Home > Animal Health > What You Need to Become a Vet

What You Need to Become a Vet

By: Margaret Paxton - Updated: 18 Mar 2021 | comments*Discuss
 
What You Need To Become A Vet

The life of a veterinarian is a mixed bag. One minute, in a meticulously clean operatingtheatre, performing routine surgery on an anaesthetised cat; the next, battling through wind and rain to help a (large and frightened) bullock that's managed to wrap itself in wire. From 'A' levels to veterinary practice; it takes hard work to get there and even more to stay!

Qualifications Needed

Vets who want to practice in the UK must be registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. To get this far, they need to have done a veterinary degree at one of the RCVS approved establishments; a course that usually takes 5 years. Acceptance for entry to these universities varies, but candidates will probably need the following:
  • Biology 'A' Level, as well as one or two from Physics, Chemistry and Maths.
  • Grades at 'A' Level, two A's and a B, or, in some cases, three A's.
  • Alternatively, a distinction in BTEC Diploma in Animal Science may be considered.

The requirements for mature students without degrees include good GCSE and 'A' level results in the above subjects. Graduates should have at least one upper second class degree ina related subject. For both, check first, as these students may have to pay full tuition fees.

Applications for places on veterinary degree courses are made through the Universities &College Admissions Service, UCAS. Anyone interested in applying should consult the prospectus carefully first.

Evidence of a candidate's interest and commitment to the subject will be required by alluniversity veterinarian schools. It will be expected that they have worked with and handledanimals, including livestock. This is another thing to check-work experience requirements dovary between universities.

General Obligations

All vets are obliged to deal with emergencies that involve any species of animal, at any time, every day of the year. The vets' job involves a huge amount of commitment and hard work wherever it takes them. Their role is crucial in the prevention of disease in animals, the care of pets, horses, farm animals and zoo animals and in the provision of medical and surgical treatment for them all.

General Practice

This is where most vets start their working lives. Small animals like cats, dogs, rabbits and other companion animals are seen more than any other animal, but, unless otherwise stated, vets from general practices will also treat horses and other large animals.

The experience gained by working at a general practice is extremely valuable; whatever the next stage in a vet's career.

Basically, the work entails routine surgery like the castration of dogs and neutering of cats, giving preventive treatment by vaccination, the supply of prescribed drugs for worming and flea treatment, supervision of special diets and dealing with emergencies. This is a very basic outline though-there are numerous other elements to be considered!

Specialising

For vets who want to continue working in small animal practice, there are several different areas of specialisation to choose from if they wish to study further. Soft tissue, orthopaedics, Castro, ear, nose and throat, dermatology-to name but a few. General practices will refer patients to these specialists' clinics, or practices, in specific cases.

Other options for specialising include equine veterinary practice, mixed practice, zoo animals, food-producing animals, wildlife, research and genetics, plus various further specialisations within these headings and others not mentioned here.

Continued Study

Whatever direction vets choose to pursue in their careers with animals they are expected to keep their skills up to date and their knowledge current, to keep abreast of changes in all aspects of veterinary care and procedures.

Summary

Becoming a vet requires dedication to studies, patience and a total commitment to animals. The hours are long-animals get sick 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Vets alsoneed to be good communicators (animals have owners) must work well within a team (with other vets and veterinary nurses) and be able to organise their paperwork!

The rewards are good remuneration and the satisfaction of spending a lifetime helping animals-with all thefantastic experiences that involves.

You might also like...
Share Your Story, Join the Discussion or Seek Advice..
[Add a Comment]
Hi, I'm in year 8, do I need to have a GCSE in Biology/Chemistry If I have an A-Level In Biology/Chemistry? Can't I just have an A-Level in biology/chemistry and then I don't need to have a GCSE?
Megan - 18-Mar-21 @ 9:17 AM
Do you need tripple Science or double to become a vet... would a double science beenough.
F - 17-Jan-20 @ 6:07 PM
Hi, I am in year 10 and have just had exams. I am in the highest double science set but set changes are soon going to happen. I would really like to become a vet but I also really struggle with science. Do I need triple science to become a vet? Will I struggle to get university offers with double science? I know one thing I really need is work experience but that shouldn't be a problem for me. I would really love some advice. Thank you.
Elsa - 22-Nov-19 @ 4:47 PM
Hello, I am in year 11 and I am in my last week of GCSEs. I am hoping to become a vet in the future and I am getting mostly 8s and 9s in my tests so far. I was wondering how I can get more work experience and what different types would give me the best chance of getting a place? I have already done lambing this spring. Thanks :)
elle - 9-Jun-19 @ 1:42 PM
Hi I’m in year 9 I’ve just started GCSE. And recently I’ve just realised what I want to do and that is becoming a vet. The thing is I’m not the best at science and if I was I still won’t get at least a grade 5 to go to college. I really want to help animals in serious need and I have just lost my dog. I’ve always loved animal and always will. What do I need to to to get where I need to be to become a vet? I’ve looked into different information and I really need this to find closer even if it means seeing different animals everyday and doing the right thing
Timeless - 16-Apr-19 @ 4:16 PM
hello im in year 8 and im picking my options for gcse in just under a year and i want to be a vet but im scared about putting animals down is their anyway to get over that x
layla - 10-Apr-19 @ 8:32 PM
Hi I’m Jess and I am in year 9 i need some advice because next week I am starting my options and I really want to be a vet when I’m older I wanted to know should I do triple science or double science and what level do you need to pass it would be really helpful if you can get back to me on that thanks
Jessicat - 4-Feb-19 @ 6:10 PM
Hi I'm in year 9 and am about to pick my options.I'm not sure what to pick because I definitely want to take triple science but would these be any good/impressive when applying to Vetinery schools?French,photography,music.I have called lots of different vet shops and all of them say I am too young.Do you know anywhere that would take 14 year olds for volunteer work?Thanks so much :) Isobel
Issy - 4-Dec-18 @ 6:45 PM
Hi, I’m a pilot I’m the raf....What should I do, to get my veterinary degree?
Matt Marshall - 22-Sep-18 @ 4:27 AM
Caitlin - Your Question:
Hi I’m in year 8 picking my options for GCSE next year. I’ve always want s to be a vet it’s a dream so I know for sure I’m taking triple science but to become a vet what else do I need to take ?

Our Response:
Entry requirements are quite high. Generally, the vet schools require As and Bs at GCSE and A 'level, especially in science subjects, as stated in the article. English and maths grades are also important.
CareerWithAnimals - 5-Jun-18 @ 2:55 PM
Hi I’m in year 8 picking my options for GCSE next year . I’ve always want s to be a vet it’s a dream so I know for sure I’m taking triple science but to become a vet what else do I need to take ?
Caitlin - 4-Jun-18 @ 11:39 PM
Hi, im a year 8 and expected to get a 6/7 in all my subjects(apart from preforming arts which is an expected 5) is this high enough? And I would also like to know which options I should pick as my school has provided me with very different information to what I have found online. Thanks, :-)
Amber - 22-Apr-18 @ 6:37 PM
Hi , I am in year 8 and am currently trying to decide on my options for GCSE level . I would like to work as a surgical vet when I’m older and already have some options in mind but I’m not sure if they would help me to achieve this . They are : animal care , triple science , media and photography . I’m not sure if I should take a language or not . Also would work experience at my local vet help me at all ??
Brooklyn - 30-Jan-18 @ 9:26 PM
Shen shen - Your Question:
Hi, I’m 17 years old and turning 18 this year, I have come to be very interested in helping animals who are in bad condition or been neglected I’m not sure what career this comes under but I’m doing a different course to what I believe I should be doing if I wanted to care for animals I have English and currently doing my maths in order to work with aninmals what’s the basics you need or what’s the main GCSE you need in order to work with animals?

Our Response:
You can see all you need to know via the gov.uk link here . I hope this helps.
CareerWithAnimals - 15-Jan-18 @ 10:55 AM
Hi, I’m 17 years old and turning 18 this year, I have come to be very interested in helping animals who are in bad condition or been neglected I’m not sure what career this comes under but I’m doing a different course to what I believe I should be doing if I wanted to care for animals I have English and currently doing my maths in order to work with aninmals what’s the basics you need or what’s the main GCSE you need in order to work with animals?
Shen shen - 14-Jan-18 @ 10:57 AM
I am in yr 8 and I really want to be a vet when I'm older what would help me to be a vet?
Rose - 31-Dec-17 @ 10:01 PM
Hi, I’m in year nine and I’ve now started my GCSE courses and I’m taking triple science. I’ve taken an interest in becoming a vet as I love animals and have two cats of my own. I was wondering if you know of any work experience I would be able to do. Or anything that would help me achieve my dream.
Cait - 24-Nov-17 @ 8:06 PM
Doug - Your Question:
Hi, I'm Doug, I'm 12 years old in Year 8, and I want to do some working experience at a veterinary surgery over the holidays. Can you provide an answer?

Our Response:
Due to your age, it is unlikely you would be allowed to conduct work experience. The youngest age a child can work part-time is 13, except children involved in areas such as television, theatre and modelling. If you wish to conduct some voluntary work, then the likes of National Trust allows families to volunteer. This may give you a chance to work up close with animals as a start.
CareerWithAnimals - 10-Nov-17 @ 10:59 AM
Hollister - Your Question:
Hi I am a witch and want to be a vet but I have 5 when I need 6s or 7s so I have been told I can't do it by my sience teacher I am 13 and in year 9 it has been my dream since I was younger and I really want it please help me

Our Response:
You have time yet to get your GSCE's. Alternatively, you could study to become a veterinary nurse, from which you need five GCSEs at grade C and above, which must include English language, maths and a science subject, please see link here .
CareerWithAnimals - 10-Nov-17 @ 10:33 AM
Hi I am a witch and want to be a vet but I have 5 when I need 6s or 7s so I have been told I can't do it by my sience teacher I am 13 and in year 9 it has been my dream since I was younger and I really want it please help me
Hollister - 9-Nov-17 @ 6:20 PM
Hi, I'm Doug, I'm 12 years old in Year 8, and I want to do some working experience at a veterinary surgery over the holidays. Can you provide an answer?
Doug - 8-Nov-17 @ 8:29 PM
Yasmine- Your Question:
I want to become a veterinarian surgeon or veterinary surgeon what GCSE'S results do I need to get to be able to go to university What university's are the best for a veterinarian surgeon or veterinarian nurse

Our Response:
Generally, the vet schools require As and Bs at GCSE and A level, especially in science subjects. Usually, the veterinary degree course is five years long. To become a veterinary nurse, you will need five GCSEs at grade C or higher. These must include English Language and two science subjects, one of which may be Maths. Please see link here and here.
CareerWithAnimals - 21-Aug-17 @ 12:38 PM
I want to become a veterinarian surgeon or veterinary surgeon what GCSE'S results do I need to get to be able to go to university What university's are the best for a veterinarian surgeon or veterinarian nurse
Yasmine - 19-Aug-17 @ 11:10 PM
Hi, i am currently 13 and i really want to become a vet. Im in 3rd year in high school and i was wondering what would be the best place for my work experience. One of my teachers said a slaughterhouse would be ideal but im not sure if i want to go there so i was hoping for advice
Danielle - 7-Jun-17 @ 4:17 PM
i in yeaer 9 I realy want to be a vetinary surgeon but witch would be better to work with small animals or farm animals because im more used to farm animals because I live on a farm and know a lot about the farm
saoirse - 22-Apr-17 @ 1:16 PM
Hi! I am still in high school i just want to ask which subject must i choose to be a vet doctor
Zeenhle - 26-Mar-17 @ 9:13 PM
Holly - Your Question:
Hi im in year 9 and have already started my GCSE's.what qualifications do I need to become a vet

Our Response:
Please see RCVS link here for further advice. I hope this helps.
CareerWithAnimals - 13-Feb-17 @ 11:27 AM
Hi im in year 9 and have already started my GCSE's.what qualifications do i need to become a vet
Holly - 12-Feb-17 @ 8:47 AM
I am 15 and I really love animals.I plan to become a vet and am taking a lot of biology, math, English, and animal science classes.I live in the United States and was wondering how to become a vet in the U.K.
Nia - 8-Feb-17 @ 4:11 PM
Sally - Your Question:
I'm in year 9, and I am starting to choose my GCSE options. What grades do you have to get to become a veterinary surgeon, and what universities can I go to?

Our Response:
You can see more via the link here. However, studying to be a vet is extremely competitive and popular, therefore the higher the grades you get in GSCEs and A'Levels, the better the chance you will have to get a place.
CareerWithAnimals - 27-Jan-17 @ 1:42 PM
Share Your Story, Join the Discussion or Seek Advice...
Title:
(never shown)
Firstname:
(never shown)
Surname:
(never shown)
Email:
(never shown)
Nickname:
(shown)
Comment:
Validate:
Enter word:
Topics
Latest Comments
  • Chloe o Sullivan
    Re: Run your own Animal Shelter
    Hi,im doing a project in school on How much would it cost too open a animal shelter?Hopefully if this does eventually happen it…
    14 March 2024
  • weezie
    Re: General Work Experience with Animals
    Hi my name is elouize reed i am 14 years old trying to find work experience. I love animals i have grown with so many…
    6 March 2024
  • Enya and kikidee
    Re: Run your own Animal Shelter
    Can I have more info on hiw to start up a rescue centre please as I would love a dig rescue / rehabilitation center animals…
    2 March 2024
  • Ari
    Re: General Work Experience with Animals
    Hello, I am 15 years old and I am interested in taking in part in animal work experience as I have a burning passion to…
    25 February 2024
  • Fiona
    Re: Run your own Animal Shelter
    Hi there, I’m thinking of starting up an animal rescue/ farm in the East Yorkshire area but I have no idea how or where to…
    25 February 2024
  • Sum
    Re: General Work Experience with Animals
    Hi im 15 I'm lookin for a work experience placement w animals bc I love animals expecially dogs so if u have any advice…
    24 February 2024
  • Sharon forde
    Re: Work as a Flying Groom
    I'm interested in this work.. years of experience of travelling horses on land as international horse groom and qualified teacher
    11 February 2024
  • June
    Re: Run your own Animal Shelter
    Hi Andrea I'm in Dunstable so not far from you and I think it's great that your planning to set up an animal rescue. In the last…
    5 February 2024
  • ruby
    Re: Work in a Zoo
    I'm 15 turning 16 in December and need work experience for June 24-28. i do animal care so i am very good with animals and can be helpful
    1 February 2024
  • AOK
    Re: Run your own Animal Shelter
    Hello, It shows it's not just me who wants to create a business like an animal shelter to help these animals. I am currently…
    30 December 2023