Royal Veterinary College

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Course Structure

The RVC Vet BVetMed programme is a strand-based course that follows a ‘spiral’ curriculum. This means that key concepts are presented repeatedly to you as you progress through the course, at deepening levels of complexity and in different contexts. Generally it follows a science based course which then leads to further clinical development especially given the breadth of cases seen at the royal veterinary college london. Studying at RVC Vet Med you will benefit from some of the best professors and teachers in England. 

Intercalation

This is offered and encouraged at the Royal Vet College - this may be in Bioveterinary Sciences (BSc) or Comparative Pathology (BSc).

Curriculum Overview at RVC School

The pedagogical approach at RVC School embraces a spiral curriculum concept. Herein, students encounter various subjects initially in their first year, and these subjects are revisited in subsequent years. Each revisit is designed to deepen the understanding and complexity of topics, providing different contexts for learning. This all makes use of the RVC Learn platform.

The initial two years primarily focus on preclinical studies, which form the basis for understanding abnormal conditions during the later years of the curriculum, from year 3 to year 5.

First Year at RVC School

During the first year, the curriculum emphasizes understanding the fundamental body systems. This includes the locomotor strand, which focuses on the animal's movement mechanisms and limbs, as well as the alimentary strand, dedicated to studying the digestive system. The main aim is to establish a robust foundational understanding that will be instrumental in subsequent years when clinical knowledge is incorporated into learning. Weekly practicals serve as crucial tools for enhancing anatomy knowledge.

Second Year at RVC School

The second year, marking the end of the preclinical phase, builds upon the foundational knowledge from the first year. Students delve deeper into the previously learned strands, adding complexity and detail. To support anatomy learning, this year also includes more practical sessions and dissections, exploring the anatomy of a healthy, normal animal.

Third Year at RVC School

The third year heralds the start of the clinical phase. This is where students commence learning about various diseases and potential treatment methods.

Fourth Year at RVC School

The fourth year combines teaching sessions with clinical rotations. These rotations offer students the opportunity to observe consultations and surgeries in real-world clinics, allowing them to apply their accumulated knowledge and further expand it.

Fifth Year at RVC School

The final year at RVC School is dedicated to continued clinical rotations. This exposure helps in the solidification of acquired skills and knowledge, preparing students for their future roles in veterinary practice.