.
Ready to Apply?
UK undergraduate applications are made through UCAS. Postgraduate applications go direct to the university.
Visit University Website →Check UCAS Points →