Discover the best UK universities for Veterinary Science in 2026. Find courses known for hands-on experience, excellent research, and strong graduate prospects.
Best Universities for Veterinary Science: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Edinburgh | 93 | 83 |
| 2 Silver | University of Glasgow | 89 | 78 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Liverpool | 87 | 80 |
| 4 | Royal Veterinary College (UCL) | 92 | 74 |
| 5 | University of Nottingham | 86 | 77 |
| 6 | University of Bristol | 88 | 75 |
| 7 | University of Cambridge | 91 | 70 |
| 8 | University of Surrey | 84 | 72 |
| 9 | University of Nottingham Trent | 82 | 74 |
| 10 | University of Aberystwyth | 80 | 71 |
1. University of Edinburgh Gold
2. University of Glasgow Silver
3. University of Liverpool Bronze
4. Royal Veterinary College (UCL)
5. University of Nottingham
6. University of Bristol
7. University of Cambridge
8. University of Surrey
9. University of Nottingham Trent
10. University of Aberystwyth
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Veterinary Science rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Veterinary Science Universities in the UK
Veterinary Science degrees prepare students for rewarding careers in animal health, welfare, and research. Our 2025 ranking highlights the best universities for Veterinary Science in the UK, recognised for their clinical excellence, research innovation, and strong links with veterinary practices. These universities provide world-class facilities, animal hospitals, and hands-on placements that prepare graduates for professional accreditation and lifelong careers in animal care.
University of Edinburgh
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at Edinburgh is one of the world’s leading veterinary schools. It offers outstanding teaching, cutting-edge research in animal health and disease, and strong employability outcomes. Students gain clinical experience through the university’s teaching hospitals and research centres, making it a top choice for aspiring vets.
Royal Veterinary College (RVC)
The RVC, part of the University of London, is internationally recognised for veterinary medicine and biosciences. With exceptional facilities including animal hospitals and laboratories, RVC provides extensive clinical placements and research opportunities. Its graduates are highly sought after across animal healthcare, research, and policy sectors.
University of Glasgow
Glasgow’s School of Veterinary Medicine offers a well-balanced course that combines academic rigour with hands-on clinical practice. Students benefit from modern facilities, access to the university’s on-site small and large animal hospitals, and affordable living in one of the UK’s best student cities.
University of Bristol
Bristol’s Langford Vets centre provides students with practical, real-world experience in clinical environments. The university is known for its supportive academic community and a strong focus on animal welfare, sustainability, and global health challenges within veterinary education.
University of Nottingham
Nottingham offers research-led teaching and outstanding student satisfaction. Its veterinary program integrates animal science, biology, and clinical skills, with early exposure to placements and practical modules that prepare students for the professional demands of veterinary medicine.
Career Prospects After a Veterinary Science Degree
Graduates from these top veterinary schools typically become veterinary surgeons, animal health consultants, researchers, or policy advisors. Career paths extend into wildlife conservation, public health, and pharmaceuticals. Related degrees include Biomedical Science and Biotechnology.
Entry Requirements for Veterinary Science Degrees
Veterinary Science is one of the most competitive degrees in the UK, typically requiring AAA at A-level (including Biology and Chemistry) and UCAS points above 140. Applicants are often expected to have relevant animal handling experience and may be invited to interview as part of the selection process.
Most Affordable Cities to Study Veterinary Science in the UK
Glasgow and Nottingham are excellent options for students seeking affordable living costs, accessible transport, and strong veterinary teaching hospitals.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Student Life
Nottingham and Edinburgh combine world-class veterinary programs with lively student communities, great nightlife, and active animal welfare societies.
Student Wellbeing and Academic Support
Veterinary courses are academically demanding, so universities such as Bristol, Glasgow, and Edinburgh offer comprehensive mental health services, academic tutoring, and wellbeing support tailored to vet students’ needs.
Considering Alternatives to Veterinary Science?
If you’re interested in animal health but not ready for full veterinary training, explore Biomedical Science, Animal Science, or Biotechnology — all offer strong career pathways in research, healthcare, and life sciences.
Summary: Which Veterinary Science University Is Right for You?
When choosing a Veterinary Science course, look for RVC accreditation, hands-on clinical placements, research excellence, and student wellbeing. Edinburgh and RVC lead globally, Glasgow and Bristol offer top facilities and supportive environments, while Nottingham provides innovation and affordability. A Veterinary Science degree opens the door to a respected, impactful career in animal health and welfare worldwide.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Veterinary Science
Top UK universities for Veterinary Science include the University of Edinburgh, Royal Veterinary College (UCL), and University of Glasgow, known for excellent facilities and student satisfaction.
The University of Edinburgh often ranks highest for Veterinary Science, with world-class research and clinical training opportunities.
Yes, it opens doors to rewarding careers in animal care, research, and public health, with strong job prospects and graduate satisfaction in the UK.
Typical requirements include Biology and Chemistry at A-level. Some universities may also expect Maths or Physics. Always check individual course pages for exact criteria.
Graduates can work as vets, animal behaviourists, researchers, public health advisors, or in pharmaceutical and food safety sectors.
Demand remains strong, especially for qualified vets in both clinical and research roles, with positive employment rates across the UK.
Starting salaries typically range from £24,000 to £32,000, increasing with experience and specialisation.
The course is demanding with a heavy workload, including practical clinical skills and extensive knowledge in sciences.
Many work in veterinary practices, research institutions, animal welfare organisations, or government agencies.
Absolutely, it is highly respected due to its rigorous training and vital role in animal and public health.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked