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Overview

Typical offer: A*AA-A*A*A (or equivalent)

Required subjects: Chemistry and one of Biology, Physics and Mathematics

Useful subjects: Biology, Physics, Mathematics

Number of students per year: Up to 8

Cambridge offers a world-class opportunity to study the scientific basis of veterinary medicine and clinical veterinary science, and Lucy offers a warm and supportive subject community. The course provides the fundamental building blocks on which to develop and excel in any veterinary field. The course comprises three years of pre-clinical study (two for affiliated students), followed by three years of clinical study, and equips students with the skills required to enter practice in the UK and EU.

 

 

 

 

Throughout all years of the course students have twenty-four- hour access to the Clinical Skills Lab, enabling students to link the science they learn to practical veterinary tasks.

Year 1 of this course is centred around giving students an introduction to the practical and scientific world of Veterinary Medicine. Students complete courses on Veterinary Anatomy, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics.

In second year, students complete the ‘Preparing for the Veterinary Profession’ course while continuing Pre-Clinical Extramural Studies (which are begun in first year). Students also complete courses on Comparative Vertebrate Biology, and Pathology.

Students in third year begin to pursue a subject of their choice for the year. Most vet students study a biological subject, while some choose options including History and Philosophy of Science, and Management Studies.

In fourth year, students spend more time applying their knowledge and practical skills to clinical scenarios. Students still attend lectures and practical classes.

During fifth year, the practical and clinical focus increases even more. Alongside this, there is also a move towards species-focused practice.

In final year, students enjoy forty weeks of ‘rotations’ in different disciplines and clinics of the veterinary hospital.

Further information can be found on the Faculty and University websites.

Typical offers require

  • A-Level: A*AA
  • IB: 42 points, with 776 in Higher Level
  • Advanced Highers: A1, A2, A2

For other qualifications see the main entrance requirements pages on the University website. 

Subject Requirements

A-level

Required: Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Physics and Mathematics.

Highly recommended: Biology, Physics and Mathematics.

IB

Required: Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Physics and Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches).

Highly recommended: Biology, Physics and Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches).

Mature students and those taking other qualifications are encouraged to contact our Admissions Office (at admissions@lucy.cam.ac.uk) to discuss the entry requirements for their qualifications.

Written work

No written work is required.

Assessments

Students are required to sit the Natural Sciences Admissions Assessment (NSAA) Further details can be found here.

Interviews

Interviews allow us to distinguish amongst excellent applicants by assessing the skills and aptitudes essential for successful study in higher education, and your academic qualities – essentially, how do you think?

For 2024 entry, interviews for all applicants to Lucy Cavendish will take place virtually. The aims and content will still be the same as in-person interviews. You can read more about Lucy Cavendish's online interviews here and you can read the University's information on interviews here.

Each candidate typically has two interviews, lasting between twenty and thirty minutes. In some cases, you will be given preparatory material beforehand.

In a few subjects, you will be interviewed by more than one College or in the Faculty. You will be notified of this in your interview invitation.

Supracurricular exploration is an important way to expand your knowledge of your subject, explore your interests and develop your skills. Our new webpage contains guidance on supracurricular exploration and a comprehensive source of resources, grouped according to undergraduate degrees at Cambridge. 

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Attend an open day or event

Our Events and Open Days page advertises regular events held by Lucy Cavendish College. If you can, join us for a College Open Day to discuss your application with a member of our admissions team.