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 Explained
University of Edinburgh
Renowned for cutting-edge research, clinical training, and top graduate employability.
Royal Veterinary College (RVC)
Leads in veterinary medicine innovation with excellent facilities and industry links.
University of Glasgow
Offers a balanced mix of practical experience and academic excellence.
University of Bristol
Known for strong clinical placements and supportive learning environment.
University of Nottingham
Combines research-led teaching with great student satisfaction scores.
Career Prospects After a Veterinary Science Degree
Graduates often work as veterinary surgeons, animal health advisors, or in research. Related courses include Biomedical Science and Biotechnology.
Veterinary Science Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Entry is highly competitive, often requiring AAA at A-level including Biology and Chemistry, with UCAS points typically above 140.
Cheapest Cities to Study Veterinary Science in the UK
Glasgow and Nottingham offer good value alongside strong veterinary programs.
Best Veterinary Science Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Nottingham and Edinburgh provide vibrant student social scenes to balance study.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities provide dedicated mental health support, counselling, and wellbeing resources for demanding veterinary courses.
Not Sure About Veterinary Science? Consider These Alternatives
Explore Biomedical Science, Animal Science, or Biotechnology.
Summary: Which Veterinary Science Uni is Right for You?
Look for universities offering strong clinical training, supportive tutors, and a vibrant student community.
Topic expertise: University & Degree choice, Applications, Travel and Student life
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
Author
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Connor is a seasoned content expert at Unifresher, specialising in publishing engaging and insightful student-focused content. With over four years of experience in data analysis and content strategy, Connor has a proven track record of supporting publishing teams with high-quality resources. A graduate of the University of Sussex with a BSc in Accounting and Finance, he combines his academic background with his passion for creating content that resonates with students across the UK. Outside of work, Connor enjoys staying active at his local gym and walking his miniature dachshunds.
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