Accreditation Standards

The standards against which veterinary courses are judged by the RCVS are set out in the Accreditation Standards.

These cover:-

• the organisation of the institution and the availability of adequate finances, physical facilities, equipment and academic staff to support the course

• the procedures and policies for student admissions

• the curriculum - to ensure that it complies with the requirements of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and EU requirements, and that the methods of instruction and content of the course are directed towards producing a competent professional at graduation

• the provision, organisation and evaluation of Extramural Studies (EMS) in order that students gain experience of a range of practice and working environments

• library and learning resources

• RCVS essential Day One Competences for the newly qualified veterinary surgeon

• the veterinary degree examinations

Visitations examine the overall academic environment of the institution as demonstrated by the extent of research, postgraduate education and CPD provision that is offered.

In November 2021, RCVS Council approved new Accreditation Standards that came into effect in January 2023. You can download the latest version from the 'Related documents' section, at the end of this page.